Q. What is the difference between GSLV and PSLV?

1. While PSLV is designed mainly to deliver the earth-observation satellites, GSLV is designed mainly to deliver the communication-satellites
2. While PSLV is a three stage vehicle, GSLV is four stage vehicle

Select the correct option from the codes given below:
Answer: Only 1
Notes:

• PSLV stands for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle while GSLV stands for Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle.
• PSLV is designed mainly to deliver earth observation satellites into polar sun-synchronous orbits. GSLV on the other hand is designed mainly to deliver communication satellites into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).
• PSLV is a three stage launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid fuel engines and the second stage using liquid fuel engine.
• GSLV is a four stage vehicle with the first and third stages using solid fuel engines, the second stage using liquid fuel engine and the fourth stage using liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engines.

So the main difference is in the purpose and payload capacity - PSLV for lighter earth observation satellites into polar orbits vs GSLV for heavier communication satellites into geostationary transfer orbits. The number of stages is also different - PSLV has 3 stages while GSLV has 4 stages. Therefore, option 1 is the correct answer.