Which type of rocket motor configuration is more often used with low burn rates?

The central-burning configuration is typically used with low burn rates because it allows for a more uniform combustion across the fuel grain, facilitating a steady and prolonged thrust. In a central-burning motor, combustion occurs from the inside out, which results in an extended burn duration as compared to other configurations. This type of motor is ideal for applications where long burn times are necessary to reach higher altitudes or to achieve specific mission profiles.

Endburning motors, while they can provide high thrust, tend to have shorter burn times because the combustion occurs only at the end of the grain, resulting in a faster depletion of the propellant. Catalytic motors use chemical reactions to enhance performance but are more complex and not primarily based on burn rate. Staged configurations involve separating stages of fuel burn, which generally doesn't relate directly to low burn rates but rather enables multiple phases of thrust. In contrast, central-burning configurations prioritize sustained thrust output over longer durations, making them suitable for low burn rate requirements.