PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION ASKED IN CBSE,BOARD EXAM.

CHAPTER-1,

ELECTRIC CHARGE AND FIELD

2006
Q. What is electric flux? Write its S. I. Units. Using Gausss theorem, deduce an expression for
the electric field at a point due to a uniformly charged infinite plane sheet.(5)
ANS: The electric flux through a given surface area is the total number of electric lines of force
passing normally this area. It is given by E =E.dS .
The SI unit of electric flux = Nm2C-1.
According to Gausss theorem, the total flux through a closed surface is1/0times the total
charge enclosed by the closed surface.
Derivation: Consider a non-conducting sheet of charge with surface charge density .Consider a
cylinder of length 2r and cross - sectional area A as Gaussian surface.referncert
book,page38,fig:1.30.
From symmetry electric field E points at right angle to the end caps and away from the sheet.
There is no contribution from the curved surface because angle between E and dS is 90 0.
At the end faces, angle between E and dsis zero.
From Gausss law,=E.ds=q/0=EA+EA= A/0 ,So, E=A/20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2007
Q. The electric field due to a point charge at any point near it is defined as E&E =limt F/q
q 0
where q is the test charge and F is the force acting on it. What is the physical significance of
lim
q 0in this expression? Draw the electric filed lines of a point charge Q when (i) Q > 0and (ii)
Q <0 .(2)
lim
ANS: The lim.
q 0 indicates that the test charge is so small that its presence does not disturb the
distribution of source charge and hence its electric field.
The electric fields of the point charge Q are shown in figure 1.11(a)&(b),page-18,NCERT,book.
OR
Define electric flux. Write its S.I. Units. A spherical rubber balloon carries a charge that is
uniformity distributed over its surface. As the balloon is blown up and increases in size, how
does the total electric flux coming out of the surface change? Give reason.(2)
ANS: The electric flux through a given surface area is the total number of electric lines of force
passing normally through that area. It is given by.
E =E.dS
SI unit of electric flux is Nm2C-1.
As the balloon is blown up, the total charge on the balloon surface remains unchanged, so the
total electric flux coming out of its surface remains unchanged.
Q. Deduce an expression for the electric potential due to an electric dipole at any point on its
axis. Mention one contrasting feature of electric potential of a dipole at a point as compared to
that due to single charge.(3)
ANS:

13.Let P be an axial point at distance r from the centre of the dipole of length2a.
-q

+q

2a
Electric potential at point P will be,V=V1+V2
=1/40(-q/r+a + q/r-a )
On simplification we get,
=1/4 0(p/r2-a2 )
where p=2aq
2
For a far away point, r >> a,
V =1/40(p/r )
At large distances, dipole potential falls off as1/r 2whereas the potential due to a single charge
falls off as 1/r.
Q.A parallel plate capacitor, each with plate area A and separation d is charged to a potential
difference V. The battery used to charge it is then disconnected. A dielectric slab of thickness d
and dielectric
(3)
constant K is now placed between the plates. What change, if any, will take place in
(i) charge on the plates(ii) electric field intensity between the plates(iii) capacitance of the
capacitor
Justify your answer in each case.
ANS:
(i)The charge on the capacitor plates remains same.
(ii)The electric field intensity between the capacitor plates decreases due to the introduction of
a dielectric. Introduction of dielectric field creates an intrinsic electric field directed opposite to
the original electric field. That is why the electric field intensity decreases.
(iii)The capacitance of the capacitor increases due to the introduction of a dielectric. Electric
field decreases, therefore, the capacitor can get more charge to bring back the electric field to
its original value. This increases the capacity of holding the charge and hence the capacitance
increases.
2008
Q.A 500 micro-coulomb charge is at the centre of a square of side 10 cm. Find the work done in
moving a charge of 10 micro-coulomb between two diagonally opposite points on the square.
(1)
ANS: The 500Ccharge is at the same distance from all the corners of the square. The opposite
corners, say A and C, will have the same potential V A=Vc.
Work done in moving a charge q between points A and C is given as: W = q(V C VA) = q 0 =
0.
Hence, no work is done in moving the charge between two diagonally opposite points on the
square.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Q.(a) Using Gauss' law, derive an expression for the electric field intensity at any point outside
a uniformly charged thin spherical shell of radius R and charge density C/m2.Draw the field
lines when the charge density of the sphere is (I) positive,(ii) negative.(b) A uniformly charged
conducting sphere of 2.5 m in diameter has a surface charge density of 100C/m2. Calculate
the(i) Charge on the sphere(ii) Total electric flux passing through the sphere.(5)
ANS: (a) Electric field intensity at any point outside a uniformly charged spherical shell.
Figure1.31 (a)&(b),Page:39,NCERT, TEXT BOOK.
Consider a thin spherical shell of radius R and with centre O. Let charge + q be uniformly
distributed over the surface of the shell.Let P be any point on the Gaussian sphere S1 with
centre O and radius r, as shown in the following figure.
According to Gausss law, we can write the flux through ds as:=E.ds=q/0
Or, E (4r2)=q/0

Or, E=1/40(q/r2)
At any point on the surface of the shell, r = R,E=1/40(q/R2)
For charge density , q=4R2, Substituing, we get E=/0 .
(b) Diameter of the sphere = 2.5 m So, Radius of the sphere, R=2.5/2=1.25
Charge density,=100 micro coulomb per square meter =10 -4C/m2
Total charge, q=4R2=1.96 *10-3C. Total electric Flux, E =q/0=2.21*108Nm2C-1
-----------

2009

Q.A positive point charge (+q) is kept in the vicinity of an uncharged conducting plate. Sketch
electric filed lines originating from the point on the surface of the plate. Derive the expression
for the electric field at the surface of a charged conductor.(3)
ANS: Take a charged conductor of any arbitrary shape with charge density 2 C / m .The total
flux through a small cylindrical Gaussian surface will be given by Gausss law as follows: EA =
A/0So, E=/0n.
The electric field will be normal to the surface at all points of the conductor.
2010
Q.Figure shows three points charges, +2q, -q and +3q. Two charges +2q and q are enclosed
within a surface S. What is the electric flux due to this configuration through the surface S?
(1)
+2q
+3q
-q

ANS: Electric flux through the surface S will be as per Gauss law:
E= net charge/0=(2q-q)/ 0 =q/0.
2011
Q.A point charge Q is place at point O as shown in the figure. Is the potential difference
VA VB positive, negative or zero, if Q is (i) positive (ii) negative?
Q
O
Ans: Potential at a point: V = kQ/r
For any Q, VA-VB = kQ( 1/rA-1/rB)
Where, rA<rB , So 1/rA>1/rB
And So 1/rA-1/rB> 0.
If Q at O is positive, VA-VB will be positive.

(2)
B

If Q at O is negative, VA-VB will be negative.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Q. Using Gausss law to obtain the expression for the electric field due to a uniformly charged
thin spherical shell of radius R at a point outside the shell. Draw a graph showing the variation
of electric field with r, for r > R and r< R.

Q
ANS:
R

EdS

o.

Consider a spherical Gaussian surface of radius r (R), concentric with given shell. If Eis electric
field outside the shell, then by symmetry, electric field strength has same magnitude Eon the
Gaussian surface and is directed radially outward. Alsothe directions of normal at each point is
radially outward, so angle between E 0 and dS is zero at each point. Hence, electric flux through
Gaussian surface = =E.ds
=Eds= E*4r2
Now, Gaussian surface is outside the given charged shell, so charge enclosed by the Gaussian
surface
is Q. Hence, by Gausss theorem
E*4r2 = c.
E =Q/4r2 0
Thus, electric field outside a charged thin spherical shell is same as if the wholecharge Q is
concentrated at the centre. Graphically,
Y
E max
E
X

E 1/r 2

r=R

For r R, there is no strength of electric field inside a charged spherical shell.

For r R, electric field outside a charged thin spherical shell is same as if the whole charge Q is
concentrated at the centre.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2012
Q. Why should electrostatic field be zero inside a conductor? (1)
Ans: If the electric field inside the conductor is not zero, the electrons will accelerate due to the
electric field and for the electrostatic condition the net field becomes zero due to the
redistribution of the charge carries and electrons come at rest (electrostatics).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2013
Q. What is the geometrical shape of equipotential surfaces due to a single isolated charge?
(1)
ANS: The equipotential surfaces due to a single isolated charge are concentric spherical
surfaces. As the distance from the charge increases the electric field strength will decrease
and the distance between the spherical surfaces will increase.
DIAGRAM:figure-2.9(a),page=60,ncert book, class-xii.

2014
Q. Why do the electric field lines never cross each other? (1)
Ans: Electric field line is a curve drawn in such a way that the tangent to it at each point is in
the direction of the net field at that point. Two fields can never cross each other. If they did,it
means the field at the point of intersection will not have a unique direction, which is
meaningless).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHAPTER-2,ELECTROSTATIC POTENTIAL AND CAPACITANCE

2006
Q. Define the term 'dielectric constant' of a medium in terms of capacitance of a capacitor.(1)
ANS: Dielectric constant of a medium is defined as the ratio of the capacitance of a capacitor
with the dielectric as the medium to its capacitance with vacuum between its plates.
Q. The electric field and electric potential at any point due to a point charge kept in air is 20NC -1
and 10JC-1 respectively. Compute the magnitude of this charge.
(2)
ANS: E=1/40(q/r2)=20NC-1
V=1/40(q/r)=10NC-1
And R=V/E=10/20=1/2=0.5
So, q=40rV=10*0.5/9*109
=0.55* 10-9
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Q.11.The given graph shows the variation of charge q versus potential difference V for
twocapacitors C1 and C2. The two capacitors have same plate separation but the plate areaof
C2 is double than that of C1. Which of the lines in the graph correspond to C 1 and C2and why?
(2)
ANS:

A
B

V
As q =CV so, C=q/V and graph A has a larger slope than B, so the graph A represents a
capacitor of larger capacitance.Also, C= 0A/d, hence: C A.
As the plate area of C2is double of that of C1, so C2 has a larger capacitance. Hence theline A of
the graph corresponds to C2.
---------2008
Q. Derive the expression for the electric potential at any point along the axial line of an electricdipole? (2)

ANS: FIGURE:
A

Let P be an axial point at distance r from the centre of the dipole. Electric potential at point P is
given asV= V1+ V2, V1 and V2are the potentials at point P due to charges +q and -q respectively.
V=1/40 (q/r-a +-q/r+a)
=q/40( 2a/r2-a2)=1/40( p/r2-a2)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q.(a) Derive an expression for the torque experienced by an electric dipole kept in auniform
electric field.
(b) Calculate the work done to dissociate the system of three charges placed on the vertices of
an equilateral triangle of side 10 cms.as shown. Here, q = 1.6*10 -10C.(5)
q

-4q

+2q

ANS:
(a) The figure given below shows an electric dipole of charges +q and q which are
separated by distance 2a.
Refer,Figure :NCERT BOOK Fig no-2.16,Page-66.
A NS: Expression for the torque: The above arrangement forms a couple. The couple
exerts a torque which is given by, =Force x Perpendicular distance between the two
forces
=qE x 2a.sin
=pEsin(p=2aq,dipole moment)
Since the direction of torque is perpendicular to p and Ewe can rewrite the above
equation as,
=pX E.
(b) The work done will be equal to the potential energy of the system

U= 1/40[ (q*2q)/0.1+(q*-4q)/0.1+(2q*-4q)/0.1]
=9*109*10(-10q2)
=9*109*10*(-10)*1.6*10-10*1.6*10-10
=-23.04*10-9J.

2009

Q. Draw 3 equipotential surfaces corresponding to a field that uniformly increases in magnitude

but remains constant along Z direction. How are these surfaces different from that of a
constant electric field along Z- direction? (2)
ANS: Planes parallel to the x-y plane. If the field increases and equi-potential surfaces are
drawn for the same difference in potential then as the field increases the surfaces will become
closer to each other.

F IGURE:

Z
Q.A parallel plate capacitor is charged by a battery. After some time the battery is disconnected and a dielectric slab of dielectric constant K is inserted between the plates.
How would (i) the capacitance (ii) the electric field between the plates and
energystored in the capacitor be affected? Justify your answer. (3)

(iii) the

_
_
_
+
+
+
ANS: (i) On inserting a slab of dielectric constant K between the plates, the capacitance of the
capacitor is K times. New capacitance, C =KCo.
(ii) The electric field between the plates of the capacitor decreases. It becomes E = Eo/k
(iii) The energy stored by a capacitor is Q 2/2C0 which becomes Q2/2C =Q2/2kC0
So the energy stored becomes 1/K times its original value.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2010

Q. In which orientation, a dipole placed in a uniform electric field is in (i) stable, (ii)un-stable
equilibrium?
(1)
ANS: Stable position of the dipole: parallel to electric field.
Un-stable position: perpendicular to the electric field.
Q.A parallel plate capacitor is charged by a battery. After sometime the battery is disconnected
and a dielectric slabs its thickness equal to the plate separation is inserted between the plates.
How will (i) the capacitance of the capacitor. (ii) Potential difference between the plates and (iii)
the energy stored in the capacitor be affected? Justify your answer in each case.(3)
ANS: (i) Capacitance of the capacitor increases by a factor K, i.e., it becomes KC.
(ii) Net electric field will get reduced. As potential difference V=-Ed, as E is reduced, potentialdifference between the capacitor plates also reduces.
(iii) Energy of the capacitor: As the charge Q is fixed on plates, Energy stored in the capacitor,
U =q2/2C=1/k*(energy without di-electric)
So, U 1/k ,it goes down.
Q. (a) Depict the equipotential surfaces for a system of two identical positive point charges
placed a distance d apart.(b) Deduce the expression for the potential energy of a system of
two point charges q1 and q2 brought from infinity to the points r1 and r2 respectively in the
presence
of
external
electric
field
E.
(3)
ANS: a) An equipotential surface is a surface with a constant value of potential at all points on
the surface. The Equipotential surfaces for two identical positive charges. Refer figure, Ncert
book,Fig.no:2.11(b),page-60.
First, we calculate the work done in bringing the charge q1 from infinity to r1. Work done in this
step is q1 V (r1).
Next, we consider the work done in bringing q2 to r2. In this step, work is done not only against
the external field E but also against the field due to q1.
Work done on q2 against the external field = q2 V (r2)
Work done on q2 against the field due to q1 = q1q2/40r12
Where r12 is the distance between q1 and q2. By the superposition principle for fields, we add
up the work done on q2 against the two fields (E and that due to q1):
Work done in bringing q2 to r2 = q2Vr2+q1q2/40r12
Thus, Potential energy of the system= the total work done in assembling the configuration=
q1 V (r1)+q2 V (r2)+ q1q2/40r12.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2011
Q. Two uniformly large parallel thin plates having charge densities + and are kept in the XZ plane at a distance d apart. Sketch an equi-potential surface due to electric field between
the plates. If a particle of mass m and charge '-q' remains stationary between the plates, what
is the magnitude and direction of the field?
(3)
OR
Two small identical electrical diploes AB and CD, each of dipole moment 'p' are kept an angle of
120o as shown in the figure. What is the resultant dipole moment of this combination? If this
system is subjected to electric field E directed along +X direction, what will be the magnitude
and direction of the torque acting on this?(3)

Y
D +q
120 0

C
-q
Y
Ans:

Here the dark arrows represent the parallel equi-potential surfaces along X-Z plane.
If a charge q has to be held stationary between the two plates, it will have to be balanced by
two forces.
Gravitational force: mg, downwards
Electrostatic force= 2qE, acting upwards.
This implies, that in X-Z plane, the upper plate is + charged plate & lower plate is charged
plate.
So, E field lines have to be directed along y axis.
OR
Resultant dipole moment, pres =p1+p2
=(p12 +p22+2 p1p2cos1200 )1/2
=p
Direction of resultant dipole moment:
tan =psin1200/p+pCos1200 =(3)1/2
So, =60 0
That is, 30 degrees with +x axis.
Given applied E is along +x axis, So torque on resultant dipole will be =pESin300=pE/2.
Direction will be along -z axis.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

. Q.Figure shows to identical capacitors, C1 and C2, each of 1 F capacitance connected to a

battery of 6V.Initially switch S is closed. After sometimes S is left open and dielectric slabs of
dielectric constant K =3 are inserted to fill completely the space between the plates of the two
capacitors. How will the (i) charge and (ii) potential difference between the plates of the
capacitors be affected after the slabs are inserted?
ANS: In C2: Charge QD = CDVD will not change. Where CD = K C= increases K times
VD = V/K = decreases K times.

In C1: Charge QD = CDV Potential V remains the same as 6V.

Charge QD =KCV= KQ, increases K times.
2012
Q.Draw a plot showing the variation of (i) electric field Eand (ii) electric potential V with
distance r due to a point charge Q.
(2)
Ans: E at a point varies inversely as the square of its distance from Q.
V at a point varies inversely as its distance from Q.
Figure 2.4, NCERT Book, Page No- 55.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2013
Q. What is the geometrical shape of equi-potential surfaces due to a single isolated charge?
ANS: 1. The equi-potential surfaces due to a single isolated charge are concentric spherical
surfaces. As the distance from the charge increases the electric field strength will decrease and
the distance between the spherical surfaces will increase.

+q
-q

.A capacitor has been charged by a dc source. What are the magnitudes of conduction and
displacement currents, when it is fully charged?
(2)
ANS: Electric flux through the plates of the capacitor, =q/ 0 . As q is constant after the
capacitor is fully charged, will also be a constant. So displacement current, I d = 0 d /dt =0
.Conduction current = Ic =C dV/dt =0 as V is constant.
Ic = Id when the capacitor will be fully charged.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Q.A capacitor of unknown capacitance is connected across a battery of V volts. The charge
stored in it is 300 C.When potential across the capacitor is reduced by 100 V, the charge
stored in it becomes 100 C.Calculate the potential V and the unknown capacitance. What will
be the charge stored in the
capacitor if the voltage applied had increased by 100 V? (3)
OR

A hollow cylindrical box of length 0.5 m and area of cross-section 20 cm 2 is placed in a three
dimensional coordinate system as shown in the figure. The electric field in the region is given
byE=20xi, where Eis inNC-1& x is in metres.Find:
(i) Net flux through the cylinder.
(ii) Charge enclosed in the cylinder.

Y
O

X
0.5m

ANS: We know :Q= CV

in case1 : 300x10-6= CV........(i)
in case2 :100 x10-6=C(V-100).(ii)
from(i) & (ii) : V =150 V.
C=Q/V=2*10-6F=2 micro farad.
If voltage applied have increased by 100 V:
Charge stored will be=Q= CV
in this case: Q=2*10-6*250=500*10-6C.
OR
E=20xi
E1=at the left circular face=10i(putting the value of x)
E2=at the right circular face=20i(putting the value of x)
(i)

net =E.ds=E1.ds+E2.ds+E.ds(curve surface)

=-10*20/100*100+-20*20/100*100=0.02Nm2C-1

(ii)Charge enclosed in the cylinder=q/ 0.=0.02

So,q= 00.02
=0.177*10-12 (on simplification, putting the value of 0

).

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Q.A capacitor has been charged by a dc source. What are the magnitudes of conduction and
displacement currents, when it is fully charged?

ANS: 3. Electric flux through the plates of the capacitor, =q/ 0 .

As q is constant after the capacitor is fully charged, will also be a constant.
So displacement current,Id = 0 d /dt =0.
Conduction current = Ic =C dV/dt =0 as V is constant.
Ic = Id when the capacitor will be fully charged.
Q.While travelling back to his residence in the car, Dr. Pathak was caught up in a thunderstorm.
It became very dark. He stopped driving the car and waited for thunderstorm to stop? Suddenly
he noticed a child walking alone on the road. He asked the boy to come inside the car till the
thunderstorm stopped. Dr. Pathak dropped the boy at his residence. The boy insisted that Dr.
Pathak should meet his parents. The parents expressed their gratitude to Dr. Pathak for his
concern for safety of the child.
Answer the following questions based on the above information:
(a) Why is it safer to sit inside a car during a thunderstorm?
(b) Which two values are displayed by Dr. Pathak in his actions?
(c) Which values are reflected in parents response to Dr. Pathak?(d) Give an example of a
similar action on your part in the past from everyday life. (4)
ANS: (a) Because the car acts like electric shield. We know that the electric field inside
theclosed conductor is zero.
(b) Awareness and humanity or concern.
(c) Gratitude and obligation.
I was struck in severe thunder storm once in an isolated place. I insisted to go out of the
car and enjoy the rain. My parents advised not to go out of the car otherwise I may get
thunderstruck.

2014
Q. Considering the case of a parallel plate capacitor being charged, show how one is required to
generalize Ampere's circuital law to include the term due to displacement current. (2)
Ans: 9. Consider the charging of a capacitor. The electric field between the plates of the
capacitor is as follows:If the plates of the capacitor have an area A and a total charge Q, the
magnitude of the electric field between the plates is
E=Q/A0
The field is perpendicular to the surface S as shown in the figure.Thus, using Gausss law the
electric flux through the surface is
E= E A=QA/A0=Q/0
Now, if the charge Q on the capacitor is changing with time, there is a current associated with
it, so we have,
dE/dt = ( 1/0) dQ/dt =( 1/0)i

or, I = 0( d E/dt)
This term is the current due to changing electric field and is called displacement current. Thus,
the Amperes Circuital law is modified to give
B.dl 0 ic+ 0 0 ( d E/dt)
Q. A parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C is charged to a potential V. It is then connected to
another uncharged capacitor having the same capacitance. Find out the ratio of the energy
stored in the combined system to that stored initially in the single capacitor.
(2)
ANS: The capacitance of two capacitors is same, i.e. C.
The voltage across charged capacitor is V1 = V and that across uncharged capacitor is V2= 0.
Thus, the initial energy stored in the capacitor is
U1=1/2C1V12=1/2CV2
When the charged capacitor is connected across the uncharged capacitor, the two capacitors
form a parallel combination.Thus, the resultant capacitance is C = C + C = 2C.
The initial charge on the capacitor is q = CV.The final potential across the combination will be
V=q1+q2/C=q/2C=CV/2C=V/2.
Hence, the final energy in the combination of capacitors is
U2=1/2CV2= 1/2(2C)(V/2)2 =CV2/4
Thus, the ratio of energy stored in the combined system to that in the initial single capacitor is
given as
U2/U1=1/2.
Q: Draw a labelled diagram of Van de Graff generator. State its working principle to show ,how
by introducing a small charged sphere into a larger sphere, a large amount of charge can be
transferred to the outer sphere. State the use of this machine and also point out its limitations.
(5)
OR
(a) Deduce the expression for the torque acting on a dipole of dipole moment P in the
presence of a uniform electric field (b) Consider two hollow concentric spheres S1 and
S2, enclosing charges 2Q and 4Q respectively as shown in the figure. (i) Find out the
ratio of the electric flux through them. (ii) How will the electric flux through the sphere s1
change if a medium of dielectric constant 'r' is introduced in the space inside s1 in
place of air? Deduce the necessary expression. (5)

4Q

2Q

S2

S1

ANS: Principle:
1) The charge always resides on the outer surface of hollow conductor.
2) The electric discharge in air or gas takes place readily at the pointed ends of the conductors.
Construction:
It consists of a large hollow metallic sphere S mounted on two insulating columns and an
endless belt made up of rubber which is running over two pulleys P1 and P2 with the help of an
electric motor.B1 and B2 are two sharp metallic brushes. The lower brush B1 is given a positive
potential by high tension battery and is called a spray brush, while the upper brush B2 is
connected to the inner part of the sphereS.
Working:
When brush B1 is given a high positive potential then it produces ions due to the action of
sharp points. Thus, the positive ions so produced get sprayed on the belt due to repulsion
between positive ions and the positive charge on brush B1. Then it is carried upward by the
moving belt.The pointed end of B2 just touches the belt, collects the positive charge and makes
it move to the outer surface of the sphere S. This process continues and the potential of the
shell rises to several million volts.
Uses:
(1) It can be used to separate different charges.
(2) It can be used to accelerate particles like protons, particles, etc. to high speeds and
energies.
Limitations:
(1) It cannot be used to generate potential more than 7 million volts.
(2) There is only one sided movement available for the charges due to series connection.
OR
(a) Consider an electric dipole placed in uniform electric field. The axis of dipole makes an
angle with the direction electric field E . Diagram, NCERT Book.
The force acting on charge +q at B is +qEin the direction of E and the force acting
oncharge q at A is qE in the direction opposite to E.
These two equal, opposite and parallel non-collinear forces separated by perpendicular
distance BP acting on the electric dipole forms a couple.The torque on the dipole is given
as
= Magnitude of force perpendicular distance between two parallel forces
=qE* BP
=qE* 2lsin
=pEsin( Since, p= q* 2l )
Thus, in vector form, we have, = p * E.
(b) (i) Let 1 and 1 be the electric flux through the spheres S1 and S2 respectively.
Then, 1 = 2Q/ 0......(1)
2=(2Q + 4Q)/0= 6Q/ 0......(2)
From (1) and (2), we get the ratio of the electric flux passing through the spheres S1 and S2 as
1/2=1/3.

(ii) Let E be the electric field intensity on the surface of the sphere S1 due to the charge 2Q
present inside the sphere. Then, according to Gauss theorem, we have
1= E.dS =2Q/ 0
On introducing a medium of dielectric constantr inside the sphere S1, suppose that electric
field becomes E'. Then, we haveE' =E/r.
The electric flux through the sphere is now 1, then we have
1= E.dS = 1/0 E.dS = 2Q/ 0r.
Thus if a medium of dielectric constant r is introduced in the space S1 instead of air the
electric flux through the sphere S1 becomes 2Q/ 0r.

2015
Q. Write a relation for polarisation P of a dielectric material in the presence of an external
electricfield E.
(1)
Ans: The relation for polarisation P of the dielectric medium in the presence of an external
electric field Eis P = E, where susceptibility is a constant characteristic of the dielectric and
is known as the electric of a dielectric material.
Q.Explain briefly the process of charging a parallel plate capacitor when it is connected across
a d.c. battery.A capacitor of capacitance C is charged to V volts by a battery. After some time
the battery is disconnected and the distance between the plates is doubled. Now a slab of
dielectric constant,1<k<2,
is introduced to fill the space between the plates. How will the following be affected?
(a) The electric field between the plates of the capacitor
(b) The energy stored in the capacitor
Justify your answer by writing the necessary expressions. [3]
ANS: Consider a parallel plate capacitor connected across a d.c. battery as shown in the figure.
The electric current will flow through the circuit. As the charges reach the plate, the insulating
gap does not allow the charges to move further; hence, positive charges get deposited on one
side of the plate and negative charges get deposited on the other side of the plate. As the
voltage begins to develop, the electric charge begins to resist the deposition of further charge.
Thus, the current flowing through the circuit gradually becomes less and then zero till the
voltage of the capacitor is exactly equal but opposite
to the voltage of the battery. This is how the capacitor gets charged when it is connected
across a d.c. battery.
(a) The electric field between the plates is
E = V/D
The distance between plates is doubled, d' = 2d
E=V/D=(V/K)*1/2d =1/2(E/K)
Therefore, if the distance between the plates is double, the electric field will reduce to one half.
As the capacitance of the capacitor,
(b) As the capacitance of the capacitor,
C=E0KA/d=E0KA/2d=1/2C
(1)
Energy stored in the capacitor is U=Q2/2C
U=Q2/2C = Q2/2(1/2) C = 2(Q2/2C)2U(from 1)

Therefore, when the distance between the plates is doubled, the capacitance reduces to half.
Therefore, energy stored in the capacitor becomes double.
Q .(a) Deduce the expression for the potential energy of a system of two charges q1 and q 2
located r1 and r2,respectively, in an external electric field.
(b) Three point charges, + Q + 2Q and 3Q are placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle
ABC of side l. If these charges are displaced to the mid-point A1, B1 and C1,respectively, find
the amount of the work done in shifting the charges to the new locations.

A1

B(+2Q)

C1

B1

C(-3Q)

OR
ANS.(a) Let q1 and q2 be the two charges located at r1 and r2, respectively, in an external
electric field. The work done in bringing the chare q1 from infinity to r1 is W1 = q1V (r1), where
V(r1) is the potential. Similarly, the work done in bringing the chare q 1 from infinity to r2 can be
calculated. Here, the work is done not only against the external field E but also against the field
due to q1.
Hence, work done on q2 against the external field is W2 = q2V (r2).
Work done on q2against the field due to q1, W12 = q1q2/4 E0r12
where r12 is the distance between q1 and q2.
By the principle of superposition for fields, work done on q2 against two fields will add with
work done in bringing q2 to r2, which is given as W2+ W 12= q2V (r2)+ q1q2/4E0r12.
Thus, the potential energy of the system U = total work done in assembling the configuration
U= W1+ W2+ W12.
= q1V (r1)+ q2V (r2)+ q1q2/4E0r12.
(b)q1=+Q, q2=+2Q, q3=-3Q
r = l (for each side)
Intial potential energy of system
U1=1/4E0 l [q1*q2+q2*q3+q3*q1 ]
=-7Q2/4E0 l ( putting the value of q1,q2,q3 and after simplification)
U2=1/4E0 l/2 [q1*q2+q2*q3+q3*q1 ]
=-7Q2/2E0 l ( putting the value of q1,q2,q3 and after simplification)
Work done=U2-U1
=-7/4(Q2/2E0 l)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SECTION-B
MINIMUM LEVEL OF LEARNING
Unit-I, Electrostatics (CHAPTER 1- Charge and Electric field.CHAPTER 2- Potential and
capacitance.)

Formulas
Electrostatics is the study of charges at rest.
Charging a body can be done by friction, induction and conduction.
Properties of charges: 1 Charge on a body is quantized Q=+ ne
2. charge of an isolated system is conserved
3. Charge on a body is speed independent
To measure charge electroscopes are used.

Coulombs law:

F=

k q1 q2
r

1
k= 4 0

r^

= 9X109 Nm2c-2

Ftotal=
Fi

Principle of superposition:

Coulombs law for multiple charges

i=1

[vector sum of individual forces]

qq
qq
1 122 r12 1 123 r13 ....
4 r12
4 r13

Ftotal = F12 + F

13

+ .

Electric field: Force experienced by a unit positive (or test) charge. It is a vector. SI unitNC 1
.

ur
ur
F
E Lt
qo 0 q
o

E=lim
q0
q

0 0

Field due to a point charge:

kQ

E= 2 r^
r

Variation of E with r for point charge is as shown in the graph

n

Electric

Etotal=
Ei

field intensity due to multiple point charges :

ur
r
n u
E total i 1 E r

i =1

[vector

sum of individual fields]

Dipole: Two equal and opposite charges separated by a small distance.

Dipole moment: Product of magnitude of charge and distance of separation between
them. It is a vector. SI unit: Cm,

p =Q.2 a

; direction of

is along line joining the

negative to positive charge.

Electric field due to a dipole (for l <r)

2 k p
( a)at any point on the axial line: r 3

along the direction of dipole

moment
(b)at any point on the equatorial line :

k p
r3

opposite to the direction of

dipole moment.
Dipole in a uniform electric field experiences no net force and instead experiences a
torque.

= p
E = |p||
E|sin n^

If = 0 stable equilibrium; If =
Electric flux:

=
S.
E

180 unstable equilibrium.

|E||
S|cos ; It is a scalar; SI unit: NC-1m2 or Vm.

qtotal

=
total
Gauss theorem in electrostatics:
0

Expressions for charge densities for different types of Uniform Charge distributions:
Linear charge density:

q
=
Unit Cm-1] for linear charge distribution
l

Surface charge density:

q
=
Unit Cm-2] for surface charge distribution
S

Volume charge density:

q
=
Unit Cm-3] for Volume charge distribution
V

Electric Field Intensity on extreme left, In between and on extreme right of uniformly
and oppositely charged thin conducting plates

EI =0

Charge
distributi
on
Infinitely
long
straight
uniformly
charged
conducto
r

EII = 0

EIII =0

APPLICATION OF GAUSSS THEOREM

Charg
Types of Gausss
Surface area
e
surfaces
for which
densit
E . ds o
y
Linear
Cylindrical
Lateral
charge
surface area
densit
2 rl
y

q
l

E . ds

E .2 rh

Gausss
theore
m

Electric
field
Intensity

q
E .2 rl= E= 2
0
0

Infinitely
extended
plane
sheet of
Charge

Surfac
e
charge
densit
y

Plane
Plane
surface

E2A

E=
0

E2 A

2A

= 0

uniformly
Charged
spherical
shell

q
A

Surfac
e
charge
densit
y

Spherical
surface

E .4 r 2

E .4 r =

q
1 q
E=
0
40 r 2

4 r2

q
A

Properties of electric field lines: .

1.The imaginary path along which a unit positive charge placed in the electric field tends to
follow is the magnetic line of force
2. The electric lines of force emanate from a positive charge and terminate on a negative
charge.
The tangent to an electric field line at any point gives the direction of the electric field at that
point.
3. No two electric lines of force cross each other. If they do, then at the point of intersection,
there will be two tangents. It means there are two values of the electric field at that point,
which is not possible. 6. Electric lines of force are closer (crowded) where the electric field is
stronger and the lines spread out where the electric field is weaker.
4. Electric lines of force contract lengthwise to represent attraction between two unlike
charges and Electric lines of force exert lateral (sideways) pressure to represent repulsion
between two like charges.
Electrostatic Potential: Work done per unit positive Test charge to move it from infinity to that
point in an electric field against the field direction . It is a scalar. SI unit: J/C or V
V = W / qo

V=

W
q0

Electric potential at any point at a distance r from a point charge q:

V=

kq
r

Graphs: Variation of E & V due to a point charge at any point in the field with r (Graph-1) and
Variation of V with 1/r (Graph-2)

Electric field is conservative. This means that the work done is independent of the path
followed and the total work done in a closed path is zero.
n
v
in1 kqi
k qi
r
V total =
total
i
i=1 r i
Potential due to a system of charges:

Potential due to a dipole at any arbitrary point

on its axial line:

on its equatorial line: V eq = 0

V axial

k|p|
r2

V A V B =kq

=0)

(since

(Since

k|p|
cos
r2

=90)

1 1

rA rB

Potential difference

Potential energy of charge q1 in the field of q2 or vice versa :

Potential energy of a dipole in a uniform electric field:

U =

k q1 q2
r

U=

p .
E

= p E [

cos 0

cos 1

Electrostatics of conductors
(i)
Inside a conductor Electrostatic field is zero
(ii)
On the surface E is always Normal
(iii)
No charge inside the conductor but gets distributed
on the surface
(iv)
Charge distribution on the surface is uniform if the
surface is smooth
(v)
Charge distribution is inversely proportional to r if
the surface is uneven
(vi)
Potential is constant inside and on the surface
Equipotential surfaces: The surfaces on which the potential is same at all the points of
the surface.
As E=

dV
dr

If Vis constant, E

Capacitor: A device to store charges and electrostatic potential energy.

r
dr and if E is constant, V

Capacitance:
SI unit: farad [F]

Q
V

, Ratio of charge and potential difference. Scalar,

Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor:

C=

0 A
d

Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric medium in between:

o A

(dt+ kt )

Cm =

Combination of capacitors:

1
C

Capacitors in series:

1 n 1

c i 1 ci

1 1 1 1
+ + +
C1 C2 C3 C4

C c ci
i 1

C1 +C2 +C 3 +C 4

Capacitors in parallel :
2

1
1
1Q
U= C= QV =
2
2
2 C
Energy stored in capacitors:

Area shaded in the Q-V graph = U =

1
1
1 Q2
U CV 2 QV
2
2
2 C

1
QV
2
Q

1
2
2
U
=

E
d
Energy density :
= 20
2 0

Values of Different quantities after Introducing dielectric slab between the plates of the
charged capacitor:
Description
When Battery connected
When Battery disconnected

Charge
K Q0
Q0
Potential
V0
V0/K
difference
Electric
E0
E0/K
field
Capacitance
KC0
KC0
Energy
1
1
2
E [Energy is supplied
E2 [Energy used fo
K times 2 0
1/K times 2 0
By battery]
On connecting two charged capacitors:

V=

Common Potential:

Loss of energy:

U=

Polarization]

C1 V 1 +C2 V 2
V 1 +V 2

1 C 1 C 2
2
( V V 2)
2 C1 +C 2 1

Heat generated in the capacitors on

connecting them is equal to

this loss of energy.

CONCEPT MAP
FORCE/FIELD/POTENTIAL/P.E

CONCEPT MAP
CHARGE ITS IMPACT

QUESTION FOR MLL

Very Short Questions(1 mark)

1. Is the force acting between two point electric charges

apart in air, attractive or repulsive when (i)

q1 and

q 2 kept at some distance

q1 q 2 > 0 (ii) q1 q 2 <0 ?

(i. Repulsive ii. Attractive)

2. Which physical quantity has its SI unit as ( i Cm(ii)V /m.

i Electric Dipolemoment ( ii ) electricfield intensity .

3. How does the force between two point charges change if dielectric constant of medium in
which they are kept increases.
(decreases)
4. Which orientation of an electric dipole in a uniform electric field would correspond to
stable equilibrium?
5. Define electric dipole moment of a dipole. State its SI unit.
6. Why is it necessary that the field lines from a point charge placed in the vicinity of a
conductor must be normal to the surface of the conductor at every point?
7.A 500 C charge is at the Centre of a square of side 10cm.Find the work done in moving a
charge of 10 C between two diagonally opposite points on the square.
(Solution:- The 500 C charge is placed at the centre of a square. This charge is, therefore, at
the same distance from all the corners of the square. The opposite corners, say A and C, will
have the same potential i.e., . Work done in moving a charge q between points A and C is given
as: W = q(VC VA) = q 0 = 0 Hence, no work is done in moving the charge between two
diagonally opposite points on the square.)
8. Vehicles carrying inflammable materials usually have metallic ropes touching the
ground during motion. Why? (To leak the charge developed on the body of the vehicle due to
air friction to the earth to avoid any hazardous incident)
9. Ordinary rubber is an insulator. But the special rubber tires of aircraft are made conducting.
Why is this necessary?(During landing , the tires of space craft get charged due to friction
between the tyres and the ground. In case the tyres are slightly conducting , the charge
developed on the tyres will not stay on them and leak to the earth)
10. In the following fig. calculate the potential difference across capacitor C 2.
GivenpotentialatAis90V.C 1=20F,C2=30F,andC3=15F.
A

C1

C2

C3

Resultant capacitance Cs =(20/3)F Charge on Cs = (20/3)F*90V =600C Charge on C2 is also 600C Potential
across C2=600C/30F=20V
Shorts Questions (2 marks)
1.Derive an expression for the work done in obtaining an electric dipole from its equilibrium
position to an angle with the uniform electrostatic field.
2.Showthatthereisalwaysalossofenergywhentwocapacitorscharged
todifferentpotentialssharecharge(connectedwitheachother).
3.Four point charges +5 mC, +2 mC, +10mC and +2 mC are kept at the corners of a square of
side 10 cm. A charge q=+1mC is placed at its centre. Find the net force on q.
4. Calculate the distance between two protons such that the electrostatic force between them
is equal to the weight of either.
5. Two point charges are 0.1 m apart and their combined charge is 9 mC. If they repel each
other with a force 18N, then calculate the magnitude of each charge.
6. Calculate the Coulomb force between two alpha particles separated by a distance of 3.2 x
10-15 m

7. A proton moves through a uniform electric field of 5.01 x 10 3 N/C. Calculate (a) the
acceleration with which the proton is moving and (b) the time taken by the proton to cover a
distance of 4.8 cm.
8.How many electrons would have to be removed from or added to apenny to leave it charged
with 1.0 x 10-6 C [Ans: 6.25 x 10 12]
9. What is the Coulombs force between two small charged spheres having charges of 2.0 x 10 7
C and 3.0 x 10-7C placed 30 cm in air?
[Ans: 6.0 x 10-3N]
10.Twopointchargesqand+qareplaced 2l metreapart,asshowninfig.
GivethedirectionofelectricfieldatpointsA,B,CandD.

(along AB at A,

BqA
along AC at C

along BA at B,

+ qC
along AB at D)

11. Calculate the work required to separate two charges4c and 2c placed a (3cm,0,0)and(+3cm,0,0)infinitely awayfrom each other.
12. What is meantby dielectric polarization? Why does the electric field inside
adielectricdecreasewhenitisplacedinanexternalfield?
13.Calculatetheworkdoneintakingachargeof1Cinauniformelectric
fieldof10N/CfromBtoCgivenAB=5cmalongthefieldandAC=10 cm per pendicular to
electricfield.
A

C
14. The plates of a parallel plate air capacitor are separated by a distance of 1 mm. What mustbe the plate area if the
capacitance of the capacitor is to be 1F?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (3 MARKS)

1.

Find the equivalence capacitance between X and Y.

X
3 f

3 f

3 f

As the combination is parallel, Cp=(3+3+3)F = 9F

2.Assuming earth to be an isolated conducting sphere of radius 6400 km, what is the capacitance of earth?
3.An isolated sphere has a capacitance of 50pF.Calculate its radius. How much charge should be placed on it to raise its
potential to 104V?
4.Twenty seven spherical drops, each of radius 3mm and carrying 1012C of charge are combined to form a single drop. Find
the capacitance and potential of the bigger drop.

5. Define electrostatic potential and write its unit. Obtain expression for
electrostatic
Potential at a point Pin the field due to a point charge.
6.Calculatetheelectrostaticpotentialenergyforasystemofthreepoint
chargesplacedatthecornersofanequilateraltriangleofsidea.
7.A charge Q is distributed over two concentric hollow sphere of radii r and
R(R>r),such that their surface density of charges are equal. Find Potential at the
common c entre.

8.
Defineelectricflux.WriteitsSIunit.
How
many
units
of
electricfluxpasses
normallythroughasphericalGaussiansurfaceofradiusr,duetopoint
chargeplacedatthecentre?
(1)WhatisthechargeenclosedbyGaussiansurface?
(2)IfradiusofGaussiansurfaceisdoubled,howmuchfluxwillpass throughit?
9.Whatisanequipotentialsurface?Writethreeproperties.Sketch
equipotentialsurfacesof
(i)Isolatedpointcharge(ii) Uniformelectricfield(iii) Dipole
10. What are dielectrics?Give some examples of polar and non polarmolecules.
Distinguish polar
and nonpolar dielectrics.
11.Derive an expression for the electric field due to an electric dipole at a point on
(a) the axial line (b) the equatorial line.
12.Derive an expression for the torque acting on an electric dipole placed in a
uniform electric field.
13.Show that the work done in rotating an electric dipole of dipole moment p in a
uniform electric field E by an angle

from the equilibrium position

W =PE(1cos)
14.State and verify Gauss theorem .Use Gauss theorem to derive an expression for
the electric field at a point due to an infinite plane sheet of charge of uniform
charge density
15. Derive an expression for the electric field at a point due to a thin infinitely long straight
conductor of charge of uniform charge density

16.Derive an expression for the electric field at a point due to uniformly charged spherical
shell using Gauss law.
17.Derive an expression for the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor.

18.A dielectric slab of thickness t introduced between the plates of a parallel plate
capacitor separated by a distance d. (t < d). Derive an expression for the
capacitance of the capacitor.
Formula based Nemerical Questions
1. Force between two points electric charges kept at a distance d apart in air is
F.If these charges are kept at the same distance in water, how does the force
between them get effected ?
2. Two point charges 10C and 20C are separated by a distance r in air. If an
additional charge of -8C is given to each, by what factor does the force
between the charges change?
3. Calculate the Coulomb force between a proton and an electron separated by
a
distanceof0.8x10-15m.

4. Two point charges Q are kept at a distance r from each other. A third charge q
is place on the line joining the above two charges such that all the three
charges are in equilibrium, what is the magnitude, sign and the position of
the charge q?
5. A charge q is placed at the centre of the line joining two equal charges Q and
Q. Calculate the value of charge q such that all the three charges are in
equilibrium. Also mention the nature of this charge.
6. Two point charges of charge values Q and q are placed at a distance of x and
x/2 respectively from a third charge of charge value 4q, all charges being in
the same straight line. Calculate the magnitude and nature of charge Q such
that the net force experienced by the q charge is zero.
7. Two point electric charges of values q and 2q are kept at a distance d apart
from each other in air. A third charge Q is to be kept along the same line in
such a way that the net force on q and 2q is zero. Calculate the position of
the charge Q in terms of q and d.
8. Force of attraction between two point charges placed at a distanced apart in
a medium is F. What should be the distance in the same medium so that the
force between them becomes 9F?
9. Two similarly and equally charged identical metal spheres A and B repel each
other with a force of 2x10-5 N. A third identical uncharged sphere C is touched
with A and then placed at the midpoint between A and B. Calculate the net
electric force on C.
VALUEBASEDQUESTIONS
1.AnelderlywomanwentalonetotheRegistrarsofficetodisburseherproperty.Whens
heenquiredintheofficeshewasaskedtogetaXeroxcopyofthedocumentwhichworksun
derelectrostaticinduction.TheXeroxshopwasfarawayandacrosstheroad.Shetookthe
helpofthepasserbyandgothere for getting the Xeroxdone.
a)Whatvaluesdidthepasser-byhave?
b)Howdoesaneutralbodygetchargedbyelectrostaticinduction?
2)RamandShyamwenttothetradefair.Theywerebyside
of
acrowdedcorner.
WhereBalloons
weresold.Achildwasseentroublinghisparentandcryingforsomething
.Onseeingthis,Ramwenttothechildandsaidthathewouldperformatri
ckwithballoons.RamtooktwoballoonsandShyamhelpedhimtoinflate
andtie.Whentheballoonswererubbedwiththesweaterhewaswearing,
theywereattracted.Whentakennearertowall,theballoonsgotstuck.T
hechildenjoyedandstoppedcrying.
a)GivetwovaluesofRamandShyam.
b)Howdidtheballoonsgetattracted?Willtheyrepelalso?
3)Arunhadtorepairthiscarwhenhewasremindedbythecarcompanyforhisreg
ularcarservice.Hetoldthemtodospraypaintingofmountaindewcolour.Theco
mpanyalsorepliedthattheyusuallyperformspraypainting
onlyaswastageisminimizedandevenpaintingachieved.
a)Whatvaluesdidthecarservicecompanyhave?
b)Ifspraypaintingisdonebyelectrostaticinduction,howisevenpaintingachi
eved?
.
4)InAkashsclassroomthefanabovetheteacherwasrunningveryslowly.D
uetowhichhisteacherwassweatingandwasrestlessandtired.Allhisclass
mateswantedtorectifythis.Theycalledforanelectricianwhocameandcha
ngedthecapacitoronlyafterwhichthefanstartedrunningfast.
a)WhatvaluesdidAkashandhisclassmateshave?
b)Whatenergyisstoredinthecapacitorandwhere?

Important Information
1.Van de Graaff is omitted from syllabus.
2. Direct formula based Numericalare asked only
3. To revise solved examples &numericals givenin NCERT Text Book

QUESTION BANK OF PROBABLE QUESTIONS

FOR AISSCE 2016
Questions that have been repeated at least three
or more times
Long answer questions (5 marks)
UNIT 1: ELECTROSTATICS
(Chapter 1: Electric charges and fields, chapter-2:
Electrostatic potential and capacitance)
1.Using Gausss law obtain the expression for the
electric field due to a uniformly charged thin
spherical shell of radius R at a point outside, inside
and on the surface of the shell. Draw a graph
showing the variation of electric field with r, for r>R
and r<R.
2.State Gauss theorem in electrostatics. Apply this
theorem to obtain the expression for the electric field
at a point due to an infinitely long, thin, uniformly
charged straight wire of linear charge density C/m.
3.Derive an expression for the energy stored in a
parallel plate capacitor Charged to a potential
difference V. Hence derive an expression for the
energy density of a capacitor.

QUESTION BANK OF PROBABLE QUESTIONS

FOR AISSCE 2016
Questions that have been repeated one or two
times
Long answer questions (5 marks)
UNIT 1: ELECTROSTATICS
(Chapter 1: Electric charges and fields, chapter-2:
Electrostatic potential and capacitance)
1.Find an expression for the electric field strength at a
distant point situated (i) on the axis and (ii) along the
equatorial line of an electric dipole.
2.Find expression for the torque on an electric dipole
kept in a uniform electric field. Identify two pairs of
perpendicular vectors in the expression.
3.Briefly explain the principle of a capacitor. Derive an
expression for the capacitance of a parallel plate
capacitor, whose plates are separated by a dielectric
medium.
4.Derive the expression for the electric potential at a
point due to an electric dipole. Mention the
contrasting features of electric potential of a dipole
at a point as compared to that due to a single
charge.
5.Define electric flux. Write its S.I. unit. Using Gausss
law, prove that the electric field at a point due to a
uniformly charged infinite plane sheet is independent
of the distance from it. How is the field directed if (i)
the sheet is positively charged,(ii) negatively
charged?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR REVISION

CHAPTER:3 CURRENT ELECTRICITY
ONE MARK QUESTIONS

Define the term mobility of charge carriers. Write its S.I. unit.

2008

V I graph for a metallic wire at two different temperatures T1 and

2015
T2 is as shown in the figure. Which of the two temperatures is higher
and why?

Two metallic resistors are connected first in series and then in

parallel across a d.c. supply. Plot of I V graph is shown for the two
cases. Which one represents a parallel combination of the resistors
and why?

2015

I V graph for two identical conductors of different materials A and

B is shown in the figure. Which one of the two has higher resistivity?

2015

Distinguish between emf and terminal voltage of a cell.

2008

Show variation of resistivity of copper as a function of temperature

in a graph

2007

When electrons drift in a metal from lower to higher potential, does

2012

it mean that all the free electrons of the metal are moving in the
same direction?
8

Show on a graph the variation of resistivity with temperature for a

typical semiconductor?

2012

A 10 V battery of negligible internal resistance is connected across

a 200 V battery and a resistance as shown in the figure find the
value of current in the circuit.

2013

10

Two wires, one of copper and the other of manganin, have same
resistance and equal thickness. Which wire is longer? Justify your
answer.
Two wires, one of copper and the other of manganin, have same
resistance and equal thickness. Which wire is thicker? Justify your
answer.
TwoconductingwiresXandYofsamediameterbutdifferentmaterialsarejoinedin
seriesacrossabattery.IfthenumberdensityofelectronsinXistwicethatinY,find
theratioofdriftvelocityofelectronsinthetwowires.
A steady current flows in a metallic conductor of non-uniform cross-section.

2009
2012

11

12

13

Which of these quantities is constant along the conductor:

14
15
16

Current, current density, drift speed, electric field?

Awireofresistance8Risbentintheformofacircle.WhatistheEffective
resistancebetweentheendsofadiameterAB?
Show on a graph the variation of resistivity of carbon with
temperature for a typical semiconductor?
The variation of potential difference V with length l in case of two
potentiometers P and Q is as shown, which of these two you will
prefer for comparing emfs of two primary cells?

2012

2010

2011
2009
2010
2006
2006

TWO MARKS QUESTIONS

1

2009,
2015

Calculate the current drawn from the battery by the network of resistors
shown in figure

Draw a circuit diagram of a potentiometer .State its working principle.

Derive the necessary formula to describe how it is used to compare the
emfs of the two cells.

2008

With the help of the circuit diagram, explain the working Principle of meter
bridge. How it is used to determine the unknown resistance of a given wire?
Write the necessary precautions to minimize the error in the result.
Using the concept of drift velocity of charge carriers in a conductor, deduce
the relationship between current density and resistivity of the conductor.
A steady current flows in a metallic conductor of non-uniform cross-section.
Which of these quantities is constant along the conductor :
current, current density, electric field, drift speed ?

2007
2009

Use Kirchhoffs rules to obtain conditions for the balance condition in

a Wheatstone bridge.
A variable resistor R is connected across a cell of emf E and internal
resistance r as shown in the figure. Draw a plot showing the variation of
(i) terminal voltage V and (ii) the current I, as a function of R.

2009
2013
2011

4
5

6
7

2009
2012

In the potentiometer circuit shown, the null point is at X. State with

reason, where the balance point will be shifted when
(a) Resistance R is increased, keeping all other parameters unchanged;
(b) Resistance S is increased, keeping R constant.

2012

State the two Kirchhoffs rules used in electric networks. How are these
rules justified?

2008

1
0

Define the term power loss in a conductor of resistance R carrying a

current I. In what form does this power loss appear? Show that to
minimize the power loss in the transmission cables connecting the
power stations to homes, it is necessary to have the connecting wires
carrying current at enormous high values of voltage.
In the circuit diagram shown, AB is a uniform wire of resistance 15 and
length 1 m. It is connected to a cell E1 of emf 2 V and negligible internal
resistance and a resistance R. The balance point with another cell E 2 of
emf 75 mV is found at 30 cm from end A. Calculate the value of the
resistance R.

2011

1
1

2009

1
2

Use Kirchhoff s rules to determine the potential difference between the

points A and D when no current flows in the arm BE of the electric
network shown in the figure.

2007

1
3

A potentiometer wire of length 1m has a resistance of 10 . it is connected

to a 6V battery in series with a resistance of 5 . Determine the emf of the
primary cell which gives the balance point at 40 cm
(a) State the working principle of a potentiometer. With the help of a
circuit diagram, explain how a potentiometer is used to compare the
emfs of two primary cells. Obtain the required equation used for the
comparing of emfs.
(b) Write two possible causes for one sided deflection in a potentiometer
experiment.

2005

1
5

AcellofemfEandinternalresistancerisconnectedtotwoexternalresistancesR1andR2anda
perfectammeter.Thecurrentinthecircuitismeasuredinfourdifferentsituations:
(i)withoutanyexternalresistanceinthecircuit.
(ii)withresistanceR1only
(iii)withR1andR2inseriescombination
(iv)withR1andR2inparallelcombination.
Thecurrentsmeasuredinthefourcasesare0.42A,1.05A,1.4Aand4.2A,butnot
necessarilyinthatorder.Identifythecurrentscorrespondingtothefourcasesmentionedabove.

2012

1
6

Inthemeterbridgeexperiment,balancepointwasobservedatJwithAJ=l.
(i)ThevaluesofRandXweredoubledandtheninterchanged.Whatwouldbethenewpositionof
balancepoint?
(ii)Ifthegalvanometerandbatteryareinterchangedatthebalanceposition,howwillthebalancepoint
getaffected?

2011

1
4

2013

1
7

Inthegivencircuit,assumingpointAtobeatzeropotential,useKirchhoffsrulestodetermine
thepotentialatpointB.

2011

1
8

Showthattheelectricfieldatthesurfaceofachargedconductorisgivenby

2007

1
9

2
0
2
1
2
2
2
3

E=0)n,
whereisthesurfacechargedensityand$ nisaunitvectornormaltothesurfaceintheoutward
direction.
Theplotofthevariationofpotentialdifferenceacrossacombinationofthreeidenticalcellsin
series,versuscurrentisasshownbelow.Whatistheemfofeachcell?

A cell of emf E and internal resistance r is connected across a variable resistor R. Plot a

2008

2009

graph showing the variation of terminal potential V with resistance R. Predict from the graph
the condition under which V becomes equal to E.
Derive an expression for drift velocity of free electrons in a conductor in terms of relaxation

2009

time.

A wire of 15 resistances is gradually stretched to double its original

length. It is then cut into two equal parts. These parts are then connected in
parallel across a 3 00 volt battery. Find the current drawn from the battery.
(a)Youarerequiredtoselectacarbonresistorofresistance47k10%fromalarge
collection.

2009

2012

Whatshouldbethesequenceofcolourbandsusedtocodeit?
(b)Writethecharacteristicsofmanganinwhichmakeitsuitableformakingstandard
resistance.

THREE MARKS QUESTIONS

1

In the two electric circuits shown in the figure, determine the readings of
ideal
Ammeter (A) and the ideal voltmeter (V).

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5

In the circuit shown in the figure, find the current through each resistor.

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5

(a) Deduce the relation between current I flowing through a

conductor and drift velocity d of the electrons.
(b) Figure shows a plot of current I flowing through the crosssection of a wire versus the timet. Use the plot to find the charge
flowing in 10s through the wire..

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4

A cell of emf E and internal resistance r is connected across a

variable load resistor R. Draw the plots of the terminal voltage V
versus (i) R and (ii) the current I.
It is found that when R = 4 , the current is 1 A and when R is
increased to 9 , the current reduces to 0.5 A. Find the values of
the emf E and internal resistance r.
A potential difference V is applied across a conductor of length L and
diameter D. How is the drift velocity, vd, of charge carriers in the
conductor affected when (i) V is halved, (ii) L is doubled and (iii) D is
halved ? Justify your answer in each case.

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TwowiresX,Yhavethesameresistivity,buttheircrosssectionalareasareintheratio2:3and
lengthsintheratio1:2.Theyarefirstconnectedinseriesandtheninparalleltoad.c.source.
Findouttheratioofthedriftspeedsoftheelectronsinthetwowiresforthetwocases.

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Define the electric resistivity of a conductor.

Plot a graph showing the variation of resistivity with temperature in
the case of a (a) conductor, (b) semiconductor.
Briefly explain, how the difference in the behaviour of the two can
be explained in terms of number density of charge carriers and
relaxation time.
Plot a graph showing the variation of current density (j) versus the
electric field (E) for two conductors of different materials. What
information from this plot regarding the properties of the conducting
material, can be obtained which can be used to select suitable
materials for use in making (i) standard resistance and (ii) connecting
wires in electric circuits ?
Electron drift speed is estimated to be of the order of mm s 1. Yet large
current of the order of few amperes can be set up in the wire. Explain
briefly.

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0

A 16 resistance wire is bent to form a square. A source of emf 9 V is

connected across one of its sides as shown. Calculate the current
drawn from the source. Find the potential difference between the ends
C and D.
If now the wire is stretched uniformly to double the length and once
again the same cell is connected in the same way, across one side of

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the square formed, what will now be the potential difference across
one of its diagonals?

1
0

When a metallic conductor is subjected to a certain potential V across its

ends, discuss briefly how the phenomenon of drift occurs. Hence define

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9

the term drift velocity of charge carriers and show that the current density j is related
to the applied electric field E by the relation
j= E
where defines the conductivity of the material.

1
1

1
2

State the underlying principle of a potentiometer. Write two factors by

which current sensitivity of a potentiometer can be increased. Why is a
potentiometer preferred over a voltmeter for measuring the emf of a
cell ?
Find the relation between drift velocity and relaxation time of charge
carriers in a conductor.
A conductor of length L is connected to a d.c. source of emf E. If the
length of the conductor is tripled by stretching it, keeping E constant,
explain how its drift velocity would be affected.

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6

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0

1
3

Writeanytwofactorsonwhichinternalresistanceofacelldepends.Thereadingonahigh
resistancevoltmeter,whenacellisconnectedacrossit,is20V.Whentheterminalsofthe
cellarealsoconnectedtoaresistanceof3asshowninthecircuit,thevoltmeterreading

1
4

1
5
1
6

1
7

dropsto15V.Findtheinternalresistanceofthecell.
StateKirchhoffsrules.UsetheserulestowritetheexpressionsforthecurrentsI1,I2andI3
inthecircuitdiagramshown.

Provethatthecurrentdensityofametallicconductorisdirectlyproportionaltothe
driftspeedofElectrons.
Anumberofidenticalcells,n,eachofemfE,internalresistancerconnectedinseries
arechargedbyad.c.sourceofemfE,usingaresistorR.
(i)Drawthecircuitarrangement.
(ii)Deducetheexpressionsfor
(a)thechargingcurrentand
(b)thepotentialdifferenceacrossthecombinationofthecells.
Apotentiometerwireoflength1misconnectedtoadrivercellofemf3Vasshown
inthefigure.Whenacellof15Vemfisusedinthesecondarycircuit,thebalance
pointisfoundtobe60cm.Onreplacingthiscellandusingacellofunknownemf,
thebalancepointshiftsto80cm.
(i)Calculateunknownemfofthecell.
(ii)Explainwithreason,whetherthecircuitworks,ifthedrivercellisreplacedwith
acellofemf1V.
(iii)DoesthehighresistanceR,usedinthesecondarycircuitaffectthebalance
point?JustifyyourAnswer.

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5
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7

1
8

Anetworkofresistorsisconnectedtoa16Vbatteryofinternalresistanceof1asshown
intheFigure.

(a)Computetheequivalentresistanceofthenetwork.
(b)ObtainthevoltagedropsVABandVCD.
1
9

CalculatethevalueoftheresistanceRinthecircuitshowninthefiguresothatthecurrentinthe
circuitis0.2A.WhatwouldbethepotentialdifferencebetweenpointsBandE?

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2

2
0

InthefigurealonguniformpotentiometerwireABishavingaconstantpotentialgradient
alongitslength.Thenullpointsforthetwoprimarycellsofemfs1and2connectedinthe
mannershownareobtainedatadistanceof120cmand300cmfromtheendA.Find
(i)
1/2and
(ii)
positionofnullpointforthecell1.
Howisthesensitivityofapotentiometerincreased?

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FOUR MARKS (VALUE BASED)/FIVE MARKS QUESTIONS

1

Ameen had been getting huge electricity bill for the past few months. He
was upset about this. One day his friend Rohit, an electrical engineer by
profession, visited his house. When he pointed out his anxiety about this
to Rohit, his friend found that Ameen was using traditional incandescent
lamps and using old fashioned air conditioner. In addition there was no
proper earthing in the house. Rohit advised him to use CFL bulbs of 28 W
instead of 1000 W 220 V and also advised him to get proper earthing in
the house. He made some useful suggestion and asked him to spread this
message to his friends also.
(i) What qualities/values, in your opinion did Rohit possess ?
(ii) Why CFLs and LEDs are better than traditional incandescent lamps ?
(iii) In what way earthing reduces electricity bill
Ajit had a high tension tower erected on his farm land. He kept
complaining to the authorities to remove it as it was occupying a large
portion of his land. His uncle, who was a teacher, explained to him the
need for erecting these towers for efficient transmission of power. As
Ajit realized its significance, he stopped complaining.
Answer the following questions :
(a) Why is it necessary to transport power at high voltage ?
(b) A low power factor implies large power loss. Explain.
(c) Write two values each displayed by Ajit and his uncle.
During a thunderstorm the live wire of the transmission line fell down
on the ground from the poles in the street. A group of boys, who
passed through, noticed it and some of them wanted to place the wire
by the side. As they were approaching the wire and trying to lift the
cable, Anuj noticed it and immediately pushed them away, thus
preventing them from touching the live wire. During pushing some of
them got hurt. Anuj took them to a doctor to get them medical aid.
Based on the above paragraph, answer the following questions :
(a) Write the two values which Anuj displayed during the incident.

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(b) Why is it that a bird can sit on a suspended live wire without any
harm whereas touching it on the ground can give a fatal shock ?
(c) The electric power from a power plant is set up to a very high
voltage before transmitting it to distant consumers. Explain, why.
4

(a) State Kirchhoff s rules and explain on what basis they are justified.
(b) Two cells of emfs E1 and E2 and internal resistances r1 and r2 are
connected in parallel. Derive the expression for the (i) emf and (ii)
internal resistance of a single equivalent cell which can replace this
combination.
Two heating elements of resistances R 1 and R2 when operated at a
constant supply of voltage V, consumes powers P1 and P2 respectively.
Deduce the expressions for the power of their combinations when they
are, in turn, connected in (i) Series and (ii) parallel across the same
voltage supply.

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EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR REVISION/MLL

CHAPTER:3 CURRENT ELECTRICITY

Define the terms

I.
Mobility of charge carriers.
II.
Average relaxation time.
III.
Quantization of charge
IV.
Drift velocity of electrons
V.
Temperature co efficient of resistivity.
VI.
Current density

V I graph for a metallic wire at two different temperatures T1 and T2 is as

shown in the figure. Which of the two temperatures is higher and why?

Two metallic resistors are connected first in series and then in parallel across a
d.c. supply. Plot of I V graph is shown for the two cases. Which one represents
a parallel combination of the resistors and why?

I V graph for two identical conductors of different materials A and B is shown

in the figure. Which one of the two has higher resistivity?

Distinguish between emf and terminal voltage of a cell.

Show
I.
II.
III.

variation of resistivity as a function of temperature in a graph for

Metals
Semiconductors
Alloys

7
Find the colour code for a resistance 23 K

+
20%.

8
9

Write any two limitations of Ohms law.

10

Draw a circuit diagram of a potentiometer .State its working principle. Derive the
necessary formula to describe how it is used to find internal resistance of a primary
cell

11

With the help of the circuit diagram, explain the working Principle of meter bridge.
How it is used to determine the unknown resistance of a given wire?

12

Use Kirchhoffs rules to obtain conditions for the balance condition in a

Wheatstone bridge.
In the potentiometer circuit shown, the null point is at X. State with reason, where
the balance point will be shifted when

13

Draw a circuit diagram of a potentiometer .State its working principle. Derive the
necessary formula to describe how it is used to compare the emfs of the two cells.

14

15

(a) Resistance R is increased, keeping all other parameters unchanged;

(b) Resistance S is increased, keeping R constant
(c) the potential of the driving cell is less than the experimental cell
Also write any two possible causes of one-sided deflection.
A potential difference V is applied across a conductor of length L and diameter D.
How is the drift velocity, vd, of charge carriers in the conductor affected when (i) V
is halved, (ii) L is doubled and (iii) D is halved? Justify your answer in each case.
In the meter bridge experiment, balance point was observed at Jwith AJ= l.
(i) The values of Rand Xwere doubled and then interchanged. What would be the
new position of balance point?
(ii) If the galvanometer and battery are interchanged at the balance position, how will
the balance point get affected?

16

State the underlying principle of a potentiometer. Write two factors by which

current sensitivity of a potentiometer can be increased. Why is a potentiometer
preferred over a voltmeter for measuring the emf of a cell ?

17

Deduce the relation between current I flowing through a conductor and drift
velocity d of the electrons.

18

A steady current flows in a metallic conductor of non-uniform cross-section.

Which of these quantities is constant along the conductor :
current, current density, electric field, drift speed ?

19

StateKirchhoffsrules.UsetheserulestowritetheexpressionsforthecurrentsI1,I2andI3inthecircuit
diagramshown.

20

Two cells of emfs E1 and E2 and internal resistances r1 and r2 are connected in
parallel. Derive the expression for the (i) emf and (ii) internal resistance of a single
equivalent cell which can replace this combination.
WritethecharacteristicsofManganinwhichmakeitsuitableformakingstandardresistance.Why
ManganinisusedintheMetreBridge?
A battery has an emf E and internal resistance r. A variable resistance R is
connected across the terminals of the battery. Find the value of R such that
I.
The current is maximum
II.
The potential difference across the terminals is maximum
III.
Plt a graph between V and R.

21
22

23

Explain how a meter bridge is used to determine the resistivity of the material
of a wire in the laboratory. Why it is preferred to get a null point almost at the
middle of the wire?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR REVISION

CHAPTER:4 MAGNETIC EFFECT OF CURRENT
ONE MARK QUESTIONS
1

2
3
4

5
6
7
8
9

1
0

Write the expression in a vector form for the Lorentz magnetic force F
due to a charge moving with a velocity V in a magnetic field B .What is
the direction fo the magnetic force
Whatisthedirectionoftheforceactingonachargeparticleq,movingwithavelocityv in
auniformmagneticfieldB?
An electron does not suffer any deflection while passing through a region of
uniform magnetic field. What is the direction of the magnetic field?
Abeamofparticlesprojectedalong+xaxis,experiencesaforceduetoamagneticfield
along
the+yaxis.Whatisthedirectionofthemagneticfield?

Write two factors by which voltage sensitivity of a galvanometer can be

increased.
Write two properties of a material used as a suspension wire in a moving
coil galvanometer.
An electron moving through a magnetic field does not experience a
force; under what condition is it possible?
Name the physical quantity whose S I unit is Wb-m 2, is it ascalar or
vector quantity?
Two wires of equal length are bent in the form of two loops , One of the
loops is square shaped and another is circular. These loops are
suspended in a uniform magnetic field and same current is passed
through them. Which loop will experience greater torque?
How does the magnetic moment of an electron in a circular orbit of
radius r and moving with a speed v change ,when the frequency of

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8
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9
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2
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7

200
8
200
6
200
5
200
5
200
5

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5c

revolution doubled?

TWO MARKS QUESTIONS

1

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5

A square loop of side 20 cm carrying current 1 A is kept near an infinitely

long straight wire carrying current 2 A ,calculate the magnitude and
direction of net force on the loop due to the current carrying con doctor.
A square shaped plane coil of area 100 cm 2 of 200 turns caries a steady
current of 5 A . it is placed in a uniform magnetic field of 0.2 T acting
perpendicular to the plane of the coil. Calculate the torque on the coil
when its plane makes an angle of 60o with the direction of the field. In
which orientation will the coil be in stable equilibrium?
An ammeter of resistance 0.80 can measure current upto 1.0 A.
(i) What must be the value of shunt resistance to enable the ammeter to
measure current upto 5.0 A?
(ii) What is the combined resistance of the ammeter and the shunt?
Two identical circular wires P and Q each of radius R and carrying current
I are kept in perpendicular planes such that they have a common centre
as shown in the figure. Find the magnitude and direction of the net
magnetic field at the common centre of the two coils.

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4

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3
200
7
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2

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2
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4

Two identical circular loops, Pand Q, each of radius r and carrying

currents I and 2I respectively are lying in parallel planes such that they
have a common axis. The direction of current in both the loops is
clockwise as seen from Owhich is equidistant from the both loops. Find
the magnitude of the net magnetic field at point O.
A wire of length L is bent round in the form of a coil having N turns of
same radius. If a
steady current I flows through it in a clockwise direction, find the
magnitude and direction of the magnetic field produced at its centre
A straight wire carrying a current of 12 A is bent into a semi-circular arc of

2009

201
0

radius 20 cm as shown. What is the magnetic field B

at Odue to (i) straight segments (ii) the semi-circular arc?

Ajetplaneistravellingwestat450ms1.Ifthehorizontalcomponentofearthsmagnetic
fieldatthatplaceis4104teslaandtheangleofdipis30,findtheemfinducedbetween
theendsofwingshavingaspanof30m.
Write the expression for Lorentz magnetic force on a particle of charge q
moving with velocity v in a magnetic field B.Show that no work is done by
this force on the charged particle.
A steady current (I1) flows through a long straight wire. Another wire
carrying steady current (I2) in the same direction is kept close and parallel
to the first wire. Show with the help of a diagram, how the magnetic field
due to the current I1 exerts a magnetic force on the second wire. Write the
expression for this force.

200
8
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2
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2

1
0

A rectangular loop of wire of size 4 cm 10 cm carries a steady current of

2A. A straight long wire carrying 5A current is kept near the loop as
shown. If the loop and the wire are coplanar, find
(i) the torque acting on the loop and
(ii) The magnitude and direction of the force on the loop due to the
current carrying wire.

1
1

A particle of charge q and mass m is moving with velocity V. It is

subjected to a uniform magnetic field Bdirected perpendicular to its
velocity. Show that it describes a circular path. Write the expression for its
radius

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2

THREE MARKS QUESTIONS

1

A closely wound solenoid of 2000 turns and cross sectional area 1.6 x104m2
carrying a current of 4.0 A is suspended through its centre allowing it to turn
in a horizontal plane. Find
the magnetic moment associated with the solenoid,
(ii)
Magnitude and direction of the torque on the solenoid if a horizontal
magnetic field of 7.5x102 T is set up at an angle of 30with the axis of the
solenoid.

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4

State the principle of working of a galvanometer. A galvanometer of

resistance G is converted into a voltmeter to measure upto V volts by
connecting a resistance R1 in series with the coil. If a resistance R2 is
connected in series with it, then it can measure upto V/2 volts. Find the
resistance, in terms of R1 and R2, required to be connected to convert it into
a voltmeter that can read upto
2 V. Also find the resistance G of the galvanometer in terms of R 1 and R2.

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5

(a) Why is the magnetic field radial in a moving coil galvanometer? Explain

201

how it is achieved.
(b) A galvanometer of resistance G can be converted into a voltmeter of
range (0-V) volts by connecting a resistance R in series with it. How much
resistance will be required to change its range from 0 to V/2?

Deduce the expression for the torque acting on a planar loop of area A and
carrying current I placed in a uniform magnetic field B,
If the loop is free to rotate, what would be its orientation in stable
equilibrium?

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0

A cyclotrons oscillator frequency is 10 MHz. What should be the operating

magnetic field for accelerating protons? If the radius of its dees is 60 cm,
calculate the kinetic energy (in MeV) of the proton beam produced by the
accelerator.

200
6

State Biot Savart law. Deduce the expression for the magnetic field at a
point on the axis of a current carrying circular loop of radius R, distant x
from the centre. Hence write the magnetic field at the centre of a loop.
A uniform magnetic field of 65 10 4 T is maintained in a chamber. An
electron enters into the field with a speed of 48 106 m/s normal to the
field. Explain why the path of the electron is a circle. Determine its
frequency of revolution in the circular orbit. Does the frequency depend
on the speed of the electron ? Explain.
A uniform magnetic field is set up along the positive x-axis. A particle of
charge q and mass m moving with a velocity v enters the field at the origin
in X-Y plane such that it has velocity components both along and
perpendicular to the magnetic field B
Trace, giving reason, the trajectory followed by the particle. Find out the
expression for the distance moved by the particle along the magnetic field in
one rotation.

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7

AwireABiscarryingasteadycurrentof12Aandislyingonthetable.AnotherwireCDcarrying5A
ishelddirectlyaboveABataheightof1mm.FindthemassperunitlengthofthewireCDsothatit
remainssuspendedatitspositionwhenleftfree.GivethedirectionofthecurrentflowinginCDwith
respecttothatinAB.[Takethevalueofg=10ms2]
Depict the field-line pattern due to a current carrying solenoid of finite length.

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1
0

(i) In what way do these lines differ from those due to an electric dipole?

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8
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1
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3

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9

(ii) Why cant two magnetic field lines intersect each other?

1
1

AlongstraightwireABcarriesacurrentI.AprotonPtravelswithaspeedv,paralleltothewire,ata
distancedfromitinadirectionoppositetothecurrentasshowninthefigure.Whatistheforce
experiencedbytheprotonandwhatisitsdirection?

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1
2

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An -particle and a proton moving with the same speed enter the same
magnetic field region at right angles to the direction of the field. Show the
trajectories followed by the two particles in the region of the magnetic field.
Find the ratio of the radii of the circular paths which the two particles may
describe.
FOUR MARKS (VALUE BASED QUESTIONS)
1 Ashas uncle was advised by his doctor to have an MRI (magnetic resonance
imaging) scan of his brain. Her uncle felt that it was too expensive and wanted
to postpone it. When Asha learnt about this, she took the help of her family
and when she approached the doctor, he also offered a substantial discount.
She thus convinced her uncle to undergo the test to enable the doctor to know
the condition of his brain. The resulting information greatly helped his doctor
to treat him properly.
Based on the above paragraph, answer the following questions :
(a) What according to you are the values displayed by Asha, her family and the
doctor ?
(b) What in your view could be the reason for MRI test to be so expensive?
(c) Assuming that MRI test was performed using a magnetic field of 01 T, find
the maximum and minimum values of the force that the magnetic field could
exert on a proton (charge = 16 x 1019 C) that was moving with a speed of 104
m/s.
2 Deepika and Ruchika were asked by their teacher to perform an experiment

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using a galvanometer. Before doing the experiment they were very keen to
know the different parts of the galvanometer which was given to them in the
form of a small box. They approached the teacher and asked for the
permission. The teacher thought it would be a good idea if the galvanometer
be opened before the whole class and explained its construction and working
to all of them.
Based on the above paragraph, answer the following questions :
(a) What, in your opinion, were the qualities displayed by Deepika, Ruchika and
the teacher?
(b) State briefly the working principle of the galvanometer.
(c) What is the shape of the magnets used and why is it so designed?
FIVE MARKS QUESTIONS
1

(a) Use Biot-Savart law to derive the expression for the magnetic field due
to a circular coil of radius R having N turns at a point on the axis at a
distance x from its centre. Draw the magnetic field lines due to this coil.
(b) A current I enters a uniform circular loop of radius R at point M and
flows out at N as shown in the figure. Obtain the net magnetic field at the
centre of the loop.

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5

(a) Show how Biot-Savart law can be alternatively expressed in the form
of Amperes circuital law. Use this law to obtain the expression for the
magnetic field inside a solenoid of length l, cross-sectional area A
having N closely wound turns and carrying a steady current I. Draw the
magnetic field lines of a finite solenoid carrying current I.
(b) A straight horizontal conducting rod of length 0.45 m and mass 60 g is
suspended by two vertical wires at its ends. A current of 5.0 A is set up in
the rod through the wires. Find the magnitude and direction of the
magnetic field which should be set up in order that the tension in the wire
is zero.

200
3

(a) State Amperes circuital law. Use this law to obtain the expression for
the magnetic field inside an air cored toroid of average radius r, having
n turns per unit length and carrying a steady current I.
(b) An observer to the left of a solenoid of N turns each of cross section
area A observes that a steady current I in it flows in the clockwise
direction. Depict the magnetic field lines due to the solenoid specifying its
polarity and show that it acts as a bar magnet of magnetic moment m =

200
8
200
5

NIA.
(a) Draw the magnetic field lines due to a circular loop of area A carrying
current I. Show that it acts as a bar magnet of magnetic Moment m =AI .
(b) Derive the expression for the magnetic field due to a solenoid of
length 2 l, radius a having n number of turns per unit length and
carrying a steady current I at a point on the axial line, distant r from
the centre of the solenoid. How does this expression compare with the
axial magnetic field due to a bar magnet of magnetic moment m?
(a) Draw a labelled diagram of a moving coil galvanometer. State its
working principle. What is the function of a cylindrical soft iron core used
in it ?
(b) Define the terms (i) current sensitivity and (ii) voltage sensitivity.
(c) Explain the underlying principle used in converting a galvanometer
into a (i) voltmeter and (ii) ammeter.
Draw a schematic sketch of a cyclotron. Explain its working principle.
Obtain the necessary mathematical expression to show how this machine
is used to accelerate charged particles
(a) State Amperes circuital law. Show that the magnetic field B at a
distance r outside the straight infinite wire carrying current I is tangential
and is given by
B = o I / (2r).
(b) Consider a long straight cylindrical wire of circular cross-section of
radius a, as shown in the figure. The current I is uniformly distributed
across this cross-section. Calculate the magnetic field B in the region r <
a and r > a. Plot a graph of B versus r from the centre of the wire.

201
3

201
4

201
1
201
4

Two infinitely long straight parallel wires, 1 and 2, carrying steady

currents I1 and I2 in the same direction are separated by a distance d.
Obtain the expression for the magnetic field due to the wire 1 acting
on wire 2. Hence find out, with the help of a suitable diagram, the
magnitude and direction of this force per unit length on wire 2 due to
wire 1. How does the nature of this force change if the currents are in
opposite direction? Use this expression to define the S.I. unit of current

201
1

Explain, using a labelled diagram, the principle and working of a moving

coil galvanometer. What is the function of (i) uniform radial magnetic
field, (ii) soft iron core?

200
4
201

Define the terms (i) current sensitivity and (ii) voltage sensitivity of
a galvanometer. Why does increasing the current sensitivity not
necessarily increase voltage sensitivity?

1
0

a) Derive the expression for the torque on a rectangular current

carrying loop suspended in a uniform magnetic field.
b) A proton and a deuteron having equal momentum enter in a region
of uniform magnetic field at right angle to the direction of the field.
Depict their trajectories in the field.

200
8

1
1

(a) Using Biot-Savarts law, derive an expression for the magnetic field at
the centre of a circular coil of radius R,number of turns N,carrying current
I.
(b) Two small identical circular coils marked 1 and 2 carry equal currents
and are placed with their geometric axes perpendicular to each other as
shown in the figure. Derive an expression for the resultant magnetic field
at O.

200
9

1
2

If a particle of charge qis moving with velocity v along the y-axis and the
magnetic field Bis
acting along the z-axis, use the expression Fq( v B) to find the
direction of the force Facting on it. A beam of proton passes undeflected

200
9

with a horizontal velocity v, through a region of electric and magnetic

fields, mutually perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the
direction of the beam. If the magnitudes of the electric and magnetic
fields are 100 kV/m, 50 mT respectively,
Calculate (i) velocity of the beam
(ii) Force exerted by the beam on a target on the screen, if
the proton beam carries a current of 080 mA.
1
3

Explain the principle and working of a cyclotron with the help of a

schematic diagram. Write
the expression for cyclotron frequency.

200
7
201

1
4

Ifaparticleofchargeqismovingwithvelocityv alongtheyaxisandthemagnetic
fieldBisactingalongthezaxis,usetheexpression

0
200
8

Fq(v x B)tofindthedirectionoftheforceFactingonit.
Abeamofprotonpassesundeflectedwithahorizontalvelocityv,througharegionof
electricandmagneticfields,mutuallyperpendiculartoeachotherandperpendicular
tothedirectionofthebeam.Ifthemagnitudesoftheelectricandmagneticfieldsare
100kV/m,50mTrespectively,calculate
(i)Velocityofthebeamv.
(ii)forceexertedbythebeamonatargetonthescreen,iftheprotonbeamcarriesa
currentof080mA
1
5

(a) State the principle of the working of a moving coil galvanometer,

giving its labelled diagram.
(b) Increasing the current sensitivity of a galvanometer may not
necessarily increase its voltage sensitivity. Justify this statement.
(c) Outline the necessary steps to convert a galvanometer of resistance RG
into an ammeter of a given range.

201
1

1
6

a) Using Amperes circuital law, obtain the expression for the magnetic
field due to a long
Solenoid at a point inside the solenoid on its axis.
(b) In what respect is a toroid different from a solenoid? Draw and
compare the pattern of the magnetic field lines in the two cases.
(c) How is the magnetic field inside a given solenoid made strong?

201
1

EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR REVISION/MLL

CHAPTER:5 MAGNETISM
1

Write
I.
II.
III.

the magnetic properties of materials used preparing

permanent magnets
electromagnets
Core of the transformer
Give one example each.

The horizontal component of the earths magnetic field is equal to the vertical
component at a place. Find the angle of dip?

Define the three elements to describe Earths magnetism at a place,show them in

a diagram.
4

A uniform magnetic field gets modified as shown below when two specimens X and Y are
placed in it. Identify whether specimens X and Y are diamagnetic, paramagnetic or ferromagnetic.

Whichofthefollowingsubstancesarediamagnetic?
Bi,Al,Na,Cu,CaandNi

How does angle of dip change as one goes from magnetic pole to magnetic equator of the
Earth?

7
8
9

Thepermeabilityofamagneticmaterialis0.9983.Namethetypeofmagneticmaterialsitrepresents.
Thesusceptibilityofamagneticmaterialis1.9105.Namethetypeofmagneticmaterialsitrepresents.
Thesusceptibilityofamagneticmaterialsis4.2106.Namethetypeofmagneticmaterialsitrepresents.

1
0

In what way is Gausss law in magnetism different from that used in

electrostatics? Explain briefly.
The Earths magnetic field at the Equator is approximately 0.4 G; Estimate the
Earths magnetic dipole moment. Given: Radius of the Earth = 6400 km.

1
1
1
2
1
3

How the following magnetic materials behave with the rise of temperature
Para,Ferro,Dia-magnetic substances
Distinguish between Para, Ferro Dia-magnetic substances, give one example each
Deduce the expression for magnetic dipole moment of an electron revolving
around the
Nucleus in a circular orbit of radius r. Indicate the direction of the magnetic
dipole moment.

1
4

Deduce the expression for magnetic field due to a magnetic dipole at any point on
the
I.
Axial line
II.
Equatorial line
Describe the expression for torque experienced by a dipole in a uniform magnetic
field.

How magnetic field lines are different from electric field lines? Write any two

5
1
6

properties of magnetic field lines.

Define the terms
I.
Magnetic permeability
II.
Retentively
III.
Coercively
IV.
Susceptibility
What do the area of the Hysteresis loop and slope of the graph between I
and H signify?

QUESTION BANK OF PROBABLE QUESTIONS FOR

AISSCE 2016
CHAPTER 6 (ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION)
Questions that have been asked one time
VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (1 MARK)
1.How does the mutual inductance of a pair of coils
change when
(i) distance between the coils is increased and
(ii) number of turns in the coils is increased?
[CBSE (AI) 2013]
Ans.
(i) Decreases
(ii) Increases
2. The motion of copper plate is damped when it is
allowed to oscillate between the two poles of a
magnet. What is the cause of this damping?
[CBSE (AI) 2013]
Ans. As the plate oscillates, the changing magnetic
flux through the plate produces a strong eddy current
in the direction which opposes the cause. Also,
copper being diamagnetic substance, it gets
magnetized in the opposite direction, so the plate
motion gets damped.
3. The closed loop PQRS is moving into a uniform
magnetic field acting at right angles to the plane of

the paper as shown. State the direction of the

induced current in the loop. [CBSE (AI) 2012]
X

Q
X

S
Ans. along PSRQP
4. When current in a coil changes with time, how is the
back emf induced in the coil related to it?
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
Ans. The back emf induced in the coil opposes the
change in current.
5. Write Faradays laws of electromagnetic
induction[CBSE (AI) 2009]
Ans.(i) whenever the amount of magnetic flux linked
with a closed circuit changes, an emf is induced in
the circuit which lasts as long as the change in flux
lasts.(ii) The magnitude of the induced emf in a
circuit is equal to the time rate of change of
magnetic flux through circuit.
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (2, 3 MARKS)
1. Two identical loops, one of copper and the other of
aluminium, are rotated with the same angular speed

in the same magnetic field. Compare (i) the induced

emf and (ii) the current produced in the two coils.
Justify your answer.
[CBSE (AI) 2010]
Ans.
(i) Induced emf is same in both loops (B,A and
are same for both loops)
(ii) As area A, length l and emf E are same for both
loops but the resistivity of copper is less than
aluminium therefore current induced is larger in
copper loop.
2. Define self-inductance of a coil. Obtain an expression
for the energy stored in a solenoid of self-inductance
L when the current through it grows from zero to I.
[CBSE (AI) 2015]
Ans. Self-inductance of a coil is numerically equal to
the magnetic flux linked with the coil when a unit
current flows through it.
Energy stored in an inductor = LI2
3. Define the term mutual inductance between the two
coils. Obtain the expression for mutual inductance of
a pair of long co-axial solenoids each of length l and
radii r1and r2.Total number of turns in the two
solenoids are N1 and N2 respectively.
[CBSE (AI) 2014, 2009]
Ans. When current flowing in one of two nearby coil,
the coil, in which current is changed is called primary
coil and the coil in which emf is induced is called the
secondary coil.
The si unit of mutual inductance is henry.
Mutual Inductance: Suppose there are two coils C1
and C2. The current I1 flowing in primary coil c1 ; due
to which an effective magnetic flux 2 is linked with
secondary coil C2 .

2=M21I1 , M21 is the mutual inductance of coil 2 w.r.t.

coil 1
Mutual inductance between two coils (M21) is
numerically equal to the flux linkage with secondary
coil, when current flowing in primary coil is 1 ampere.
Mutual inductance of two co-axial solenoids: Consider
two long coaxial solenoids each of length l with
number of turns N1 and N2 wound one over the other.
I1 is the current flowing in outer solenoid and B1 is the
magnetic field produced within this solenoid.
B1= 0n1I1 n1 is the number of turns per unit length
of outer solenoid
2= n2lB1A2= 0n1I1 n2lA2 , n2 is the number of turns
per unit length of inner solenoid, A2 is the crosssectional area of inner solenoid, 2 is the flux linkage
with inner solenoid.
M21 = 0n1 n2lA2 , Similarly M12 = 0n1 n2lA2

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (5 MARKS)

1. State Faradays law of electromagnetic induction.
Figure shows a rectangular conductor PQRS in which
the conductor PQ is free to move in a uniform
magnetic field B perpendicular to the plane of the
paper. The field extends from x=0 to x=b and is zero
for x>b. Assume that only the arm PQ possesses
resistance r. When the arm PQ is pulled outward from
x=0 to x=2b and is then moved backward to x=0
with constant speed v, obtain the expression for the
flux and the induced emf. Sketch the variations of
these quantities with distance 0x2b.
[CBSE (AI) 2010]

.S

R.

. x=0.

.
.

.
.

.
.

. Q.
.

P.

x=b.

x=2b
ANS. When the magnetic flux linked with a coil or circuit
changes, an emf is induced in the coil. The emf and
current last so long as the change in magnetic flux lasts
The magnitude of induced emf is proportional to the rate
of change of magnetic flux linked with the circuit.
NCERT TEXT BOOK PART 1 page no. 217, Example 6.8
Questions that have been repeated two times
LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (5 MARKS)
1. What are eddy currents? How are they produced? In
what sense eddy currents are considered undesirable
in a transformer? How can they be minimized? Give
two applications of eddy currents.
[CBSE (AI) 2006, 2011]

ANS. Eddy currents are the currents induced in

conductors when they are placed in changing magnetic
flux region.
When a metallic plate is placed in a time varying
magnetic field, the magnetic flux linked with the plate
changes, the induced currents are set up in the plate, and
these currents are called eddy currents
Production: For diagram Refer NCERT TEXT BOOK
PART 1 page No. 218
In transformer, there is a huge loss of energy due to
production of eddy currents, so these currents are
undesirable in transformer.
Eddy currents may be minimized by using laminated core
of soft iron.
APPLICATIONS: Induction furnace, Electromagnetic
braking in trains, Electric power meters, Electromagnetic
damping
2. State the working of a.c. generator with the help of a
labelled diagram. The coil of an ac. Generator having
N turns, each of area A, is rotated with a constant
angular velocity. Deduce the expression for the
alternating emf generated in the coil. What is the
source of energy generation in this device?
[CBSE
(AI) 2008C, 2011]
ANS. AC generator: A dynamo or generator is a device
which converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy.

Principle: It works on the principle of electromagnetic

induction. When a coil rotates continuously in a
magnetic field with its axis perpendicular to the
magnetic field, the magnetic flux linked with the coil
changes and an induced emf and hence a current is set
up in it.
Construction:
(i) Field Magnet: It produces the magnetic field. In the
case of a low power dynamo. The magnetic field is
generated by a permanent magnet, while in the case of
large power dynamo, the magnetic field is produced by
an electromagnet.
(ii) Armature: It consists of a large number of tums of
insulated wire in the soft iron drum or ring. It can revolve
round an axle between the two poles of the field magnet.
The drum or ring serves the two purposes: (i) It serves as
a support to coils and (ii) It increases the magnetic field
due to air core being replaced by an iron core.
(iii) Slip rings: The slip rings are the two metal rings
to which the ends of armature coil are
connected. These rings are fixed to the shaft
which rotates the armature coil so that the rings
also rotate along with the armature.
(iv) Brushes: These are two flexible metal plates or
carbon rods which are fixed and constantly
touch the revolving rings. The output current in
external load is taken through these brushes.
Diagram: Refer NCERT TEXT BOOK PART-1 page NO. 225

Working: when the armature coil is rotated in the

strong magnetic field, the magnetic flux linked with the
coil changes and the current is induced in the coil, its
direction being given by Flemings right hand rule,
Expression for Induced. emf: If N is the number of
Turns in coil, f the frequency of rotation, A area of coil
And B the magnetic induction, then induced emf
e=-

= d/dt (NBA (cos 2ft))

=2

NBAf

sin 2ft

The source of energy generation is the mechanical

energy of rotation of armature coil.

Expected Questions for MLL

1.State Lenzs law
(1)
ANS. The polarity of the induced emf is such that it
tends to produce a current which opposes the
change in magnetic flux that produced it.
2.Write S.I unit of magnetic flux. Is it a scalar or vector
quantity? (1)
ANS. Weber (wb). Scalar.

3. Write an expression for the energy stored in an

inductor of inductance L, when a steady current is
passed through it. Is the energy electric or magnetic?
(1)
2
ANS. LI , Magnetic energy.
4. Show that Lenzs law is in accordance with the law of
conservation of energy.
(2)
ANS. When the north pole of a coil is brought near a
close to coil, the direction of current induced in the
coil is such as to oppose the approach the North Pole.
For this the nearer face of coil behaves as North Pole.
This necessitates an anticlockwise current in the coil
when seen from the magnet side. (Fig a)
Similarly where North Pole of the magnet is moved
away from coil the direction of current in the coil will
be such as to attract the magnet. For this the nearer
face of coil behaves as South Pole. The necessitates
a clock wise current in the coil when seen from the
magnet. (Fig b)
N

S
N FIG. (a)
Anticlockwise
Clockwise

S
S
N

FIG. (b)

5. Derive expression for self-inductance of a long aircored solenoid of length l, cross-sectional area A and
having number of turns N.
(3)

ANS. Consider a long air solenoid having n number

of turns per unit length. If current in solenoid is I, the
magnetic field inside the solenoid, B = 0nI
If A is cross-sectional area of solenoid, then
effective flux linked with the solenoid of length l; =
(NBA), where N=nl is the number of turns in length l of
solenoid.
= (nlBA)
Substituting the value of B from (i)
= nl (0nI ) A = 0n2AlI
Self-inductance of air solenoid
L = /I = 0n2Al
If N is total number of turns in length l, then
n= N/l
Self-inductance

L = 0(N/l)2Al
= 0N2A/l

Q. 1. What do you mean by mutual inductance of two

nearby coils? Find an expression for mutual inductance of
two co-axial solenoid. (5)
[CBSE (F) 2013, 2010]
Ans. When current flowing in one of two nearby coils is
changed, the magnetic flux linked with the other coil
changes; due to which an emf is induced in it (other coil).
This phenomenon of electromagnetic induction is called

the mutual induction. The coil, in which current is

changed is called primary coil and the coil in which emf is
induced is called the secondary coil.
The si unit of mutual inductance is henry.
Mutual Inductance: Suppose there are two coils C1 and C2.
The current I1 flowing in primary coil c1 ; due to which an
effective magnetic flux 2 is linked with secondary coil C2 .
2=M21I1 , M21 is the mutual inductance of coil 2 w.r.t. coil
1
Mutual inductance between two coils (M21) is numerically
equal to the flux linkage with secondary coil, when
current flowing in primary coil is 1 ampere.
Mutual inductance of two co-axial solenoids: Consider two
long coaxial solenoids each of length l with number of
turns N1 and N2 wound one over the other. I1 is the current
flowing in outer solenoid and B1 is the magnetic field
produced within this solenoid.
B1= 0n1I1 n1 is the number of turns per unit length of
outer solenoid
2= n2lB1A2= 0n1I1 n2lA2 , n2 is the number of turns per
unit length of inner solenoid, A2 is the cross-sectional
area of inner solenoid, 2 is the flux linkage with inner
solenoid.
M21 = 0n1 n2lA2 , Similarly M12 = 0n1 n2lA2

QUESTION BANK OF PROBABLE QUESTIONS

FOR AISSCE 2016
CHAPTER 6 (ALTERNATING CURRENT)
Questions that have been asked one time
VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (1 MARK)
1.Mention the two characteristic properties of
the material suitable for making core of a
transformer.
[ CBSE (AI) 2012]
ANS. (i) Low hysteresis loss (ii) Low coercivity.
2.In a series LCR circuit, the voltage across an
inductor, a capacitor and a resistor are 30 volt,
30 volt and 60 volt respectively. What is the
phase difference between the applied voltage
and current in the circuit?
[ CBSE (AI) 2007]
Ans. tan = ( VL - VC ) / VR
= 00
3.The instantaneous current and voltage of an
a.c circuit are given by i= 10 sin 314t ampere,
v= 50 sin 314t volt. What is the power
dissipation in the circuit?
[ CBSE (AI) 2008]
Ans. Power = p = V0 I0 cos = 250 watt.
Here =00
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (2, 3 MARKS)
1.(a) For a given a.c, i= i0sint, Show that the
average power dissipated in a resistor R over a
complete cycle is ( i0 )2 R.

(b) A light bulb is rated at 100 watt for a 220

volt a.c supply. Calculate the resistance of the
bulb.
[CBSE (AI) 2013]
Ans. (a) Derivation of average power
Average power = ( i0 )2 R
(b) Average power = ( irms)2R = (Vrms )2 /R
Vrms =220 volt
R = 484 ohm.
2.State the principle of working of a transformer.
Can a transformer be used to step up or step
down a d.c voltage? Justify your answer
[CBSE (AI) 2011]
Ans. Mutual induction, No, because there is no
change in magnetic flux.
When d.c voltage is applied across a primary
coil of a transformer, the current in primary
coil remain same, so there is no change in
magnetic flux and hence no voltage is induced
across the secondary coil.
3.How is the large scale transmission of electric
energy over long distances done with the use
of transformers? [CBSE (AI) 2012]
Ans. At the power generating station. The step
up transformers step up the output voltage
which reduces the current through the cables
and hence reduce resistive power loss. Then at
the consumer end, a step down transformer
step down the voltage. Hence in this way the
large scale transmission of electric energy over
long distances can be done by transformer.
4.An a.c voltage V= V0sin wt is applied across a

(a) Series RC circuit in which capacitive

reactance is a times the resistance of the
circuit.
(b) Series RL circuit in which inductive
impedance is b times the resistance in the
circuit.
Find the value of power factor of the circuit
in each case.
ANS. Power factor cos = (R/Z), when Z=
(R2+X2)
(i) X=XC=aR,
Z= (R2+(aR2)) =
R(1+a2)
Cos = R/ (R1+a2)) = 1/ (1+a2)
(ii) X=XL=bR
(iii) Z=(R2+(bR2)) = R(1+b2)
Cos = R/ (R1+b2)) =1/ (1+b2)
5.An AC source of voltage V= Vmsin wt is applied
across a series LCR circuit. Draw the phasor
diagrams for the circuit, when
(i) Capacitive reactance exceeds the inductive
reactance.
(ii) Inductive reactance exceeds capacitive
reactance.
[CBSE (AI)
2008C]
ANS. When XC>XL: the phasor diagram is shown
in fig. (a).
V - axis
VL

VR

I0

I - axis

VC - VL
VC

Fig (a)
(iii) When XL>Xc, the phasor diagram is shown
in fig. (b).
V - axis
VL
V L - VC

VR
I - axis

VC
FIG (b)

I0

6.A voltage V= Vosin wt is applied to a series LCR

circuit. Derive the expression for the average
power dissipated over a cycle. Under what
condition is (i) no power dissipated even
though the current flows through the circuit.
(ii) Maximum power dissipated in the circuit.
[CBSE (AI) 2014]
Ans. Average power = p = V0 I0 cos
(i) When = 900 or -900 , purely inductive or
purely capacitive circuit
(ii) When = o0 , at resonance(behaves like
purely resistive circuit)
7.You are given three circuit elements X,Y and Z.
When the element X is connected across an
a.c. source of a given voltage, the current and
the voltage are in the same phase. When the
element Y is connected in series with X across
the source, voltage is ahead of the current in
phase by /4. But the current is ahead of the
voltage in phase by /4 when Z is connected in
series with X across the source. Identify the
circuit elements X, Y and Z. When all the three
elements are connected in series across the
same source, determine the impedance of the
circuit. Draw a plot of the current versus the
frequency of the applied source and mention
the significance of this plot. [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Ans. X= resistor, Y= inductor, Z= capacitor
Impedance = {R2 + (XL - XC) 2}1/2
For plotting of current versus frequency refer
NCERT text book part 1 page no. 248
LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (5 marks)

1.Define the term capacitive reactance. Show

graphically the variation of capacitive
reactance
with
frequency
of
applied
alternating voltage.
An ac voltage V= Vosinwt is applied across
a pure capacitor of capacitance C. Find an
expression for current flowing through it. Show
mathematically the current flowing through it
leads the applied voltage by angle (/2).
[CBSE (AI) 2008C]
ANS. Capacitive Reactance: The resistance
offered by capacitor alone to the flow of
alternating current is called the capacitive
reactance.
It is denoted by XC. Its value is XC = (1/C) =
(1/2fC)
XC is inversely proportional to capacitance.

Phase Difference between current and applied

voltage in purely Capacitive Circuit:
Circuit Containing Pure Capacitance: Consider a
capacitor of capacitance C; its plates are connected to
the terminals of a source of alternating voltage.

V= V 0sint

V= Vo sint , q= cVo sint

I= dq/dt = cV0 coswt
I ={ V0/(1/C) }
Where I0= V0/XC

cos t

Here

= I0 sin(t + /2)

XC= 1/C

Current leads the applied emf by an angle of

/2.
2.State the condition for resonance to occur in
series LCR a.c circuit and derive an
expression for resonant frequency. Draw a
plot showing the variation of the peak
current with the frequency of the a.c source
used. Define quality factor Q of the circuit.
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
Ans. For resonance the current produced in the
circuit and emf applied must always be in the
same phase.
For resonance
= 0 0 , X C = XL
1/0C = 0L
0 = resonant
angular frequency
0 = 1/LC f0 = resonant frequency
Quality factor is defined as the ratio of
resonant frequency to the band width of the
circuit.

Q= 0L/R
For graph refer NCERT TEXT BOOK PART 1 page
NO. 248
3.Draw a schematic diagram of a step-up
transformer. Explain its working principle.
Deduce the expression for the secondary to
primary voltage in terms of the number of
turns in the two coils. In an ideal
transformer, how is the ratio related to the
currents in the two coils? How is the
transformer used in large scale transmission
and distribution of electrical energy over
long distances?
Ans. Transformer is a device by which an
alternating voltage may be decreased or
increased. It is based on the principle of
mutual induction.
Construction: It consists of laminated core of
soft iron on which two coils of insulated
copper wire are separately wound. These
coils are kept insulated from each other and
from the iron core, but are coupled through
mutual induction. The number of turns in
these coils are different. Out of these coils
one coil is called primary coil and the other is
called the secondary coil. The terminals of
primary coils are connected to A.C mains and
the terminals of the secondary coil are
connected to external circuit in which
alternating current of desired voltage is
required. Transformers are of two types:
1.Step up transformer: It transforms the
alternating low voltage to alternating high

voltage and in this the number of turns in

secondary coil is more than that in primary
coil
2.Step down transformer: It transforms the
alternating high voltage to alternating low
voltage and in this the number of turns in
secondary coil is less than that in primary
coil
Diagram: Refer NCERT TEXT BOOK PART 1
PAGE NO- 260
Working: When alternating current source
is connected to the ends of primary coil,
the current changes continuously in the
primary coil, due to which the magnetic
flux linked with the secondary coil changes
continuously, therefore the alternating emf
of same frequency is developed across the
secondary.
NS/NP

= VS/VP

NS is the number of turns in secondary coil

NP is the number of turns in primary coil
VP is the alternating voltage applied to
primary coil
VS is the alternating voltage across the
secondary coil
IS/IP = NP/NS
In an ideal transformer input power =
output power
VPIP=VSIS
NS/NP

= VS/VP = IP/IS

At the power generating station. The step up

transformers step up the output voltage which
reduces the current through the cables and hence
reduce resistive power loss. Then at the consumer
end, a step down transformer step down the
voltage. Hence in this way the large scale
transmission of electric energy over long distances
can be done by transformer.

Expected questions for MLL

1. What is the phase difference between the voltages
across the inductor and a capacitor in an AC circuit?
(1)
ANS. 1800 .
2. What is phase difference between voltage and
current in a LCR series circuit at resonance?
(1)
0
ANS. 0 .
3. The peak value of e.m.f. in ac is E0. Write its (i) rms
(ii)average value over a complete cycle. [CBSE (F)
2011] (1)
ANS. E0= peak value of emf
(i) rms value [Erms] =( E0/2)
(ii) (ii) average value [Eav]= zero.
4. An electrical element X when connected to an
alternating voltage source, has a current through it
leading the voltage by (/2)rad. Identify X and write
an expression for its reactance .
(1)
ANS. Capacitor, XC= 1/wc .

5. What will be the effect on inductive reactance and

capacitive reactance if frequency of AC source
increased?
(1)
ANS. Inductive reactance will increase with the
increase of frequency and capacitive reactance will
decrease with the increase of frequency.
6. What is wattless current?
[CBSE (DELHI)
2011] (1)
ANS. when pure inductor or pure capacitor is
connected to AC source the current flows in the
circuit but with no power loss. Such a current is
called wattless current.
7. Define power factor? State the conditions under
which it is maximum and minimum.
[CBSE
(DELHI) 2010] (2)
ANS. Power factor is the ratio of resistance and
impedance of an AC circuit.
When Z=R, power factor in maximum (purely
resistive).
Power factor is minimum (zero) when circuit is purely
inductive or purely capacitive.
8. An air cored coil L and a bulb B are connected in
series to the AC mains. The bulb closed with
brightness. How would the glow of the bulb change
if an iron rod were inserted in the coil? give reasons
in support of your answer.
(2)
ANS. When iron rod is inserted in the coil, the
inductance of coil
increases; so impedance of
circuit increases and hence, current in circuit I =
( V/(R2+(wL)2 ) decreases.
Consequently, the glow of bulb decreases.

9. Explain why the reactance provided by a capacitor to

an alternating current decreases with increasing
frequency. (2)
ANS. A capacitor does not allow flow of direct current
through it as the resistance across the gap is infinite.
When an alternating voltage is applied across the
capacitor plates, the place are alternately charged
and discharged. The current through the capacitor is
a result of this charging voltage(or charge). Thus, a
capacitor will pass more current through it if the
voltage is changing at a faster rate, i.e., if the
frequency of supply is higher. This implies that the
reactance offered by a capacitor is less with
increasing frequency; it is given by 1/wC .

QUESTION BANK OF PROBABLE QUESTIONS FOR

AISSCE 2016
CHAPTER 6 (ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES)
Questions that have been asked one time
VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (1 MARK)
1.What are the directions of electric and
magnetic field vectors relative to each other
and relative to the direction of propagation of
electromagnetic waves?
[CBSE(AI)2012]
ANS.They are perpendicular to each other and also
perpendicular to the direction of propagation.
2.Identify the part of the electromagnetic
spectrum to which the following wavelengths
belong:
(i) 10-1m
(ii) 10-12 m
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
ANS. (i) short radio waves (ii) gamma rays
3. Identify the part of the electromagnetic
spectrum to which the following wavelengths
belong:
(i) 1 mm
(ii) 10-11 m
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
ANS. (i) microwaves

(ii) gamma rays.

4. Welders wear special goggles or face masks

with glass windows to protect their eyes from
electromagnetic radiations. Name the
radiations and write the range of their
frequency. [CBSE(AI)2013]

ANS. Ultraviolet radiations, frequency range: 10151o17 Hz

5. Name the electromagnetic radiations used for
studying the crystal structure of solids and
write its frequency range
[CBSE
(AI) 2007, 2009]
ANS. X- rays, frequency range 1017 to 1020 HZ
6.The speed of an electromagnetic wave in a
material medium is given by v = 1/, being
the permeability of the medium and its
permittivity. How does its frequency change?
[CBSE (AI) 2012]
ANS. No change
7. How are X-rays produced?
[CBSE(AI)2011]
ANS. X-rays are produced when high energetic
electron beam is made incident on a metallic target
of high melting point and high atomic weight.
8.The frequency of oscillation of the electric
vector of a certain electromagnetic wave is
5x1014 Hz. What is the frequency of oscillation
of the corresponding magnetic field vector and
to which part of the electromagnetic spectrum
does it belong?
[CBSE (AI) 2008C]
ANS. 5x1014 Hz, visible region.
9.Which of the following has the shortest
wavelength?
Microwaves, Ultraviolet rays, X-rays
[CBSE (AI) 2010]
ANS. X-rays

10.
To which part of the electromagnetic
spectrum does a wave of frequency 5x1019 Hz
belong?
[CBSE (AI) 2014]
Ans. Gamma rays.
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (2, 3 MARKS)
1.What is meant by the transverse nature of
electromagnetic waves? Draw a diagram
showing the propagation of an electromagnetic
wave along X-direction, indicating clearly the
directions of oscillating electric and magnetic
fields associated with it.
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
ANS. In an electromagnetic wave, the electric and
magnetic field vectors oscillate, perpendicular to the
direction of propagation of wave. This is called
transverse nature of electromagnetic wave
Diagram: Refer NCERT TEXT BOOK page NO. 275

Accordingly if a wave is propagating along z-axis, the

electric vector oscillates along x- axis and magnetic field
vector oscillates along y-axis.
2.Identify the following electromagnetic
radiations as per the wavelengths given below.
(a) 10-3 nm
(b) 10-3m
(c) 1 nm
Write one application of each.
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
ANS. (a) gamma radiation

Radio therapy or to initiate nuclear

reactions.
(b) Microwaves
In radar for aircraft navigation.
(c) X-ray
In medical science for detection of fractures,
stones in kidneys, gall bladder etc.
3.Identify the following electromagnetic
radiations as per the frequencies given below:
(a) 1020 HZ
(b) 109 HZ (c) 1011 HZ
Write one application of each.
[CBSE (AI) 2008]
ANS. (a) gamma radiation, for treatment of cancer
(b) Radio waves, for broadcasting radio programmes
to long distances.
(c) Micro waves, for cooking in microwave oven.
4.Write the order of frequency range and one
use of each of the following electromagnetic
radiations
(a)Microwaves (b) Ultraviolet rays (c) Gamma
rays
[CBSE (AI) 2006]
ANS. (a) Microwaves: 3X 1011- 1X 108Hz. These are
suitable for the radar systems, used in aircraft
navigation.
Ultraviolet rays: 1X106 - 8X1014Hz. They are used to
detect invisible writing, forged documents and finger
prints.
Gamma rays: 5X 1023- 3X1019Hz. For the treatment of
cancer cells.
5. A capacitor of capacitance of C is being
charged by connecting it across a dc source
along with an ammeter. Will the ammeter show

a momentary deflection during the process of

charging? If so, how would you explain this
momentary deflection and the resulting
continuity of current in the circuit? Write the
expression for the current inside the capacitor.
[CBSE (AI) 2012]
ANS. Yes, because of the production of displacement
current between the plates of capacitor on account of
changing electric field.
Current inside the capacitor
Id= 0 ( dE/dt)
6. A capacitor, made of two parallel plates each of
plate area A and separation d, is being charged
by an external ac source. Show that the
displacement current inside the capacitor is
the same as the current charging the capacitor.
[CBSE (AI) 2013]
ANS.

+q

-q

E
Ic = dq/dt Ic is the conduction current.
Id= 0 ( dE/dt)
E = q/ 0, so
current.

E is the electric flux

Id = dq/dt
Id is the displacement

Both conduction current and displacement current

are equal.
7.Considering the case of a parallel plate
capacitor being charged, show how one is
required to generalize Amperes circuital law
to include the term due to displacement
current. [CBSE (AI) 2014]
ANS. B .dl = 0IC + 00 dE/dt
Here Id= 0 ( dE/dt) = displacement current
IC = conduction current.
8.Arrange the following electromagnetic eaves in
the order of their increasing wavelength:
Gamma rays, microwaves, x rays, radio waves.
How are infra-red waves produced? What role
does infra-red radiation play in (i) maintaining
the Earths warmth and (ii) physical therapy?
[CBSE (AI) 2015]
ANS. Gamma rays, x rays, microwaves, radio waves.
Infra-red waves are produced by the vibration of
atoms and molecules
(i) The earth radiates infrared waves which are
reflected by the gases in the lower atmosphere.
This phenomenon, called greenhouse effect,
keeps the earth warm.
(ii) Infrared lamps in the treatment of muscular
complaints.
Expected questions for MLL
1.Name the electromagnetic waves, which (i)
maintain Earths warmth and (ii) are used in
aircraft navigation.[CBSE (F) 2012]
(1)
ANS. (i) Infrared rays.

(ii)Microwaves.
2. Why are infra-red radiations referred to as heat
waves? Name the radiations which are next to
these radiations in the electromagnetic spectrum
having (i) shorter wavelength (ii) longer
wavelength.
[CBSE (F) 2013]
(2)
ANS. Infrared waves are produced by hot bodies
and molecules, so are referred to as heat waves.
(i)Em wave having short wavelength than infrared
waves are
visible, UV, X-rays and -rays.
(ii) Em wave having longer wavelength than
infrared waves are microwaves, short radio waves,
television and FM radio.
3. What do electromagnetic waves consist of? Explain
as what factors does its velocity in vacuum
depend?
(2)
ANS. Electromagnetic waves consist of mutually
perpendicular electric and magnetic field vectors.
Its velocity in vacuum is given by
C= (1/00) = same for electromagnetic waves.
In other words its velocity in vacuum does not
depend on any factor.
4. Give two characteristics of electromagnetic waves.
Write the expression for velocity of
electromagnetic waves in terms of permittivity and
permeability of the medium.
(2)
ANS. Characteristics of electromagnetic waves:
(i)Electromagnetic waves travel in free space with
speed of light c= 3X 108m/s.

(ii) Electromagnetic waves are transverse in

nature.
Expression for velocity of em waves in vacuum, c=
(1/00)
5. (a)How are electromagnetic waves produced by
oscillating charges?
(b)State clearly how a microwave oven works to
heat up a food item containing water molecules.
6. (c)Why microwaves are found useful for the radar
systems in aircraft navigation?
[CBSE (F) 2013]
(3)
ANS. (a) if a charge particle oscillates with some
frequency, produces an oscillating electric field in
space, which produces an oscillating magnetic
field, which in turn is a source of electric field, and
so on. Thus oscillating electric fields and magnetic
fields regenerate each other, and an
electromagnetic wave propagates in the space.
(b) In microwave oven, the frequency of the
microwaves is selected to match the resonant
frequency water molecules so that energy from the
waves get transferred efficiently to the kinetic
energy of the molecules. This kinetic energy raises
the temperature of any food containing water.
(c)Microwaves are short wave length radio waves
with frequency of order GHz. Due to short wave
length, they have high penetrating power with
respect to atmosphere and less diffraction in the
atmospheric layers. So these waves are suitable
for the radar systems used in aircraft navigation.

RAY OPTICS AND OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS

QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ASKED ONE TIME
SL.
QUESTIONS
M.M YEAR
NO
.
.
1
An object is held at the principal focus of a 1
2008

concave lens of focal length f. Where is the

image formed?
A converging lens is kept co-axially in contact
with a diverging lens both the lenses being
of equal focal lengths. What is the focal
length of the combination?
An astronomical telescope uses two lenses of
power 10 D and 1 D. what is its magnifying
power in normal adjustment?
The image of a candle is formed by a convex
lens on a screen. The lower half of the lens is
painted black to make it completely opaque.
Draw the ray diagram to show the image
formation. How will this will be different from
the one obtained when the lens is not
painted black?
A convex lens of refractive index 1.5 has a
focal length of 18 cm in air. Calculate the
change in its focal length when it is
immersed in water of refractive index 4/3.
The focal length of the objective and eye-lens
of a compound microscope are 2 cm, 6.25 cm
respectively. The distance between the
lenses is 15 cm. (i) How far from the
objective lenses, will the object be kept, so as
to obtain the final image at the near point of
the eye? (ii) also calculate its magnifying
power.
Define refractive index of a transparent
medium.
A ray of light passes through a triangular
prism. Plot a graph showing the variation of
the angle of deviation with the angle of
incidence.
An object AB is kept in front of a concave
F
C
mirror as shown in the figure.

2010

2010

2006

2007

2008

2009

A
2

2012

(i)
(ii)

Complete the ray diagram showing

the formation of the image.
How will the position and intensity of
the image be affected if the lower half
of the mirror`s reflecting surface is
painted black?
2

2013

2013

A convex lens of focal length 25 cm is placed 2

coaxially in contact with a concave lens of
focal length 20 cm. Determine the power of
the combination. Will the system be
converging or diverging in nature?
2
Two monochromatic rays of light are incident

2013

(a) Write the necessary conditions for the

phenomenon of total internal reflection to
occur.
(b)Write the relation between the refractive
index and critical angle for a given pair of
optical media.

10

When monochromatic light travels from rarer

to denser medium, explain the following,
giving reasons :
(i)

(ii)

11

12

Is the frequency of reflected and

refracted light same as the
frequency of incident light?
Does the decrease in speed imply a
reduction in energy carried by light
wave

2014

normally on the face AB of an isosceles rightangled prism ABC. The refractive indices of
the glass prism for the two rays 1 and 2
are respectively 1.35 and 1.45. Trace the
path of these rays after entering through the
A
prism.

13

14

15

2015

2
A ray of light incident on an equilateral glass
prism propagates parallel to the base line of
the prism inside it. Find the angle of
incidence of this ray. Given refractive index of
material of glass prism is 3.
You are given two converging lenses of focal 2
lengths 1.25 cm and 5 cm to design a
compound microscope. If it is desired to have
a magnification of 30, find out the separation
between the objective and the eyepiece.

2015

A biconvex lens of glass of refractive index

1.5 having focal length of 20 cm is placed in
a medium of refractive index 1.65. Find its
focal length. What should be the value of
refractive index of the medium in which the
lens should be placed so that it acts as a
plane sheet of glass?

2015

16

17

18

19

A small telescope has an objective lens of

focal length 150 cm and eyepiece of focal
length 5 cm. What is the magnifying power of
the telescope for viewing distant objects in
normal adjustment?
If this telescope is used to view a 100 m tall
tower 3 km away, what is the height of the
image of the tower formed by the objective
lens?
Use mirror equation to show that an object
placed between f and 2f of a concave mirror
produces a real image beyond 2f.
A figure divided into squares, each of size 1
mm2 , is being viewed at a distance of 9 cm
through a magnifying lens of focal length 10
cm, held close to the eye.
(a) Draw a ray diagram shoeing the
formation of the image.
(b) What is the magnification produced
by the lens? How much is the area of
each square in the virtual image?
(c) What is the angular magnification
of the lens?
Define the term resolving power of an
astronomical telescope. How does it get
affected on
(i)
Increasing the aperture of the
objective lens?
(ii) Increasing the wavelength of the
light used?
Justify your answer in each case.

2015

2015

2006

2007

20

In the figure given below, light rays of blue, 3

green, red wavelength are incident on an
isosceles right-angle prism. Explain with
reason. Which rays of light will be
transmitted through the face AC. The
refractive index of the prism for red, green,
blue light are 1.39, 1.424, 1.476 respectively

2008

21

Write three distinct advantages of a reflecting 3

type telescope over a refracting type
telescope.
A convex lens of focal length 10 cm is placed
coaxially 5 cm away from a concave lens of
focal length 10 cm. If an object is placed 30
cm in front the convex lens, find the position
of the final image formed by the combined
system.

2009

22

With the help of a suitable diagram, derive 3

the mirror formula for a concave mirror.
Why must both the objectives and the eye- 3
piece of a compound microscope have short
focal lengths?

2009

23

2010

24

25

26

27

28

The image obtained with a convex lens is

erect and its length is four times the length of
the object. If the focal length of the lens is 20
cm, calculate the object and image distances.
A convex lens is used to obtain a magnified
image of an object on a screen 10m from the
lens. If the magnification is 19, find the focal
length of the lens.
A convex lens lens made up of glass of
refractive index 1.5 is dipped, in turn, in (i) a
medium of refractive index 1.65, (ii) a
medium of refractive index 1.33.
Will it behave as a converging or a
diverging lens in the two cases?
How will its focal length change in the
two media?
Use the mirror equation to show that
(a) An object placed between and 2
of a concave mirror produces a real
image beyond 2.
(b) A convex mirror always produces a
virtual image independent of the
location of the object.
(c) An object placed between the pole
and focus of a concave mirror
produces a virtual and enlarged
image.
A compound microscope uses an objective
lens of focal length 4 cm an eyepiece lens of
focal length 10 cm. an object is placed at 6
cm from the objective lens. Calculate the
magnifying
power
of
the
compound
microscope. Also calculate the length of the
microscope.
A
giant
refracting
telescope
at
an
observatory has an objective lens of focal

2010

2011

2011

2011

2011

29

30

length 15 m. If an eyepiece lens of focal

length 1.0 cm is used, find the angular
magnification of the telescope.
If this telescope is used to view the
moon, what is the diameter of the image of
the moon formed by the objective lens? The
diameter of the moon is 3.42 x 106 m and the
radius of the lunar orbit is 3.8 x 108 m.
A converging lens has a focal length of 20 cm 3
in air. It is made of a material of refractive
index 1.6. it is immersed in a liquid of
refractive index 1.3. Calculate its new focal
length.
You are given three lenses L 1, L2 and L3 each 3
of focal length 15 cm. An object is kept at 20
cm in front of L1 , as shown. The final image is
formed at the focus I of L 3. Find the
separations between L1, L2 and L3.
L1

L2

2011

2012

L3

I
20 cm
15
cm
31

32

Draw a ray diagram showing the image 3

formation by a compound microscope. Hence
obtain expression for total magnification
when the image is formed at infinity.
A convex lens of focal length 20 cm is placed 3
coaxially with a convex mirror of radius of
curvature 20 cm. The two are kept at 15 cm
from each other. A point object lies 60 cm in

2013

2014

33

34

front of the convex lens. Draw a ray diagram

to show the formation of the image by the
combination. Determine the nature and
position of the image formed.
A convex lens of focal length 20 cm is placed 3
coaxially with a concave mirror of focal
length 10 cm at a distance of 50 cm apart
from each other. A beam of light coming
parallel to the principal axis is incident on the
convex lens. Find the position of the final
image formed by this combination. Draw the
ray diagram showing the formation of the
image.
a) A ray of light is incident normally on the 3
face AB of a right angled glass prism of
refractive index ag= 1.5 . The prism is
partly immersed in a liquid of unknown
refractive index. Find the value of
refractive index of the liquid so that the
ray grazes along the face BC after
refraction through the prism.
b) Trace the path of the ray if it were
incident normally on the face AC.

60o

2014

2015

35
(i) A

concave mirror produces real and 5

magnified image of an object kept in front
of it. Draw a ray diagram to show the image
formation and use it derive mirror equation.
(ii) A beam of light converges at a point P. Now a
lens is placed in the path of the convergent
beam 12 cm from P. At what point does the
beam converge if the lens is
(a)
a convex lens of focal length 20 cm,
(b)
a concave lens of focal length 16 cm?

2015

36

2015

(a) A ray PQ of light is incident on the face 5

AB of a glass prism ABC and emerges out of
the face AC. Trace the path of ray. Show that
/i +/e = /A + /
Where and e denote the angle of deviation
and angle of emergence respectively.

A
i
Q

P
B

Plot a graph showing the variation of angle of

deviation as a function of angle of incidence.

State the condition under which / is
minimum.
(b) Find out the relation between the
refractive index() of the glass and /A for the
case when the angle of prism (A) is equal to
the angle of minimum deviation. Hence
obtain the value of the refractive index for
angle of prism A = 60o.
37

A point object O is kept in a medium of 5

refractive index n1 in front of a convex
spherical surface of radius of curvature R
which separates the second medium of
refractive index n2 from the first one. Draw
the ray diagram showing the formation of
image and deduce the relationship between
the object distance and the image distance in
terms of n1, n2 and R.

2015

When the image formed above acts as virtual

object for a concave spherical surface
separating the medium n2 from n1 (n2 > n1),
draw this ray diagram and write the similar
relation. Hence obtain the expression for lens
makers formula.

SL.
QUESTIONS
M.M YEAR
NO
.
.
1
For the same value of angle incidence, the 1
[2012
angles of refractive in three media A, B and C
,
o
o
o
are 15 , 25 and 35 respectively. In which
2015]

medium would
minimum?

the

velocity

of

light

be

Draw a labeled ray diagram of a compound 2

microscope and write an expression for its
magnifying power.

[2008
,
2010]

Draw a labeled ray diagram to show the 2

formation of image in an astronomical
telescope for a distant object.

[2008
,
2009]

Draw a neat labeled ray diagram of an

2
astronomical telescope in normal adjustment.
Explain briefly its working.
[2009, 2010]
Draw a labeled ray diagram of an 5
astronomical telescope, in normal adjustment
position and write the expression for its
magnifying power.
An astronomical telescope uses an objective
lens of focal length 15 m and eye lens of
focal length 1 cm. What is the angular
magnification of the telescope?
If this telescope is used to view moon, what is
diameter of the image of moon formed by
objective lens?
(Diameter of moon =3.5X10 6 m, radius
of lunar orbit=3.8X108 m).

[2008
,
2011]

RAY OPTICS AND OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS

EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR MLL

SL.
QUESTIONS
M.M.
NO
.
A 2
1
An object AB is kept in front of a concave mirror as
shown in the figure.
C

(iii) Complete the ray diagram showing the

formation of the image.
(iv) How will the position and intensity of the
image be affected if the lower half of the
mirror`s reflecting surface is painted
black?
2

When monochromatic light travels from rarer to

denser medium, explain the following, giving
reasons :
(iii) Is the frequency of reflected and
refracted light same as the frequency of
incident light?
(iv) Does the decrease in speed imply a
reduction in energy carried by light
wave

In the figure given below, light rays of blue, green, 3

red wavelength are incident on an isosceles rightangle prism. Explain with reason. Which rays of
light will be transmitted through the face AC. The
refractive index of the prism for red, green, blue
light are 1.39, 1.424, 1.476 respectively

A small telescope has an objective lens of focal

length 150 cm and eyepiece of focal length 5 cm.
What is the magnifying power of the telescope for
viewing distant objects in normal adjustment?
If this telescope is used to view a 100 m tall tower
3 km away, what is the height of the image of the
tower formed by the objective lens?
Use the mirror equation to show that
3
(d) An object placed between and 2 of a
concave mirror produces a real image
beyond 2.
(e) A convex mirror always produces a
virtual image independent of the location
of the object.
(f) An object placed between the pole and
focus of a concave mirror produces a
virtual and enlarged image.
A convex lens of focal length 20 cm is placed 3
coaxially with a convex mirror of radius of

10

curvature 20 cm. The two are kept at 15 cm from

each other. A point object lies 60 cm in front of the
convex lens. Draw a ray diagram to show the
formation of the image by the combination.
Determine the nature and position of the image
formed.
A giant refracting telescope at an observatory has
an objective lens of focal length 15 m. If an
eyepiece lens of focal length 1.0 cm is used, find
the angular magnification of the telescope.
If this telescope is used to view the moon,
what is the diameter of the image of the moon
formed by the objective lens? The diameter of the
moon is 3.42 x 106 m and the radius of the lunar
orbit is 3.8 x 108 m.
Draw a neat labeled ray diagram of an
astronomical telescope in normal adjustment.
Explain briefly its working.
Derive the expression for its magnifying power
Draw a labeled ray diagram of a compound
microscope and derive the expression for its
magnifying power.
Define the term resolving power of an
astronomical telescope. How does it get affected
on
(iii) Increasing the aperture of the objective
lens?
(iv) Increasing the wavelength of the light
used?
Justify your answer in each case.
Define the term resolving power of a compound
microscope. telescope. Write its expression. How
does it get affected on
(i)
Increasing the aperture of the objective
lens?
(ii) Increasing the focal length of
the
objective?

11
12

Justify your answer in each case.

Derive lens makers formula
3
For refraction at a spherical surface derive the 3
relation
n2 n 1 n2n1
=
v u
R

13

(a) A ray PQ of light is incident on the face AB of 5

a glass prism ABC and emerges out of the face AC.
Trace the path of ray. Show that
/i +/e = /A + /
Where and e denote the angle of deviation and
angle of emergence respectively.
A
i
Q

P
B

Plot a graph showing the variation of angle of

deviation as a function of angle of incidence. State
the condition under which / is minimum.
(b) Find out the relation between the refractive
index() of the glass and /A for the case when the
angle of prism (A) is equal to the angle of
minimum deviation. Hence obtain the value of the
refractive index for angle of prism A = 60o.

WAVE OPTICS

QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ASKED ONE TIME

SL. QUESTION
NO
.
1
What is the geometrical shape of the wave
front when a plane wave passes through a
convex lens?
2
How would the angular separation of
interference fringes in Youngs double slit
experiment change when the distance
between the slits and screen is doubled?
3
How does the fringe width, in Youngs doubleslit experiment, change when the distance of
separation between the slits and screen is
doubled?
4
Compare and contrast the pattern which is
seen with two coherently, illuminated narrow
slits in Youngs experiment with that seen
from coherently illuminated single slit
producing diffraction.
5
Define the term linearly polarised light.
When does the intensity of transmitted light
become maximum, when a Polaroid sheet is

M.M YEAR
.
1

2008

2009

2012

2006

2009

10

rotated between two crossed Polaroids?

A beam of light consisting of two
wavelengths, 800 nm and 600 nm is used to
obtain the interference fringes in a Youngs
double slit experiment on a screen placed 1.4
m away. If the two slits are separated by 0.28
mm, calculate the least distance from the
central bright maximum where the bright
fringes of the two wavelengths coincide.
Two wavelengths of sodium light 590 nm and
596 nm are used, in turn, to study the
diffraction taking place at a single slit of
aperture 2 x 10-4 m. The distance between
the slit and the screen is 1.5 m. Calculate the
separation between the positions of the first
maxima of the diffraction pattern obtained in
the two cases.
State clearly how an unpolarised light gets linearly
polarised when passed through a Polaroid.
a) Unpolarised light of intensity Io is incident on
Polaroid P1 which is kept near another Polaroid P2 whose
pass axis is parallel to that of P1. How will the intensities
I1 and I2, transmitted by the Polaroids P 1 and P2
respectively change on rotating P1 without disturbing P2?
b) Write the relation between the intensities I1 and I2.
Use Huygens` principle to show how a plane
wave front propagates from a denser to rarer
medium. Hence verify snell`s law of
refraction.
Answer the following :
(a) When a tiny circular obstacle is
placed in the path of light from a
distance source, a bright spot is seen
at the centre of the shadow of the
obstacle. Explain, why?
(b) How does the resolving power of a
microscope depend on (i) the wave

2012

2013

2015

2015

2015

11

12

length of the light used and (ii) the

medium between the object and the
objective lens?
In Youngs doubled slit experiment , 3
monochromatic light of wavelength 630 nm
illuminates the pair of slits and produces an
interference pattern in which two consecutive
bright fringes are separated by 8.1 nm.
another source of monochromatic light
produces the interference pattern in which
the two consecutive
bright fringes are
separated by 7.2 nm . Find the wave length
of light from the second source.
What is the effect on the interference fringes
if the monochromatic source is replaced by a
source of white light?
How does an unpolarised light get polarized 3
when passed through polaroid?

Two polaroids are set in crossed positions. A

third polaroid is placed between the two
making an angle with the pass axis of the
first polaroid. Write the expression of the
intensity of light transmitted from the second
polaroid. In what orientations will the
transmitted intensity be (i) minimum and (ii)
maximum?
13 (a)
State Huygens` principle. Using this 3
principle explain how a diffraction pattern is
obtained on a screen due to a narrow slit on
which a narrow beam coming from a
monochromatic source of light is incident
normally.
(b) Show that the angular width of the first
diffraction fringe is half of that of the
central fringe.
(c)
If a monochromatic source of light is

2009

2010

2011

replaced by white light, what change would

you observe in the diffraction pattern?
14

(a) Using the phenomenon of polarisation,

show how transverse nature of light can be
demonstrated.

2014

2015

2015

(b)Two polaroids P1 and P2are placed with

their pass axes perpendicular to each other.
Unpolarised light of intensity I0is incident on
P1 . A third polaroid P3is kept in between P1and
P2 such that its pass axis makes an angle of
300 with that of P1. Determine the intensity of
light transmitted through P1,P2 and P3.
15

(a) The light from a clear blue portion of the

sky shows a rise and fall of intensity when
viewed through a Polaroid which is rotated.
Describe, with the help of a suitable diagram,
the basic phenomenon/process which occurs
to explain this observation.
(b)
Show how light reflected from a
transparent medium gets polarized. Hence
deduce Brewsters law

16

(a) Define a wave front.

(b) Using Huygens` principle, draw diagrams
to show the nature of the wave fronts when
an incident plane wave front gets
(i) reflected from a concave mirror,

17

(ii) refracted from a convex lens.

What are coherent sources? Why are 5
coherent sources required to produce
interference of light? Give an example of the
interference of light in everyday life.

2007

In Youngs double slit experiment, the two

slits are 0.03 cm apart and the screen is
placed at a distance of 1.5 m away from the
slits. The distance between the central bright
fringe and fourth bright fringe is 1 cm.
Calculate the wavelength of light used.
18 State the condition under which the 5
phenomenon of diffraction of light takes
place. Derive the expression for the width of
the central maximum due to diffraction of
light at a single slit.
A slit if width a is illuminated by a
monochromatic light of wavelength 700 nm
at normal incidence. Calculate the value of
a for position of
(i)
First minimum at an angle of
diffraction of 30o.
(ii) First maximum at an angle of
diffraction of 30o.
19 (a) In a single slit diffraction experiment, a 5
slit of which d is illuminated
by red light
of wavelength 650 nm. For what value of d
will:
(i) The first minimum fall at an angle diffraction
of 30o, and
(ii) The first maximum fall at an angle of
diffraction 30o?
(b) Why does the intensity of the secondary
maximum become less as compared to the
central maximum?
20 In Youngs double slit experiment, the two 5
slits 0.15 mm apart are illuminated by
monochromatic light of wavelength 450 nm.
The screen is 0.1 m away from the slits.
(a) Find the distance of the second (i)
bright fringe, (ii) dark fringe from the

2007

2009

2010

central maximum.
(b) How will the fringe pattern change
if the screen is moved away from the
slits?
21 State the importance of coherent sources in 5
the phenomenon of interference.
In Youngs double slit experiment to produce
interference pattern, obtain the conditions for
constructive and destructive interference.
Hence deduced the expression for the fringe
width. How does the fringe width get
affected, if the entire experimental apparatus
of Young is immersed in water?
22
5
1. How does an unpolarised light incident on a
polaroid get polarised?
Describe briefly, with the help of the
necessary diagram, the polarisation of light
by refection from a transparent medium.
2. Two polaroids A and B are kept in crossed
position. How should a third Polaroid C be
placed between them so that the intensity
of polarised light transmitted by Polaroid B
reduces to 1/8th of the intensity of
unpolarised light incident on A?
23 (a) In Youngs double slit experiment, 5
describe briefly how bright and dark fringes
are obtained on the screen kept in front of a
double slit. Hence obtain the expression for
the fringe width.
(b) The ratio of the intensities at minima to
the maxima in the Youngs double slit
experiment is 9:25. Find the ratio of the
widths of the two slits.
24(a)
Describe briefly how a diffraction 5
pattern is obtained on a screen due to a
single narrow slit illuminated by a mono-

2011

2012

2014

2014

chromatic source of light. Hence obtain the

conditions for the angular width of secondary
minima.
(b)
Two wave lengths of sodium light of 590
nm and 596 nm are used in turn to study the
diffraction taking place at a single slit of
aperture 2x 10-6 m. The distance between
the slit and the screen is 1.5 m. Calculate the
separation between positions of first maxima
of the diffraction pattern obtained in the two
cases.
25
Consider two coherent sources S 1 and S2 5
producing monochromatic waves to produce
interference pattern. Let the displacement
of the wave produced by S1 be given by Y1
= a cost and the displacement by S2 be
Y2 = a cos (t+).
Find out the expression for the amplitude of
the resultant displacement at a point and
show that intensity at that point will be
I =4a2cos2/2.
Hence
establish
the
condition
for
constructive and destructive interference.
What is the effect on the interference
fringes in Youngs double slit experiment
when (i) the width of the slit is increased ;
(ii) the monochromatic source of light is
replaced by a source of white light?
26 (a)
Using Huygens` construction of 5
secondary
wavelets
explain
how
a
diffraction pattern is obtained on a screen
due to a narrow slit on which a narrow beam
coming from a monochromatic source of
light is incident normally.
(b) Show that the angular width of the first
diffraction fringe is half of that of the
central fringe.

2015

2015

]
(c) Explain HAVE
why the
maxima
QUESTIONS
BEEN
ASKED at
THREE[ TIMES
= n+

1
2 a

SL
M.M YEA
OR MORE
.
.
R
becomes weaker and weaker with
N
increasing n.
O.
1
State Huygens principle. With the help of a 3
[200
suitable diagram, prove Snells law of
6,
refraction using Huygens principle.
201
3,
201
5]
2
In Youngs double slit experiment, deduce the 3
[200
conditions for
6,
and (ii)
destructive
interference
201
SL. constructive,
QUESTIONS HAVE
BEEN
ASKED TWO
TIMES
M.M YEAR
1,
NO at a point on the screen. Draw a graph .
showing variation of the resultant intensity in
201
.
the interference pattern against position x 1
2]
1
Inonwhat
way is diffraction from each slit
[2013
the screen.
related to the interference pattern in a
,
2
double slit experiment?
2015]
0
0
2
In Youngs double slit experiment, derive the 3
[2011
6,
condition for
,
2
(i)
Constructive
interference
and
(ii)
2012]
0
Destructive interference at a point on the
1
screen.
1,
2
0
1
2]

WAVE OPTICS
EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR MLL
SL.
QUESTIONS
M.M
NO
.
.
1
State Huygens principle. With the help of a 3
suitable diagram, prove Snells law of refraction
using Huygens principle.
2

State Huygens principle. With the help of a 3

suitable diagram, prove the laws of reflection using
Huygens principle.

In Youngs double slit experiment, deduce the

conditions for
(i) constructive, and (ii) destructive interference at a
point on the screen. Draw a graph showing
variation of the resultant intensity in the
interference pattern against position x on the
screen.

State the importance of coherent sources in the

phenomenon of interference.
In Youngs double slit experiment to produce
interference pattern, obtain the conditions for
constructive and destructive interference. Hence
deduced the expression for the fringe width. How
does the fringe width get affected, if
(i)
the entire experimental apparatus of Young is
immersed in water?
(ii) The wavelength of light is increased?
(iii) Separation between the two slits decreased?
(iv) Monochromatic light is replaced by white
light?
(v) Distance of the screen is increased?
(d)
Using Huygens` construction of secondary 5

wavelets explain how a diffraction pattern is

obtained on a screen due to a narrow slit on which
a narrow beam coming from a monochromatic
source of light is incident normally.
(e) Show that the angular width of the first
diffraction fringe is half of that of the central
fringe.
(f) Explain

why

the

maxima

at

[ ]

= n+

1
2 a

becomes weaker and weaker with increasing n.

3. How does an unpolarised light incident on a

polaroid get polarised?
Describe briefly, with the help of the necessary
diagram, the polarisation of light by refection from
a transparent medium.
4. Two polaroids A and B are kept in crossed
position. How should a third Polaroid C be placed
between them so that the intensity of polarised
light transmitted by Polaroid B reduces to 1/8 th of
the intensity of unpolarised light incident on A?
(a) The light from a clear blue portion of the sky
shows a rise and fall of intensity when viewed
through a Polaroid which is rotated. Describe, with
the help of a suitable diagram, the basic
phenomenon/process which occurs to explain this
observation.
(b) Show how light reflected from a transparent
medium gets polarized. Hence deduce Brewsters
law

(a) Define a wave front.

(b) Using Huygens` principle, draw diagrams to

show the nature of the wave fronts when an
incident plane wave front gets
(i) reflected from a concave mirror,
(ii) refracted from a convex lens.

QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED ONE TIME FROM CHAPTER -11 DUAL NATURE
OF RADIATION AND MATTER

1. An electron, an alpha-particle and a proton have the same kinetic energy. Which
one of these particles has the largest de-Broglie wave length? (1)(2007)
2. In an experiment on photoelectric effect, the following graphs were obtained between the
photoelectric current (I) and the anode potential (V). Name the characteristic of the incident
radiation that was kept constant in this experiment. (1) (2005)

3. Write the expression for the de Broglie wavelength associated with a charged
particle having charge q and mass m, when it is accelerated by a potential V.(1)
(2013)

4. (a) Draw the energy level diagram showing the emission of -particles followed
by -rays by a Co6027 nucleus.(b) Plot the distribution of kinetic energy of particles and state why the energy spectrum is continuous. (3) (2005)
5. Write Einsteins photoelectric equation and point out any two characteristic
properties of photons on which this equation is based. Briefly explain the three
observed features which can be explained by this equation.(3)(2013)
6. Define the terms threshold frequency and stopping potential in relation to

the phenomenon of photoelectric effect. How is the photoelectric current

affected on increasing the (i) frequency (ii) intensity of the incident radiations
and why? (3) (2006)
QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED TWO TIMES FROM DUAL NATURE OF
RADIATION AND MATTER.
1. A proton and an electron have same velocity. Which one has greater de-Broglie
wavelength and why?(1) (2007,2012)
2. The graph shows variation of stopping potential V 0 versus frequency of incident
radiation v for two photosensitive metals A and B. Which of the two metals has
higher threshold frequency and why?(1) (2005,2014)

3. The graph shows the variation of stopping potential with frequency of incident
radiation for two photosensitive metals A and B. Which one of the two has higher
value of work-function? Justify your answer.(1) (2005,2014)

4. A proton and an electron have same kinetic energy. Which one has greater deBroglie wavelength and why?(1)(2007,2012)
5. Define the term stopping potential in relation to photoelectric effect.(1)
(2006,2011)
6. The stopping potential in an experiment on photoelectric effect is 1 .5 V. What is
the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted? (1) (2008, 2009)
7. The maximum kinetic energy of a photoelectron is 3eV.What is its stopping
potential?(1)(2008,2009)
8. With what purpose was famous Davisson-Germer experiment with

electrons performed.(1) (2005,2006)

9. An -particle and a proton are accelerated from rest by the same potential. Find
the ratio of their de-Broglie wavelengths.(2) (2005,2010)

10.Set up Einsteins photoelectric equation using the photon picture of

electromagnetic radiation. Explain briefly how this equation accounts for all the
observations in the photoelectric effect.(3)(2013,2015)
11. Define the term intensity of radiation in photon picture of light. Ultraviolet light
of wavelength 2270 from 100 W mercury source irradiates a photo cell made of a
given metal. If the stopping potential is 13 V, estimate the work function of the
metal. How would the photo cell respond to a high intensity (~ 10 5 Wm2 ) red light
of wavelength 6300 produced by a laser ? (3) (2013, 2014)
12. An electron microscope uses electrons accelerated by a voltage of 50 kV.
Determine the de-Broglie wavelength associated with the electrons. Taking other
factors, such as numerical aperture etc. to be same, how does the resolving power
of an electron microscope compare with that of an optical microscope which uses
yellow light? (3) (2013, 2014)
13. In a plot of photoelectric current versus anode potential, how does (i) the
saturation current vary with anode potential for incident radiations of different
frequencies but same intensity? (ii) the stopping potential vary for incident
radiations of different intensities but same frequency ? (iii) photo electric current
vary for different intensities but same frequency of incident radiations ? Justify your
answer in each case.(3) (2005,2007)
QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED THREE TIMES FROM DUAL NATURE OF
RADIATION AND MATTER

1.Draw a plot showing the variation of photoelectric current with collector

plate potential for two different frequencies, v 1 >v 2 , of incident radiation
having the same intensity. In which case will the stopping potential be
higher? Justify your answer.(3) (2005,2007,2011)
ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT QUESTIONS FRCM TEXT BOOK.
1. What is the de Broglie wavelength associated with (a) an electron moving
with a speed of 5.4106 m/s, and (b) a ball of mass 150 g travelling at 30.0
m/s?
2. An electron, an -particle, and a proton have the same kinetic energy.
Which of these particles has the shortest de Broglie wavelength?
3. What is the de Broglie wavelength associated with an electron,
accelerated through a potential difference of 100 volts?
4. The work function of caesium metal is 2.14 eV. When light of frequency 6
1014Hz is incident on the metal surface, photoemission of electrons occurs.
What is the (a) maximum kinetic energy of the emitted electrons?
(b) Stopping potential, and

(c) Maximum speed of the emitted photoelectrons?

5. In an experiment on photoelectric effect, the slope of the cut-off voltage
versus frequency of incident light is found to be 4.12 1015 V s. Calculate
the value of Plancks constant.
6. The work function for a certain metal is 4.2 eV. Will this metal give
photoelectric emission for incident radiation of wavelength 330 nm?
7. An electron and a photon each have a wavelength of 1.00 nm. Find (a)
their momenta,
(b) the energy of the photon, and (c) the kinetic energy of electron.
8. Calculate the (a) momentum, and
(b) de Broglie wavelength of the electrons accelerated through a potential
difference of 56 V.

TOPICS TO BE COVERED IN M.L.L FROM;I. Dual nature of matter and radiation

(1) Definition of de-Broglie wave/ matter wave

(2) de-Broglie wavelength

h

a) General formula, = mv or , =

b)In terms of kinetic energy( E) , =

h
p
h
2 mE

c) In term of potential difference (V),=

h
2 mqV

h
12.27
=,
=
2 meV
V

d) For electron accelerating in potential difference (V), =

A0

h
e) For a molecule of gas at absolute temperature (T), = 3 mkT

3) Most of the questions are asked to compare wavelength

h

a) When velocity is same but mass is different (Hint := mv

b) When mass is same velocity is different (Hint: = mv

or

or

1
v

1
m )

h
c) Kinetic energy is same but masses are different (Hint: = 2 mE

or

1
m ).

h
2 mE

or

1
E

d) Kinetic energy is different but masses are same (Hint: =

).
E ) Same charge accelerating in different potential (Hint :=

h
2 mqV

or

1
V ).

f) Different charge accelerating in same potential (Hint: =

h
2 mqV

or

1
mq

).

12.27
g) For an electron accelerating in potential difference V (Hint: = V
A0 or
1
0
V A
h
h) Molecule of same gas at different temperatures (Hint: = 3 mkT or

1
T ).

i) Molecule of different gases at same temperatures (Hint: =

h
3 mkT

or

1
m ).
3) Conclusion of Davission- Germers experiment (Hint: It proves dual nature of
matter and radiation.)

II. Photo -electric Effect

1) Definition of work function ( , Threshold frequency ( 0 ) and Threshold

wavelength (

0 ).

2) Dependence of work function on Threshold frequency (

wavelength (

0 ).(Hint :

=h 0 =

0 ) and Threshold

hc
0

3) Graph between photo current and anode potential at constant

intensity of
light. From that part
a) Relation between frequencies for different curves
b) Which one has high stopping potential and why (Hint :

eV 0 =hh 0 i. e . , V 0 )

4) Graph between photocurrent and Anode potential at constant

frequency. From that part
a) Comparison between intensities i.e., which one is less or more or ratio.
b) Why is stopping potential same for two different intensities? (Hint:

eV 0 =hh 0 i. e . , V 0 but

V 0 does not depend upon intensity).

c) Why saturation current are different at different intensities? (Hint: photocurrent

photoelectrons and photoelectrons intensity, it means photocurrent
intensity).

5) Graph between kinetic energy and frequency and its three

applications as
a) Calculation of threshold frequency.
b) Calculation of work function from intercept
c) Calculation of Planks constant by slope of graph.

QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED ONE TIME FROM

CHAPTER -12(ATOM)

1. Define ionisation energy. What is its value for a

hydrogen atom?(1)(2010)
2. Find the ratio of energies of photons produced
due to transition of an electron of hydrogen atom
from its: (i) second permitted energy level to the
first level, and (ii) the highest permitted energy
level to the first permitted level.(1)(2010)
3. The ground state energy of hydrogen atom is
13.6 eV. What are the kinetic and potential
energies of electron in this state?(2) (2010)

2. Using Bohrs postulates of the atomic model,

derive the expression for radius of n th electron
orbit. Hence obtain the expression for Bohrs
radius. (2) (2014)
1. Using Rutherford model of the atom, derive the
expression for the total energy of the electron in
hydrogen atom. What is the significance of total
negative energy possessed by the electron? (2)
(2014)
1. Determine the value of the de Broglie
wavelength associated with the electron orbiting in
the ground state of hydrogen atom(Given En =
136/n2) eV and Bohr radius ro = 053 ). How will
the de Broglie wavelength change when it is in the
first excited state ? (2)(2015)

1. Show that Bohrs second postulate, the electron

revolves around the nucleus only in certain fixed
orbits without radiating energy' can be explained
on the basis of de-Broglie hypothesis of wave
nature of electron.(3)(2008)
1. Draw a schematic arrangement of the GeigerMarsden experiment. How did the scattering of aparticles of a thin foil of gold provide an important
way to determine an upper limit on the size of the
nucleus? Explain briefly.(3) (2009)

1. Using Bohrs postulates, derive the expression

for the frequency of radiation emitted when
electron in hydrogen atom undergoes transition
from higher energy state (quantum number ni ) to
the lower state, (nf ). When electron in hydrogen
atom jumps from energy state ni =4 to
nf
=3, 2,1, identify the spectral series to which the
emission lines belong.(5)(2013)
QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED TWO TIMES
FROM CHAPTER -12 ATOM
1. (a) Using de Broglies hypothesis, explain with
the help of a suitable diagram, Bohrs second
postulate of quantization of energy levels in a
hydrogen atom. (b) The ground state energy of
hydrogen atom is 13.6 eV. What are the kinetic
and potential energies of the electron in this state?
(3) ( 2010,2011)
1. In a Geiger Marsden experiment, calculate the
distance of closest approach to the nucleus of Z
=75, when an a-particle of 5 MeV energy impinges
on it before it comes momentarily to rest and
reverses its direction. How will the distance of
closest approach be affected when the kinetic
energy of the a-particle is doubled?(5) (2009,2012)

QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED THREE TIMES

FROM CHAPTER -12

2. The ground state energy of hydrogen atom is

13.6 eV. If an electron makes a transition from an
energy level 0.85 eV to 1.51 eV, calculate the
wavelength of the spectral line emitted. To which
series of hydrogen spectrum does this wavelength
belong?(5) (2010,2011,2012)

2. Given the value of the ground state energy of

hydrogen atom as 136 eV, find out its kinetic and
potential energy in the ground and second excited
states. (3) (2010,2011,2012,2015).

TOPICS TO BE COVERED IN M.L.L

I. Atoms and Nuclei
Rutherford experiment and its limitation.
Bohrs postulates derivation for radius of orbits and total
energy.
Energy level diagram and region of spectral series.
Radius of Nucleus.
Binding energy per nucleon versus Mass Number (A) graph.
Inference of graph(Fission and Fusion)
Graph showing the variation of Nuclear force versus
separation between Nucleons; specify the region in the
graph showing attraction and repulsion nature of Nuclear
forces.
Numericals based on Binding Energy and Binding Energy per
Nucleon.

 Characteristics of Nuclear force, Graph showing the variation

of potential energy versus separation between Nucleons.
Properties of , rays.
Derivation of
and t.
Derivation

T 1=
2

N=N 0 et

and graph showing the variation of N

0.693

Define Activity and its S.I. unit.

Numericals based on group displacement law and half life.
Conversion from Nickel to Cobalt emission of ray.
Components of Nuclear reactor(Moderator,Coolant,Control
rod, Nuclear fuel)
Concept of Slow neutron.

QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED ONE TIME FROM CHAPTER

-13, NUCLEI

1. The radioactive isotope D decays according to the

sequence
-particle

-particle

D------------------D1-------------------D2
If the mass number and atomic number of D2 are 176
and 71 respectively,
what is (i) the mass number (ii)atomic number of D? (1)
(2007)
2.What is the nuclear radius of
fermi? (1) (2008)

125

Fe, if that of

Al is 3.6

27

3. Why is it found experimentally difficult to detect

neutrinos in nuclear -decay? (1) (2014)
4. Draw a plot of potential energy of a pair of nucleons as
a function of their separation. What is the significance of
negative potential energy in the graph drawn ? (2) (2007)
5. A radioactive sample contains 2.2 mg of pure C which has half-life
period of 1224 seconds. Calculate
(i) the number of atoms present initially.
.(ii) the activity when 5 g of the sample will be left. (3) (2005)

6. The half-life of

U against -decay is 4.5 X 109 years. Calculate the

activity of 1 g sample of

U. (3) (2005)

7. Explain, with the help of a nuclear reaction in each of

the following cases, how the neutron to proton ratio

changes during (i) alpha- decay (ii) beta-decay? (3)
(2006)
8. Why is the mass of a nucleus always less than the sum
of the masses of its constituents, neutrons and protons? If
the total number of neutrons and protons in a nuclear
reaction is conserved, how then is the energy absorbed or
evolved in a reaction? Explain.(3) (2006)
9. Draw a graph showing the variation of binding energy
per nucleon with mass number for different nuclei.
Explain, with the help of this graph, the release of energy
by the process of nuclear fusion.(3) (2006)
10. State the law of radioactive decay. If N0 is the number
of radioactive nuclei in the sample at some initial time, t 0
, find out the relation to determine the number N present
at a subsequent time. Draw a plot of N as a function of
time. (3) (2008)
11. Distinguish between isotopes and isobars. Give one
example for each of the species. A radioactive isotope
has a half-life of 5 years. How long will it take the activity
to reduce to 3.125%? (3) (2008)
12. (a) Write symbolically the - decay process of

15

P32 .

(b) Derive an expression for the average life of a

radionuclide. Give its relationship with the half- life.(3)
(2010)

QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED TWO TIMES FROM CHAPTER

-13, NUCLEI
1. Two nuclei have mass numbers in the ratio 1 : 8. What

is the ratio of their nuclear radii?(1) (2008,2009)

2. Two nuclei have mass numbers in the ratio 8 : 125.
What is the ratio of their nuclear radii? (1) (2008,2009)
3. Two nuclei have mass numbers in the ratio 27 : 125.
What is the ratio of their nuclear radii? (1) (2008,2009)
4. Define the activity of a given radioactive substance.
Write its S.I. unit.(1) (2009,2013)
5. (a) The mass of a nucleus in its ground state is always
less than the total mass of its constituents neutrons and
protons. Explain.(2) (2006,2009)
6. Draw a plot of the binding energy per nucleon as a
function of mass number for a large number of nuclei.
Explain the energy release in the process of nuclear
fission from the above plot. Write a typical nuclear
reaction in which a large amount of energy is released in
the process of nuclear fission.(3) (2006,2008)
7. Define the activity of a radionuclide. Write its S.I. units.
Give a plot of the activity of a radioactive species versus
time. How long will a radioactive isotope, whose half life
is T years, take for its activity to reduce to 1/8th of its
initial value? (3) (2008,2009)
8. Draw a plot of potential energy of a pair of nucleons as
a function of their separations. Mark the regions where
the nuclear force is (i) attractive and (ii) repulsive. Write

any two characteristic features of nuclear forces.(3)

(2007,2012)
QUESTIONS THAT HAVE BEEN ASKED THREE TIMES FROM
CHAPTER -13, NUCLEI

1. Write any two characteristic properties of nuclear

force.(1) (2008,2009,2011)
2. Draw a plot showing the variation of binding energy
per nucleon versus the mass number A. Explain with the
help of this plot the release of energy in the processes of
nuclear fission and fusion.(3) (2006,2008,2009)
3. Draw a plot showing the variation of binding energy
per nucleon versus the mass number A. Explain with the
help of this plot the release of energy in the processes of
nuclear fission and fusion.(3) (2006,2008,2009)
4.Draw a plot of potential energy of a pair of nucleons as
a function of their separation. Write two important
conclusions which you can draw regarding the nature of
nuclear forces.(3) (2007,2009,2010)
5.Draw a plot of the binding energy per nucleon as a
function of mass number for a large number of nuclei, 2
A 240. How do you explain the constancy of binding
energy per nucleon in the range 30 < A< 170 using the
property that nuclear force is short-ranged? Nuclear
forces are short ranged, so every nucleon interacts with
their neighbours only; so binding energy per nucleon
remains constant.](3) (2006,2008,2009,2010)
6. 1. Using the curve for the binding energy per nucleon
as a function of mass number A, state clearly how the

release in energy in the processes of nuclear fission and

nuclear fusion can be explained.(3)
(2006,2008,2009,2010,2011)
2. (a) Draw the plot of binding energy per nucleon (BE/A)
as a function of mass number A. Write two important
conclusions that can be drawn regarding the nature of
nuclear force. (b) Use this graph to explain the release of
energy in both the processes of nuclear fusion and
fission. (c) Write the basic nuclear process of neutron
undergoing bdecay. Why is the detection of neutrinos
found very difficult?(5)
(2006,2008,2009,2010,2011,2013)

Text Book : PHYSICS PART II ( NCERT)

Chapter 14: Semiconductor Electronics: Materials, devices and
Simple circuits
Frequency :
Sl.No
.
1

( Asked three times or more )

Question

Mark Year
s

Draw a simple circuit of a CE transistor amplifier. Explain its working.

Show that the voltage gain AV, of the amplifier is given by

,where
is the current gain, RL is the load resistance and ri is the input
resistance of the transistor. What is the significance of the negative sign in

2012(D)
Questions
of similar
nature
asked in
2008,

2009

the expression for the voltage gain?

2006,
2013

Explain the function of base region of a transistor. Why is this region made
thin and lightly doped?
Draw a circuit diagram to study the input and output characteristics of
n-p-n transistor in a common emitter (CE) configuration. Show these
characteristics graphically. Explain how current amplification factor of the
transistor is calculated using output characteristics.
OR
(i) Draw a circuit diagram to study the input and output characteristics of
an n-p-n transistor in its common emitter configuration. Draw the typical
input and output characteristics.
(ii) Explain, with the help of a circuit diagram, the working of n-p-n
transistor as a common emitter amplifier.
(i) With the help of circuit diagrams distinguish between forward biasing and
reverse biasing of a p-n junction diode.
(ii) Draw V-I characteristics of a p-n junction diode in (a) forward bias, (b)
reverse bias.
(a) Why is zener diode fabricated by heavily doping both p-and n-sides of
the junction?
(b) Draw the circuit diagram of zener diode as a voltage regulator and
briefly explain its working.
OR
How is a zener diode fabricated so as to make it a special purpose diode?
Draw I-V characteristics of zener diode and explain the significance of
breakdown voltage.
OR
Namethesemiconductordevicethatcanbeusedtoregulateanunregulated
dcpowersupply.WiththehelpofIVcharacteristicsofthisdevice,explain
itsworkingprinciple.
Draw a circuit diagram of a full-wave rectifier. Explain its working
principle.
Draw the input/output wave-forms indicating clearly the functions of the
two diodes used.
Explain, with the help of suitable diagram, the two important processes that
occur during the formation of p-n junction. Hence define the terms :
depletion region and barrier potential.
Drawthecircuitdiagramofanilluminatedphotodiodeinreversebias.
Howisphotodiodeusedtomeasurelightintensity?
OR
Explain, with the help of a circuit diagram, the working of a photo-diode.
Write briefly how it is used to detect the optical signals.
OR
(a) How is photodiode fabricated?
(b) Briefly explain its working. Draw its VI characteristics for two
different intensities of illumination.

2009,
2010,
2014(D)
2008,
2009,201
0(F)
2012,
2014(F)
2009(D)

2011(D)

2009(D)

2007,
2008,201
2

2009,
2010,
2012,
2015
2010

2013(D)

2014(F)

2010(AI)

2008(D)

2010(AI)

Writethetruthtableforthelogiccircuitshownbelowandidentifythelogic
operationperformedbythiscircuit.

2011(D)

In the circuit shown in the figure, identify the equivalent gate of the circuit
and make its truth table.

2013(AI)

2014(D)

(i)

Identify the logic gates marked P and Q in the given logic

circuit.

(ii)

Write down the output at X for the inputs A = 0, B = 0 and A

=1, B =1.
OR
The given inputs A, B are fed to a 2-input NAND gate. Draw the output
wave form of the gate.

OR
(iii)

Identify the logic gates marked P and Q in the given logic

circuit.

(ii)

Write down the output at X for the inputs A = 0, B = 0

and A =1, B =1.
OR

OR
Writethetruthtableforthecombinationofthegatesshown.Namethegatesused.

OR

IdentifythelogicgatesmarkedPandQinthegivencircuit.Writethetruth
tableforthecombination.

Frequency :
Sl.N
o.
1

2014(D)

( Asked two times )

Question

(a) Draw the circuit diagram of a base-biased n-p-n transistor in C-E

configuration. Explain how this circuit is used to obtain the transfer
characteristic (Vo Vi characteristics).
(b) The typical output characteristics (IC VCE ) of an n-p-n transistor in
C-E configuration is shown in the figure. Calculate (i) the output

Mark Year
s
5

2010,
2013

resistance r0 and (ii) the current amplification factor

2
3
4

ac .

Explain, with the help of a circuit diagram, the working of a p-n junction
diode as a half-wave rectifier.
The current in the forward bias is known to be more (~mA) than the current
in the reverse bias (~A). What is the reason, then, to operate the photodiode
in reverse bias?
Mention the important considerations required while fabricating a p-n
junction diode to be used as a Light Emitting Diode (LED). What should be
the order of band gap of an LED if it is required to emit light in the visible
range?
OR
How is a light emitting diode fabricated ? Briefly state its working. Write
any two important advantages of LEDs over the conventional incandescent
low power lamps. OR
Explain, with the help of a schematic diagram, the principle and working of
a Light Emitting Diode. What criterion is kept in mind while choosing the
semiconductor material for such a device ? Write any two advantages of
Light Emitting Diode over conventional incandescent lamps.
What are energy bands? How are these formed? Distinguish between a
conductor, an insulator and a semiconductor on the basis of energy band
diagram. OR
Draw energy band diagrams of an n-type and p-type semiconductor at
temperature T > 0 K. Mark the donor and acceptor energy levels with their
energies. OR
Distinguish between a metal and an insulator on the basis of energy band
diagrams.

Whathappenstothewidthofdepletionlayerofapnjunctionwhenitis(i)forward
biased,(ii)reversebiased?

Frequency :

( Asked Once )

2006,
2014
2008 ,2012

2013,
2015

2015(Bhubanes
war)

2007(D)

2006(AI)

2014(F)

2
2011(AI),2008(
AI)

Sl.N
o.
01

Question

Mark Year
s

Draw a circuit diagram for use of NPN transistor as an amplifier in common 3

emitter configuration. The input resistance of a transistor is 1000. On
changing its base current by 10A, the collector current increases by 2 mA.
If a load resistance of 5k is used in the circuit, calculate:
(i) The
Current
gain
(ii) voltage gain of the
amplifier

2006(D)

2014(D)

(a) Differentiate between three segments of a transistor on the basis of their

size and level of doping.
(b) How is a transistor biased to be in active state?
(c) With the help of necessary circuit diagram, describe briefly how n-p-n
transistor in CE configuration amplifies a small sinusoidal input voltage.
Write the expression for the ac current gain.

Chapter : Communication Systems

Frequency:
Sl.
No.

Asked Three Times or more

Question

Marks

Year

01

What is meant by term modulation? Draw a block diagram of a simple modulator

for obtaining an AM signal.

2009,
2010(F)
2014(F)

02

Write briefly any two factors which demonstrate the need for modulating a signal.
Draw a suitable diagram to show amplitude modulation using a sinusoidal signal
as the modulating signal.
OR
Why are high frequency carrier waves used for transmission?
OR
Write two factors justifying the need of modulation for transmission of a signal.

2011(AI),
2012(D),
2013(D),

2009(D)

2009(AI)

Name the type of waves which are used for line of sight (LOS) communication.

2013(AI)

03

04

05

What is the range of their frequencies?

A transmitting antenna at the top of a tower has a height of 20 m and the height of
the receiving antenna is 45 m. Calculate the maximum distance between them for
satisfactory communication in LOS mode.
(Radius of the Earth = 6.4 106 m)
OR
A transmitting antenna at the top of a tower has a height of 36 m and the height of
the receiving antenna is 49 m. What is the maximum distance between them, for
satisfactory communication in the LOS mode ? (Radius of earth = 6400 km).
OR
What does the term LOS communication mean ? Name the types of waves that
are used for this communication. Give typical examples, with the help of a suitable
figure, of communication systems that use space wave mode propagation.
OR
(i) Why is communication using line of sight mode limited to a frequencies above
40 MHz?
(ii) A transmitting antenna at the top of a tower has a height 32 m and the height of
the receiving antenna is 50 m. What is the maximum distance between them for
satisfactory communication in line of sight mode?
Name the three different modes of propagation of electromagnetic waves. Explain,
using a proper diagram the mode of propagation used in the frequency range above
40 MHz.
OR
Name the three different modes of propagation of electromagnetic waves. Explain,
using a proper diagram the mode of propagation used in the frequency range from
a few MHz to 40 MHz.
Mention three different modes of propagation used in communication system.
Explain with the help of a diagram how long distance communication can be
achieved by ionospheric reflection of
radio waves.
Explain briefly the following terms used in communication system:
(i) Transducer
(ii) Repeater
(iii) Amplification
OR
Mention the function of any two of the following used in communication system:
(i) Transducer (ii) Repeater
(iii) Transmitter (iv) Bandpass Filter

Frequency:
Sl.
No.

2008(D)

2008(AI)

2010(D)

2012(D)

2012(D)

2012(AI)

2012(AI)
2014(AI)

2012(D)

Asked two times

Question

Marks

Year

01

02

03

04

Distinguish between sky wave and space wave modes of propagation. Why is
the sky wave mode of propagation restricted to frequencies upto 40 MHz ?
OR
Describe briefly, by drawing suitable diagrams, the (i) sky wave and (ii) space
wave modes of propagation. Mention the frequency range of the waves in these
modes of propagation.
Draw a block diagram of a simple modulator for obtaining amplitude modulated
signal.
A carrier wave of peak voltage 12 V is used to transmit a message signal. What
should be the peak voltage of the modulating signal in order to have a modulation
index of 75% ?
Which mode of propagation is used by short wave broadcast services having
frequencies range from a few MHz upto 30 MHz? Explain diagrammatically how
long distance communication can be achieved by this mode. Why is there an upper
limit to frequency of waves used in this mode?
InstandardAMbroadcast,whatmodeofpropagationisusedfortransmittinga
signal?Whyis
thismodeofpropagationlimitedtofrequenciesuptoafewMHz?

In the given block diagram of a receiver, identify the boxes labelled as X and Y
and write their functions.

Frequency:
Sl.
No.
01

02
03
04

2015(Bh
uban
eswar)
2014(F)

2015(Bh
uban
eswar)
2010(AI)

2010(AI)
2011(AI)

2010(F)

2012(AI)
2013(D)

Asked once
Question

(a) Define the terms (i) amplitude modulation and (ii) modulation index.
(b) If a low frequency signal in the audio frequency range is to be transmitted over
long distances, explain briefly the need of translating this signal to high
frequencies before transmission.
What is meant by detection of a signal in a communication system? With the help
of a block diagram explain the detection of AM signal.
(i) Define modulation index.
(ii) Why is the amplitude of modulating signal kept less than the amplitude of
carrier wave?
Draw a schematic diagram showing the (i) ground wave (ii) sky wave and (iii)
space wave propagation modes for e m waves.
Write the frequency range for each of the following:
(i) Standard AM broadcast

Marks

Year

2009(F)

2009(F)

2011(D)

2011(D)

05
06

(ii) Television
(iii) Satellite communication
Distinguish between Analog and Digital signals.
IntheblockdiagramofasimplemodulatorforobtaininganAMsignal,showninthe
figure,identifytheboxesAandB.Writetheirfunctions.

2
2

2012(D)
2013(AI)

07

Thecarrierwaveisgivenby
C(t)=2sin(8t)volt.
Themodulatingsignalisasquarewaveasshown.Findmodulationindex.

2014(D)

08

Why is frequency modulation perferred over amplitude modulation for

transmission
of music ?

2007(D)