Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

1. If the threshold of hearing is assumed to be the reference (0 dB), then the threshold of pain is taken
𝐼0
to be 120 dB. Let the corresponding sound intensities be I0 and I respectively. Then 𝐼
is

a) 120 b) 1012 c) 10-12 d) 101.2

Sol. Threshold of hearing: 0 dB (intensity: I0)

Threshold of pain: 120 dB (intensity: I)
𝐼 𝐼 𝐼 𝐼
Sound level:  = 10 log 𝐼 → 120 = 10 log 𝐼  log 𝐼 = 12  𝐼 = 1012
0 0 0 0

2. 𝑑𝐸
If E denotes the intensity of electric field, the dimensions of a quantity 𝜀𝑜 𝑑𝑡
are for

a) current b) current density c) electric potential d) electric flux

Sol. 𝑛𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑜𝑛
E: electric field intensity: 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑚𝑏
𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑚𝑏2
𝜀𝑜 : permittivity of free space: 𝑛𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑜𝑛 𝑥 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 2
𝑑𝐸 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑚𝑏 2 𝑛𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑜𝑛
Given: 𝜀𝑜 𝑑𝑡
= 𝑛𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑜𝑛 𝑥 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 2 x 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑚𝑏 𝑥 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒
𝑑𝐸 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑚𝑏 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡
𝜀𝑜 = = = current density
𝑑𝑡 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑥 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 2 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎

3. Two stars of masses m1 and m2 distance r apart, revolve about their centre of mass. The period of
revolution is

a) 𝑟3 b) 𝑟 3 (𝑚1 +𝑚2 ) c) 2𝑟 3 d) 𝒓𝟑
2𝜋√ 2𝜋√ 2𝜋√ 2𝝅√
2𝐺(𝑚1 +𝑚2 ) 2𝐺(𝑚1 𝑚2 ) 𝐺(𝑚1 +𝑚2 ) 𝑮(𝒎𝟏 +𝒎𝟐 )

Sol. 𝐺𝑚1 𝑚2
Gravitational force between the stars: Fg = 𝑟2
Centripetal force for the stars: Fc = m1r12 = m2r22
Centre of mass divides the distance (r) between them in the inverse ratio of masses.
𝑚2 𝑚1
r1 = 𝑚 +𝑚 r and r2 = 𝑚 +𝑚 r
1 2 1 2
𝑚2
Fc = m1r12 = m1 𝑚 r 2
1 +𝑚2
Condition for circular motion:
𝐺𝑚1 𝑚2 𝑚2 𝐺(𝑚1 +𝑚2 ) 𝒓𝟑
Fg = Fc  𝑟2
= m1 𝑚 r 2   = √ 𝑟3
 T = 2𝝅√𝑮(𝒎
1 +𝑚2 𝟏 +𝒎𝟐 )

4. Let a body be placed at a point on the earth’s surface at latitude  where the radius of the earth is
R. Then, the body experiences an effective acceleration

a) g - R2 – cos  b) g + R2 sin  c) g - R2 cos2  d) 𝑅𝜔2

g - 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 

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Sol. Acceleration due to gravity at poles : g (remains constant)

Let the body of mass m be placed at point p at a latitude .
As the earth rotates, centrifugal force on the particle :
mr2 = m R cos  2
Gravitational force on the object acts along the radius, towards centre.
Resultant force on the particle : F
√(𝑚𝑔)2 + (m Rcos l w2)2 + 2(𝑚𝑔)(𝑚𝑅𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝑙𝜔 2 cos(180 − 𝑙)
1 𝑅𝜔2 𝑐𝑜𝑠2  1 𝑅𝜔2 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 
F = mg (1 − 2 2 𝑔
)  mg = mg (1 − 2 2 𝑔
)
Acceleration due to gravity at a latitude  : g = g - R2 cos2 

5. A particle moves in a plane with a constant speed along a path y = 2x2 + 3x – 4. When the particle
is at (0, -4) the direction along which it is moving is inclined to the X axis at an angle

a) 630 b) 720 c) 270 d) 00

Sol. Trajectory of the particle y = 2x2 + 3x – 4

𝑑𝑦
Slope of the trajectory: 𝑑𝑥 = 4x + 3
Slope of the trajectory at (0, -4): 3
Slope of a curve: tan  = 3   = tan−1 3 = 720

6. Two particles A and B are moving in XY plane. Particle A moves along a line with equation y = x,
while B moves along X axis such that their x coordinates are always equal. If B moves with a
uniform speed of 3 m/s, the speed of A is

a) 3 m/s b) 1 c) d) 3
m/s 3√𝟐 m/s m/s
3 √2

Sol. Particle A is moving along the line : x = y

𝑑𝑥
Particle B is moving along X axis: vB = 𝑑𝑡 = 3 m/s
Speed of A along X axis: vAx = 3 m/s
Speed of A along Y axis: vAy = 3 m/s (since y = x)
Speed of A: vA = √vAx 2 + vAy 2 = 3√𝟐 m/s

7. A large cylindrical vessel contains water to a height of 10 m. It is found that the thrust acting on
the curved surface is equal to that at the bottom. If atmospheric pressure can support a water
column of 10 m, the radius of the vessel is

a) 10 m b) 15 m c) 5m d) 25 m

Sol. Given : 1 atm = 10 m of water column

Thrust acting on the bottom of the vessel: Fb = (P0 + h) (R2) = (10 + 10) R2
ℎ 10
Thrust acting on the curved surface: Fc = 2Rh (𝑃0 + 2 ) = 2R x 10 (10 + 2
) = 20R (15)
Given : Fb = Fc  20 R2 = 300R  R = 15 m

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8. A thin annular metal disc of inner and outer radii R1 and R2 respectively is freely suspended from a
point on its outer circumference. The length of the corresponding equivalent simple pendulum is

a) 𝑅1 2 + 𝑅2 2 b) 𝑹𝟏 𝟐 + 𝟑𝑹𝟐 𝟐 c) 3𝑅1 2 + 𝑅2 2 d) 𝑅1 2 + 3𝑅2 2

2𝑅2 𝟐𝑹𝟐 𝑅2 𝑅2

Sol. 𝐼
Time period of oscillation of physical pendulum: T = 2 √𝑚𝑔𝑑
𝐼
Equivalent length of simple pendulum : 𝑙 = 𝑚𝑑
I is moment of inertia about point of suspension
d is separation between point of suspension and centre of mass (d = R2)
𝑚 𝑅1 2 3R22 𝑚
I = I0 + mx2 = 2
(𝑅1 2 + 𝑅2 2 ) + m R22 = m ( 2
+ 2
) = 2
(𝑅1 2 + 3𝑅2 2 )
𝑚
𝐼 2
(𝑅1 2 +3𝑅2 2 ) 𝑹𝟏 𝟐 +𝟑𝑹𝟐 𝟐
𝑙= = =
𝑚𝑑 𝑚R2 𝟐𝑹𝟐

9. Two identical thin metal strips one of aluminium and the other of iron are riveted together to form
a bimetallic strip. The temperature is raised by 50 0C. If the central planes of the two strips are
separated by 2 mm and the coefficients of thermal expansions of aluminium and iron are
respectively 30 x 10-6 /0C and 10 x 10-6 /0C, the average radius of curvature of the bimetallic strips
is about

a) 50 cm b) 100 cm c) 150 cm d) 200 cm

Sol. Since aluminium has greater coefficient of expansion

it will expand more and forms the convex (outer) side.
𝑑
Radius of curvature : R = (𝛼 where
1 −𝛼 2 )∆𝑡

d is the separation between the central planes.

𝛼 1 coefficient of thermal expansion of outer strip
𝛼 2 coefficient of thermal expansion of inner strip
∆𝑡 increase in temperature
2 𝑥 10−3
R = (30 = 2 m = 200 cm
x 10−6−10 x 10−6) 𝑥 50

10. Standing waves are generated on string loaded with a cylindrical body. If the cylinder immersed in
water, the length of the loops changes by a factor of 2.2. The specific gravity of the material of the
cylinder is

a) 1.11 b) 2.15 c) 2.50 d) 1.26

Sol. 𝑣  𝑎
Speed of mechanical wave : v = f  v ∝   𝑣 𝑎 =  𝑎 = 𝑎 = 2.2
𝑤 𝑤
2.2

Length of each loop in a stationary wave : 𝑙 =
2

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𝑇
Speed of transverse wave : v = √𝜇  v ∝ √𝑇  v ∝ √𝑚

When the cylinder is in air : va = k √𝑚

1
When the cylinder is in water : vw = k √𝑚 (1 − 𝑆𝐺 )
𝑣𝑎  k √𝑚 1 4.84
𝑣𝑤
= 𝑎 = = 2.2  1 = 4.84  SG = 3.84 = 1.26
𝑤 1
k √𝑚(1− ) 1−
𝑆𝐺
𝑆𝐺

11. A curved road with radius of curvature 200 m is banked with angle of banking equal to tan−1 0.2
Now, if the traffic is at double the speed for which the road is designed, the minimum value of the
frictional coefficient needed is (g = 10 m/s2)

a) 0.52 b) 0.35 c) 0.94 d) 0.80

Sol. 𝑣2 𝑣2
Angle of banking without friction: tan  = 𝑅𝑔  0.2 = 200 𝑥 10  v = 20 m/s
tan 𝜃+ 𝜇 𝑣2
Angle of banking with friction: =
1−𝜇 tan 𝜃 𝑅𝑔
0.2+ 𝜇 1600 𝟔
= = 0.8  0.2 +  = 0.8 (1 – 0.2)   = = 0.52
1−0.2𝜇 200 𝑥 10 𝟏𝟏.𝟔

12. A plastic pipe filled with iron wires forms a soft iron core. Two identical
coils that can just slide over the pipe are placed on this soft iron core.
Initially the pipe is kept horizontal and a current is passed through the coils
connected in series. The fields are in opposition and the coils remain
stationary with a separation of 5 cm. The system is now made vertical and
the separation between the coils reduces to 4 cm. Then the coefficient of
friction between the coils and the pipe is

a) 0.41 b) 0.02 c) 0.94 d) 0.80

Sol. A current carrying coil acts as a bar magnet.

Magnetic force between two bar magnets is inversely proportional to fourth power of separation
𝑘
When the pipe is horizontal, frictional force balances the magnetic force of attraction: mg = 𝑟4
𝑘
When the pipe is vertical, weight of the coil balances the magnetic force of attraction: mg = 𝑅4
mg 𝑅 4 4 4
mg
= ( 𝑟 )   = (5) = 0.41

13. A long straight wire carries a charge with linear density . A particle of mass m and a charge q is
released at a distance r from the wire. The speed of the particle as it crosses a point distance 2r is

a) b) c) d)
𝑞 ln 𝑟 𝒒 𝒍𝒏 𝟐 𝑞 ln 2 𝑞 ln 𝑟
√ √ √ √
𝜋𝑚𝜀𝑜 𝝅𝒎𝜺𝒐 2𝜋𝑚𝜀𝑜 𝜋𝑚𝜀𝑜

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Sol. 1 
Electric field intensity at a distance x: E = 2𝜋𝜀
𝑜 𝑥
1 𝑞
Force on the charged particle: F = Eq = 2𝜋𝜀 𝑥
𝑜
𝐹 1 𝑞
Acceleration of the charged particle: a = 𝑚 = 2𝜋𝜀 𝑚 𝑥
𝑜
𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑣 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑣 1 𝑞 1 𝑞
a = 𝑑𝑡 = 𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑡 = v 𝑑𝑥 = 2𝜋𝜀 𝑚 𝑥  v dv = 2𝜋𝜀 𝑚 𝑥 dx
𝑜 𝑜

𝑣 2𝑟 1 𝑞 𝒒 𝒍𝒏 𝟐
Integrating on both sides: ∫0 𝑣 𝑑𝑣 = ∫𝑟 2𝜋𝜀𝑜 𝑚 𝑥
dx  v = √ 𝝅𝒎𝜺𝒐

14. A uniform meter scale is supported from its 20 cm mark. A body suspended from 10 cm mark
keeps the scale horizontal. However, the scale gets unbalanced if the body is completely immersed
in water. To regain the balance the body is shifted to the 8 cm mark. Therefore, the specific gravity
of the material of the body is

a) 5 b) 6 c) 7 d) 4

Sol. For rotational equilibrium: mg x 10 = Mg x 30

Rotational equilibrium after immersing in water:
(mg – Fb) x 12 = Mg x 30
From the two expressions: 10 mg = 12 (mg – Fb)
10 mg = 12 mg – 12 Fb → 12 Fb = 2 mg
𝜌
6 vwg = vsg → 𝜌𝑠 = 6 (specific gravity)
𝑙

15. Temperature of 100 g of water in a thermo flask remains fixed for a pretty long time at 50 0 C. An
equal mass of sand at 200 C is poured in the flask and shaken for some time so that the temperature
of the mixture is 400 C. Now the experiment is repeated with 100 g of a liquid at 500 C and an
equal amount of sand at 200 C when the temperature of the mixture is found to be 300 C. The
specific heat of the liquid in kJ kg-1 K-1 is

a) 1.05 b) 2.01 c) 1.55 d) 1.95

Sol. Principle of calorimetry for water and sand:

mwswtw = msssts  100 x 1 x (50 – 40) = 100 x ss (40 – 20)  ss = 0.5 cal/g 0C
Principle of calorimetry for liquid and sand:
mlsltl= msssts  100 x s x (50 – 30) = 100 x 0.5 x (30 – 20)  0.25 cal/g 0C
s = 0.25 cal/g 0C = 0.25 x 4.2 = 1.05 kJ kg-1 K-1

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16. Let vavg, vp and vrms be respectively the average, the most probable and the root mean square
speeds of gas molecules according to Maxwell’s distribution. Then

a) < vp < vrms b) vp < vrms < vavg c) vp < vrms < vavg d) vp < vavg < vrms

Sol. 8𝑅𝑇
Average velocity of gas molecules : vavg = √ 𝜋𝑀
2𝑅𝑇
Most probable velocity of gas molecules : vp = √ 𝑀
3𝑅𝑇
RMS velocity of gas molecules : vrms = √
𝑀
8
vavg : vp : vrms = √𝜋 : √2 : √3 = 1.595 : 1.414 : 1.732

17. A coal based thermal power plant producing electricity operates between the temperatures 270 C
and 2270 C. The plant works at 80 % of its maximum theoretical efficiency. Complete burning of
1 kg of coal yields 36000 kJ of heat. A house needs 10 units of electricity each day. Coal used for
supplying the amount of energy for the house in one year is

a) 1141 kg b) 580 kg c) 605 kg d) 765 kg

Sol. Electrical energy requirement of a house: 10 units = 10 kWhr = 10 x 3.6 x 106 J

Electrical energy requirement of the house per year: 365 x 3.6 x 107 = 1.314 x 107 kJ
𝑇 300
Thermal efficiency of the heat engine:  = 1 - 𝑇 𝑐 = 1 - 500 = 0.4
𝐻

Overall efficiency of the power plant: 0.4 x 0.8 = 0.32

Let the amount of coal required be n, then
1.314 𝑥 107
n x 0.32 x 36000 = 1.314 x 107  n = = 1140.625 ≈ 1141 kg
11520

18. A copper-constantan thermocouple has thermo-electric power 40 V/0C. One junction is 00 C

while the other is at 500 C. The thermocouple is connected to a 30-0-30 galvanometer to produce a
full scale deflection. If a 100  resistance is connected in series with the galvanometer, the
galvanometer gives a deflection of 10 divisions. The figure of merit of the galvanometer is

a) 1.3 A/div b) 2.0 A/div c) 2.3 A/div d) 4.0 A/div

𝑑𝐸
Sol. Thermoelectric power: = 40 V/0C
𝑑𝑇
Thermo-emf of the thermocouple: E = 40 x 10-6 x (50 – 0) = 2 mV
Let the resistance of the galvanometer be G.
0.002 0.002
Full scale deflection current for the galvanometer: 𝐺
= 30x G= 30𝑥
(x is figure of merit)
𝐸 0.002 0.002
Current through the circuit: I = 𝑅
= 100+𝐺
= 10x  0.002 = 10x
100+
30𝑥
x = 1.3 x 10-6 = 1.3 A/div

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19. A fresh dry cell of 1.5 V and two resistors of 10 k each are connected in series. An analog
voltmeter measures a voltage of 0.5 V across each of the resistors. A 1000 F capacitor is fully
charged using the same source. The same voltmeter is now used to measure the voltage across it.
The initial value of the current and the time in which the voltmeter reading falls to 0.5 V are
respectively

a) 60 A, 11 s b) 120 A, 15 s c) 150 A, 15 s d) 150 A, 11 s

Sol. Let the resistance of the voltmeter be R k

10 𝑅

Voltmeter reading: 0.5 V  10 + 𝑅

10 𝑅 x 1.5 = 0.5  R = 10 k
+10
10 + 𝑅
𝑉0 1.5
Initial current: I = 𝑅
= 10 𝑥 103 = 150 A
Voltage across the capacitor: v = v0 e-t/RC
1.5 1.5
0.5 = 1.5 e-t/10 =  et/10 = = 3  t = 10 ln 3 = 11 sec
𝑒 𝑡/10 0.5

20. A charge of +2 C is situated off centre of a hollow spherical metallic shell. Then

a) -2 C charge gets uniformly distributed on the inner surface of the shell

b) +2 C charge gets non-uniformly distributed on the outer surface of the shell
c) -2 C charge gets non-uniformly distributed on the inner surface of the shell
d) no charge appears on the outer surface of the shell

Sol. Due to induction, the +ve charge gives rise to more −ve charge nearer to it.
As the sphere (uniform surface) is made of metal (conducting material) the
positive charge distributes uniformly over the surface.

21. Two simple pendulums with heavy bobs, one using iron wire and the other aluminium wire are
excited simultaneously. It is found that when the first pendulum completes 1000 oscillations, the
other completes 1001. When the temperature is raised by t0 C, it is found that the two pendulums
now oscillate together. If the coefficients of thermal expansion of iron and aluminium are
10 x 10-6 / 0C and 30 x 10-6 / 0C, the value of t is

a) 77.20 C b) 123.20 C c) 100.10 C d) 105.20 C

Sol. 𝑙 𝑇 𝑙
Time period of a simple pendulum : T = 2√𝑔  T ∝ √𝑙  𝑇1 = √𝑙1
2 2
1 2
𝑙1 𝑇1 2 𝑙1
=  =( 1000
1 ) = 1.002  𝑙1 = 1.002 𝑙2
𝑙2 𝑇2 2 𝑙2
1001
The final lengths of the pendulums are same as they have same time period after increasing the
temperature.
𝑙1𝑓 = 𝑙2𝑓  𝑙1 (1 + i t) = 𝑙2 (1 + alt) → 1.002(1 + i t) = 1 + alt  t = 100.1 0C

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22. Consider a body moving through air at a speed greater than that of sound. Out of the following
terms the one which is not connected with this event is

a) sonic boom b) ultrasonic c) Mach number d) conical wave front

Sol. Ultrasonic refers to the frequency of Sound wave. If the

frequency exceeds 20 kHz, then it is known as ultrasonic.
Mach number is the number of times the speed of the
object is as compared to speed of sound.

23. A short bar magnet is placed along N-S direction with N pole pointing north. The neutral points
are located 20 cm away from the bar magnet. If BH is the horizontal component of earth’s
magnetic field, then the magnetic field due to the bar magnet at distance of 40 cm along its axis is

a) 𝐵𝐻 b) 𝑩𝑯 c) 𝐵𝐻 d) 𝐵𝐻
2 𝟒 8 16

Sol. When magnetic north is facing the geographic north, the null points are formed on equatorial line.
𝜇 𝑀 𝜇 𝑀
BH = 4𝜋𝑜 𝑟3 = 4𝜋𝑜 203
𝜇𝑜 2𝑀 𝜇𝑜 2𝑀 2 𝜇𝑜 𝑀 𝑩𝑯
Magnetic field on the axial line: Baxial = = = =
4𝜋 𝑑 3 4𝜋 403 23 4𝜋 203 𝟒

24. A plane mirror coincides with a plane having equation x = 3.

A particle is moving along a line with direction ratio 3, 4, 5.
If speed of the particle is √2, the velocity of the image is

3 4 1 3 4 3 4 1 𝟑 𝟒
a) 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂+ 𝑘̂ b) − 𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ c) 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ d) ̂
− 𝟓 𝒊̂ + 𝟓 𝒋̂+𝒌
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

Sol. Direction ratios: 3, 4, 5

3 4 5 3 4 5
Velocity of the particle: √2 (5 𝑖̂ + 5 2 𝑗̂ + 5 2 𝑘̂ ) = (5 𝑖̂ + 5 𝑗̂ + 5 𝑘̂ )
√2 √ √
The mirror is along the line x = 3 (parallel to y axis)
As the mirror is perpendicular to x axis, only x component of velocity gets reversed.
𝟑 𝟒
The velocity of the image: − 𝒊̂ + 𝒋̂+𝒌 ̂
𝟓 𝟓

25. An unpolarized light is travelling along z axis through three polarizers. The polarizing directions
of the first and third sheet are respectively parallel to X axis and Y axis while that of the second
one is at 600 to Y axis. Then, the fraction of initial light intensity that emerges from the system is
about

a) zero b) 0.093 c) 0.031 d) 0.28

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Sol. Let the intensity of polarized light: I0

𝐼0
Intensity of light emerging from first polarizer: 2
𝐼0 𝐼0
Intensity of light emerging from second polarizer: 2
cos2 60 = 8
𝐼0 3𝐼0
Intensity of light emerging from third polarizer: 8
cos2 30 = 32
3
Fraction of initial light intensity that emerges from the system: 32 = 0.093

26. One face of a glass ( = 1.50) lens is coated with a thin film of magnesium fluoride MgF2
( = 1.38) to reduce reflection from the lens surface. Assuming the incident light to be
perpendicular to the lens surface, the least coating thickness that eliminates the reflection at the
centre of the visible spectrum ( = 550 nm) is about

a) 0.05 m b) 0.10 m c) 1.38 m d) 2.80 m

Sol. Reflection will be eliminated when light rays reflected from (air, film) interface and (film, glass)
interface, interfere with each other destructively.
Let the thickness of the film: x

Condition for destructive interference: x = (2n+1) 2𝑚
 
2x = (2n+1) 2 = (2n+1) 2(1.38) (For minimum thickness, n = 0)
 550
2x = x= nm = 0.0996 m = 0.10 m
2(1.38) 4 𝑥 1.38

27. Consider the analogy between an oscillating spring-body system and an oscillating LCR circuit.
Then, the correspondence between the two systems that is not correct is

a) charge q corresponds to displacement x of the body

b) inductance L corresponds to mass m of the body
c) capacitance C corresponds to spring constant K
d) magnetic energy corresponds to kinetic energy of the body

Sol. 1 1
Instantaneous energy : E = 2kx2 + 2mv2
𝑑2𝑥 𝑘
Differential equation : 𝑑𝑡 2 + 2x = 0 here  = √𝑚
Displacement equation : x = A sin (t ± )
Speed of the block : v =  √𝐴2 − 𝑥 2
Acceleration of the block : a = −𝜔2 𝑥

𝑞2 1
Instantaneous energy : E = 2𝐶 + 2 i2L
𝑑2𝑞 1
Differential equation : + 2q = 0 here  =
𝑑𝑡 2 √𝐿𝐶
Instantaneous charge : q = q0 sin (t ± )
Current in the circuit : i =  √𝑞0 2 − 𝑞 2
𝑑𝑖
Rate of change of current : 𝑑𝑡 = −𝜔2 𝑞

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28. A 50 Hz ac source is connected to a capacitor C in series with a resistance 1 k. The rms voltages
measured across them are 5 V and 2 V respectively. Assume the capacitor to be ideal, the peak
value of the source voltage and the capacitance are respectively

a) 7 V, 1.27 F b) 5.3 V, 2.3 F c) 7.62 V, 1.27 F d) 3 V, 2.3 F

Sol. Rms voltage across the resistor : 2 V

𝑣𝑟𝑚𝑠 2
Rms current through the resistor : Irms = 𝑅
= 1 = 2 mA

Rms voltage across the capacitor :

1 1
vrms = Irms XC = 2 x 10-3 x 2𝜋 𝑥 50 𝑥 𝐶  5 = 2 x 10-3 x 2𝜋 𝑥 50 𝑥 𝐶  C = 1.27 F

Rms value of source voltage: v = √𝑣𝑐 2 + 𝑣𝑅 2 = √52 + 22 = √29

Peak value of source voltage: V = √2 v = √2 x √29 = √58 = 7.62 volt

29. Refer to the circuit given below. Initially the switch S is in position 1
for 1.5 s. Then the switch is changed to position 2. After a time t
(measured from the changeover of the switch) the voltage across 5
k resistance is found to be about 1.226 V. Then t is
a) 330 ms b) 500 ms c) 33 ms d) data insufficient

Sol. Charging time constant: RC = 10 x 103 x 22 x 10-6 = 0.22 sec

Discharging time constant: R1C = 15 x 103 x 22 x 10-6 = 0.33 s
As the given time (1.5 sec) is more than 5 time constants, the capacitor gets fully charged.
Charge on the capacitor: Q = CV = 22 x 10-6 x 10 = 220 C
During discharge, voltage across the capacitor and resistor is same.
5 1
Voltage across 5 k resistor: 15 𝑣𝑐 = 3 𝑣𝑐
𝑡 𝑡 𝑡
1
1.226 = 3 x 10 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶  0.3678 = 𝑒 −0.33  𝑒 0.33 = 2.72

t = 0.33 x ln (2.72) = 0.330 sec = 330 ms

30. A long straight wire of radius R carries a uniformly distributed current i. The variation of magnetic
field B from the axis of the wire is correctly represented by the graph

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Sol. Consider a point outside the wire:

̅ = 𝜇𝑜 iin  B (2r) = 𝜇𝑜 i  B = 𝜇𝑜 𝑖 (hyperbola)
∫ 𝐵̅. 𝑑𝑙 2𝜋 𝑟
Consider a point inside the wire at a distance r:
𝑟2 𝜇 𝑖
̅ = 𝜇𝑜 iin  B (2r) = 𝜇𝑜
∫ 𝐵̅. 𝑑𝑙 i  B = 2𝜋𝑜 𝑅2 r
𝑅2
(st. line through origin) So the correct option is 3

31. Two copper coils A and B are wound over a plastic pipe. Coil A is connected to a sinusoidal
voltage source of frequency 50 Hz so that a current of 100 mA passes through it. The voltage
across coil B is 5 V. Now if coil B is short circuited, there is a change of current of 2 mA in coil A.
Then, the mutual inductance between the two coils and the percentage change in the impedance of
coil A are respectively

a) 160 mH, 2 % b) 16 mH, 0 % c) 1.6 mH, 2 % d) 0.16 mH, 0 %

Sol. 𝑑𝑖 𝑑
Induced emf across coil B: e = M 𝑑𝑡 = M 𝑑𝑡 (I0 sin t) = I0M cos t
emax = I0M  5 = 0.1 x 314 x M  M = 0.159 H = 159 mH ≈ 160 mH
Let V be the potential drop across coil A.
𝑉
Initial impedance of the coil: z1 = = 10 V ohm
0.1
𝑉
Final impedance of the coil: z2 = 0.102 = 9.804 V ohm
10𝑉 −9.804𝑉
Percentage change in impedance: 10𝑉
𝑥100 = 1.96% ≈ 2%

32. A coil is wound on an iron rod and connected to an ac source as shown in fig. Two more coils AB
and CD are also wound on the same rod. If ends B and C are joined, a filament bulb connected
between ends A and D glows well. However, if B and D are joined and the bulb is connected
between A and C, it glows feebly. This shows that

a) coils AB and CD are in series in first case while they are in parallel in the second case
b) in the second case, the two coils are in phase addition and then have unequal turns
c) in the second case, the two coils are in phase opposition and they have equal turns
d) in the second case, two coils are in phase opposition and they have unequal turns

Sol. B, C are joined, and bulb is connected between A, D: current is flowing through both the coils in
the same direction. The two coils are in phase.
B, D are joined, and bulb is connected between A, C: current is flowing in opposite direction in the
coils. The two coils are in phase opposition. The current does not become zero as the number turns
are different causing different magnitudes of induced emf.

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33. The age of an organic material is usually determined by measuring its C14 content (carbon dating).
The ratio of the number of stable isotope of C14 atoms present to the number of radioactive C14
atoms in a material is found to be 3 : 1. If the half-life of C14 atoms is 5730 years, the age of the
material under investigation is

a) 7944 years b) 17190 years c) 11460 years d) 13972 years

Sol. N0 : initial number of atoms available : N0 = N1 + N2

N1 : no. of radioactive nuclei present / N2 : no. of stable nuclei
No. of radioactive nuclei present : N1 = (N1 + N2) e-t
𝑁
et = 1 + 𝑁2 = 1 + 3 = 4
1
1.39 1.39 𝑇 1.39 𝑥 5730
t = ln 4 = 1.39  t = 
= 0.693
= 0.693
≈ 11460 years

34. The arrangement of NAND gates shown below effectively works as

a) AND gate b) OR gate c) NAND gate d) NOR gate

Sol. A = 0, B = 0 : gate 1: 1, gate 2: 1, gate 3: 1

A = 0, B = 1 : gate 1: 1, gate 2: 0, gate 3: 1
A = 1, B = 0 : gate 1: 0, gate 2: 1, gate 3: 1
A = 1, B = 1 : gate 1: 0, gate 2: 1, gate 3: 0
The final output of the logic circuit corresponds to NAND gate.

35. A uniform thin rod of length (4a + 2a) and of mass (4m + 2m) is bent and fabricated to form a
square surrounded by semi circles as shown in figure. The moment of inertia of this frame about an
axis passing through its centre and perpendicular to its plane is

a) 4+2𝜋 b) 4+𝜋 c) 𝟒+𝟑𝝅 d) 3+𝜋

3
ma2 2
ma2 ma2 2
ma2
𝟑

Sol. Mass of each side of the square: m; Length of each side of the square: a
𝜋𝑚 𝑎
Mass of each semi-circle: 2 ; Radius of each semi-circle: 2
𝑎2 𝑎2 4
Moment of inertia of the square part: Is = 4(m 4
) = 3 ma2
12
+ m
𝜋𝑚 𝑎 2 𝜋𝑚 𝑎 2
Moment of inertia of the semicircular part: Isc : 4( 2 4 + 2 4 ) = ma2
4 𝟒+𝟑𝝅
Total moment of inertia : I = 3 ma2 + ma2 = 𝟑 ma2

36. A ball is dropped onto horizontal surface from a height of 36 cm. After bouncing several times it
comes to rest covering a total distance of 100 cm measured in a vertical direction. The percentage
loss in kinetic energy after its first impact is

a) 36 b) 64 c) 53 d) 96

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Sol. 1+𝑒 2 1+𝑒 2 25 1+𝑒 2 8

Total distance travelled by the ball: L = (1−𝑒 2 ) h  100 = 36 (1−𝑒 2 )  9
= 1−𝑒 2  e = √17
Velocity before first impact: v1 = √2𝑔ℎ = √2 𝑥 10 𝑥 0.36 = 2.68 m/s
8
Velocity after first impact: v2 = e v1 = √ x 2.68 = 1.84 m/s
17
∆𝑘 2.682 −1.842
Percentage loss in KE after first impact: x 100 = x 100 = 53%
𝑘 2.682

37. A simple pendulum has small disc shaped magnet as the bob whose magnetic moment is along
vertical. Just beneath the bob a current carrying coil is placed on a horizontal table. The coil
produces a uniform magnetic field. The dependence of the change in time period |∆𝑇| on current I
can be graphically shown as

Sol. 𝑙
Time period of a simple pendulum: T0 = 2𝜋√
𝑔

Magnetic field produced by the coil: B ∝ I

Effective acceleration of the bob: geff = g + kI (k is proportionality constant)
New time period of the simple pendulum:
1/2
𝑙 𝑙 𝑙 1 𝑙 𝑘 −1/2
T = 2𝜋√𝑔 = 2𝜋√g + kI = 2𝜋√𝑔 (( 𝑘 )) = 2𝜋√𝑔 (1 + 𝑔 𝐼)
𝑒𝑓𝑓 1+ 𝐼
𝑔

𝑘𝐼 𝑘𝐼 𝑘𝐼 𝑇0 𝑘
T = T0 (1 − 2𝑔) = T0 – T02𝑔  T – T0 = T02𝑔  T = 2𝑔
I  T ∝ I

38. Two coupled simple pendulums have nearly the same period. One of them is excited while the
other is at rest. Now energy keeps on transferring from one pendulum to the other alternately. This
periodic transfer of energy continues almost indefinitely with a time period of 10 s. Then the
difference of frequencies between the two pendulums is

a) zero b) 0.1 Hz c) 0.14 Hz d) infinite

Sol. As pendulums have nearly the same time period, they have a very small difference in frequency.
Time period of energy transfer between the pendulums: T = 10 sec
1 1
So, the difference in frequency: ∆𝑓 = 𝑇 = 10 = 0.1 Hz

39. A beam of 28 keV electrons strikes a target generating X rays. The minimum wavelength min
(called cut-off wavelength) of the X rays generated is

a) 4.4 nm b) 4 nm c) 0.044 nm d) 0.44 nm

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Sol. Energy of the electron beam: 28 keV

hc = 1240 nm eV
ℎ𝑐 1240
Cut off wavelength of the x rays: min = 𝑒𝑉 = 28000 = 0.044 nm

A potentiometer is made using a resistance wire about 5 m long having a resistance of 8 /m. The
diagram shows the arrangement on a wooden board. The wire is turned round brass screws (P)
used as pegs giving 5 parallel segments 1.0 m each. The wire remains taut under moderate tension.
It is held in place by strips 3 mm thick marked as S and S1. The experimental circuit shows the
labeled electrical components. L is Leclanche cell (emf: e1 = 1.4 V) and D is Daniel cell
(emf: e2 = 1.08 V). Note that the answers obtained in any earlier question/s may be needed in
further questions and such answers should be used where ever needed.

40. It is required to decide the ratio (e1 / e2) by sum and difference method also. Four cells with
different values of emf E are available. One must use a cell of emf E equal to

a) 1.40 V b) 2.0 V c) 4.5 V d) 1.08 V

Sol. 𝑒 𝑙
Ratio of emfs : 𝑒1 = 𝑙1
2 2
𝑒 +𝑒 𝑙 𝑒 𝑙 +𝑙
Ratio of emfs by sum and difference method : 𝑒1 −𝑒2 = 𝑙1  𝑒1 = 𝑙1 −𝑙2
1 2 2 2 1 2
The emf of the cell used in the primary circuit should be greater than (e1 + e2)
E > (1.4 + 1.08)  E > 2.48 volt

41. The best material for strips marked S and S1 is

a) Plastic b) Aluminium c) Cast Iron d) Plated Brass

Sol. Brass is the best conducting material out of the available options.
As it offers minimum resistance, the readings will be close to actual values.

42. Assuming that due to stretching of wire while preparing the potentiometer, its resistance has
increased by 2 % and a potential gradient of 0.6 mV/mm is needed, then R must be

a) 13.5  b) 40.8  c) 20.4  d) 135 

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Sol. Length of the potentiometer wire: L = 5 m

Resistance of the potentiometer wire: 5 x 8 = 40 
Final resistance of the potentiometer wire: 40 + 2 % (40) = 40.8 
𝐸
Current through the potentiometer wire: I = 𝑅+40.8
𝐼 𝑥 40.8 40.8 𝐸 40.8 4.5
Potential gradient: 𝐿
= 𝐿 𝑅+40.8
→ 0.6 = 5 𝑅+40.8
 R = 20.4 

43. It is claimed that the strips S and S1 serve two purposes

I. to decide the end points of the wire and II. To keep the wires in place, then

a) both I and II are important b) I is more important than II

c) II is more important than I d) both are equally important

Sol. When the end points of the wire are known accurately, the readings of the potentiometer will be
trustworthy. So, it is more important to decide the end points of the wire than to keep the wires in
place.

44. The length of wire between the adjoining pegs carries current

a) equal to that in the pot. wire b) equal to half the current in the pot. wire
c) nearly zero d) equal to zero

Sol. The coated brass strips carry almost zero resistance.

So, most of the current passes through the strips rather than the wire between the pegs.
Thus the current flowing through the wire between the pegs is nearly zero.

45. Two new and different cells having emf v1 and v2 have their balance points P1 and P2 respectively,
then

a) v1 > v2 b) v1 < v2 c) v1 = v2 d) insufficient data

Sol. Principle of potentiometer:

emf of the cell connected in secondary circuit of the potentiometer is directly proportional to the
balancing length of the potentiometer.
The balancing length is measured from that point where the positive terminal of the standard cell is
connected.
From the diagram, we can see that point P1 is closer to the starting point than the point P2

46. The emf under test contains an arrangement as connected in the circuit. It is observed that
wherever the jockey is touched to wire, the galvanometer shows full scale deflection only on one
side. The possible causes (considered one at a time) are

I. e is D and e1 is L II. E is L and e1 is D III. Key K is not inserted

IV. Value of R is much larger than that set as per Q. No. 42
V. value of R is very small.

a) I, II & III b) II, III & IV c) I, III & IV d) II, III & V

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Sol. I. e is D and e1 is L
III. Key K is not inserted
IV. Value of R is much larger than that set as per Q. No. 42

47. If the jockey is touched at a point on the wire 1.0 cm away from the balance point, then the
galvanometer (G = 1 k) will show a current equal to

a) 2 A b) 4 A c) 6 A d) 8 A

Sol. Potential gradient across the wire: 0.6 mV/mm = 6 mV/cm

Potential difference across 1 cm length of the wire: 6 x 1 = 6 mV
Resistance of the galvanometer: 1 k
𝑣 6 𝑥 10−3
Current through the galvanometer: i = 𝐺 = 1 𝑥 10−3 = 6 x 10-6 = 6 A

A large number of pendulums with identical bobs (mass m) but varying lengths are suspended
from a thick thread. Another pendulum of heavier bob (mass M) is also suspended from the same
thread as shown.

This pendulum with the heavier bob is used as a driver to drive the other pendulums called driven
pendulums. Assume that the amplitude of the driver is maintained constant (by some suitable
mechanism). Let the frequency of the driver be fo

48. The time period (hence frequency f) and the amplitude A of the driven pendulums in steady state
are measured. The variation of A with f is correctly shown by the graph

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Sol. As the frequency is changing, it is possible for the driven pendulums to attain resonance with the
driving pendulum at some point.
Under resonance, the amplitude of oscillation reaches maximum.
So the correct representation is (b).
49. It is observed that
a) All the pendulums except one are at rest
b) all the pendulums oscillate in phase with the driver
c) one of the pendulums oscillates with maximum amplitude
d) the pendulum with maximum amplitude oscillates in phase with the driver

Sol. The pendulum which is in resonance with the driving pendulum will oscillate with maximum
amplitude.
1 𝑔 1
Frequency of oscillation of a simple pendulum : f = 2𝜋 √ 𝑙  f ∝
√𝑙
One of the driven pendulums has length equal to that of driving pendulum.
So, this pendulum will be in resonance with the driving pendulum.

50. The frequency of the pendulum having maximum amplitude is

a) f0 / 2 b) f0 c) 2 f0 d) not related to f0

Sol. Frequency of the driver pendulum: f0 (given)

The driven pendulum having maximum amplitude is in resonance with the driving pendulum.
Resonance is achieved when the natural frequency of driven pendulum is equal to the frequency of
the driving pendulum.
So, the frequency of the pendulum having maximum amplitude is f0

51. The pendulum in Q. No. 50 is set into oscillation with amplitude of 10.0 cm. Soon this pendulum
comes to rest momentarily and the driver is seen to oscillate with amplitude of 8.16 cm. Then mass
M equal to

a) 1.5m b) 2m c) 2.5m d) 3m

Sol. Mass of the driving pendulum : M

Mass of the driven pendulum : m
Amplitude of oscillation of the driven pendulum : A = 10 cm
Amplitude of oscillation of the driving pendulum : a = 8.16 cm
When the driven pendulum stops oscillating, its energy is transferred to the driving pendulum.
1 1 𝐴2
Edriven = Edriving  2m2A2 = 2M2 a2  mA2 = Ma2  M = 𝑎2m = 1.5m

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Now only one of the driven pendulums is oscillated. The driver and all other driven pendulums are
clamped.

52. A simple pendulum of length L has a period T. If length is changed by L, the change in period T
is proportional to

a) T b) T2 c) 𝟏 d) 1
𝑻 √𝑇

Sol. 𝐿
Initial time period of the simple pendulum : T = 2 √
𝑔

𝐿+∆𝐿 2𝜋
Final time period of the simple pendulum : T1 = 2  √ = (𝐿 + ∆𝐿)1/2
𝑔 √𝑔

2𝜋 ∆𝐿 1/2 𝐿 1 ∆𝐿 1 ∆𝐿 1 ∆𝐿
T1 = L1/2 (1 + ) = 2 √𝑔 (1 + 2 ) = T (1 + 2 ) =T+T2
√𝑔 𝐿 𝐿 𝐿 𝐿

1 ∆𝐿 ∆𝐿 𝑇 ∆𝐿 𝑇 4𝜋2 2𝜋2 ∆𝐿 1 𝟏
T1 – T = T 2 𝐿
 T = 2 𝐿
= 2 𝑇2𝑔
= 𝑔 𝑇
 T ∝ 𝑻

53. The variation of amplitude A with respect to time t is shown as

Sol. Ideal case: no damping: the amplitude remains constant. (third graph)
Practical case: damping is present: amplitude decreases exponentially.
Assuming the damping force is directly proportional to velocity of the bob.
𝑏𝑡
We can write the amplitude : A = A0 𝑒 −2𝑚
Here b is damping constant and m is mass of the pendulum bob.
So the correct option is (b)

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54. Which of the following will give a straight line graph?

a) log A against t b) 1 c) A against t2 d) A2 against t

log A against 𝑡
𝑏𝑡
Sol.
Consider the damped oscillation : A = A0 𝑒 −2𝑚
𝑏
Apply ln on both sides : ln A = ln A0 - t
2𝑚

The equation is in the form of y = - mx + c

This is a straight line with negative slope and positive y intercept. So the correct option is (a)

55. If v is the velocity of the bob, the force that is responsible for decrease of amplitude is proportional
to
a) v2 b) v c) 1 d) 1
𝑣 𝑣2

Sol. When the pendulum is oscillating in air, resistive force offered by air known as viscous drag.
The viscous drag acting on a spherical object is given by empirical relation.
Fv = 6vr  Fv ∝ v
Here : coefficient of viscosity (constant)
v : speed of the object
r : radius of the sphere

56. An object is placed 30 cm away from a symmetric convex lens and an image two thirds of the size
of the object is produced. The object is moved by a distance of 20 cm so as to get a magnified
image. Now we get

17
a) a real image of magnification 6
b) a virtual image of magnification 5
c) a real image at a distance of 40 cm d) a virtual image at a distance of 60 cm

2 2
Sol. Size of the image: size of the object  v = u
3 3
1 1 1 3 1 1 2𝑢 2 𝑥 30
Lens formula (real image): 𝑣 − 𝑢 = 𝑓  2𝑢 + 𝑢 = 𝑓  f = 5
= 5
= 12 cm
After moving the object by 20 cm, it is within the focus of the lens. So it forms a virtual image on
the same side as that of the object.
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Lens formula (virtual image): 𝑣 − 𝑢 = 𝑓  − 𝑣 + 10 = 12  𝑣 = 60  v= 60 cm

57. A symmetric concave lens of focal length 24 cm is now placed in contact with the convex lens and
the object is brought back to its original position. The image formed will be

a) a real one with a magnification 4 b) a real one at a distance of 40 cm

c) a virtual one at a distance of 120 cm d) a virtual one with a magnification 2.5

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Sol. Focal length of the convex lens: f1 = 12 cm

Focal length of the concave lens: f2 = 24 cm
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Effective focal length of the combination: = +  = − =  F = 24 cm
𝐹 𝑓1 𝑓2 𝐹 12 24 24

Object distance: u = 30 cm
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Lens formula: 𝑣 − 𝑢 = 𝐹  𝑣 + 30 = 24  𝑣 = 120  v = 120 cm
𝑣 120
Magnification: m = = =4
𝑢 30

So, the image formed is real with a magnification of 4.

58. The concave lens is moved away from the object through a distance of 10 cm. We get an image
that is
a) virtual and at a distance of about 17 cm from the concave lens
b) real and at a distance of about 47 cm from the object
c) virtual, diminished and at a distance of 10 cm from the concave lens
d) real and at a distance of 57 cm from the object
1 1 1 1 1 1
Sol. For the convex lens : 𝑣 − 𝑢 = 𝑓  𝑣 + 30 = 12  v = 20 cm (real image)

The real image formed by the convex lens acts as virtual object for concave lens.
1 1 1 1 1 1
For the concave lens : 𝑣 − 𝑢 = 𝑓  𝑣 - 10 = − 24  v ≈ 17 cm (real image)

So, the final image is at (30 + 10 + 17 = 57) cm from the object.

59. Now consider again the lenses to be in contact with each other but made of material of refractive
index 1.2. The system is immersed in a medium of refractive index  and it is found that the focal
length of the system remains numerically the same as when in air. Therefore,  is

a) < 1.2 b) 1.2 <  < 1.5 c) > 1.5 d) = 1.5

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Sol. 1
focal length of convex lens in air : 𝑓 = (1.2 – 1) k = 0.2k
1

1
Focal length of concave lens in air : 𝑓 = - (1.2 – 1) k1 = - 0.2k1
2
1 1 1
Effective focal length of the combination in air : 𝐹 = 𝑓 + 𝑓 = 0.2 (k – k1)
1 2

1 1.2
Focal length of convex lens in medium : 𝑓1𝑚
= (𝜇 − 1) k
1 1.2
Focal length of concave lens in medium : 𝑓 = ( 𝜇 − 1) k1
2𝑚

1.2
Effective focal length of the combination in medium : ( 𝜇 − 1) (k – k1)
1.2 𝟏.𝟐
Given: 0.2 (k – k1) = - ( − 1) (k – k1)   = = 1.5
𝜇 𝟎.𝟖

60. 3
The given convex lens (refractive index ) is made to rest on the surface of a lake such that its
2
4
upper surface is in air while the lower one is in water (refractive index ). Rays from the sun
3
overhead converge at a distance a inside water, while rays from a luminescent angler fish beneath
at the bottom of the lake converge at a distance b in air. Therefore

a) a = 12 cm, b = 12 cm b) a = 24 cm, b = 12 cm
c) a = 18 cm, b = 12 cm d) a = 24 cm, b = 18 cm

Sol. Since the two surfaces of the lens are in different media
(air and water) let us use refraction through curved surface:
Radius of curvature of the lens: R
1 2 1 2
= ( -1)  = (1.5 – 1)  R = 12 cm
𝑓 𝑅 12 𝑅

𝑛2 𝑛1 𝑛2 −𝑛1
a) For air-glass interface: 𝑣
− 𝑢
= 𝑅
1.5 1 1.5−1 1
− = =  v = 3 x 12 = 36 cm
𝑣 ∞ 𝑅 2𝑅
𝑛2 𝑛1 𝑛2 −𝑛1
For glass-water interface: 𝑣
− 𝑢
= 𝑅
4 3
4 3 − 4 1 1
− =3 2
 - =−  v = 2R = 2 x 12 = 24 cm
3𝑣 2 𝑥 3𝑅 𝑅 3𝑣 2𝑅 6𝑅

𝑛2 𝑛1 𝑛2 −𝑛1
b) For water-glass interface: 𝑣
− 𝑢
= 𝑅
1.5 1.33 1.5 −1.33 1.5 1
𝑣
- ∞
= 12
 𝑣
= 72  v = 108 cm
𝑛2 𝑛1 𝑛2 −𝑛1
For glass-air interface: − =
𝑣 𝑢 𝑅
1 1.5 1−1.5 1 1 1 1
𝑣
− 108 = −12
 𝑣 = 72 + 24 = 18  v = 18 cm

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61. Four point masses are placed in a plane so that their centre of mass is at (1,1). Three of them are of
mass m each and are placed at (0,0), (2,0) and (0,2) respectively. The fourth point of mass 2m is
displaced from its initial position such that centre of mass of the system moves to (2, 1). Then, the
displacement of the fourth point mass is

a) parallel to X axis b) inclined at an angle 450 with X axis

𝟓
c) of magnitude 𝟐 units d) of magnitude 5 units

Sol. Initial position of the centre of mass: (1, 1)

Final position of the centre of mass: (2, 1)
Since the y co-ordinate remains same, the displacement of the fourth particle is along/parallel to
X axis.
𝑚 𝑥 0+𝑚 𝑥 2+𝑚 𝑥 0+2𝑚 𝑥 𝑥1
X co-ordinate of CM: initial: 5𝑚
= 1  𝑥1 = 1.5 units
𝑚 𝑥 0+𝑚 𝑥 2+𝑚 𝑥 0+2𝑚 𝑥 𝑥2
X co-ordinate of CM: final: 5𝑚
= 2  𝑥2 = 4 units

Shift in x co-ordinate of fourth particle: x2 – x1 = 4 – 1.5 = 2.5 units

62. A block A of mass 2 kg rests on a horizontal surface. Another block B of mass 1 kg moving at a
speed of 1 m/s when at a distance of 16 cm from A collides elastically with A. The coefficient of
friction between the horizontal surface and each of the blocks is 0.2
Then (g = 10 m/s2)

a) after collision block B rebounds b) after collision block B comes to rest

c) final separation between blocks is 3 cm d) final separation between blocks is 5 cm

Sol. Limiting friction between A and the surface: f = mg = 0.2 x 2 x 10 = 4 N

Speed of block B at the time of collision:
v2 – u2 = 2as  v2 – u2 = −2 g s  v2 = 1 – 2 x 0.2 x 10 x 0.16 = 0.36  v = 0.6 m/s
𝑚 −𝑚 1−2
a) Speed of block B after collision: vB = 𝑚𝐵 +𝑚𝐴 v = 1+2 x 0.6 = −𝟎. 𝟐 m/s
𝐵 𝐴
2𝑚𝐵 2𝑥1
d) Speed of block A after collision: vA = 𝑚𝐴 +𝑚𝐵
v=
2+1
x 0.6 = 0.4 m/s
𝑣𝐴 2
Distance moved by block A before coming to rest: sA = 2𝜇𝑔 = 4 cm
𝑣𝐵 2
Distance moved by block B before coming to rest: sB = 2𝜇𝑔 = 1 cm
Final separation between the blocks: sA + sB = 4 + 1 = 5 cm

63. A uniform disc of mass M and radius R is lifted using a string as shown in figure. Then

a) its linear acceleration is g upward

b) its linear acceleration is g downward
𝟐𝒈
c) its angular acceleration is 𝑹
d) its rate of change of angular momentum is MgR

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𝑀𝑔 3𝑀𝑔
Sol. 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 2
+
2
−𝑀𝑔
a) Linear acceleration: a = 𝑀
= 𝑀
=g
𝜏𝑛𝑒𝑡 𝑀𝑔𝑅 𝟐𝒈
c) Angular acceleration:  = = 𝑀 2 =
𝐼 𝑅 𝑹
2

d) Rate of change in angular momentum: torque

3𝑀𝑔 𝑀𝑔
 = F r⊥ = R- R = MgR
2 2

64. Four thin straight long wires are all parallel to Z axis. They pass through the points A (3, 0, 0), B
(0, 3, 0), C (-3, 0, 0) and D (0, -3, 0). They all carry currents in 𝑘̂ direction of magnitudes 0.3 A,
0.6 A, 0.3 A and 0.3 A respectively. The magnitude of magnetic field at the origin O due to

a) wires at A and C is zero b) wires at A and B is 2√2 x 10-8 T

c) wires at A and D is 2√𝟐 x 10-8 T d) all wires is 2 x 10-8 T

Sol. From the dig: z axis is out of the paper.

𝜇 𝑖 𝜇 𝑖
a) Field due to wires A and C: B = 2𝜋𝑜 3 - 2𝜋𝑜 3 = 0
𝜇𝑜 0.3
c) BA = BD = = 2 x 10-8 T
2𝜋 3

Field due to wires A and D: B = √𝐵𝐴 2 + 𝐵𝐷 2 = 2√𝟐 x 10-8 T

d) Fields due to A and C cancel each other. Fields due to B and

D are in opposite directions. So the resultant field :
𝜇 0.6−0.3
B = 2𝜋𝑜 3
= 2 x 10-8 T

65. In a drip irrigation system, water flows at 0.4 m/s through a 25 mm diameter pipe. At each of the
plants in the field water is expected to be delivered at 0.02 m/s through a 2 mm opening. The drip
works for 2 hours a day. Then,

a) the system feeds 2250 plants b) a plant gets about 3.2 liter of water a day
c) the system feeds 3125 plants d) a plant gets about 1.8 liter of water a day

Sol. 𝐷2 𝑑2 𝐷2 𝑉 625 𝑥 0.4

Applying equation of continuity: AV = nav  𝜋 4
V=n𝜋 4
v  n = 𝑑2 𝑣 = 4 𝑥 0.02
= 3125
𝑑2
Volume flux at the plant: av = 𝜋 v = (3.14 x 4 x 10-6 x 0.02) / 4 = 62.8 x 10-6 lt/sec
4

Volume of water for each plant: volume flux x time = 62.8 x 10-6 x 2 x 3600 = 0.452 litre

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

66. Refer to the circuit given below. Output voltage Vo is measured between points a and b. Then,

a) the peak value of V0 is 2.5 V above the minimum if the diode is assumed to be ideal
b) the positive half cycle of the input is clipped
c) the circuit acts as a rectifier
d) the peak value V0 is about 3.2 V above the minimum if D is silicon diode (non-ideal)

Sol. The diode is reverse biased in the +ve half cycle.

The diode is forward biased in the –ve half cycle.
a) If the diode is ideal, if offers infinite resistance in reverse bias, thus the entire input
appears across the output. (2.5 V above the minimum)
c) Since the negative half cycle is clipped, the circuit acts as rectifier.
d) For a non-ideal silicon diode, threshold voltage is 0.7 V, so the output voltage will be
(0.7 + 2.5 = 3.2 V) above the minimum.

67. Two constant volume gas thermometers – one containing helium and the other containing oxygen
are used to measure the boiling point of liquid nitrogen. For calibrating the He thermometer first it
is dipped in boiling water and afterwards in boiling liquid nitrogen and the pressure was found to
change by a factor of 5. The process is repeated with oxygen thermometer. Then, which of the
following statement(s) is / are true?

a) according to He thermometer, liquid nitrogen boils at 74.6 K

b) oxygen gas thermometer also gives the same result
c) oxygen gas thermometer cannot be used in this situation
d) helium gas thermometer cannot give the linear variation of pressure with temperature

𝑃 𝑇 𝑃 𝑇
Sol. At constant volume : P ∝ T  𝑃1 = 𝑇1  5𝑃 = 373
𝑁
 TN = 74.6 K
2 2
Boiling point of oxygen : 90.19 K
So, oxygen gas thermometer cannot be used in this situation.

68. A hollow prism filled with hot water is used with usual arrangement to obtain a spectrum. The
water prism is set in minimum deviation position. As water cools down, it is observed that the
spectrum shifts so that deviation increases. Indicate the correct statement/s.

a) refractive index of water increases with decrease of temperature

b) refractive index of water increases with increase of temperature
c) speed of light decreases with decrease of temperature
d) speed of light increases with decrease of temperature

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

𝐴+𝐷
Sol. sin( )
Refractive index of a prism :  = 2
𝐴 here D is angle of minimum deviation
sin( )
2
Given: the spectrum shifts so that the deviation increases.
a) From the above formula as D increases,  also increases.
So, the refractive index of water increases with decrease in temperature.
𝑐 𝟏
c) Absolute refractive index:  =   ∝ (as refractive index increases, the speed of light
𝑣 𝒗
decreases)

69. A vertical narrow wire is illuminated with laser. Alternate dark and bright bands are formed on a
graph paper pasted on a distant wall. Indicate the correct statement/s.

a) making appropriate measurements, it is possible to determine the diameter of the wire

b) this phenomenon exhibits that light does not follow rectilinear paths
c) this is a case of Fraunhoffer diffraction
d) this is a case of interference of an infinitely large number of Huygens's secondary waves
leading to a diffraction pattern

Sol. The observation indicated in the question are due to diffraction of light. When an obstacle of
dimensions comparable to wavelength of light comes in the path of light, it bends around the
obstacle and travels forward.
During this process, the secondary wavelets interfere with each other to form a pattern of bright
(constructive) and dark (destructive) bands on a screen.

a) Condition for the formation of dark band : a sin  = m (here a is the dimensions of the
obstacle : diameter of the thread in this case)
b) Diffraction is a wave phenomenon. Diffraction pattern is observed on the screen when
light bends around an obstacle.
c) Diffraction can be studies in two ways:
1) Fraunhofer diffraction: The obstacle, the source and the screen are far away from each
other. Plane wave front approximation can be applied
2) Fresnel diffraction: The obstacle, the source and the screen are close to each other. Shape
of wave front depends on the type of source.
(spherical wave front for point source and cylindrical wave fronts for extended source)

d) Diffraction phenomenon inherently involves interference. Secondary wavelets from different

waves interfere with each other to form alternate bright and dark bands of varying intensity on the
screen.

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70. Consider an element of a stretched string along which a wave travels. During its transverse
oscillatory motion, the element passes through a point at y = 0 and reaches its maximum at y = ym.
Then, the string element has its maximum

a) kinetic energy at y = ym b) elastic potential energy at y = ym

c) kinetic energy at y = 0 d) elastic potential energy at y = 0

Sol. Displacement of the elemental string: y = A sin (kx - t)

1 𝑑𝑦 2
Kinetic energy per unit volume: k = 2 ( 𝑑𝑡 )
1
Kinetic energy per unit volume: k = 22A2 cos2 (kx - t)
1 1 1
k = 22A2 (1 – sin2 (kx - t)) = 22 (A2 – A2sin2 (kx - t)) = 22 (A2- y2)
𝟏
So, the kinetic energy becomes maximum at y = 0: kmax = 𝟐2A2

1 𝑑𝑦 2
Potential energy per unit volume: u = 2 v2 (𝑑𝑥 )
1 1 𝜔
u = 2 v2k2A2 cos2 (kx - t) = 22A2 cos2 (kx - t) [v = 𝑘
]

The expression for PE per unit volume is same as that of KE per unit volume
1 1 1
u = 2A2 (1 – sin2 (kx - t)) = 2 (A2 – A2sin2 (kx - t)) = 2 (A2- y2)
2 2 2
𝟏
So, the potential energy becomes maximum at y = 0: umax= 𝟐2A2

So, both potential and kinetic energies become maximum at mean position and zero at extreme
position.

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