EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 1

EXERCISE–1 : BASIC OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS

1. Decide what length (in cm) is being shown. will be significant. Therefore, the number of
significant figures will be three.
8 9 10 (c) For a value less than 1, the zeroes after decimal and
before non-zero digits are not be significant. Zero
before decimal place in such a number is always

12 13 insignificant. The zero in between the non-zero digits

is significant. Hence the number of significant figures
Ans. (a) 8.89 cm (b) 12.33 cm is four.
(d) The non-zero values will be always significant
Sol. (a) As we can see in the diagram the point is marked
and the trailing zeroes will not be significant (no
in between the values 8 and 9. The point has been
decimal point). Therefore, there will be two
found eight units away from the point 8 and it has
significant figures.
not reached completely the ninth unit. Therefore, as
by looking the diagram, we can estimate that the
3. Round off the following numbers as indicated:
value will be 8.89 cm.
(a) Up to one digit after decimal
(b) As we can find out in the diagram, the required
(1) 2.473
point has been mentioned in between the values 12
(2) 5.396
and 13. The point can be found at a distance of three (3) 8.235
units away from the point 12 and has not reached (b) To the nearest integer
completely the thirteenth point. Hence, we can (1) 56.912
estimate that the value will be 12.33 cm . (2) 3.4125
(3) 63.514
(c) To four figures
2. Identify the number of significant figures in the (1) 4.000574 × 106
following. (2) 7.2518
(a) 3.0800 (b) 0.00418 (3) 375.6523
(c) 0.003005 (d) 250 (d) To the nearest 0.1
Ans. (a) five, (b) three, (c) four, (d) two
(1) 3.64
(2) 4.55
Sol. (a) As we know the zero in between the non-zero
(3) 0.0865
digits are significant digit irrespective of their decimal
(e) To the nearest 0.01
place. Therefore, the zero in between 3 and 8 will be
(1) 6.675
significant. Also, the trailing zeros after decimal point (2) 4.500
are also significant. Therefore, the number of (3) 7.555
Ans:
significant figures in 3.0800 will be five.
(b) For a value less than 1, the zeroes after decimal and
before non-zero digits are not be significant. Zero
before decimal place in such a number is always
insignificant. The non-zero values after the decimal
MORDERN PHYSICS 2

(a) If the digit to be dropped is equal to 5 and the

(1)2.5 preceding digit is odd number, then the preceding
(2)5.4 digit is increased by 1.
(3)8.2
4. Solve the following:
(b)
(1)57 (a) 3.461728 + 14.91 + 0.980001 + 5.2631

(2)3 (b) 23.1 + 4.77 + 125.39 + 3.581

(3)64 (c) 22.101 – .9307
(c) (d) 0.04216-0.0004134
(e) 564, 321 – 264, 321
(1)4.001×106
(f) 7+4
(2)7.252
(g) 21 – 2
(3)375.6
Ans.
(d)
(1)3.6
(a)24.62
(2)4.6
(b)156.8
(3)0.1
(c)21.170
(e)
(d)0.04175
(1)6.68
(e)300000
(2)4.50
(f)11
(3)7.56
(g)19

Sol. The rounding off the digits can be done by following

Sol. In the case of addition or subtraction,
rules:
The number of significant figures in a resultant sum
- If the digit to be dropped is more than 5, then the
or difference should retain as many decimal places
preceding digit is raised by 1.
as there in the original number with the least decimal
For example,
places among the initial values. The initial values
The number 7.886 is to be written in three
means the numbers which are being used to perform
significant figures. Therefore, the value will become
addition and subtraction.
after rounding off as 7.89 .
(a) In this sum, 14.91 is the one with least number of
- If the digit to be dropped is less than 5, then the
digits after decimal point. In 14.91, only two
preceding digit is left unchanged.
significant figures are there after the decimal. So, the
For example,
sum can be rounded off to two significant figures
The number 7.884 is to be written in three
after the decimal point.
significant figures. Therefore, the value will become
3.461728 + 14.91 + 0.980001 + 5.2631
after rounding off as 7.88 . = 24.614829 = 24.62
- If the digit to be dropped is equal to 5 and the (b) ) In this sum, 23.1 is the one with least number
preceding digit is even number, then the preceding of digits after decimal point. In 23.1, only one digit
digit is left unchanged. after decimal point, so the
For example, sum can be rounded off to one significant figure
The number 7.885 is to be written in three after the decimal point.
significant figures. Therefore, the value will become 23.1 + 4.77 + 125.39 + 3.581 = 156.841 = 156.8
after rounding off as 7.88. (c) Here, 22.101 is the one with least number
MORDERN PHYSICS 3

of digits after decimal point. In 22.101, the least 2 101 = 20

number of digits after decimal point is 3, so the (b) Here the number of least significant figures is one.
difference must be rounded off to three significant Hence, we can write that,
figures. That is,
5.0  5 = 25 = 2.5 101
22.101 − 0.9307 = 21.1703 = 21.170
As five is the last figure in the number, we can round
(d) Here the least number of digits after decimal
it off by making it two as the last number is even.
point is four, i.e., 0.04216, so
This can be written after rounding off as,
0.04216 − 0.0004134 = 0.0417466 = 0.04175
2.5 101 = 2 101 = 20
(e) Here the least number of digits after decimal
(c) Here the number of least significant figures is two.
point is zero, so
Hence, we can write that,
564,321-264321=3×105
2.5×3.42=8.6
(f) Here the least number of digits after decimal
6. How many significant figures are in the following
point is zero, so answers.
7 + 4 = 11 (a) 3.10 × 4.520
(g) Here the least number of digits after decimal (b) 2.33 × 6.085 × 2.1

point is zero, so (c) (4.52 × 10–4) ÷ (3.980 × 10–6)

21 − 2 = 19 Ans. 3, 2, 3

Sol. The number of significant figures in multiplication

5. Solve the following: and division will be equivalent to the number with
(a) 3.0 × 5 the least number of significant figures in the
(b) 5.0 × 5
equation.
(c) 2.5 × 3.42
(a) Here the number of least significant figures is
Ans.
three.
(a)20 Hence, we can write that,
(b)20 3.10  4.520 = 14.0
(c)8.6
(b) Here the number of least significant figures is
two.
Sol. The number of significant figures in multiplication
Hence, we can write that,
and division will be equivalent to the number with
the least number of significant figures in the 2.33×6.085×2.1=29.77=3.0 101

equation. (c) Here the number of least significant figures is

(a) Here the number of least significant figures is one. three.

Hence, we can write that, Hence, we can write that,

3.0  5 = 15.0 = 1.5 101 ( 4.52×10 ) =114

-4

As five is the last figure in the number, we can round (3.980×10 ) -6

it off by making it two as the last number is odd.

This can be written after rounding off as,
1.5 101 = 2 101
After rounding off,
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 4

EXERCISE–2 : PREVIOUS YEAR COMPETITION QUESTIONS

1. A student measured the diameter of a small steel ball AR = OR − e = 0.525 − (−0.004) = 0.529 cm
using a screw gauge of least count 0.001 cm. The main
scale reading is 5 mm and zero of circular scale
The correct answer has been found as option (d).
division coincides with 25 divisions above the
reference level. If screw gauge has a zero error of
−0.004 cm , the correct diameter of the ball is: (2018)
(a) 0.053 cm (b) 0.525 cm
(c) 0.521 cm (d) 0.529 cm

Ans. (d)

Sol. The least count of the screw gauge has been

mentioned as,

LC = 0.001 cm

The main scale reading is,

M = 5 mm

The circular division coincides with the division given

as,

R = 25

Zero error has been given as,

e = -0.004 cm

Therefore, the observed reading will be,

OR = M + R  LC

Where OR be the observed reading, M be the main

scale reading, R be the circular divisions and LC be

the least count.

Substituting the values in this,

OR = 0.5 + 25  0.001 = 0.525 cm

The actual reading can be found as,

EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 5

EXERCISE–3 : EXPERIMENT PROBLEMS

1. The smallest division on the main scale of a vernier 2. The length of a cylinder is measured with the help of
callipers is 1 mm, and 10 vernier divisions coincide a vernier calipers whose smallest division on the main
with 9 main scale divisions. While measuring the scale is 0.5 mm, and nine divisions of the main scale
diameter of a sphere, the zero mark of the vernier scale are equal to ten divisions of the vernier scale. It is
lies between 2.0 and 2.1 cm and the fifth division of observed that 78th divisions of the main scale coincide
the vernier scale coincide with a scale division. with the sixth division of the vernier scale. Calculate
the length of the cylinder.
(i) Determine the Vernier constant.
Ans. 3.63 cm
(ii) Find the diameter of the sphere
LC = 0.01 cm 1
Ans. Sol. LC = 1 MSD - 1 VSD = MSD = 0.05 mm
D = 2.05 cm 10

Sol. Given that the main scale reading is, 0.5

Vernier constant = = 0.05 mm
1 MSD = 1 mm 10

The least count of a Vernier Caliper can be found Since 78th division of the main scale coincides with

by, 6th division of the Vernier scale.

LC = 1 MSD -1 VSD The length of the cylinder,

It has been already mentioned that, = 78 MSD − 6 VSD

 9
10 VSD = 9 MSD = 78 MSD −  6   MSD
 10 
That is,  726 
=  MSD
 10 
9
1 VSD = MSD = 36.3 mm
10
=3.63 cm
Therefore, the least count or the Vernier constant can

be found as,
3. The main scale of a vernier calipers reads in
9 millimetre and its vernier is divided into 10 divisions
LC = 1 MSD - MSD which coincide with 9 divisions of the main scale.
10
When the two jaws of the instrument touch each other
1 1
= MSD = ×mm = 0.1 mm = 0.01 cm the seventh division of the vernier scale coincide with
10 10 a scale division and the zero of the vernier lies to the
right of the zero of main scale. Furthermore, when a
The diameter can be found by the equation, cylinder is tightly placed along its length between the
two jaws, the zero of the Vernier scale is slightly left
D = MSR + VSR  LC
to 3.2 cm on main scale and 4th VSD coincide with a
Where MSR be the main scale reading and VSR be scale division. Calculate the measured length of the
cylinder.
the vernier scale reading. Ans. 3.07 cm

Substituting the values in the equation can be shown Sol. The zero error and zero correction will be given as,

as, ZE = +0.07 cm
.
ZC = −( ZE ) = −0.07 cm
D = 20 + 5  0.1 = 2.05 cm
It has been mentioned that Vernier is divided into 10

divisions which coincide with 9 divisions of the main

EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 6

scale. LC = 1 MSD −1 VSD

9 Substituting the values in the equation,

1 VSD = MSD
10
49
LC = 1 MSD − VSD
9 50
LC = 1 MSD - MSD
10 1
LC = MSD
LC=0.01 cm 50
1
The main scale reading can be taken as, =  0.5 = 0.01 mm
50
MSR = 3.1 cm
The answer has been found.
And the Vernier scale reading will become,

VSR = 4 ( 0.01) = 0.04 cm

5. The pitch of a screw gauge is 0.5 mm and there are
100 divisions on it circular scale. The instrument reads
Therefore, the true reading can be found by +2 divisions when nothing is put in-between its jaws.
In measuring the diameter of a wire, there are 8
the equation given as,
divisions on the main scale and 83rd division
TR = MSR + VSR + ZC coincides with the reference line.
(a) Calculate the least count of the instrument
Substituting the values in this equation can
(b) Find the diameter of the wire
be shown as, Ans. 0.005 mm, 4.405 mm

TR = 3.1 + 0.04 − 0.07 Sol. The least count of the instrument can be found by
TR = 3.14 − 0.07 = 3.07 cm the equation given as,
Hence the correct answer is found.
pitch
LC =
divisions

4. In a certain barometer, the least reading on the main Substituting the values in this equation can be
scale is 0.5 mm and 50 divisions on the vernier
coincide with 49 main scale divisions. What is the shown as,
vernier constant?
0.5
Ans. 0.01 mm LC = mm
100
Sol. the main scale division has been given as, LC = 0.005 mm

MSD = 0.5 mm The zero error in the calculation has been mentioned

As it is already mentioned that fifty Vernier scale as,

divisions coincide with forty-nine main scale e = 2  0.005 = 0.01 mm

divisions, Therefore, the reading of the wire can be found by

50 VSD = 49 MSD the equation,

That is, D = MSR + CSR  LC − e

49 Substituting the values in this equation, we

1 VSD = MSD
50
can write that,
The least count of the instrument can be found by D = 8  0.5 + 83  0.005 − 0.01
the equation given as,  D = 4.405 mm
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 7

The diameter of the wire has been obtained. 7. The main scale of a screw gauge reads in millimetre.
The cap of the instrument is divided into 100 equal
parts. Find the diameter of a wire if no division on the
6. The distance advanced by the screw of a screw gauge main scale is completed and the cap has been moved
is 2 mm in four rotations. Its cap is divided into 50 through 37 divisions, the zero error being −3
divisions. There is no zero error. divisions.
(a) Find the pitch of the screw gauge Ans. 0.40 mm
(b) Find the least count of the instrument Sol. The least count of the instrument is to be calculated
(c) Find the diameter of a wire, if the screw reads 3
divisions on the main scale and 32 divisions on the first.
cap.
Ans. (a)0.5 mm,(b)0.01 mm,(c)1.82 mm This can be done by the equation,

Pitch
Sol. It has been given that, LC =
divisions
4 rotation = 2 mm
Substituting the values in this equation can be
Therefore, for one rotation we can write that,
written as,
2
1 rotation = mm = 0.5 mm 1
4 LC = = 0.01 mm
100
This will be the pitch of the instrument.
The main scale reading will be,
The number of divisions has been mentioned as,
MSR = 0
D = 50
The circular scale reading will be,
Therefore, the least count of this instrument will be,
CSR = 0.01 37 = 0.37 mm
Pitch
LC = Therefore, the diameter can be found as,
divisions
d = MSR + CSR + ZC
Substituting the values in it will give,
The zero correction and zero error has been given
Pitch 0.5
LC = = = 0.01 mm
divisions 50 as,

The main scale reading will become, ZC = − ZE

ZE = −3 ( 0.01) = − (.03) mm
MSR = Pitch  3 = 1.5 mm
 ZC = + ( 0.03) mm
And the Circular scale reading will become,
Substituting all the values in the equation will give,
CSR = 32  0.01 = 0.32 mm
d = MSR + CSR + ZC
Therefore, the net reading will become,
= 0 + 0.37 + 0.03 = 0.40 mm
NR = MSR + CSR
The diameter has been found.
Substituting the values in this will give,

NR = 1.5 + 0.32 = 1.82 mm

8. In Searle’s experiment to to find Young's modulus
Hence the answers have been found. the diameter of wire is measured as d = 0.05 cm,
length of wire is l = 125 cm and when a weight,
m = 20.0 kg is put, extension(x) in wire was found to
be 0.100 cm. Find maximum possible error in
Young’s modulus (Y):
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 8

mgl Ans. ( 0.22 cal/gmC )

Use: Y =
  2 Sol. Given that, mass of aluminum ball is, mAl = 100 g ,
 d x
4 
maximum temperature is, TAl = 90 C , mass of
calorimeter is, m = 70 g , specific heat of
Ans. 6.3 %
calorimeter is, C = 0.09 cal/gC , temperature of
Sol. The young’s modulus can be found as, water is, T = 15 C , and the final temperature of
aluminum ball is, T1 = 20 C .
mgl
Y= Therefore, heat gain by the calorimeter is,
  2 Q = mCT
 d x
4
 Q = mC (T1 − T ) + mwater Cwater (T1 − T )
The change in young’s modulus to the original one  Q = 70  0.09 ( 20 − 15) + 70 ( 20 −15)
 Q = 381.5 calorie
can be written as,
And, heat loss by aluminum ball is,
 dY  m l d x Q = mAl CAl (TAl − T1 )
 Y  = m + l +2 d + x
  max  Q = 100  CAl ( 90 − 20 )

The mass will be,

 Q = 100CAl ( 70)
Hence, heat loss = heat gain
m = 20.0 kg So, 100CAl ( 70) = 381.5
 m = 0.1 kg
CAl = 0.0545 cal/gmC
The length
10. In-order to determine the temperature of a furnace, a
l = 125 cm
platinum ball of mass 80 g is placed in it. When it has
 l = 1 cm acquired the temperature of a furnace, it is transferred
quickly to a calorimeter filled with water at 15°C. The
Diameter, temperature of water rises to 20°C. If the mass of
water together with the water equivalent of the
d = 0.050 cm calorimeter be 40 g, what is the temperature of the
 d = 0.001 cm furnace? Take specific heat of platinum as 0.0365
cal/g°C.
The extension, Ans. ( 88.49 C )
Sol. Given that, mass of platinum ball is, m1 = 80 g ,
x = 0.100 cm
temperature of water is, T1 = 15 C , final
 x = 0.001 cm
temperature of water is, T2 = 20 C , mass of water
Substituting this in the equation will give, and calorimeter is,
m2 = 40 g , and specific heat of platinum is,

 dY  C1 = 0.0365 cal/gmC .
 Y  100 Therefore, heat gain by water is,
  max
Q = m2C (T2 − T1 )
 0.1 kg 1 cm 0.001 cm 0.001 cm 
= + + 2 +  100  Q = 40 1( 20 − 15)
 20.0 kg 125 cm 0.05 cm 0.100 cm 
 Q = 200 calorie
 dY 
 Y  100 = 6.3 % And, heat loss by platinum ball is,
  max
Q = m1C1 (T − T2 )
 Q = 80  0.0365 (T − 20)
9. 100 g of aluminium ball is heated in a steam bath until  Q = 2.92 (T − 20) = 2.92T − 58.4 calorie
the temperature reaches 90 °C. A calorimeter of mass As we know that; heat loss = heat gain
70 g and specific heat 0.09 cal/g°C contains 70 g water Hence, the temperature of the furnace is,
at 15 °C. When the aluminium balls are put into the 2.92T − 58.4 = 200
cold water, the final temperature becomes 20 °C. So, T = 88.49 C .
Calculate the specific heat of aluminium.
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 9

e 0.5
r= =
11. A fork of frequency 512 Hz is found to produce 0.6 0.6
resonance in the air column, first when the length of r = 0.833 cm
the air column is 16.5 cm and again when it is Therefore the radius of the tube has been obtained.
50.5 cm. Find the velocity of sound, wavelength of The velocity of sound will be,
wave emitted by the fork and end-correction. Also f =v
calculate radius of the tube. v = 0.68  512 = 348.16 m / s
Ans. (v=348.16 m/s,  =68 cm, r=0.833 cm)
Sol. First resonance. 12. In a potentiometer set up, the balance point for the
unknown emf E is found at 70.4 cm from the left end
of the metre wire. If the driver cell has an emf of 1.5V,
then determine the emf of the unknown cell.
Ans. 1.056 V

Sol. We know that,

E Eo
 = (Because length of the wire is
l 100

100 cm)

E 1.5
 =
For second resonance, 70.4 100
(1.5)( 70.4 )
E= = 1.056 V
100

13. In a potentiometer experiment to determine the emf of

an unknown cell, its emf is compared with a standard
cell of known emf E1 = 1.12 V. The balance point is
obtained at 72 cm with standard cell and 85 cm with
the unknown cell. Determine the emf of the unknown
cell.
Ans: 1.32 V
Let us assume that,
Sol:
l1 = 16.5 cm
l2 = 50.5 cm
Let e be the end correction.
Therefore,

e + l1 = ...........(1)
4

e + l2 = 3 .........(2)
4
That is,
e + l2 = 3 ( e + l1 )
Substituting the values of lengths,
e + 50.5 = 3e + 49.5
 2e = 1
 e = 0.5 cm.
Therefore the value of wavelength,

= 0.5 + 16.5
4
 = 68 cm
From Laplace relation, It has been given that,
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 10

The emf of the cell has been given as, l = 60 cm

E1 = 1.12 V The standard resistance connected will be,

The balance point obtained with standard cell is, R = 120 

l1 = 72 cm Emf of the battery has been given as,

The balance point obtained with the known cell is, E0 = 1.11 V

l2 = 85 cm By using the equation given below,

Using the equations mentioned below, E = xl0 ..........(1)

V = IR = xl..........(2)
E1 = xl1 .........(1)
E2 = xl2 .......(2) From the equation (1) and (2), we can write the

current as,
We will get the relations like this,

E1 l1 E0  l 
= I=  
E2 l 2 R  l0 

Rearranging this in the equation can be shown as, Substituting the values in this equation will give,

l  1.11  60 
E2 = E1  2  I=   = 7.7 mA
120  72 
 l1 
As the measured reading is greater than the current
Substituting the values in this equation can be
in the system,
written as,
7.8 mA  7.7 mA
 85 
E2 = 1.12    = 1.32 V
 72  Hence, we can say that the instrument has a positive

The answer has been found. error.

I = 7.8 − 7.7 = 0.1 mA

14. A standard cell of emf E0= 1.11 V is balanced against Change in current to the current will be written as,
72 cm length of a potentiometer. The same I 7.8 − 7.7 0.1
potentiometer is used to measure the potential = =  100 = 1.3 %
difference across the standard resistance R = 120  . I 7.7 7.7
When the ammeter shows a current of 7.8 mA, a
Hence the answer has been calculated.
balanced length of 60 cm is obtained on the
potentiometer.
(i) Determine the current flowing through the resistor.
(ii) Estimate the error in measurement of the ammeter. 15. In the circuit arrangement as shown in figure. A
Ans. 7.7 mA,1.3 % standard cell of emf 1.05 V is balanced against a high
resistance of 1500 Ω. The resistance of the
Sol. It has been given that, potentiometer wire is 3 Ω and it is 100 cm long. The
balance point for a thermocouple is obtained at a point
The balancing length of the potentiometer will be, C such that AC = 55 cm. Determine the emf of the
thermocouple.
l0 = 72 cm

The balancing length in the second situation can be

written as,
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 11

Ans. ( 1.15 mV )
Sol. Given that, the emf of cell is, e = 1.05 V , resistance,
R1 = 1500  , length of potentiometer wire and its
The magnification of a lens can be shown as,
resistance is l = 100 cm = 1 m , and R = 3  ,
respectively.  −v 
Current through the wire AB is, m= 
u 
1.05
I= = 6.99  10−4 A
(1500 + 3) As per the condition mentioned in the question, let us
Potential drop across the wire, AB,
Vr = Ir apply the sign of the distances and then we can write

 Vr = 6.99  10−4  3 = 0.0021 V that,

Potential gradient (k) along the wire AB is,
V 0.0021  − ( +v )   v 
k= r = V/m m=  =   = 2.5
L 100  −u   u 
Potential drop across the wire AC is,
0.0021 Rearranging this equation can be written as,
=  55 = 0.00115 = 1.15 mV
100
v = 2.5u
So, the emf of the thermocouple is 1.15 mV.
For the initial position we can write that,

16. A converging lens is placed between a luminous 1 1 1

object and a screen so that a sharp image of linear − =
v u f
magnification 2.5 is formed on the screen. The lens is
1 1 1
now moved 30 cm towards the screen and a sharp  − =
image is again formed. +v −u f
(i) Determine the focal of the lens. 1 1 1
 + =
(ii) Find the distance between the object and the v u f
screen.
(iii) What is the magnification of the image formed Substituting the value of image distance in this will
after the displacement of the lens.
give,
Ans. (a)14.3 cm,(b)70 cm,(c)0.4
1 1 1
Sol. + =
2.5u u f
1 3.5
 =
f 2.5u

After final shifting, we can write that,

1 1 1
− =
v u f

The image and object distance will become,

EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 12

v → v − 30
u → − ( u + 30 )

Substituting this in the equation can be shown as,

1 1 1
− =
v − 30 − ( u + 30 ) f
Ans. 75 cm
Substitute the equation of image distance,
Sol. Image formed because of the plane mirror will be at
1 1 1
+ =
2.5u − 30 ( u + 30 ) f a distance of 20 cm left of the mirror. As the image
1 30 + u + 2.5u − 30
 =
f ( 2.5u − 30 )( u + 30 ) created by the two mirrors lie adjacent to each other.
For a convex mirror, image position will be 15 cm
1 3.5u
 =
f ( 2.5u − 30 )( u + 30 ) towards left. That is, we can write that,

Now let us compare the value of the reciprocal in u = −25 cm

both,
v = +15 cm
By using the formula given as,
3.5 3.5u
=
2.5u ( 2.5u − 30 )( u + 30 ) 1 1 1 2
+ = =
 2.5u = 2.5u + 75u − 30u − 900
2 2
v u f R
 u = +20 cm
Substituting the values in the question in it will give,
Using this the focal length can be found as,
1 1 2
− =
1 3.5 3.5 15 25 R
= =
f 2.5u 2.5  20  R = 75 cm
 f = 14.3 cm
The radius of curvature has been obtained.
The image distance of the first lens be,

v = 2.5u = 2.5  20 = 50 cm 18. A convex lens forms a real image on a screen placed
at a distance of 50 cm from the object. When the lens
The distance between the object and the screen will
is shifted towards the screen by 10 cm, another image
be, of the same object is produced on the screen. Find the
focal length of the lens.
U = 20 + 50 = 70 cm Ans. 12 cm

The magnification can be found to be as, Sol: The distance between the screen and the object has

been given as,

20
m= = 0.4
50 d = 50 cm

The answer has been formulated. That is,

v + u = 50 cm
17. In the figure shown, an object is placed 25 cm from
the surface of a convex mirror, and a plane mirror is  v = 50 − u
set so that the image formed in the two mirrors lie
adjacent to each other in the same plane. The plane Here we can write the lens equation as,
mirror is placed at 20 cm from the object. What is the
As we are using the convex lens, according to sign
radius of the convex mirror?
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 13

convention, let us use the object distance as negative, Or

1 1 1 According to newton’s formula,

− =
50 − u −u f
d 2 − x2
1 1 1 f =
 + = ..........(1) 4d
50 − u u f
Substituting the values in it,
Now if the lens is shifted by a distance,
502 − 102
x = 10 cm f = = 12 cm
4  50
The image distance will now become
Hence the focal length of the lens has been calculated.
(50 − u ) −10 = 40 − u
19. A convex lens forms an image of a distant object at a
And the object distance become u + 10 . The focal distance of 20 cm from it. On keeping another lens in contact
with the first, if the image is formed at a distance of 40/3 cm
length will be the same. from the combination, then the focal length of the second
lens is:
Therefore, the lens equation can be written as,
Ans. (40 cm)
1 1 1
+ = Sol. Image of a distant object is formed at the focus.
40 − u ( u + 10 ) f The image due to first lens will be 20 cm. Therefore,
f1 = 20 cm
Therefore, now we can compare both these equations, The image due to combined lens will be formed at,
40
1 1 1 1 f eq = cm
+ = + 3
50 − u u 40 − u u + 10
That is,
f f
Rearranging the equation, we can write that, f eq = 1 2
f1 + f 2
50
=
50 20  f 2 40
 f eq = = cm
50u − u 2 30u − u 2 + 400 20 + f 2 3
1 1  3 f 2 = 40 + 2 f 2
 =
50u − u 2 30u − u 2 + 400
 f 2 = 40 cm
 30u − u 2 + 400 = 50u − u 2

From this we can cancel the common terms,

20. A concave lens is placed on the axis of a concave
30u + 400 = 50u
mirror of 12 cm radius at a distance of 6 cm from
 20u = 400
 u = 20 cm the mirror. An object is so placed that the light

Therefore we can find the value of v as, coming from it first passes through the lens, then

v = 50 − u = 50 − 20 = 30 cm gets reflected from the mirror, again comes through

Substituting the value in the lens equation (1) will the lens to form an inverted image coincident with

give, the object itself. If the distance of this object from

1 1 1 the lens is 12 cm, find out the focal length of the

+ =
30 20 f lens.
50 1
= Ans. 12 cm
600 f
 f = 12 cm Sol.
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 14

. Similarly, E 2 be the emf of the second battery and

the balancing length be l 2 . The ratio of the potential

and the length can be shown as,

E1 l1
=
E 2 l2

Substituting the values, we know it will give,

E1 75
=
The lens equation can be written as, 1.02 50
3
1 1 1  E1 =  1.02 = 1.53 V
- = 2
v u f
The voltage when another battery with internal
The object distance from the lens has been
resistance and another resistance connected to this
mentioned as, u = -12 cm
will be,
The first image of the lens will be formed on the
l 
center of curvature of mirror , so it just retrace its r =  1 − 1 R
 l2 
path. The mirror has been placed at 6 cm from the  75 
 2  =  − 1 8 
lens.  l2 

Therefore, the image distance of this lens can be That is we can write that,

written as, 1 75
+1 =
4 l2
v = −6 cm
4
 l2 =  75 = 60 cm
The lens equation can be written as, 5

1 1 1 Therefore, the balancing length will become 60 cm .

+ =
−6 12 f
 f = −12 cm
22. A 1.00  resistor is in series with an ammeter in a
The focal length of the concave lens has been circuit, the voltage across the resistor is balanced by a
length of 60.0 cm on a potentiometer wire. A standard
calculated.
cell of emf 1.02 V is balanced by a length of 50.0 cm.
If the ammeter reads 1.10 A, what is the error in the
reading?
21. The emf of a battery is balanced by a length of 75.0 Ans. 0.12 V
cm on a potentiometer wire. The emf of a standard
cell, 1.02 V, is balanced by a length of 50.0 cm Sol. The ratio of the balancing length will be equivalent to
(a) What is the emf of the battery? the ratio of the potential of the cell. This can be
(b) Calculate the new balance length if the battery has
an internal resistance of 2  and a resistor of 8  is written as,
joined to its terminals?
Ans. 1.53 V,60 cm E1 l1
=
E 2 l2
Sol. Let us assume that E1 be the emf of the battery in
Substituting the values in the equation will give,
the first situation and there the balancing length be l1
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 15

1.02 50 1.0  and the 15 V cell and galvanometer were

=
E2 60 replaced by a voltmeter of resistance 20  , what
would be the reading of voltmeter if the contact C
60
 E2 =  1.02 = 1.224 V were placed at the mid-point of AB ?
50

The voltage reading is shown as,

E2 = IR = (1.10 A )(1  ) = 1.10 V

E2 = 1.10 V

Therefore, the error in the reading will be,

ΔE2 =1.224-1.10 = 0.12 V

Ans. (0.825 m, 12.9 V)
Sol.
23. The driver cell of a potentiometer has an emf of 2 V
and negligible internal resistance. The potentiometer
wire has a resistance of 1  . Calculate the resistance
needed in series with the wire if a voltage of 5 mV is
required across the whole wire.
The wire is 100 cm long and a balance length of
60 cm is obtained for a thermocouple of emf E. What
is the value of E?
Ans. ( 399 Ω, 3 mV )
Sol. emf of the cell is, ε=2 V , resistance of
potentiometer wire is, 1  , wire voltage is,
V=5 mV=0.005 V , wire length is, l = 100 cm, and
balancing length is, l1 =60 cm
Hence, the resistance of wire connected in series is,
ε=I ( R+r ) Given that, length of the wire AB is L = 1 m ,
resistance of wire is, 2r = 2  , and the emf of the
 battery is  = 40 V .
r= −R
I If the resistance of the variable resistance is
Where, I=
V 0.005
= =0.005 A
R = 2.4  .
R 1 The current through the wire AC at the balanced
2 condition is,
r= − 1 = 399   40
0.005 I= = = 9.09 A
R + r 2.4 + 2
Potential gradient (k) along the wire is, The potential drop across AB,
V 0.005 40 80
k= r = ( p.d ) AB =  2 = V = 18.18 V
L 100 4.4 4.4
Potential drop across the wire AC is, Now the potential for 1 m length wire will be 18.18
0.005 V.
=  60 = 3 mV Therefore,
100
So, the value of E is 3 mV. 1
1 V will be for m.
18.18
Hence we can say that,
24. A simple potentiometer circuit is set up as shown in For 15 V,
1
figure, using a uniform wire AB, 1.0 m long, which  15 m = 0.825 m
has a resistance of 2.0 Ω. the resistance of the 40 V 18.18
battery is negligible. If the variable resistor R were Now, if the value of r = 1  , and the resistance of
given a value of 2.4 Ω, what would be the length AC the voltmeter is, r1 = 20 
for zero galvanometer deflection? If R where made
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 16

Therefore, the new diagram is: ε 1.018

I= = =5×10-4 A .
R+r ( 2030+4 )
And, emf of the thermocouple is,
 1.25
=  E = 2.5  10−3 V
E 2

26. A standard cell of 1.0185 V, when used in a one-

metre-long slide wire potentiometer, balances at 60
cm. Calculate
(a) the percentage error in a voltmeter which balances
at 65 cm when reading 1.1 V.
(b) the percentage error in an ammeter that reads 0.345
Total resistance will be the sum of the equivalent A when balance is obtained at 40 cm with the voltage
resistance of parallel connection of voltmeter and drop across a 2  resistance in the ammeter circuit.
half of the length of potentiometer wire and the half Ans. 0.31%,1.4%
of the length of potentiometer wire.
Let r be the half length of the wire, E1
r = r +1 = 2  Sol. (a) the potential per unit length,
l1
.
The resistance of voltmeter be,
r1 = 20 
Where E1 be the potential of standard cell and l1 be
The total resistance,
the balancing length at this potential. Substituting the
r1 20 62
R ' = r + = 2+ = 
r1 + ( r ) 20 + 1 21 values in it,
Hence, the reading of the voltmeter if the contact C
E1 1.0185
is placed at the mid-point of the wire AB will be the = = 0.016975
voltage across the half part of the wire, l1 60
The voltage will be same, but the current will be
different. Therefore, The original voltage to be obtained when connected to
40 20
( p.d )PQ =  voltmeter showing the balancing length 65 cm will be,
 62  21 E1
   l2 = 0.016975  65 = 1.103375 V
 21  l1
800
( p.d )PQ = V=12.9 V V = 1.103375 V
62
V2 = 1.1 V
25. A potentiometer consists of a fixed resistance of
2030  in series with a slide wire of resistance 4  . Therefore, the percentage error in voltage will be,
When a constant current flow in the potentiometer V − V2 1.103375 − 1.1
circuit a balance is obtained when (a) a cell of emf 100 =  100
1.018 V is connected across the fixed resistance and V 1.103375
150 cm of the slide wire and also when (b) a = 0.3058 = 0.31%
thermocouple is connected across 125 cm of the slide E
(b) The potential per unit length, 1 .
wire only. Find the current in the potentiometer circuit l1
and the emf of the thermocouple. Find the value of the
additional resistance, which much be present in the Where E1 be the potential of standard cell and l1 be
above potentiometer circuit in order that the constant
current shall flow through it, given that the driver cell
the balancing length at this potential. Substituting the
is a lead accumulator of emf 2 V and of negligible
resistance and the length of the slide wire is 2 meter. values in it,
Ans. ( 5×10-4 A, 2.5×10-3 V, 1962 Ω )
Sol. Given that, resistance of potentiometer is, R=2030 Ω , E1 1.0185
= = 0.016975
and the resistance of wire is, r = 4  , length of wire l1 60
is, l = 2 m, emf of cell is, ε=1.018 V .
(a). l1 =150 cm The original voltage to be obtained when connected
Current flows across the wire are,
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 17

to ammeter showing the balancing length 40 cm will

be,
E1
 l2 = 0.016975  40 = 0.679 V
l1
The current flowing there will be,
V2 0.679
I2 = = = 0.3395 = 0.34 A
R 2
Therefore, the percentage error will be,
I 2 − I1 0.34 − 0.345
100 = 100
I2 0.34
= 0.014 100 = 1.4% 
X 40
=
3 60
27. A wire connected in the left gap of a meter bridge  X =2
balance a 10  residence in the left gap at a point,  RAB = 100  1 = 100 
which divides the bridge wire in the ratio 3 : 2.
Calculate the resistance of the wire. If the length of the
X and 3 are in the series
wire is 1 m, calculate the length of the one-ohm wire.
Sol. Let Q be the resistance in the right gap whose
1 1 1
 = +
resistance is 10Ω. R 5 100
100
Let P be the resistance in the left gap. Therefore, R= 
21
E
P 3 3 I=
 =  P =  10  = 15  R
Q 2 2
6
I= = 1.2 A
100
Length of the wire is L =1 m .
21
Therefore, the length of 1Ω wire is

1 1
L=  = 0.067 m 29. The resistance of a potentiometer wire of length 10 m
P 15  is 20 ohm. A resistance box and a 2 volt accumulator
are connected in series with it. What resistance should
be introduced in the box to have a potential drop of
28. In the following circuit, a meter bridge is shown in its
one microvolt per millimetre of the potentiometer
balanced state. The metre bridge has a resistance of
wire ?
1  / cm . Calculate the value of the unknown
Sol. Here, L = 10 m, r = 20 ,V = 2 V , R = ?
resistance X and the current drawn from the battery of
e.m.f. 6 V and negligible internal resistance.
K = 1 V / mm = 10-6 V /10-3 m = 10-3 V / m

 V r −3 2 20
K =  (or)10 = 
 R + r  L ( R + 20 ) 10
4
 ( or ) R + 20  = −3 = 4000
10
 R = 4000 − 20 = 3980 

30. In the figure shows a 2.0 V potentiometer used for the

determination of internal resistance of a 1.5 V cell.
Sol. The balance point of the cell in open circuit is 76.3
cm. When a resistor of 9.5  is used in the external
circuit of the cell, the balance point shifts to 64.8 cm
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 18

length of the potentiometer wire. Determine the 10

internal resistance of the cell. r'=  40 = 4 
100

Since the emf of the cell, 10 mV ( = 10  10-3 V ) is

balanced against length 40 cm of the potentiometer

wire so,

 Ir ' = 10  10−3
2
  4 = 10−2
R + 10
8 1
 =
R + 10 100
 R + 10 = 800
Ans. 1.686   R = 790 
Sol. Here  l1 = 76.3 cm; l2 = 64.8 cm; r = ?; R = 9.5 

 l −l   76.3 − 64.8  32. In the figure shows a potentiometer with a cell of

r =  1 2 R =    9.5 = 1.686 
 l2   64.8  2.0 V and internal resistance 4.0  maintaining a
potential drop across the resistor wire AB. A standard
cell which maintains a con-stant e.m.f. E1 = 1.02 V
(for very moderate currents up to a few ampere) gives
31. A potentiometer wire of length 100 cm has a a balance point at 67.3 cm length of the wire. To
ensure very low currents drawn from the standard cell,
resistance of 10  is connected in series with a a very high resistance of 600 k  is put in series with
it, which is shortest close to the balance point. The
resistance and a cell of e.m.f. 2 V of negligible standard cell is then replaced by a cell of unknown
e.m.f. E2 and the balance point found similarly turns
internal resistance. A source of e.m.f. 10 millivolts
out to be at 82.3 cm length of the wire.
is balanced against a length of 40 cm of the

potentiometer wire. What is the value of the

external resistance ?

Ans. 790 

Sol. Given,

Resistance of the potentiometer wire, r = 10 

Emf of the cell,  =2V

(a) What is the value of E2?
Length of the potentiometer wire, L=100 cm
(b) What purpose does the high resistance of 600 k
Current through the potentiometer wire, have?
(c) Is the balance point affected by this high
ε 2 resistance?
I= = A
R+r R+10 (d) Is the balance point affected by the internal
resistance of the driver cell?
The resistance of the 40 cm length of the (e) Would the method work in the above situation, if
the driver cell of the potentiometer had an e.m.f.
potentiometer wire,
of 1.0 V instead of 2.0 V?
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 19

(f) Would the circuit work well for determining

extremely small e.m.f., say of the order of a few
mV
(such as the typical e.m.f. of a thermocouple) ?
Sol. (a) Here, l1 = 67.3 cm, l2 = 82.3 cm; E1 = 1.02 V

E2 l2 l
 = ( or ) E2 = 2  E1
E1 l1 l1
82.3
=  1.02 = 1.247 V
67.3

(b) The purpose of using high resistance is to allow

only a very small current to flow through the

galvanometer, when the balance point has not been

obtained.
Sol. Here l1 = 58.3 cm, l2 = 68.5 cm; R = 10 , X = ?
(c) No, the balance point is not affected by the
Let I be the current in the potentiometer wire and
presence of the high resistance.
ε1 ,ε 2 be the potential drops across R and X
(d) No, the balance point is not affected by the
respectively. When connected in circuit by closing
internal resistance of the driver cell.
respectively key. Then,
(e) No, the arrangement will not work. If the emf of
 2 Ix x
= =
the driver cell is less than that of the cell whose emf is 1 IR R

to be found the balance point will not be obtained.  x = 2 R.......(i )
1
(f) The circuit is not suitable for measuring extremely  l
But, 2 = 2
1 l1
small emf it is because in such a case, the balance
l2 68.5
 (i )  x = R=  10 = 11.75 
point will be just close to the end of A. l1 58.3

If there is no balance point with a given cell of emf

33. In the figure shows a potentiometer circuit for E, it means potential drop across R (or) X is greater
comparison of two resistances. The balance
point with a standard resistor R = 10 Ω is than the potential drop across the potentiometer wire
found to be 58.3 cm, while that with the
unknown resistance X is 68.5 cm. (a) AB. In order to obtain the balance point, the
Determine the value of X. (b) What would you
do, if the failed to find a balance point with
potential drop across R and X are to be reduced
the given cell E ?
which is possible by reducing the current R, X. For

that either a suitable resistance should be put in the

series with R, X or a cell of the smaller emf 

should be used. Another possible way is to increases
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 20

the potential drop across the potentiometer wire by 2 4

 V1 = 2  I1 = 2  =
2+r 2+r
increasing the voltage of the driver cell.  V1  70 cm
4
  70 cm
2+r
34. A short circuit occurs in a telephone cable having a
In second case: Let R P be the resistance of the
resistance of 0.45  m-1. The circuit is tested with
parallel combination of 2 Ω and 1 Ω coils, then,
Wheatstone bridge. The two resistors in the ratio
2×1 2
arms of the Wheatstone bridge network have values RP = = Ω
2+1 3

of 100  and 1110  respectively. A balance

Current sent by the cell through RP ,
condition is found when the variable resistor has a
emf 2
I2 = =
value of 400 Ω. Calculate the distance down the total resistance  2 
  +r
3
cable, where the short has occurred.

Sol. Suppose that the short circuit occurs in the telephone Potential drop across RP ,

cable at a distance d. then, 2 2 4

V2 = RP  I 2 =  =
3 2 2 + 3r
Length of the cable, X = 2d  0.45   +r
 
3
Q V2  50 cm
X =R 4
P  50 cm
 P = 1,110 , Q = 100 , R = 400  2 + 3r
400 100
 2d  0.45 = Dividing the equation (i) by (ii) we get,
1,110
 d = 40 m 4 2 + 3r 70
  =
2+r 4 50
35. A potentiometer wire carries current. The p.d. across  r = 0.5 
70 cm of it balance the p.d. across a 2 ohm coil
supplied by a cell of e.m.f. 2 volt. When a 1 ohm coil
is placed in parallel with the 2 ohm coil, a length equal
to 50 cm of the potentiometer wire is required to 36. The internal resistance of a cell is determined by using
balance the p.d. across the parallel combination. What a potentiometer. In an experiment, an external
is the internal resistance of the 2 V cell? resistance of 100  is used across the given cell.
When the key K2 is closed, the balance length on the
Sol. Let r be the internal resistance of the cell. potentiometer decreases from 90 cm to 72 cm.
Calculate the internal resistance of the cell.
In first case: Current sent by the cell through 2 Ω

coil,

emf 2
I1 = =
total resistance 2+r

Potential drop across 2 Ω coil,

EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 21

38. An unknown resistance r is determined in terms of

a standard resistance R = 100 Ω by using a

potentiometer. The potential difference across r is

balanced against 45 cm length of the wire and that

across (r + R) is obtained at 70 cm of the wire.

Assume constant current flow in both the cases. Find

the value of the unknown resistance.

Sol. According to the equation, Sol. Let the unknown resistance be the r

 o = xlo .....(i) Standard resistance = R=100 Ω

V = IR = xl...... ( ii )
Length of the wire, l1 = 45 cm, l2 = 70 cm
o
I= ..... ( iii )
R+r Using the potentiometer formula,

From the equation (i) (ii) (iii) we get,

 l 
r = R 1 
l = 72 cm  l2 − l1 
R = 100   45 
 100  
lo = 90 cm  70 − 45 
l   r = 180 
r = R  o − 1
l 
 90 
 r = (100 )  − 1
 72 
 r = 25 

37. In an experiment to compare the two-unknown emf,

the balanced lengths against the potentiometer wire
are obtained as l1= 85 cm and l2 = 72 cm. Determine
the respective ratio of the two unknown emf.

Sol. Here,

 l1 = 72 cm
 l2 = 85 cm

Using the equation, we get,

E2  l2 
 = 
E1  l1 
E  85 
 2 = 
E1  72 
E
 2 = 1.18
E1
EXPERIMENT PHYSICS 22

EXERCISE–4 : PREVIOUS YEAR COMPETITION QUESTIONS

1. There are two Vernier calipers both of which have 1 11
1 VSD = MSD =1.1×0.1 =0.11 cm
cm divided into 10 equal divisions on the main scale. 10
The Vernier scale of one of the calipers (C1) has 10
Therefore, here the reading will become,
equal divisions that correspond to 9 main scale
divisions. The Vernier scale of the other calliper reading = 3.6 - 7  0.11
(C-2) has 10 equal divisions that correspond to 11 reading = 3.6 - 0.77 = 2.83 cm
main scale divisions. The readings of the two
calipers are shown in the figure. The measured Hence, the answer has been obtained as option C.
values (in cm) by calipers C1 and C2 respectively, are
(2016)
2. A screw gauge with a pitch of 0.5 mm and a circular
scale with 50 divisions is used to measure the thickness
of a thin sheet of aluminium. Before starting the
measurement, it is found that when the two jaws of the
screw gauge are brought in contact, the 45th division
coincides with the main scale line and that the zero of
the main scale is barely visible. What is the thickness
of the sheet if the main scale reading is 0.5 mm and the
25th division coincides with the main scale line?
(2016)
(a) 0.80 mm (b) 0.70 mm
(a) 2.87 and 2.87 (b) 2.87 and 2.86 (c) 0.50 mm (d) 0.75 mm
(c) 2.87 and 2.83 (d) 2.85 and 2.82 Ans. 0.8 mm
Ans. (C) Sol. The least count can be found by taking the
ratio of the pitch and the circular division
Sol: The main scale division has been found to be,
scale. That is we can write that,
1 pitch
MSD = cm = 0.1 cm LC =
10 CSD
Substituting the values given in the question
For the first Vernier calliper, we can write that,
can be shown as,
10 VSD = 9 MSD pitch 0.5
LC = = mm = 0.01 mm
CSD 50
That is, The negative zero error can be found as,
ZE = −5  0.01mm = −0.05mm
9 9
VSD = MSD =  0.1 = 0.09 cm ZC = −ZE = +0.05 mm
10 10
Therefore, the measured value will be obtained
Reading can be taken as the difference of main scale as,
reading and the product of number of divisions of
MV = 0.5 mm + 25  0.01( +0.05) mm = 0.8 mm
vernier scale coinciding with main scale and VSD.
Reading = 3.5 − 7  0.09 Therefore, the value of the thickness will be 0.8 mm .
= 3.5 − 0.63 = 2.87 cm
And for the second Vernier caliper scale,
3. A student measured the length of a rod and wrote it as
10 VSD=11 MSD 3.50 cm. Which instrument did use to measure it?
Therefore, one Vernier scale reading will be equal to, (2014)
MORDERN PHYSICS 23

(a) A vernier calliper where the 10 divisions in vernier

scale matches with 9 division in main scale and main
scale has 10 divisions in 1 mm.
(b) A screw gauge having 100 divisions in the circular
scale and pitch as 1 mm.
(c) A screw gauge having 50 divisions in the circular
scale and pitch as 1 mm.
(d) A meter scale.
Ans. 0.01cm
Sol. The student measured the distance as 3.50 cm which
means that the least count of the measurement
completed will be 0.01 cm.
A screw gauge will be having 100 divisions on a
circular scale which is having a pitch of 1mm and this
will be having a least count found to be as,
1 mm
=0.01 mm
100
In the same way, a screw gauge will be having 50
divisions on a circular scale which is having a pitch of
1mm . Therefore, this will be having a least count given
1 mm
as, = 0.02 mm
50
A meter scale will be having a least count measured as
1 mm . And the least count of a Vernier caliper which is
having 10 divisions in 1 cm on the main scale and 10
divisions in the Vernier scale will be matching with 9
division in the main scale. This can be given
1 cm
as = 0.01 cm
100
Hence, the student will have used the Vernier caliper for

the measurement.