About this previous year paper
This document contains the B.Tech First Semester (2023–24) theory examination paper for the subject Engineering Physics (BAS101).
The paper is designed to assess students’ understanding of modern physics, optics, electromagnetic theory, quantum mechanics, nanomaterials, lasers, superconductivity, and fiber optics.
It is divided into three major sections (A, B, and C), each focusing on different difficulty levels and cognitive skills—from basic recall to analytical derivations.
SECTION A – Short Answer Questions (Fundamental Concepts)
7 questions × 2 marks = 14
This section tests concepts, definitions, and fundamental principles from various areas of physics.
Topics covered include:
1. Modern Physics & Radiation
Plank’s law and quantum postulates
Metastable states in lasers
2. Electromagnetic Theory
Physical significance of Poynting vector
Displacement current (related to Maxwell's equations)
3. Wave Optics
Effect of slit width smaller than wavelength (diffraction behavior)
4. Superconductivity
Vortex state in Type-II superconductors
5. Optical Fiber
Scattering loss and its causes
6. Nanoscience
Quantum confinement effect in nanomaterials
This section evaluates students’ K1–K2 level knowledge such as understanding, conceptual clarity, and scientific explanation.
SECTION B – Numerical & Application-Based Questions
Attempt any 3 × 7 marks each = 21
This section contains numerically intensive and application-oriented questions from quantum physics, EM theory, optics, and fiber optics.
Topics include:
1. Compton Scattering
Calculating Compton wavelength shift
Determining recoil electron’s kinetic energy
2. EM Wave Intensities
Calculating electric and magnetic field amplitude at a distance from a radiating source
3. Newton’s Rings
Using diameter of dark ring to compute radius of curvature and film thickness
4. Fraunhofer Diffraction (Single Slit)
Finding distance between first dark & next bright fringe
5. Optical Fiber Parameters
Calculating V-number (normalized frequency)
Determining number of guided modes
This section tests K2–K3 levels of understanding, requiring calculation, numerical substitution, and interpretation of physical formulas.
SECTION C – Analytical & Derivation-Based Long Questions
One question from each: Q3, Q4, Q5, Q6, Q7 × 7 marks
This section measures higher-order thinking involving derivations, diagrams, and in-depth explanations.
Q3 – Wave Mechanics & Quantum Physics
(a)
Difference between phase velocity & group velocity; derive their relation
(b)
Quantum particle in a 1D box: energy eigenvalues and wavefunctions
Q4 – Electromagnetic Theory
(a)
Maxwell’s fourth equation and concept of displacement current (AC vs DC capacitor charging)
(b)
Derivation of Poynting theorem and interpretation of energy flow in EM fields
Q5 – Wave Optics
(a)
Interference in parallel thin films, maxima/minima conditions, complementary nature of reflection & transmission fringes
(b)
Fraunhofer diffraction from a single slit and intensity ratios of successive maxima
Q6 – Fiber Optics & Lasers
(a)
Acceptance angle, acceptance cone, derivation using numerical aperture
(b)
Construction & working of He–Ne laser; comparison with Ruby laser (advantages in stability, coherence, beam quality)
Q7 – Superconductivity
(a)
Difference between Type 1 and Type 2 superconductors; why Type 2 is preferred (high critical field, practical applications)
(b)
Purpose of Na (in context—likely incomplete in given text; generally related to electromagnetism or semiconductors)
Summary of Skills Tested
The paper evaluates:
Understanding of physical concepts
Mathematical and numerical application
Derivation and analytical reasoning
Diagrammatic explanation
Ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with real engineering systems
Covered domains:
Quantum mechanics
Optics (interference, diffraction)
Electromagnetic waves & Maxwell equations
Lasers & optical fibers
Superconductivity
Modern physics essentials