About this previous year paper
This is a complete Engineering Mechanics and Basic Thermodynamics question paper designed as per the 70-mark university examination pattern. The paper covers essential first-year engineering topics such as:
Centroid & Center of Gravity
Coplanar Force Systems
Trusses & Beams
Bending Stress & Torsion
Rankine Cycle
First Law & Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics
Refrigeration & Heat Pumps
Internal Energy, Work & Equilibrium
Concepts of Continuum, Quasi-static Processes
Engineering Applications such as engines, compressors, refrigerators
The paper is divided into three major sections (A, B, and C) and includes numerical problems, derivations, conceptual questions, and diagram-based explanations.
Perfect for B.Tech First Year (ME, CE, AE, EEE, ECE, CSE – Mechanics/Thermo modules).
SECTION A – Short Conceptual Questions (7 × 2 = 14 Marks)
This section checks understanding of basic principles in mechanics and thermodynamics:
Difference between centroid and center of gravity
Equilibrium equations for coplanar concurrent forces
Definition of statically determinate beams
Perfect vs imperfect truss
Zeroth law of thermodynamics
Coefficient of Performance (COP) of a refrigerator
Meaning of dryness fraction (quality of steam)
These questions help build foundation and clarify conceptual basics.
SECTION B – Descriptive Questions (Attempt Any 3 × 7 = 21 Marks)
Parallel Axis Theorem
Statement + mathematical proof.
Truss Explanation
Definition, uses, and assumptions used in truss analysis.
Section Modulus & Polar Modulus
Definition + examples for beams and shafts.
Energy as a Property
Proof using thermodynamic relations.
Rankine Cycle
All four processes (1–2–3–4) explained with a neat T–S diagram.
This section strengthens theoretical concepts with logic and diagrams.
SECTION C – Long Questions (7 Marks Each)
Q3 – Mechanics Numericals
Choose one:
Option (a)
Two spheres in a horizontal channel
Find reactions at points A, B, and C using geometry and statics
Option (b)
Moment of inertia of an I-section about centroidal x and y axes
Q4 – Trusses & Beam Diagrams
Choose one:
Option (a)
Calculate forces in members of a given truss
Option (b)
Draw the Shear Force Diagram (SFD) and Bending Moment Diagram (BMD) of the given beam
Q5 – Bending & Torsion
Choose one:
Option (a)
Derivation of bending equation:
MI=σy=ER\frac{M}{I} = \frac{\sigma}{y} = \frac{E}{R}IM=yσ=RE
Option (b)
Power transmission by solid shaft
Find shaft diameter using torsion formula + angle of twist criteria
Q6 – Thermodynamics
Choose one:
Option (a)
Define:
Thermodynamic equilibrium
Quasi-static process
Concept of continuum
Option (b)
Air compressor steady-flow energy equation
Compute shaft work input using first law of thermodynamics
Q7 – Refrigeration & IC Engines
Choose one:
Option (a)
Domestic food freezer problem
Apply COP of refrigerator to find minimum power required
Option (b)
Working of 4-stroke diesel engine
Neat diagram with labelled strokes: suction, compression, power, exhaust