About this previous year paper
This question paper covers key concepts of dielectrics, magnetism, electromagnetism, semiconductors, superconductivity, nanoscience, X-ray diffraction, and electromagnetic waves.
It is divided into three sections that assess definitions, derivations, numerical skills, and conceptual understanding.
SECTION – A (10 × 2 = 20 Marks)
This section contains ten short-answer questions, requiring brief definitions or explanations.
Topics include:
Polar vs non-polar dielectrics
Magnetic induction and magnetization
Skin depth / depth of penetration
Maxwell’s displacement current
Intrinsic semiconductor
Superconductivity
Nanoscience & nanotechnology
Bragg’s law
High-temperature superconductors
Relation between E, P, and D vectors
This section checks fundamental terminology and core principles.
SECTION – B (5 × 10 = 50 Marks)
Students must attempt any five descriptive and numerical questions.
Topics include:
Electric field inside a dielectric & Clausius–Mossotti equation
Langevin’s theory of diamagnetism; negative susceptibility
Dielectric constant and susceptibility calculation
Magnetic moment of an iron rod inside a solenoid
Bragg diffraction angle for higher order reflections
Poynting vector & electromagnetic energy flow
Type-I & Type-II superconductors; properties during transition
Dependence of critical temperature on magnetic field; numerical for Pb
This section tests derivations, theory explanations, and physics numericals.
SECTION – C (2 × 15 = 30 Marks)
Students must attempt any two detailed questions.
Topics include:
Carbon Nanotubes (CNT)
Structure and types
CVD technique for synthesis
Numerical on electromagnetic radiation from a lamp
Polarization
Meaning and importance
Different polarization mechanisms in dielectrics (electronic, ionic, dipolar, interfacial)
Bragg’s Spectrometer
Construction and working
Derivation of Bragg’s formula
Use in determining crystal structure
This section evaluates analytical understanding and detailed application of concepts in modern physics.