About this previous year paper
This question paper covers key concepts of dielectrics, magnetism, electromagnetism, semiconductors, superconductivity, nanoscience, X-ray diffraction, and crystal studies.
It is divided into three sections assessing definitions, derivations, numericals, and conceptual explanations.
SECTION – A (10 × 2 = 20 Marks)
This section contains ten short questions, each requiring a brief definition or explanation.
Topics include:
Polar vs non-polar dielectrics
Magnetic induction & magnetization intensity
Depth of penetration (skin depth)
Maxwell’s displacement current
Intrinsic semiconductors
Superconductivity
Nanoscience & nanotechnology
Bragg’s law in X-ray diffraction
High-temperature superconductors
Relation between E, P, and D vectors in dielectrics
This section evaluates foundational concepts in modern physics and materials science.
SECTION – B (5 × 10 = 50 Marks)
Students must answer any five descriptive or numerical questions.
Topics include:
Electric field inside a dielectric & Clausius–Mossotti equation
Langevin’s theory of diamagnetism; negative & temperature-independent susceptibility
Dielectric constant and susceptibility numerical
Magnetic moment of an iron rod inside a solenoid
Bragg’s law calculation for higher order diffraction
Poynting vector & electromagnetic energy flow
Type-I and Type-II superconductors; properties changing during transition
Effect of magnetic field on superconducting transition; numerical for Pb
This section tests derivations, theoretical reasoning, and applied physics numericals.
SECTION – C (2 × 15 = 30 Marks)
Students must attempt any two long-answer questions.
Carbon Nanotubes
Definition, structure
CVD (Chemical Vapour Condensation) method of synthesis
Radiation intensity numerical using lamp power
Polarization in Dielectrics
Definition of polarization
Different mechanisms: electronic, ionic, dipolar, space-charge
Bragg’s Spectrometer
Construction and working
Derivation of Bragg’s formula
Application in studying crystal structure
This section evaluates deep conceptual understanding, long derivations, and real-world physics applications.