About this previous year paper
This question paper is a 3-hour Engineering Mechanics examination carrying a total of 100 marks. The paper is divided into three sections – A, B, and C, and students must attempt questions from each section as instructed.
Section–A (20 Marks)
Section A contains 10 compulsory short-answer questions, each carrying 2 marks. These questions check the understanding of basic concepts of Engineering Mechanics. Topics include equilibrium equations, transmissibility of forces, Lami’s theorem, friction angles, parallel and perpendicular axis theorems, work–energy principle, centroid vs. centre of gravity, radius of gyration, virtual work, and conservation of linear momentum.
This section tests conceptual clarity through definitions and brief explanations.
Section–B (50 Marks)
Section B contains 8 numerical and application-based questions, out of which any five must be attempted. These questions involve practical problem-solving such as:
pulling force required to move a roller
support reactions of beams
ladder friction and safety conditions
moment of inertia of composite sections
motion of falling and thrown bodies
rolling motion of a disc
tension and velocity in a hanging cylinder
frictional force in a ladder using virtual work
This section focuses on calculations, diagrams, and application of formulas. Students must show steps clearly.
Section–C (30 Marks)
Section C consists of three long-answer questions, out of which any two must be attempted. Topics include:
analysis of all forces in a truss using the Method of Joints
friction and stability conditions for a rod and sliding weight
motion of two connected blocks with pulley system, expressions for acceleration and tension
These are 15-mark questions, requiring detailed reasoning, derivations, and well-presented solutions.
Overall Summary
This question paper evaluates a student’s understanding of both theoretical concepts and numerical problem-solving in Engineering Mechanics. Section A tests conceptual knowledge, Section B checks analytical and mathematical skills, and Section C evaluates the ability to apply principles in complex engineering problems.