CBSE Class XII Physics Sample Paper Review Master every mark while beating the three-hour clock.

Question Distribution & Your Strength

Chapter Marks Weightage Your Proficiency
Electrostatics 08 Medium
Current Electricity 07 High
Magnetism & M.E.C. 08 Low
EM Induction & AC 08 Medium
Optics 14 High
Dual Nature & Modern Physics 12 Low
Communication Systems 03 Medium

Source: CBSE Sample Paper & your latest mock results

Analytical Problem Solver

Electric Charges & Fields – Tough Spot

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

Using Gauss’s theorem, derive the electric field \(E(r)\) at a distance \(r\) from an infinitely long straight wire with uniform linear charge density \( \lambda \).

Given:

  • Infinite straight wire → cylindrical symmetry
  • Uniform linear charge density \( \lambda \)
  • Observation point at radial distance \( r \)

To Find:

Magnitude and direction of \( E(r) \) using Gauss theorem.

Solution Approaches

1

Cylindrical Gaussian Surface

Exploit symmetry; field constant on curved surface, zero through caps.

Complexity: Conceptual
2

Line-element Integration

Integrate Coulomb’s law along wire; confirms \(E \propto 1/r\).

Complexity: Higher algebra
3

Dimensional Check

Verify units and \(1/r\) dependence for linear charge distributions.

Complexity: Minimal

Logical Breakdown

Symmetry

Infinite length ⇒ field radial, depends only on \(r\).

Gaussian Surface

Choose cylinder of radius \(r\) and length \(L\).

Flux Calculation

Flux \( \Phi = E(2\pi rL) \); caps contribute zero.

Gauss Theorem

Set \( \Phi = Q_{\text{enc}}/ \varepsilon_0 = \lambda L / \varepsilon_0\).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Construct Gaussian Cylinder

Radius \(r\), length \(L\), axis along wire.

Surface area: \( A_{\text{curved}} = 2\pi r L \)
2

Evaluate Electric Flux

Caps perpendicular to field ⇒ no flux. Curved surface gives \( \Phi = E\,2\pi rL \).

\( \Phi = E\,(2\pi r L) \)
3

Apply Gauss Theorem & Solve

Set \( E\,2\pi rL = \lambda L/\varepsilon_0 \) ⇒ \( E(r) = \dfrac{\lambda}{2\pi \varepsilon_0 r} \) radially outward.

\( E(r) = \frac{\lambda}{2\pi \varepsilon_0 r} \)

Key Insights

  • Gauss theorem turns a difficult integral into one line when symmetry exists.

  • For linear charge distributions, \(E \propto 1/r\), not \(1/r^{2}\).

  • Exclude end-caps in flux; including them doubles the result—common error.

Moving Charges & Magnetism – Radius Change

CBSE Grade 12 • Physics

Difficulty: Medium Est. Time: 2 min

Problem Context

An electron moves in a uniform magnetic field \( \mathbf{B} \). It describes a circle of radius \( r_0 \) with period \( T_0 \). Its speed is suddenly doubled to \( 2v_0 \).

Electron in magnetic field diagram

Question

After the speed doubles, calculate the new orbit radius \( r \) and time period \( T \).

a) Radius \( r=? \)

b) Period \( T=? \)

Helpful Hints

Hint 1

\( r=\frac{mv}{qB} \); radius is proportional to speed.

Hint 2

Cyclotron period \( T=\frac{2\pi m}{qB} \) is independent of speed.

Hint 3

Doubling \( v \) ⇒ \( r=2r_0 \) while \( T \) remains \( T_0 \).

Things to Consider

  • Lorentz force \( q\mathbf{v}\times\mathbf{B} \) only changes direction, not speed.
  • Cyclotron period depends only on \( m, q, B \).
  • Avoid assuming period varies with velocity.

Related Concepts

Lorentz force Cyclotron motion Uniform circular motion
Problem 4 of 10

Analytical Problem Solver

Alternating Current – LCR Surprise

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

A series LCR circuit has \(V_R = V_L = V_C = 10\text{ V}\) at the supply frequency. If the capacitor is short-circuited, determine the new voltage across the inductor.

Given:

  • Series LCR at resonance ⇒ \(V_L = V_C\) and supply \(V = V_R\).
  • \(V_R = V_L = 10\text{ V}\).
  • Frequency unchanged; hence \(X_L\) stays same after change.

To Find:

Voltage \(V_L'\) across the inductor after the capacitor is shorted.

Solution Approaches

1

Phasor Method

Use phasor triangle: find new current with \(Z_{RL}\) then compute \(V_L' = I'X_L\).

2

Impedance Calculation

Treat circuit as RL series: \(Z = \sqrt{R^{2}+X_L^{2}}\); derive \(I'\) from Ohm’s law.

3

Qualitative Reasoning

Recognise that removing \(X_C\) raises impedance by \(\sqrt{2}\); hence current and \(V_L\) fall by \(\sqrt{2}\).

Logical Breakdown

Resonant Baseline

At resonance: \(I = V/R\) and \(X_L = R\).

Reactance Relationships

With \(X_C\) removed, only \(X_L\) opposes \(R\).

New Impedance

\(Z_{RL} = \sqrt{R^{2}+X_L^{2}} = R\sqrt{2}\).

Current Adjustment

\(I' = V/Z_{RL} = I/\sqrt{2}\).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Find \(R\) and \(X_L\)

Equal voltages give \(R = X_L\).

\(I = \frac{V_R}{R} ,\quad X_L = R\)
2

Compute New Current

After shorting \(C\): \(Z_{RL}=R\sqrt{2}\).

\(I' = \frac{10}{R\sqrt{2}} = \frac{I}{\sqrt{2}}\)
3

Voltage Across \(L\)

\(V_L' = I'X_L = \dfrac{10}{\sqrt{2}}\text{ V} \approx 7.1\text{ V}\).

\(V_L' = 7.07\text{ V}\)

Key Insights

  • At resonance, reactive voltages cancel but each can exceed supply voltage.

  • Removing the capacitor raises impedance by \(\sqrt{2}\) in a series RL network.

  • Phasor relations let us quickly recalculate voltages after circuit changes.

Analytical Problem Solver

Wave Optics – First Common Dark Fringe

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

In Young’s double-slit experiment, two monochromatic beams of wavelengths \( \lambda_1 = 400\,\text{nm}\) and \( \lambda_2 = 600\,\text{nm}\) illuminate the same slits. Find the smallest distance \(y\) from the central maximum where both wavelengths produce a dark fringe simultaneously.

Given:

  • Young’s double-slit set-up (YDS)
  • \( \lambda_1 = 400\,\text{nm},\; \lambda_2 = 600\,\text{nm}\)
  • Slit separation \(d\) and screen distance \(D\)

To Find:

Nearest common dark-fringe position \(y\) (express in \(D\) and \(d\)).

Solution Approaches

1

Path-difference Equality

Set a single \( \delta\) satisfying dark-fringe conditions for both wavelengths and solve for \(y\).

Complexity: O(1)
2

Fringe-width LCM

Find the lowest common multiple of individual dark-fringe spacings.

Complexity: O(1)
3

Graphical Intersection

Plot minima positions for each colour and read the first overlap.

Complexity: O(n)

Logical Breakdown

YDS Geometry

Path difference \( \delta = \dfrac{d\,y}{D}\).

Dark-Fringe Rule

Minima when \( \delta = (n+\tfrac12)\lambda\).

Common Condition

Set \( (n_1+\tfrac12)\lambda_1 = (n_2+\tfrac12)\lambda_2\).

Convert to \(y\)

Use \( y = \delta D / d \) or \( y = \dfrac{\delta}{\lambda}\beta\).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Set Equality

Let integer \(m\) satisfy \( m\lambda_2 = (m+\tfrac12)\lambda_1\).

\( m(\lambda_2-\lambda_1)=\tfrac12\lambda_1 \)
2

Solve for \(m\)

Substitute values to get \( m = 1\).

\( m = \dfrac{0.5\times400}{600-400}=1 \)
3

Find \(y\)

Path difference \( \delta = m\lambda_2 = 600\,\text{nm}\). Hence \( y = \dfrac{600\,\text{nm}\,D}{d}\).

\( y = \frac{\delta D}{d} \)

Key Insights

  • Common dark fringes satisfy one shared path difference across both wavelengths.

  • The condition converts to a simple integer equation in \(m\).

  • Result: \( y = \dfrac{600\,\text{nm}\,D}{d}\); independent of chosen integer once minimal.

Analytical Problem Solver

Nuclei – Fission vs Fusion

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

Using the B.E./A curve, predict which of the nuclei W (190), X (90), Y (60) and Z (30) are likely to undergo fission or fusion. Give qualitative reasons.

Given:

  • B.E./A peaks near mass number A ≈ 56.
  • Higher binding energy per nucleon implies greater nuclear stability.
  • Energy is released when total binding energy increases.

To Find:

Process (fission/fusion) favoured by each nucleus based on nuclear stability.

Solution Approaches

1

Read B.E./A Trend

Locate each mass number relative to the 56-peak.

Complexity: Conceptual
2

Apply Stability Rule

For A > 56, fission raises B.E./A; for A < 56, fusion does.

Complexity: Conceptual
3

Compute Energy Gain

Estimate \( \Delta E \) from change in total binding energy.

Complexity: Conceptual

Logical Breakdown

Binding-Energy Peak

Maximum stability at A ≈ 56 (Fe, Ni).

Heavy Nuclei (A > 56)

Lower B.E./A; splitting raises stability → fission.

Light Nuclei (A < 56)

Lower B.E./A; combining raises stability → fusion.

Energy Criterion

\( \Delta E \propto \Delta(\text{B.E.}/A)\,A \); positive ΔE means feasible.

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Locate on Curve

W 190, X 90 → far right of peak; Y 60 → near peak; Z 30 → left of peak.

A > 56 or A < 56?
2

Apply Rule

A > 56 → fission favoured; A < 56 → fusion favoured; near-peak gives negligible gain.

Decision logic
3

State Outcome

• W 190 & X 90: fission increases binding energy.
• Z 30: fusion increases binding energy.
• Y 60: almost no change, so neither strongly favoured.

\( \Delta E \) positive for W, X (fission) and Z (fusion)

Key Insights

  • Binding-energy per nucleon curve predicts nuclear processes at a glance.

  • Raising B.E./A drives reactions toward greater nuclear stability.

  • Interpretation skill meets the learning outcome: decide fission vs fusion qualitatively.

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance – Inserting Slabs

Grade 12 Physics

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

A parallel-plate capacitor (area \(A\), gap \(d\)) receives a central slab of thickness \(t<d\). (i) The slab is dielectric of constant \(\kappa\). (ii) The slab is metallic. Derive the new capacitance in each case and state which configuration gives the larger value.

Given:

  • Plate area \(A\)
  • Plate separation \(d\)
  • Inserted slab thickness \(t\) (\(t<d\))
  • Dielectric constant \(\kappa\) (case i)

To Find:

Capacitance \(C_d\) (dielectric), \(C_m\) (metal) and compare.

Solution Approaches

1

Series-capacitor model

Treat air gaps and slab as capacitors in series.

Fast & direct
2

Energy comparison

Minimise stored energy for given charge.

Conceptual check
3

Field mapping

Analyse uniform fields in each region.

Visual insight

Logical Breakdown

1. Series capacitors

Air gaps and slab share charge; voltages add.

2. Dielectric effect

Field weakens inside slab by factor \(\kappa\).

3. Metallic slab

Acts as equipotential; eliminates \(t\) from gap.

4. Comparison

Smaller effective separation ⇒ larger capacitance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Derive \(C_d\) (dielectric)

Two air gaps of \((d-t)/2\) each and one dielectric slab form three capacitors in series.

\(C_d=\dfrac{\varepsilon_0 A}{d-t+\dfrac{t}{\kappa}}\)
2

Derive \(C_m\) (metal)

Metallic slab becomes part of the plates; effective separation reduces to \(d-t\).

\(C_m=\dfrac{\varepsilon_0 A}{d-t}\)
3

Compare

Since \(\kappa>1\), \(d-t<d-t+\dfrac{t}{\kappa}\) ⇒ \(C_m>C_d>C_0\).

Highest \(C\): metallic slab.

Key Insights

  • Capacitance rises when effective plate gap falls.

  • Dielectric insertion requires series-capacitor treatment, not parallel.

  • Metal slab gives greater increase than any dielectric with finite \(\kappa\).

Analytical Problem Solver

Electromagnetic Waves – Displacement Current

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

A \(0.001\ \text{m}^2\) parallel-plate capacitor, plate gap \(d = 10^{-4}\ \text{m}\), is charged so that \(\frac{dV}{dt}=1\times10^{8}\ \text{V s}^{-1}\). Find the displacement current between the plates.

Given:

  • Area \(A = 0.001\ \text{m}^2\)
  • Separation \(d = 10^{-4}\ \text{m}\)
  • \(\frac{dV}{dt}=1\times10^{8}\ \text{V s}^{-1}\)
  • \(\varepsilon_0 = 8.85\times10^{-12}\ \text{F m}^{-1}\)

To Find:

Displacement current \(I_d\) using Ampere-Maxwell law.

Solution Approaches

1

Direct formula

Use \(I_d=\varepsilon_0 A\,\frac{dE}{dt}\) with \(E=V/d\).

Complexity: Simple algebra
2

Ampere-Maxwell loop

Apply \(\oint \mathbf{B}\cdot d\mathbf{l}=\mu_0(I_c+I_d)\) with \(I_c=0\).

Complexity: Conceptual
3

Energy method

Relate rate of change of stored energy to equivalent current.

Complexity: Higher

Logical Breakdown

Displacement current idea

Time-varying electric field inside a capacitor acts like a current in Ampere-Maxwell law.

Field–voltage link

\(E=\frac{V}{d}\) for uniform field between plates.

Rate of change

\(\frac{dE}{dt}=\frac{1}{d}\frac{dV}{dt}\).

Compute \(I_d\)

Insert values in \(I_d=\varepsilon_0 A\,\frac{dE}{dt}\).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Relate \(E\) and \(V\)

\(E=\frac{V}{d}\) ⇒ \(\frac{dE}{dt}=\frac{1}{d}\frac{dV}{dt}\).

\(\frac{dE}{dt}=\frac{1}{10^{-4}}\times1\times10^{8}=1\times10^{12}\ \text{V m}^{-1}\text{s}^{-1}\)
2

Apply displacement current formula

\(I_d=\varepsilon_0 A\,\frac{dE}{dt}\).

\(I_d = 8.85\times10^{-12} \times 0.001 \times 1\times10^{12}\)
3

Numerical value

Compute the product.

\(I_d = 8.85\ \text{A}\)

Key Insights

  • Displacement current replaces missing conduction current in capacitors.

  • Ampere-Maxwell law unifies magnetic effects of both conduction and displacement currents.

  • Mastering this link lets you apply Maxwell’s correction inside any time-varying dielectric region.

Analytical Problem Solver

Dual Nature – Photoelectron Wavelength

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

A platinum surface (\( \phi = 5.63\,\text{eV} \)) is illuminated with light of frequency \( \nu = 1.6 \times 10^{15}\,\text{Hz} \). Determine the minimum de Broglie wavelength of the emitted photoelectrons.

Given:

  • Planck constant \( h = 6.63 \times 10^{-34}\,\text{J s} \)
  • Electron mass \( m_e = 9.11 \times 10^{-31}\,\text{kg} \)
  • \( 1\,\text{eV} = 1.6 \times 10^{-19}\,\text{J} \)

To Find:

Shortest de Broglie wavelength \( \lambda_{\min} \) of photoelectrons

Solution Approaches

1

Photoelectric Equation

Apply \( h\nu = \phi + K_{\max} \) to find electron kinetic energy.

Formula
2

Consistent Units

Convert \(\phi\) and \(K_{\max}\) from eV to joule.

Step
3

Matter-Wave Relation

Use \( \lambda = \frac{h}{\sqrt{2m_e K_{\max}}} \) to compute \( \lambda_{\min} \).

Step

Logical Breakdown

Photon Energy

Calculate \( E = h\nu \).

Work Function

Energy needed to free an electron: \( \phi \).

Kinetic Energy

\( K_{\max} = E - \phi \).

de Broglie Wavelength

\( \lambda = \frac{h}{\sqrt{2m_e K_{\max}}} \).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Photon energy

\( E = h\nu = 6.63 \times 10^{-34}\,\text{J s} \times 1.6 \times 10^{15}\,\text{Hz} = 1.06 \times 10^{-18}\,\text{J} \)

\( E = 1.06 \times 10^{-18}\,\text{J} \)
2

Maximum kinetic energy

\( \phi = 5.63\,\text{eV} = 9.01 \times 10^{-19}\,\text{J} \)

\( K_{\max} = E - \phi = 1.06 \times 10^{-18} - 9.01 \times 10^{-19} = 1.59 \times 10^{-19}\,\text{J} \)

\( K_{\max} = 1.59 \times 10^{-19}\,\text{J} \)
3

de Broglie wavelength

\( \lambda = \frac{h}{\sqrt{2m_e K_{\max}}} = \frac{6.63 \times 10^{-34}}{\sqrt{2 (9.11 \times 10^{-31})(1.59 \times 10^{-19})}} \approx 1.2 \times 10^{-9}\,\text{m} \)

\( \lambda_{\min} \approx 1.2\,\text{nm} \)

Key Insights

  • Photon energy beyond the work function converts to electron kinetic energy.

  • Kinetic energy sets momentum, linking photoelectric effect to matter waves.

  • Understanding this link satisfies the learning outcome: relate photon energy to de Broglie wavelength.

Semiconductor Electronics – Rectifier & Filter

Identify stages that convert AC to smooth DC.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

In the chain AC → X → Y → load, name X and Y, and illustrate their output waveforms.

Given:

  • Input: sinusoidal AC mains.
  • X contains p–n junction diodes (rectification).
  • Y uses RC/LC network (filter circuit).

To Find:

Stage names and corresponding waveforms at outputs of X and Y.

Solution Approaches

1

Half-wave rectifier + RC filter

Identify X as single-diode rectifier; Y as capacitor across load.

Ripple: high → moderate
2

Bridge rectifier + π-filter

Use four-diode bridge for full-wave pulses; π (C-L-C) smooths further.

Ripple: low
3

Compare ripple levels

Evaluate reduction from X to Y to validate correct identification.

Ripple: quantified by \(r = \frac{V_{\text{ac}}}{V_{\text{dc}}}\)

Logical Breakdown

Diode Rectification

Diode permits current one way, producing pulsating DC from AC.

Half vs Full Wave

Full-wave doubles pulse frequency, reducing initial ripple.

Filter Circuits

Capacitor stores charge; inductor resists change, smoothing voltage.

Ripple Reduction

Proper RC/LC choice lowers \(r\) without altering frequency.

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Identify X

X is the rectifier: half-wave (one diode) or full-wave (bridge/center-tap).

Output: positive pulses only.
2

Identify Y

Y is the filter circuit: RC, LC or π-section that smooths the pulsating DC.

Output: nearly steady DC with small ripple.
3

Sketch Waveforms

Draw half/full-wave pulses at X; add capacitor-charged peaks to show smooth line at Y.

Ripple \(r \approx \frac{1}{2fRC}\) for RC filter.

Key Insights

  • Rectifier (X) turns AC into unidirectional pulses using diodes.

  • Filter (Y) employs capacitors/inductors to cut ripple, not frequency.

  • Avoid calling the filter a regulator; regulation is a separate stage.

Analytical Problem Solver

Current Electricity – Heating Element Analysis

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

A heater connected to a 100 V battery with internal resistance 1 Ω draws 10 A at 20 °C. After heating to 320 °C the current stabilises lower. Find the power lost inside the battery at the final temperature.

Given:

  • Supply voltage \(V = 100 \text{ V}\)
  • Internal resistance \(r = 1 \,\Omega\)
  • Initial current \(I_0 = 10 \text{ A at }20^{\circ}\text{C}\)
  • Final temperature \(T = 320^{\circ}\text{C}\)
  • Temperature coefficient \(\alpha = 3.7\times10^{-4}\,^{\circ}\text{C}^{-1}\)

To Find:

Power dissipated in the battery’s internal resistance at 320 °C.

Solution Approaches

1

Direct α-based Calculation

Find heater resistance at 20 °C, scale it with \(R_T = R_0(1+\alpha\Delta T)\), then compute current and \(P = I^2 r\).

Steps : 3
2

Ratio Method

Use \(I_T/I_0 = 1/\big(1+\alpha\Delta T\big)\) to get current directly, then evaluate \(P = I_T^{2} r\).

Steps : 2
3

Graphical Insight

Plot \(R\) versus \(T\) to visualise how the temperature coefficient influences current and power loss.

Steps : —

Logical Breakdown

Initial Heater Resistance

\(R_0 = \frac{V}{I_0} - r\)

Temperature Coefficient Role

Resistance rises linearly with \(\alpha\Delta T\).

Current at 320 °C

Use \(I_T = V /(R_T + r)\).

Power Loss Inside Battery

Calculate \(P = I_T^{2} r\).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Find \(R_0\)

\(R_0 = \frac{100}{10} - 1 = 9\,\Omega\).

\(R_0 = (V/I_0) - r\)
2

Compute \(R_T\)

\(\Delta T = 300^{\circ}\text{C}\); \(R_T = 9[1 + (3.7\times10^{-4})(300)] \approx 10\,\Omega\).

\(R_T = R_0(1+\alpha\Delta T)\)
3

Evaluate \(I_T\) and \(P_{batt}\)

Total resistance \(= 10 + 1 = 11\,\Omega\); \(I_T = 100/11 \approx 9.09 \text{ A}\). Power loss \(P_{batt} = (9.09)^2 \times 1 \approx 83 \text{ W}\).

\(P_{batt} = I_T^{2} r\)

Key Insights

  • Temperature coefficient raises heater resistance, lowering current.

  • Internal power loss is governed by \(I^{2} r\), not by battery voltage directly.

  • Accounting for temperature-dependent resistance prevents under-estimating power loss in circuits.

Analytical Problem Solver

Electromagnetic Induction – AC Generator Emf

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

Derive the instantaneous emf \( \varepsilon(t) \) of an \( N \)-turn coil of area \( A \) rotating with angular speed \( \omega \) in a uniform magnetic field \( B \).

Given:

  • Generator principle: rotating coil cuts magnetic flux.
  • Uniform field \( B \); coil area \( A \); turns \( N \).
  • Angular speed \( \omega \); initial angle \( \theta_0 = 0 \).

To Find:

Expression \( \varepsilon(t) = \varepsilon_0 \sin \omega t \) where \( \varepsilon_0 = N B A \omega \).

Solution Approaches

1

Flux–Derivative Method

Write magnetic flux, differentiate using Faraday’s law.

Complexity: Conceptual
2

Phasor View

Treat flux as rotating vector; emf is its vertical component.

Complexity: Visualization
3

Energy Perspective

Relate mechanical power \( \tau \omega \) to electrical power \( \varepsilon I \).

Complexity: Qualitative

Logical Breakdown

Generator Principle

Rotation converts mechanical work into emf via changing flux.

Magnetic Flux

\(\Phi = N B A \cos \theta\).

Rotational Emf

Time-varying angle \( \theta = \omega t \) gives sinusoidal flux.

Sign & Phase

Negative sign sets phase; dropping it shifts waveform by \( \pi \).

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Write Flux

Angle between \( \mathbf{B} \) and normal is \( \theta = \omega t \).

\( \Phi(t) = N B A \cos \omega t \)
2

Apply Faraday’s Law

Induced emf equals negative rate of change of flux.

\( \varepsilon(t) = -\frac{d\Phi}{dt} \)
3

Differentiate & Simplify

Derivative of cosine gives sine; amplitude is \( N B A \omega \).

\( \varepsilon(t) = N B A \omega \sin \omega t \)

Key Insights

  • Sinusoidal emf emerges directly from rotational motion plus Faraday’s law.

  • Amplitude \( \varepsilon_0 = N B A \omega \) scales with turns, field, area, and speed.

  • Correct sign ensures correct phase; dropping it shifts the waveform by 180°.

Ray Optics – Cassegrain Telescope

CBSE Grade 12 Physics

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

Draw a neat ray diagram of a Cassegrain reflecting telescope and state any two reasons it outperforms a similar-sized refracting telescope.

Given:

  • Primary concave parabolic mirror with central hole
  • Secondary small convex mirror facing the primary
  • Eyepiece placed behind the primary mirror

To Find:

Complete ray path and two performance advantages (compact length, zero chromatic aberration).

Solution Approaches

1

Trace Rays

Show two reflections and final focus at eyepiece.

Complexity: N/A
2

Identify Components

Label mirrors, focal points and central hole.

Complexity: N/A
3

Compare Designs

List reflector advantages over refractor.

Complexity: N/A

Logical Breakdown

Optical Path

Parallel light → primary mirror → convex secondary → through central hole → eyepiece.

Tube Length

Folded path gives long focal length inside a short, manageable tube.

Aberrations

All-mirror system removes chromatic dispersion found in lenses.

Common Errors

Eyepiece must be behind primary; include hole in primary mirror.

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Sketch Mirrors

Draw large concave primary (with hole) and small convex secondary near its focus.

Ray diagram
2

Trace Incident Rays

Show parallel rays reflecting at primary, converging to secondary, then passing through hole to focus.

Ray paths
3

Note Advantages

Write: (i) No chromatic aberration  (ii) Large aperture with compact length.

Advantages list

Key Insights

  • Reflection is wavelength-independent → no chromatic aberration.

  • Large parabolic mirror gathers more light than an equal-diameter lens and is lighter.

  • Secondary mirror folds path, giving long focal length in a short tube.

Analytical Problem Solver

Atoms – Many Lines, One Electron

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15 min

Problem Statement

Hydrogen has only one electron, yet its emission spectrum shows many lines. Explain why.

Given:

  • Sample contains about \(10^{23}\) hydrogen atoms.
  • Collisions excite electrons to various Bohr energy levels.
  • Bohr model allows discrete electron transitions.

To Find:

Reason for multiple spectral lines from a one-electron atom.

Solution Approaches

1

Many Atoms, Many States

Large ensemble ensures electrons occupy several excited levels simultaneously.

Complexity: —
2

Cascade Transitions

Each electron can drop through several energy gaps, emitting photons of different energies.

Complexity: —
3

Bohr Quantisation

Energy difference \(E_{n_i}-E_{n_f}=h\nu\) sets a unique wavelength for every allowed pair \((n_i,n_f)\).

Complexity: —

Logical Breakdown

1 . Ensemble Size

Different atoms act independently, adding their emissions.

2 . Excitation

Collisions lift electrons to \(n>1\) states.

3 . Multiple Drops

Each excited electron can follow many downward paths.

4 . Distinct Energies

Energy gaps differ, so photons have different wavelengths.

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Quantised Energies

Bohr gives \(E_n=-13.6\,\text{eV}/n^2\).

\(E_n=-\dfrac{13.6}{n^2}\,\text{eV}\)
2

Population of Levels

Thermal or electrical collisions move electrons to higher \(n\).

\(n_i = 2,3,4,\dots\)
3

Emission of Photons

When an electron drops from \(n_i\) to \(n_f\), photon energy \(h\nu = E_{n_i}-E_{n_f}\).

\(\lambda = \dfrac{hc}{E_{n_i}-E_{n_f}}\)

Key Insights

  • Multiple atoms and levels create a rich emission spectrum.

  • Each Bohr transition yields one precise wavelength.

  • Mistakes: blaming extra electrons or forgetting ensemble effects.

Key Take-aways

Formula Vault

Recap core equations: \(v=u+at\), \(F=q(E+v\times B)\), lens & capacitor rules for instant recall.

Units & Constants

Write \(c, h, e\) values on rough sheet. Convert units before substitution to avoid negative marking.

Strategic Scan

Read twice, underline data, decide concept, then pick a formula. This strategy cuts re-work.

Time Tactics

60 min theory, 30 min numericals, 10 min review. Skip tough items and return—classic time-saving tip.

Neat Work

Box answers, show steps, draw labelled diagrams. Presentation secures method marks.

Final Review

Things to remember: tally sub-parts, check sig-figs, use elimination for MCQs in the last sweep.