JAM 2026 PH SOLUTION

Question 1:
A quantum particle is confined in the region 0 ≤ x ≤ 2. The normalized wavefunction is
given by:

p
ψ(x) = [1 + cos(πx/2)] sin(πx/2)
5
​ ​

Find the value of p.

1) 1 2) 4
3) 3 4) 2

Solution:
Identify the System
Since the domain is 0 ≤ x ≤ 2, this is the asymmetric representation of a 1D infinite
potential well of width L = 2.
For a 1D infinite well:

2 nπx
ϕn (x) =
​ ​sin (
​ ) ​

L L

Here L = 2, so:
nπx
ϕn (x) = sin ( )
2
​

These are already normalized because:

1
 2 2
= =1
2
​ ​ ​ ​

Thus:

ϕ1 (x) = sin(πx/2),
​ ϕ2 (x) = sin(πx)
​

Express ψ(x) in Eigen basis Form

Using the identity: cos A sin A = 12 sin(2A)
​

We get:
1
[1 + cos(πx/2)] sin(πx/2) = sin(πx/2) + sin(πx)
2
​

Therefore,

1
[ϕ1 (x) + ϕ2 (x)]
p
ψ(x) =
5 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

So the coefficients are:

p p 1
C1 = , C2 = ⋅
5 5 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Apply Normalization Condition

For orthonormal eigenfunctions:

∣C1 ∣2 + ∣C2 ∣2 = 1
​ ​

Gives,

p=4

Final Answer
p=4 ​

Question 2:
Consider the normalized superposed state: ψ = c0 ϕ0 + c1 ϕ1 where ϕ0 and ϕ1 are the ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

ground and first excited states of a simple harmonic oscillator, respectively.

The coefficients c0 and c1 are imaginary.
​ ​

Which of the following is correct for the expectation value:

⟨x⟩ + i⟨p⟩ ?

2
Options:
1) Imaginary 2) Real
3) Zero 4) Complex with non-zero real and imaginary
parts

Solution:
Using ladder operator structure, for the harmonic oscillator:

ℏ mℏω †
^=
x (a ^† ),
^+a p^ = i ^ −a
(a ^)
2mω 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Thus, (hat symbols are dropped for readability).

x + ip ∝ (a + a† ) + i2 (a† − a)
⇒ x + ip ∝ a

Hence,

⟨x⟩ + i⟨p⟩ ∝ ⟨a⟩

Evaluate ⟨a⟩

ψ = c0 ∣0⟩ + c1 ∣1⟩
​ ​

Using ladder operator action:

a∣0⟩ = 0
a∣1⟩ = ∣0⟩

Therefore:

⟨a⟩ψ = c∗0 c1
​ ​ ​

Nature of c∗0 c1
​ ​

Given:
c0 and c1 are purely imaginary
​ ​

Let:

c0 = iα,
​ c1 = iβ
​

where α, β are real.

Then:

c∗0 = −iα
​

3
So,

c∗0 c1 = (−iα)(iβ) = (−i2 )αβ = (+1)αβ

​ ​

This is purely real.

Final Answer

Real ​

Question 3:
Consider the superposition of two electromagnetic waves with their electric field vectors
given by

E1 (z, t) = ^iA1 sin(kz − ωt)

​ ​

E2 (z, t) = ^j A2 sin(kz − ωt + ϕ)
​ ​ ​

where A1 and A2 are the amplitudes, k is the wavenumber, ω is the angular frequency, and ϕ
​ ​

is the relative phase.

Which of the following options presents a resultant elliptically polarized wave with its semi-
major axis either along ^i or ^j ? ​

Options:
1) ϕ = 0 and A1 = A2 ​ ​ 2) ϕ = π
2
​ and A1 = A2
​ ​

3) ϕ = π
2
​ and A1 
= A2
​ ​ 4) ϕ = 0 and A1 
= A2 ​ ​

Solution:
Let θ = kz − ωt.

Ex = A1 sin θ
​ ​

Ey = A2 sin(θ + ϕ)
​ ​

Analyze Phase Conditions

Case 1: ϕ = 0

Ey = A2 sin θ
​ ​

Then:
Ey A
= 2
​ ​

​ ​

Ex A1 ​ ​

4
This represents a straight line → linear polarization.
So Options 1 and 4 are eliminated.
Case 2: ϕ = π
2
​

Ey = A2 cos θ
​ ​

Thus:

Ex = A1 sin θ
​ ​

Eliminating θ:

Ex2 Ey2
+ =1
​
​

A21 A22
​ ​

​ ​

This is the equation of an ellipse.

Step 3: Nature of Ellipse
If A1 = A2 → circle.
​ ​

If A1 =
​

 A2 → ellipse.​

The principal axes are along ^i and ^j .

​

Hence the required condition is:

π
ϕ= , = A2
A1 
2
​ ​ ​

Final Answer
π
ϕ= , A1 =
 A2
2
​ ​ ​ ​

Competitive Exam Insight:

Memorize polarization rules:
ϕ = 0 or π → Linear
ϕ = π2 , equal amplitudes → Circular
​

ϕ = π2 , unequal amplitudes → Elliptical (axes along x and y)

​

Question 4:
Which of the following options represents the simplified form of the Boolean equation:

5
 Y = AˉB
ˉ Cˉ + AˉB Cˉ + AB
ˉ Cˉ + AB Cˉ ?

Options:
1) Y = ABˉ 2) Y = AˉB Cˉ
3) Y = Cˉ 4) Y = Bˉ C

Solution:
Factor Cˉ it out:

Y = Cˉ (AˉB
ˉ + AˉB + AB
ˉ + AB )

Group terms:

AˉB
ˉ + AˉB = Aˉ(B
ˉ + B)

Using the Complement Law: Bˉ + B = 1

AˉB
ˉ + AˉB = Aˉ

Similarly,
ˉ + AB = A(B
AB ˉ + B) = A

Thus the bracket becomes:

Aˉ + A

Again using the Complement Law: Aˉ + A = 1

Final Simplification

Y = Cˉ ⋅ 1 = Cˉ

Final Answer
Y = Cˉ ​

Conceptual Shortcut
The four terms cover all possible combinations of A and B when C = 0.
Thus:
If C = 0, output = 1 (independent of A, B ).
If C = 1, output = 0.
Therefore the function depends only on C , giving: Y = Cˉ

6
Question 5:
The potential of a quantum harmonic oscillator is modified from V (x) = 12 kx2 to V (x) = ​

1
2
​kx2 + 3ax, where k and a are constants and x is the position variable.
When a = 2 and k = 1, which of the following options gives the change in ground state
energy?
(a and k are in appropriate units.)
Options:
1. −3
2. -12
3. -18
4. -6

Solution:
The modified potential is:
1 2
V (x) = kx + 3ax
2
​

This is a shifted harmonic oscillator.

The standard method is to complete the square.
1 2 6a
kx + 3ax = [x2 + x]
k
V (x) =
2 2
​ ​ ​

Complete the square inside the bracket:

2 2
6a 3a 3a
x + x = (x + ) − ( )
2
​ ​ ​

k k k

Thus,
2
3a 9a2
V (x) = (x + ) −
k
2 2k
​ ​ ​

k
3a
This is simply a harmonic oscillator shifted of k
​ in position and the energy levels shift by a
constant:
9a2
ΔE = −
2k
​

The zero-point energy 12 ℏω remains unchanged.

​

Substitute Values

7
Given:

a = 2, k=1

9(2)2
ΔE = −
2(1)
​

= −18

Final Answer
−18

Conceptual Shortcut
For a harmonic oscillator:
1 2
V (x) = kx + F x
2
​

The energy shift is:

F2
ΔE = −
2k
​

Here F = 3a, so:

(3a)2
ΔE = −
2k
​

Question 6:
Light of wavelength 632 nm is passing through an optically active medium of thickness
20 cm. The optical rotation exhibited by the medium is 18∘ .
Which of the following options correctly states the magnitude of the difference in refractive
indices corresponding to the left and right circularly polarized light?
Options:
1) 3.62 × 10−5 2) 1.81 × 10−5
3) 3.16 × 10−7 4) 6.32 × 10−7

Solution:
Optical Rotation Formula
For an optically active medium:

8
 πl
θ= ​
(nL − nR ) ​ ​

λ
where
θ = rotation (radians)
l = thickness
λ = wavelength
nL − nR = difference in refractive indices
​ ​

Thus,
θλ
nL − nR = ​ ​ ​

πl
18π π
θ = 18∘ = = rad
180 10
​ ​

λ = 632 nm = 6.32 × 10−7 m

l = 20 cm = 0.2 m

Substitute
π
( 10 ) (6.32 × 10−7 )
nL − nR =
​

​ ​ ​

π(0.2)

6.32 × 10−7
=
10 × 0.2
​

= 3.16 × 10−7

Final Answer
3.16 × 10−7 ​

Question 7:
d2 y
Consider the linear second-order differential equation dt2
​ + ω 2 y = 0,
where ω is a positive constant. The boundary conditions are:

dy 1
= 1, y(0) = .
2
​ ​ ​ ​

dt t=0

Which of the following options gives the value of y (t = π

2ω )?
​

Options:

9
1) 0 1
2) ​

ω
3) 1 2π
4) ​

Solution:
The given equation

d2 y
+ ω2 y = 0
dt2
​

is the standard equation of simple harmonic motion (SHM).

The general solution is:

y(t) = A cos(ωt) + B sin(ωt)

1
Initial Condition y(0) = 2
​

At t = 0:
1
y(0) = A cos(0) + B sin(0) = A =
2
​

Thus:
1
A=
2
​

Differentiate and Apply Second Condition

Differentiate y(t):
dy
= −ωA sin(ωt) + ωB cos(ωt)
​

dt
At t = 0:
dy
​ ​ ​
= ωB = 1
dt t=0

Thus:
1
B= ​

ω
Complete Solution
The particular solution is:
1 1
y(t) = cos(ωt) + sin(ωt)
2
​ ​

10
At t = π
2ω
​:
π π
ωt = ω ⋅ =
2ω 2
​ ​

Thus:
π π
cos ( ) = 0, sin ( ) = 1
2 2
​ ​

Therefore:
π 1 1 1
y( ) = (0) + (1) =
2ω 2
​ ​ ​

ω ω

Final Answer
1
​ ​

Question 8:
Consider the electrostatic potential in two dimensions: V (x, y) = x8 y 9
What is the line integral of the corresponding electric field along the path shown in the figure?

Options:
1
1) 2
​ 2) 2
3) 0 4) 1

Solution:
The electric field is related to the potential by:

E = −∇V

Since V (x, y) is a well-defined scalar function, any valid static potential function creates a
conservative field.
As long as the potential depends only on position and not on time, it is a static potential
function and any valid static potential function creates a conservative field.
For any conservative field:

11
 ∮ E ⋅ dl = 0

for any closed path.

The given path is a closed square.
Therefore,

∮ E ⋅ dl = 0

Final Answer
0 ​

Question 9:
Consider the matrix

0 1 1
A= 0 0 1
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

1 0 0

The value of det(A−1 ) is:

Options:
1) 4 2) 0
1
3) 1 4) 4
​

Solution:
For any invertible matrix:
1
det(A−1 ) =
det(A)
​

0 1 0 1 0 0
det(A) = 0 ⋅ −1⋅ +1⋅
0 0 1 0 1 0
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Thus:

det(A) = 0 − 1(−1) + 1(0) = 1

Therefore:
1 1
det(A−1 ) = = =1
det(A) 1
​ ​

12
Final Answer
1 ​

Question 10:
Consider an n-type silicon in which the fully ionized dopant concentration is ND = ​

17 −3
10 cm .
The intrinsic electron density is ni = 1.5 × 1010 cm−3 . Which of the following options
​

correctly states the equilibrium hole concentration (in cm−3 )?

Options:
1) 2.25 × 103 2) 3.01 × 103
3) 4.52 × 103 4) 1.55 × 103

Solution:
Mass Action Law
At thermal equilibrium:

np = n2i ​

For n-type semiconductor with full ionization:

n ≈ ND ​

Thus:
n2i
p=
​

n
Substitute Values

(1.5 × 1010 )2
p=
1017
​

2.25 × 1020
=
1017
​

= 2.25 × 103

Final Answer
2.25 × 103 ​

Question 11:

13
A thin ring of mass m and radius R has total charge Q distributed uniformly.
The ring is rotating with a constant angular velocity ω about an axis passing through its
center and perpendicular to its plane.
Which of the following options is correct?
Options:
1) The ratio of magnetic moment to angular QωR2
Q 2) The magnetic moment of the ring is
4
​

momentum is ​

m
3) The ratio of magnetic moment to angular QωR2
Q 4) The magnetic moment of the ring is
6
​

momentum is
2m
​

Solution:
When a uniformly charged ring rotates, it behaves like a current loop.
Calculate Magnetic Moment
Time period of rotation:
2π
T = ​

ω
Current (charge per unit time):
Q Qω
I= =
2π
​ ​

T
Magnetic moment:

μ = I × Area

Qω
μ= × πR2
2π
​

QωR2
μ=
2
​

Calculate Angular Momentum

Moment of inertia of a thin ring:

Irot = mR2
​

Angular momentum:

L = Irot ω ​

L = mR2 ω

14
Find the Ratio
QωR2
μ 2
=
​

mR2 ω
​ ​

L
Cancel R2 and ω :
μ Q
=
2m
​ ​

Final Answer
Q
The ratio of magnetic moment to angular momentum is
2m
​ ​

Note: It is standard result.

Question 12:
Two coherent plane waves having wavelength λ and wavevectors k1 = ​
2π
λ
​ ( 12 ^i −
​

2
​

​j)
3^
​

and k2 = 2π
​

λ
(− 12 ^i − 23 ^j )are incident on a screen placed on the (xz)-plane. The overlap of
​ ​
​

​ ​

the waves on the plane of the screen produces interference fringes.

The fringe width (center-to-center spacing of bright fringes) will be:
Options:
1) 2λ 2)
λ
2
​

3) λ 3λ
4)
​

2
​

Solution:
Interference of Plane Waves
The interference pattern produced by two coherent plane waves is determined by the phase
difference at any point on the observation screen. This phase difference is given by:

Δϕ = (k1 − k2 ) ⋅ r
​ ​

The fringes (lines of constant phase) are perpendicular to the wavevector difference Δk =
k1 − k2 .
​ ​

Given the wavevectors:

( i− j)
2π 1 ^ 3^
k1 =
​

λ 2 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

15
 (− ^i − j)
2π 1 3^
k2 =
​

2 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Subtracting them gives:

[( + ) ^i + (− ) j]
2π 1 1 3 3 ^
Δ k = k1 − k2 = +
​ ​

2 2 2 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

2π ^
= (1i) ​

λ
The screen is placed on the (xz)-plane. A position vector on this screen is r = x^i + zk^. The
projection of Δk onto this plane is:
2π
Δk∥ = ​ ​

λ
Because Δϕ depends only on x, the fringes are straight lines parallel to the z -axis. The
component of the wavevector difference responsible for the spacing on the screen is:
2π
Δk∥ = ​ ​

λ
Fringe Width
2π 2π
β= = 2π = λ
Δk∥
​ ​

λ
​ ​

Final Answer
λ ​

Question 14:
Consider the following vector V = xyz k^. Which of the following statements is correct for the
resultant vector ∇ × ∇ × V ?
Options:
1) It lies in (xy)-plane 2) It lies in (xz)-plane
3) It lies in (yz)-plane 4) It is along the (x) direction

Solution:
Step 1: First Curl
Given vector:

V = (0, 0, xyz)

16
Calculate the curl:
^i ^j ​
k^
∂ ∂ ∂
∇×V = ​

∂x
​ ​

∂y
​ ​

∂z
​ ​ ​

0 0 xyz

∂(xyz) ^ ∂(xyz)
= ^i −j
∂y ∂x
​ ​ ​

= xz ^i − yz ^j ​

Thus,

∇ × V = (xz, −yz, 0)

Step 2: Second Curl

Now calculate the curl of (xz, −yz, 0):
^i ^j ​
k^
∂ ∂ ∂
∇ × (xz, −yz, 0) = ​

∂x
​ ​

∂y
​ ​

∂z
​ ​ ​

xz −yz 0

∂(0) ∂(−yz) ∂(0) ∂(xz) ∂(−yz) ∂(xz)

= ^i [ − ] − ^j [ − ] + k^ [ − ]
∂y ∂z ∂x ∂z ∂x ∂y
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

= ^i(−y) − ^j (−x) + k^(0 − 0)

​

= −y^i + x^j ​

Step 3: Final Result

Therefore:

∇ × ∇ × V = −y^i + x^j ​

This has only x and y components, meaning it lies in the (xy)-plane.

Final Answer
It lies in (xy)-plane ​

Question 15:
A particle is rotating along a circular path with uniform speed v , as shown in the figure.
While moving from point P to Q subtending an angle θ, the magnitude of the change in its
velocity is:

17
Options:
1) v cos 2θ ​ 2) 2v sin 2θ ​

3) Zero 4) v cos θ

Solution
In uniform circular motion:
Speed remains constant v
Velocity direction changes continuously
At points P and Q, velocity vectors are tangential
The angle between the two velocity vectors equals the angle subtended at the center, θ
Thus, we must find the magnitude of:

∣ v2 − v1 ∣
​ ​

Both vectors have magnitude v and are separated by angle θ.

Vector Subtraction Formula

∣ v2 − v1 ∣ =
​ ​ v 2 + v 2 − 2v 2 cos θ ​

= 2v 2 (1 − cos θ) ​

Use identity: 1 − cos θ = 2 sin2 θ

2
​

θ
= 2v 2 ⋅ 2 sin2
2
​ ​

θ
= 2v sin
2
​

Final Answer
θ
2v sin
2
​ ​

Question 16:
The output voltage V0 for the circuit shown in the figure is:
​

(Operational amplifier assumed ideal.)

Options:
1) V1 − 2V2
​ ​ 2) V1 − V2 ​ ​

18
3) V2 − V1
​ ​ 4) 2(V1 − V2 ) ​ ​

Solution:
Ideal Op-Amp Properties
For an ideal op-amp with negative feedback:
Input currents are zero
V− = V+ (virtual short condition)
​ ​

Non-inverting Terminal Voltage

At the (+) input:
There is a voltage divider:
From V1 through R ​

To ground through R
Thus,
R 1
V+ = V1 = V1
R+R 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Inverting Terminal Analysis

Since V− = V+ = ​ ​

2 ,
V1 ​

Apply KCL at the inverting node.

V2 − V− V0 − V−
+ =0
​ ​ ​ ​

5R 5R
​ ​

V2 − V− + V0 − V− = 0
​ ​ ​ ​

V0 = 2V− − V2
​ ​

Substitute V− = ​
V1
2
​

: ​

V0 = V1 − V2
​ ​ ​

Final Answer
V1 − V2 ​ ​ ​

Note:-
This circuit is as a differential amplifier with unity gain due to symmetric 5R resistors in the
inverting branch and equal R resistors in the non-inverting divider. So the answer is V0 = ​

V1 − V2
​ ​

19
Question 17:
An observer Oˉ (tˉ, xˉ) moves with a constant velocity in the positive x-direction relative to an
observer O(t, x) at rest.
In the frame of reference of Oˉ (tˉ, xˉ), a light-ray emitted at a point P at some instant reaches
the xˉ-axis at point Q. Then, on reflection it arrives at point R, as shown in the figure.

Which of the following options represents these events as observed by O(t, x)?
Options:
1) 2)

3) 4)

Solution:
Key Principles
The two frames are related by a Lorentz transformation
The moving frame Oˉ has:
ˉ-axis tilted in the (t, x) diagram
x
tˉ-axis tilted symmetrically
Light rays always satisfy x = ±ct and therefore appear at 45∘ in both frames
Important Observations
1. Light paths remain at 45°: In all inertial frames, light worldlines in spacetime diagrams
make 45∘ angles with the axes (in units where c = 1).

20
2. Moving frame axes tilt:
ˉ-axis tilts upward (since frame moves in +x direction)
x
tˉ-axis tilts rightward
3. Reflection preserves symmetry: The reflection must preserve the symmetry of the light
cone structure.
Analysis in Frame O
The correct diagram must show:
Light rays at 45∘ angles
ˉ-axis tilted upward
x
tˉ-axis tilted rightward
Event ordering preserved: emission at P, reflection at Q, arrival at R
The reflection off the xˉ-axis must maintain the light cone structure
Among the given options, only Option 3 satisfies all Lorentz transformation properties
correctly.

Final Answer
Option 3 ​

Question 18:
Consider a multilayered structure composed of thin films of refractive indices n0 , n1 , n2 as
​ ​ ​

shown in the figure. A ray traveling in the first layer hits the interface at an angle of 20∘ with
the horizontal.
Which of the following options is correct?

Options:
1) The ray would not enter the 3rd layer 2) The ray emerges at an angle of 44∘ with the
horizontal in the 4th layer
3) The ray emerges at an angle of 56∘ with the 4) The ray emerges at an angle of 20∘ with the
horizontal in the 4th layer horizontal in the 4th layer

21
Solution:
The given angle 20∘ is with the horizontal, meaning it is the angle with the interface surface.
Thus the angle of incidence with the normal is:

θ1 = 90∘ − 20∘ = 70∘

​

From Layer 1 → Layer 2

Using Snell's law:

n0 sin θ1 = n1 sin θ2
​ ​ ​ ​

1.45 sin 70∘ = 1.95 sin θ2 ​

1.45(0.94) = 1.95 sin θ2 ​

1.363 = 1.95 sin θ2 ​

sin θ2 = 0.699
​

θ2 ≈ 44∘
​

From Layer 2 → Layer 3

Apply Snell's law at the interface between layers 2 and 3:

1.95 sin 44∘ = 1.33 sin θ3 ​

1.95(0.694) = 1.33 sin θ3 ​

1.353 = 1.33 sin θ3 ​

sin θ3 ≈ 1.017
​

Since sin θ3 > 1, which is physically impossible:

​

Total internal reflection occurs ​

So the ray does not enter the 3rd layer.

Final Answer
The ray would not enter the 3rd layer ​

Question 19:
Which ONE of the following figures correctly represents the probability density P (x) of a
particle undergoing simple harmonic oscillation as a function of position x?

22
The dashed line represents the classical case. The solid line represents the quantum case,
where the system is in its ground state. The dotted vertical lines denote the classical turning
points.
Options:
1) 2)

3) 4)

Solution:
Classical Probability Density (Dashed Line)
Behavior: A classical particle spends the most time near the turning points because its
velocity is lowest there (zero at x = ±A).
Graph: Consequently, the probability density Pclassical (x) is highest at the turning points
​

and lowest at the equilibrium position (x = 0) where the particle moves fastest.
Shape: It appears as a "U-shaped" curve with vertical asymptotes at the turning points.
Quantum Probability Density - Ground State (Solid Line)
Behavior: In the quantum mechanical ground state (n = 0), the wavefunction is a
Gaussian centered at the origin.
Graph: The probability density ∣ψ0 (x)∣2 is also a Gaussian that peaks at the center (x =
​

0).
Forbidden Region: Unlike the classical case, the quantum probability density remains
non-zero beyond the classical turning points due to quantum tunneling.
Among the given options, only Option 2 satisfies all these conditions.

Final Answer
Option 2 ​

23
Conceptual Summary
Classical SHM → probability large near turning points.
Quantum ground state → Gaussian centered at equilibrium with finite tails outside classical
region.

Question 20:
Consider the circuit shown. The voltage VC , in volts, is:
​

Options:
1) 0 2) 1.25
3) 10 4) 9.8

Solution:
The transistor is an NPN BJT.
Given:
Base is grounded → VB = 0
​

For conduction, VBE ≈ 0.7 V

​

Check whether Transistor Can Turn ON

For NPN to conduct:

VBE = VB − VE ≈ 0.7 V
​ ​ ​

Since VB = 0,
​

0 − VE = 0.7 ​

⇒ VE = −0.7 V
​

But the emitter is connected to ground through RE . ​

There is no negative supply in the circuit.

24
Thus:

VE ≥ 0
​

So VBE cannot become positive.

​

Therefore:

Transistor is OFF ​

Collector Voltage
If transistor is OFF:
No collector current
No drop across RC ​

Thus:

VC = 10 V
​

Final Answer
10 ​

Conceptual Shortcut
If base is grounded and emitter has no negative supply:
VBE cannot reach 0.7 V
​

Transistor remains OFF

Collector stays at supply voltage

Question 21:
A series LCR circuit contains L = 175 mH, C = 62.5 μF, R = 40 Ω and is connected
to a source of voltage amplitude E0 = 50 V with angular frequency ω = 400 rad/s.
​

Which of the following statements is correct?

1) The magnitude of the maximum voltage 2) The magnitude of the maximum voltage
across the capacitor is more than 60 V across the resistor is 50 V
3) The magnitude of the maximum voltage 4) The magnitude of the maximum voltage
across the inductor is less than 50 V across the capacitor equals the maximum
voltage across the resistor

Solution:
Reactances
Inductive reactance:

25
 XL = ωL = 400 × 0.175 = 70 Ω
​

Capacitive reactance:
1 1 1
XC = = = = 40 Ω
400 × 62.5 × 10 −6 0.025
​ ​ ​ ​

ωC

Net Impedance
Net reactance:

X = XL − XC = 70 − 40 = 30 Ω
​ ​

Impedance:

Z= R2 + X 2 =
​ 402 + 302 = ​ 1600 + 900 =
​ 2500 = 50 Ω
​

Current Amplitude
E0 50
I0 = = = 1A
​

50
​ ​ ​

Z
Voltages Across Components
Voltage across resistor:

VR = I0 R = 1 × 40 = 40 V
​ ​

Voltage across inductor:

VL = I0 XL = 1 × 70 = 70 V
​ ​ ​

Voltage across capacitor:

VC = I0 XC = 1 × 40 = 40 V
​ ​ ​

Check Statements
VC = 40 V → not more than 60 V ❌
❌
​

VR = 40 V → not 50 V
❌
​

VL = 70 V → not less than 50 V

✔
​

VC = VR = 40 V
​ ​

Final Answer
The magnitude... capacitor equals the maximum voltage across the resistor ​

26
Question 22:
A piecewise regular function f (x) is shown in the figure.
It is expanded in a Fourier series as:
∞ ∞
a0
f (x) = + ∑ an cos(nx) + ∑ bn sin(nx),
​

2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

n=1 n=1

where a0 , an , bn are the Fourier coefficients.

​ ​ ​

Which of the following options is correct?

1) a0 = 3π
​ 2) All bn are zero
​

3) All an are zero 3π

​

4) a0 =
2
​ ​

Solution:
Step 1: Analyze the Function
From the graph:
The function is periodic with period 2π
It is a sawtooth-like function
It is odd about the origin
That is,

f (−x) = −f (x)

Step 2: Key Fourier Property

If f (x) is odd, then:
a0 = 0
​

All cosine coefficients an = 0​

Only sine terms survive

This follows because:

27
 π
∫ ​ f (x) cos(nx) dx = 0
−π

when f (x) is odd and cos(nx) is even.

Step 3: Therefore

a0 = 0, an = 0 and, bn =
​ ​

0 ​

Final Answer
All an are zero
​ ​

Conceptual Shortcut
Always check symmetry first.
Even function → only cosine terms
Odd function → only sine terms
Neither → both terms present
The graph is antisymmetric about the origin → pure sine series.

Question 23:
Consider a BCC lattice with one atom per lattice point.
The maximum packing fraction is close to:
1) 81 % 2) 68 %
3) 53 % 4) 74 %

Solution:
Standard packing fractions:
SC → 52%
BCC → 68%
FCC / HCP → 74%

Final Answer
68% ​

Question 24:
(E , B ) are the electric and magnetic fields in a rest frame.
(E ′ , B ′ ) represent the corresponding quantities in a frame moving with constant velocity v0 .
​

28
Using the invariance of Lorentz force F = q E + q v × B under Galilean transformations,
identify the correct relation.
1) E ′ = E and v × B ′ = (v + v0 ) × B
​
2) E ′ = E + v0 × B and B ′ = B
​

3) E ′ = v0 × B and v × B ′ = E + v × B
​
4) E ′ = E and B ′ = B

Solution:

Under Galilean transformation

v ′ = v − v0 ​

The Lorentz force must be invariant:

qE + qv × B = qE ′ + qv′ × B ′

Substitute v ′ = v − v0 :​

E + v × B = E ′ + (v − v 0 ) × B ′ ​

Expand the right side:

E + v × B = E ′ + v × B ′ − v0 × B ′ ​

For equality to hold for arbitrary v , compare coefficients:

Coefficient of v :

B = B′

Constant terms:

E = E ′ − v0 × B ′
​

Since B ′ = B :

E ′ = E + v0 × B ​

Final Answer
E ′ = E + v0 × B ,
​
B′ = B ​

Conceptual Insight
Under Galilean transformations:
Magnetic field remains unchanged

29
 Electric field gains an additional term v0 × B
​

This reflects that magnetism appears due to motion relative to charges.

Question 25:
The speed of an object of mass 20 kg increases from 2 m/s to 6 m/s in 10 s.
The power required, in Watts, is:
1) 54 2) 64
3) 72 4) 32

Solution:
Power equals rate of change of kinetic energy.
ΔK
Pavg =
Δt
​ ​

Change in Kinetic Energy

1
ΔK = m(v22 − v12 )
2
​ ​ ​

1
= (20)(62 − 22 )
2
​

= 320 J

Power
320
P = = 32 W
10
​

Final Answer
32 ​

Question 26:
Consider a 2 × 2 matrix A. The determinant of A is −1 and the trace(A) = 1.
Which of the following options gives the eigenvalues of A?
5 5 1+ 5 1− 5
1) 2
,
​

​ 1− 2
​

​ 2) 2
, 2 ​

​
​

3) 1+ 5 1− 5
4
, 4​

​
​

​
4) 1, 0

Solution:

30
For a 2 × 2 matrix:
Sum of eigenvalues = trace
Product of eigenvalues = determinant
1+ 5 1− 5
Only 2
​

​, 2 ​

​ satisfies.

Final Answer
1+ 5 1− 5
,
​ ​

2 2
​ ​ ​

Question 27:
A quantum particle of mass 10−20 kg is confined within a length of 1 nm in one dimension.
The minimum uncertainty in the measurement of velocity of the particle, in units of μm/s,
rounded off to the nearest integer, is:
[Assume the minimum uncertainty product Δx Δpx ≈ ​
ℏ
2
​ and use Planck's constant h =
6.64 × 10−34 Js ]

1) 10 2) 1
3) 5 4) 2

Solution:
Uncertainty Principle
ℏ
ΔxΔp ≈
2
​

Since: Δp = m Δv
we get:
ℏ
Δv =
2mΔx
​

Substitute Values

h 6.64 × 10−34
ℏ= = ≈ 1.06 × 10−34 Js
2π 2π
​ ​

Δx = 1 nm = 10−9 m

m = 10−20 kg

Thus:

31
 1.06 × 10−34
Δv =
2 × 10−20 × 10−9
​

1.06 × 10−34
=
2 × 10−29
​

= 5.3 × 10−6 m/s

Convert to μm/s

1 μm/s = 10−6 m/s

5.3 × 10−6 m/s = 5.3 μm/s

Rounded:

Δv = 5

Final Answer
5 ​

Question 28:
A particle of mass m moves in a potential given by

ky 5
V (x, y, z) = − 2
x + y2 + z2
​

where k is a constant.
Which of the following statements is correct?
1) The force corresponding to the potential is 2) Angular momentum of the system is not
central conserved
3) Energy of the system is not conserved 4) Linear momentum along the y -direction is
conserved

Solution:
The force is given by:

F = −∇V

Is the Force Central?

A central force depends only on r = x2 + y 2 + z 2 . ​

Here,

32
 ky 5
V =−
r2
​

The potential explicitly depends on y (direction dependent), not just on r.

Thus, the force is not central.
So option 1 is false.
Is Angular Momentum Conserved?
Angular momentum is conserved if the force is central (i.e., torque is zero).
Since the force is not central:

τ =r×F =
0

Thus angular momentum is not conserved.

Option 2 is true.
Is Energy Conserved?
The potential has no explicit time dependence.
Therefore total mechanical energy is conserved.
So option 3 is false.
Is Linear Momentum Along y Conserved?
Momentum in a direction is conserved if potential does not shift with shifting that coordinate
by a constant value ..
But the potential depends strongly on shift in y .
Thus momentum along y is not conserved.
Option 4 is false.

Final Answer
Angular momentum of the system is not conserved ​

Question 29:
A mass attached to the bottom end of a vertical massless spring stretches the spring by Δx.
The system executes oscillation with a time period T = 0.2 s Find Δx (in cm), rounded to the
nearest integer.
Assume g = 9.8 m/s2 .
1) 3 2) 4
3) 1 4) 2

33
Solution:
For a vertical spring:
At equilibrium:

mg = kΔx

Also, time period:

m
T = 2π ​ ​

m/k in terms of Δx
From equilibrium:
mg
k=
Δx
​

So,
m m Δx
=
​
= ​ ​

k mg/Δx g

Substitute into Period Formula

Δx
T = 2π ​ ​

Square both sides:

Δx
T 2 = 4π 2 ​

gT 2
Δx =
4π 2
​

Substitute Values

9.8 × (0.2)2
Δx =
4π 2
​

9.8 × 0.04 0.392

= = ≈ 0.00993 m
39.48 39.48
​ ​

≈ 0.99 cm ≈ 1 cm

Final Answer
1 ​

34
Question 30:
Using Taylor series, expand f (x) = x3 − 18 around x0 = 1 up to second order in x.
​ ​

The coefficient of x is:

1) -3 2) -2
3) 2 4) 3

Solution:
Taylor expansion about x0 = 1:​

f ′′ (1)
f (x) = f (1) + f ′ (1)(x − 1) + (x − 1)2
2
​

Compute Derivatives and Evaluate at x = 1

1 7
f (x) = x3 − ∣x=1 =
8 8
​ ​ ​

f ′ (x) = 3x2 ∣x=1 = 3 ​

f ′′ (x) = 6x∣x=1 = 6 ​

Write Expansion
7 6
f (x) = + 3(x − 1) + (x − 1)2
8 2
​ ​

7
= + 3(x − 1) + 3(x − 1)2
8
​

7
= + 3x − 3 + 3x2 − 6x + 3
8
​

Now sum of Coefficient of x:

3x − 6x = −3x

So coefficient of x is: -3

Final Answer
−3 ​

Question 31:
Consider a particle of mass m in a rotating frame.
The force acting on the particle is expressed as

35
 F = (F1 + F2 ) e^r + (F3 + F4 ) e^θ
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

where e^r and e^θ are the radial and angular unit vectors, respectively, and
​ ​

F1 = mr̈,
​ F2 = −mrθ̇2 ,
​ F3 = mrθ̈,
​ F4 = 2mṙθ̇
​

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

1) F2 and F4 are fictitious forces
​ ​ 2) e^r and e^θ are not constant unit vectors
​ ​

3) F1 and F2 are zero in uniform circular

​ ​ 4) F1 and F3 are fictitious forces
​ ​

motion

Solution:
Since the particle is described in a rotating frame, additional inertial (fictitious) forces appear.
In a rotating frame with angular velocity Ω, the fictitious forces are:
Centrifugal force
Coriolis force
Now compare with the given terms.
Interpretation of the Terms
From polar-coordinate dynamics in a rotating frame:

F2 = −mrθ̇2
​

This corresponds to the centrifugal force (radial, outward).

F4 = 2mṙθ̇ ​

This corresponds to the Coriolis force.

Thus:

F2 and F4 are fictitious forces.

​ ​

Statement 1 is correct.
Unit Vectors
The polar unit vectors satisfy:
de^r de^θ
= θ̇e^θ , = −θ̇e^r
​ ​

​ ​ ​ ​

dt dt
Hence they are not constant in direction.
Statement 2 is correct.
Uniform Circular Motion

36
For uniform circular motion:

r = constant

So:

ṙ = 0, r̈ = 0

Thus:

F1 = 0
​

But:

F2 = −mrθ̇2 =
0
​

So statement 3 is false.
Statement 4
F1 and F3 are components of real acceleration, not fictitious forces.
​ ​

So statement 4 is false.

Final Answer
Statements 1 and 2 are correct ​

Question 32:
A charge Q is distributed uniformly on the surface of a sphere of radius R.
It is placed inside a concentric conducting hollow sphere of radius 2R. The outer sphere is
earthed.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1) The flux through a closed surface through 2) The charge on the inner surface of the
the material of the outer sphere is εQ0
​
​ outer sphere is −Q

3) The potential at a radial distance r between 4) The charge on the outer surface of the
the two spheres, R < r < 2R, is 4πε 1 Q
0 r ​
outer sphere is zero
​ ​

Solution:
Induced Charges
Inside the conducting material, E = 0.
By Gauss's law:

Q + qinner = 0 ⇒ qinner = −Q ​ ​

37
Since the outer sphere is grounded, any excess charge flows to earth:

qouter = 0 ​

Thus, statements 2 and 4 are correct.

Flux Through Conductor
Inside the conductor, E = 0.
Hence flux through a Gaussian surface in the material is zero.
Statement 1 is false.
Potential Between the Spheres
For R < r < 2R:

1
( − )
Q Q
V (r) =
4πε0 r 2R
​ ​ ​

So it is not simply Q
4πε0 r
.
​
​

Statement 3 is false.

Final Answer
Statements 2 and 4 are correct ​

Question 33:
In the circuit shown, the Zener voltage VZ = 20 V and the maximum Zener current IZ,max =
​ ​

60 mA.
For what value(s) of the input voltage Vi is the Zener diode in the ON state?
​

Given:
Series resistor R = 220Ω
Load resistor RL = 1.2 kΩ
​

Options:
1) 35 V 2) 25 V
3) 20 V 4) 40 V

38
Solution:
When the Zener diode is ON, it maintains a constant voltage VZ = 20 V across itself and the ​

parallel load resistor RL . ​

VZ
IL =
​

​ ​

RL ​

20
IL =
1200
​ ​

IL = 16.67 mA
​

Minimum Input Voltage (Zener just turns ON)

Why do we assume IZ ≈ 0 at the threshold?
​

The Zener diode is considered "ON" once it enters the breakdown region. At the threshold (
Vi,min ), we assume the Zener current IZ ≈ 0.
​ ​

So, at the threshold of conduction:

IZ = 0 ​

So only current flowing through is load current:

IR = IL ​ ​

Vi − 20
= 0.01667
​

220
​

Vi − 20 = 3.67
​

Vi,min = 23.67 V ​

Maximum Input Voltage (Zener at max current)

Maximum Zener current:

IZ = 60 mA ​

Total current through series resistor:

IR = IL + IZ ​ ​ ​

IR = 16.67 + 60
​

IR = 76.67 mA ​

Voltage drop across series resistor:

VR = IR × R ​ ​

39
 VR = 0.07667 × 220
​

VR = 16.87 V
​

Maximum input voltage:

Vi,max = VZ + VR
​ ​ ​

Vi,max = 20 + 16.87
​

Vi,max = 36.87 V
​

Range:

23.67 V ≤ Vi ≤ 36.87 V ​

Final Answer
25 V and 35 V ​

Question 34:
A ball of mass m climbs the potential U (x) = − 12 kx2 as shown in the figure. Assuming that
​

the total energy of the system E = 12 mv 2 + U (x) is conserved, which of the following
​

correctly describe(s) the plot of velocity v as a function of position x of the system for E < 0
?

1) 2)

3) 4)

40
Solution:
Write Energy Equation
1 1
E= mv 2 − kx2
2 2
​ ​

Rearrange:
1 1
mv 2 = E + kx2
2 2
​ ​

2E k
v2 = + x2
​ ​

m m
Since E < 0
Let E = −∣E∣

k 2 2∣E∣
v2 = x −
​ ​

m m
This is of the form:

v 2 = ax2 − b

Final Answer
Hyperbola ​

Question 35:
Which of the following statements is/are true for a first order phase transition?
[Cp is the molar heat capacity, Tc is the critical temperature and S is the entropy]
​ ​

Options:
1) Entropy changes discontinuously with 2) The two thermodynamic states between
temperature at Tc ​ which the transition takes place are distinct
3) At the transition point Cp → ∞
​ 4) The derivative of the Gibbs function with
respect to pressure changes continuously
across the phase transition

Solution:
Key Properties of First-Order Phase Transition
First derivative of Gibbs free energy is discontinuous

41
 Entropy: S = − ( ∂G )
∂T P
​ ​

Volume: V = ( ∂G )
∂P T
​ ​

Latent heat is present

Phases are distinct
Statement-wise Analysis
Statement 1: Entropy changes discontinuously at Tc
✔ True
​

Entropy is a first derivative of Gibbs free energy.

In first-order transitions, first derivatives are discontinuous.
Statement 2: The two thermodynamic states are distinct
✔ True
Examples: solid–liquid, liquid–gas.
They differ in density, entropy, structure.
Statement 3: At transition point Cp → ∞ ​

✘ False

Divergence of heat capacity occurs in second-order transitions.

First-order transitions involve latent heat, not infinite Cp . ​

Statement 4: ∂G
∂P changes continuously
​

✘ False

∂G
( ) =V
∂P T
​ ​

Volume changes discontinuously in a first-order transition.

Hence derivative is discontinuous.

Final Answer
Statements 1 and 2 are correct ​

Question 36:
Consider an ideal gas of entropy S , molar specific heat Cv , pressure P and volume V .
​

Which of the following options is/are true?

1) S = 0 2) Internal energy of the gas depends only on
the temperature

42
3) Internal energy of the gas depends both on 4) S ∝ ln V , assuming Cv is constant
​

temperature and pressure

Solution:
Relevant Thermodynamic Relations for an Ideal Gas
1. Internal Energy
For an ideal gas:

U = U (T )

There are no intermolecular forces, so internal energy depends only on temperature.

2. Entropy (for constant Cv )​

S = Cv ln T + R ln V + constant
​

Statement-wise Evaluation
(1) S = 0
✘ False
Entropy is not generally zero. It depends on T and V .
Only at absolute zero (ideal case) may entropy approach zero.
(2) Internal energy depends only on temperature
✔ True
This is a defining property of an ideal gas.
(3) Internal energy depends on temperature and pressure
✘ False
Pressure does not independently affect internal energy in an ideal gas.
(4) S ∝ ln V , assuming Cv constant
​

From:

S = Cv ln T + R ln V + constant
​

At constant temperature:

S ∝ ln V

✔ True
Final Answer
Options 2 and 4 ​

43
Question 37:
The events are represented by coordinates (ct, x, y, z) in some frame of reference. Which of
the following statements is/are correct?
[c is the speed of light]
Options:
1) Events (−10, 0, 1, −1) and (−9, 1, −1, −1) 2) Events (9, −1, 1, −1) and (−10, 10, 0, −1)
are light-like separated are time-like separated
3) Events (1, 0, −10, 1) and (−1, 1, −9, 1) 4) Events (−1, 0, −9, 1) and (1, 1, −10, 1)
are space-like separated are space-like separated

Solution:
Use the invariant spacetime interval:

Δs2 = (Δct)2 − Δx2 − Δy 2 − Δz 2

Δs2 > 0 → Time-like separation

Δs2 = 0 → Light-like separation
Δs2 < 0 → Space-like separation
Evaluate Option 1
Points: (−10, 0, 1, −1) and (−9, 1, −1, −1)
So:

Δs2 = 12 − (12 + (−2)2 + 02 ) = 1 − 5 = −4

Negative → Space-like
✘ Not light-like

Evaluate Option 2
Points: (9, −1, 1, −1) and (−10, 10, 0, −1)
So:

Δs2 = (−19)2 − (112 + (−1)2 + 02 ) = 361 − 122 = 239

Positive → Time-like
✔ Correct
Evaluate Option 3
Points: (1, 0, −10, 1) and (−1, 1, −9, 1)
So:

Δs2 = (−2)2 − (12 + 12 + 02 ) = 4 − 2 = 2

44
Positive → Time-like
✘ Not space-like

Evaluate Option 4
Points: (−1, 0, −9, 1) and (1, 1, −10, 1)
So:

Δs2 = 22 − (12 + (−1)2 + 02 ) = 4 − 2 = 2

Positive → Time-like
✘ Not space-like

Final Answer
Only Option 2 is correct ​

Question 38:
Two small circular copper loops P and Q of radii R1 and R2 , respectively, are coaxially
​ ​

placed along the x-axis. The separation between them is s, where s ≫ R1 , R2 .

​ ​

Loop Q carries a steady current I and is moving away along the x-axis with speed v .
Which of the following statements is/are correct?

1 2) The emf induced in loop P ∝ v 2

1) The magnetic field at the center of P ∝
s2
​

1 1
3) The magnetic flux through loop P ∝ 2 4) The emf induced in loop P ∝ 4
​ ​

s s

Solution:
Magnetic Dipole Approximation
Since s ≫ R1 , R2 , loop Q behaves like a magnetic dipole.
​ ​

Magnetic dipole moment:

m = IπR22 ​

45
Magnetic Field at Center of Loop P
Magnetic field on the axis of a dipole at distance s:
m 1
B∝ 3
∝ 3
​ ​

s s
Option 1 claims ∝ 1/s2 , which is incorrect.
✘ Option 1 false

Magnetic Flux Through Loop P

The magnetic flux through loop P is:

Φ = B × Area of P

Since the area of loop P is constant:

1
Φ∝B∝
s3
​

Option 3 claims ∝ 1/s2 , which is incorrect.

✘ Option 3 false
Induced EMF in Loop P
The induced emf is given by Faraday's law:
dΦ
E =− ​

dt
Since flux depends on separation s = s(t), apply the chain rule:
dΦ dΦ ds
​
= ⋅ ​ ​

dt ds dt
Given Φ ∝ s−3 :
dΦ 3
∝− 4
​ ​

ds s
Since the loop is moving with speed v :
ds
=v
​

dt
Therefore:
dΦ v
E =− ∝ 4 ​ ​

dt s
Evaluate remaining options:

46
 Option 2:
E ∝ v 2 → incorrect (emf is proportional to v , not v 2 )
✘ Option 2 false

Option 4:
E ∝ 1/s4 → correct (when considering proportionality with respect to s at constant v )
✔ Option 4 true
Final Answer
Option 4 only ​

Question 40:
An LC oscillator circuit contains a capacitor of 4.0 μF . The maximum potential difference
across the capacitor is 2 V and the maximum current through the inductor is 80 mA.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1) The maximum potential difference across 2) The value of inductance is 2.5 mH
the inductor is 2.0 V
3) The time for the charge in the capacitor to 4) The frequency of oscillator is 3.2 kHz
rise from zero to the maximum is nearly
0.157 ms

Solution:
Use Energy Conservation in LC Circuit
Maximum energy in capacitor:
1
E= CV 2
2 max
​ ​

Maximum energy in inductor:

1 2
E= LI
2 max
​ ​

Equating:
1 1
CV 2 = LI 2
2 2
​ ​

CV 2
L=
I2
​

Substitute:

47
 C = 4 × 10−6 F , V = 2 V and I = 0.08 A

4 × 10−6 × 4
L=
(0.08)2
​

L = 2.5 × 10−3 H = 2.5 mH

✔ Option 2 correct
Frequency
1
ω= ​

LC ​

LC = (2.5 × 10−3 )(4 × 10−6 ) = 10−8

⇒ ω = 104 rad/s

ω 104
f= =
2π 2π
​ ​

f ≈ 1590 Hz

Not 3.2 kHz .

✘ Option 4 false

Time from Zero Charge to Maximum Charge

That is a quarter period:
2π
T = ​

ω
2π
T =
104
​

T ≈ 6.28 × 10−4 s

T /4 = 1.57 × 10−4 s

T /4 = 0.157 ms

✔ Option 3 correct
Maximum Voltage Across Inductor
In an ideal LC circuit, maximum voltage across inductor equals maximum voltage across
capacitor.
✔ Option 1 correct
Final Answer

48
 Options 1, 2 and 3 ​

Question 41:
The first order Bragg peak for (100) plane of a material with simple cubic structure is
measured using an X-ray of wavelength 1 Å. If the lattice constant is 5 Å then the Bragg peak
is observed at an angle, in degrees, .
(Rounded off to two decimal places)

Solution:
Interplanar Spacing for (100) Plane
For a simple cubic lattice:
a
dhkl =
h2 + k 2 + l2
​ ​

For (100):
a
d100 = = a = 5 Å
1
​ ​

Bragg's Law

nλ = 2d sin θ

For first order: n = 1, putting n and λ

1 = 2 × 5 sin θ

sin θ = 0.1

⇒ θ ≈ 5.74∘

Final Answer
5.74∘ ​

Question 42:
A particle of mass 10−20 kg is moving along a circular orbit of radius 1 mm. The speed of the
particle corresponds to the average thermal energy at temperature 10−6 K. Assuming the
Bohr's angular momentum quantization condition, the quantum number of the circular path of
the particle is .
(Answer in integer)
Use h = 6.64 × 10−34 J s and kB = 1.38 × 10−23 J/K
​

49
Solution:
Average thermal kinetic energy:
1 3
mv 2 = kB T
2 2
​ ​ ​

mv 2 = 3kB T ​

Substitute:

m = 10−20 kg, T = 10−6 K and kB = 1.38 × 10−23 J/K​

mv 2 = 3(1.38 × 10−23 )(10−6 )

mv 2 = 4.14 × 10−29

4.14 × 10−29
v2 =
10−20
​

v 2 = 4.14 × 10−9

v ≈ 6.43 × 10−5 m/s

Angular Momentum

L = mvr

Given:

r = 1 mm = 10−3 m

L = (10−20 )(6.43 × 10−5 )(10−3 )

L = 6.43 × 10−28 kg m2 /s

Bohr Quantization
Bohr's angular momentum quantization condition:

L = nℏ

where:

h 6.64 × 10−34
ℏ= =
2π 6.28
​ ​

ℏ ≈ 1.06 × 10−34 Js

Solving for quantum number n:

50
 L
n=
ℏ
​

6.43 × 10−28
n=
1.06 × 10−34
​

n ≈ 6.07 × 106

Final Answer
6 × 106 ​

Nearest integer: 6000000

Question 43:
Two thermodynamic systems separated by a diathermic wall have the equations of state:
3 5
U1 = RN1 T1 and U2 = RN2 T2
2 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

where R is the gas constant. N1 , N2 and T1 , T2 are the mole numbers and the temperature of
​ ​ ​ ​

the two systems, respectively. If composite system in equilibrium has total energy 1.5 × 103
Joule. If N1 = 3 and N2 = 2, then the internal energy U1 of the system one is .
​ ​ ​

(Answer in integer)

Solution:
Since the wall is diathermic, at equilibrium:

T1 = T2 = T
​ ​

Write Total Energy

Utotal = U1 + U2 ​ ​ ​

3 5
Where, U1 = RN1 T , U2 = RN2 T
2 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Substitute N1 = 3, N2 = 2:
​ ​

3 9
U1 = R(3)T = RT
2 2
​ ​ ​

5
U2 = R(2)T = 5RT
2
​ ​

Total Energy
9
Utotal = RT + 5RT
2
​ ​

51
 19
= RT
2
​

Given:
19
RT = 1.5 × 103
2
​

Find U1 ​

We know:
9
U1 = RT
2
​ ​

So:
9
U1 2
RT 9
= =
​
​

19
19
​ ​ ​

Utotal ​

2 RT
​

9
U1 = × 1500
19
​ ​

U1 ≈ 710.53 ​

Final Answer
711 ​

Question 44:
Consider an ensemble of hydrogen gas. The temperature, in K, at which the rms speed of the
hydrogen molecule is twice the rms speed of the molecule at 300 K is .
(Answer in integer)

Solution:
RMS Speed Formula
The rms speed of a gas molecule is given by:

3kB T
vrms =
​

​ ​ ​

where kB is Boltzmann constant, T is temperature, and m is molecular mass.

​

Thus:

vrms ∝ ​
T ​

Given Condition

52
We are told:

vrms (T ) = 2 vrms (300)

​ ​

Using the proportionality:

T = 2 300
​ ​

Solve for T
Square both sides:

T = 4 × 300

T = 1200 K

Final Answer
1200 ​

Question 45:
Considering the diameter of the pupil of a human eye to be 2 mm, the angular resolution of
the eye at a wavelength of 500 nm, in minute of arc, is .
(Rounded off to two decimal places)

Solution:
Rayleigh Criterion for Circular Aperture
The angular resolution is given by:
λ
θ = 1.22 ​

D
where:

λ = 500 nm = 5 × 10−7 m

D = 2 mm = 2 × 10−3 m

Compute Angle in Radians

5 × 10−7
θ = 1.22 ×
2 × 10−3
​

θ = 1.22 × 2.5 × 10−4

θ = 3.05 × 10−4 radians

53
Using the conversion: 1 radian = 57.3∘

θ = 3.05 × 10−4 × 57.3

θ ≈ 0.0175∘

Convert to Minutes of Arc

Since:

1∘ = 60 minutes

θ = 0.0175 × 60 ≈ 1.05 minutes

Final Answer
1.05

Question 46:
The value of (1 − i 3)3 is .
​

(Answer in integer)

Solution:
Let

z =1−i 3 ​

Write in polar form

Magnitude:

∣z∣ = 1 2 + ( 3 )2 = 2
​

Argument:

− 3 π
tan θ = ⇒θ=−
​

1 3
​ ​

So,
π π
z = 2 (cos (− ) + i sin (− ))
3 3
​ ​

Step 2: Raise to power 3

Using De Moivre's theorem:

z 3 = 23 (cos(−π) + i sin(−π))

54
 = 8(−1 + 0i) = −8

Final Answer
−8 ​

Question 47:
Light of wavelength 500 nm is incident on the surface of Na metal for photoelectric emission.
The corresponding threshold wavelength is 600 nm. The maximum kinetic energy of the
emitted electron, in eV, is .
(Rounded off to two decimal places)
Use: h = 6.625 × 10−34 Js, c = 3 × 108 m/s
Charge of electron e = 1.6 × 10−19 C

Solution:
Photoelectric Equation

Kmax = hν − ϕ
​

Since:
hc
ϕ= ​

λ0 ​

We can write:
1 1
Kmax = hc (
​ − ) ​ ​

λ λ0 ​

Substitute ValuesCompute Bracket Term

λ = 500 nm = 5 × 10−7 m

λ0 = 600 nm = 6 × 10−7 m
​

hc = (6.625 × 10−34 )(3 × 108 )

hc = 1.9875 × 10−25 Jm

1
= 2 × 106
5 × 10−7
​

1
−7
= 1.667 × 106
6 × 10
​

Difference = 0.333 × 106 = 3.33 × 105

55
Calculate Energy in Joules

Kmax = (1.9875 × 10−25 )(3.33 × 105 )

​

Kmax ≈ 6.62 × 10−20 J ​

Convert to eV

6.62 × 10−20
Kmax =
1.6 × 10−19
​ ​

Kmax ≈ 0.41 eV ​

Final Answer
0.41

Question 48:
An OP-AMP has differential gain Ad = 4000, two input voltages V1 = 120 μV and V2 =
​ ​ ​

80 μV, and CMRR = 100. The output voltage, in mV, is .

(Answer in integer)

Solution:Basic Op-Amp Output Formula

For a practical op-amp:

Vo = Ad Vd + Ac Vc
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

where

Vd = V1 − V2
​ ​ ​ (differential voltage)

V1 + V2
Vc = (common-mode voltage)
​ ​

2
​ ​

and
Ad
CMRR =
​

Ac ​

Calculate Differential Voltage

Vd = 120 − 80 = 40 μV
​

Vd = 40 × 10−6 V
​

Calculate Common-Mode Voltage

56
 120 + 80
Vc = = 100 μV
2
​ ​

Vc = 100 × 10−6 V
​

Find Common-Mode Gain

Ad
Ac =
​

CMRR
​ ​

4000
Ac = = 40
100
​ ​

Output Due to Differential Input

Ad Vd = 4000 × 40 × 10−6
​ ​

= 0.16 V

Output Due to Common-Mode Input

Ac Vc = 40 × 100 × 10−6
​ ​

= 0.004 V

Total Output Voltage

Vo = 0.16 + 0.004
​

Vo = 0.164 V
​

Convert to mV

Vo = 164 mV
​

Final Answer
164 ​

Question 49:
One mole of an ideal gas undergoes a reversible isothermal expansion from Vi = 1.5 × ​

10−5 m3 to Vf = 1.6 × 10−5 m3 at a temperature 273 K.

​

The amount of heat transfer during the process is αR, where R is the gas constant.
The value of α is .
(Rounded off to one decimal place)

Solution:

57
For a reversible isothermal expansion of an ideal gas:

Q = W = nRT ln ( )
Vf ​

Vi​

Given:

n = 1 and T = 273 K

Vf 1.6
= = 1.0667
​

1.5
​ ​

Vi​

Compute Logarithm

ln(1.0667) ≈ 0.0645

Compute Heat

Q = R ⋅ 273 ⋅ 0.0645

Q = R ⋅ 17.6

Thus,

α = 17.6

Final Answer
17.6

Question 50:
Consider a 10 mW laser beam focused using a biconvex lens to a circular spot of area
10−10 m2 . The magnitude of the electric field in the focal plane of the lens, in kV/m, is .
(Rounded off to one decimal place)
Use: ε0 = 8.854 × 10−12 C2 /(N ⋅ m2 ) and c = 3 × 108 m/s
​

Solution:
Intensity of the Beam
P
I= ​

A
Given:

P = 10 mW = 10−2 W

58
 A = 10−10 m2

10−2 2
∴I= = 108 W/m
10−10
​

Relation Between Intensity and Electric Field

For an electromagnetic wave:
1
I= ε0 cE 2
2
​ ​

Solve for E :

2I
E= ​ ​

ε0 c ​

Substitute Values

ε0 c = (8.854 × 10−12 )(3 × 108 ) = 2.6562 × 10−3

​

2I 2 × 108
= −3
≈ 7.53 × 1010
2.6562 × 10
​ ​

ε0 c​

E= 7.53 × 1010 ​

E ≈ 2.74 × 105 V/m

Convert to kV/m

E = 274.4 kV/m

Final Answer
274.4 ​

Question 51:
A uniform electric field of 70 V/m makes an angle of 60∘ with the positive x-axis, as shown
in the figure. The potential difference between the points P and Q which are 2 m and 3 m​

away from the origin, in Volts, is .

(Rounded off to one decimal place)

59
Solution:
For a uniform electric field:

V P − V Q = − E ⋅ (r P − r Q )
​ ​ ​ ​

Write Electric Field Components

E = 70 V/m

Ex = 70 cos 60∘ = 35
​

3
Ey = 70 sin 60∘ = 70 ⋅ = 35 3
​

2
​ ​ ​

So,

E = (35, 35 3) ​

Position Vectors

rP = (2, 0) ​

rQ = (0, 3)
​ ​

rP − rQ = (2, − 3)
​ ​ ​

Dot Product

E ⋅ (rP − rQ ) = (35)(2) + (35 3)(− 3)

​ ​ ​ ​

= 70 − 35(3)

= −35

Potential Difference

VP − VQ = −(−35)
​ ​

VP − VQ = 35 V ​ ​

60
Final Answer
35.0

Question 52:
An electron is accelerated through a potential of 200 V and then it passes through a slit of
width 1.0 nm held normal to the path of the electron. Assuming the uncertainty relation
ℏ
Δx Δpx ≈ ,
2
​ ​

maximum scattering angle of the electron after the slit is α × 10−3 radian.
The value of α is .
(Rounded off to nearest integer)
[Given ℏ = 1.054 × 10−34 J ⋅ s]

Solution:
Momentum of Electron After Acceleration
Kinetic energy gained:

p2
eV =
2m
​

⇒p= 2meV ​

Using:

m = 9.11 × 10−31 kg, e = 1.6 × 10−19 C and V = 200

p= 2(9.11 × 10−31 )(1.6 × 10−19 )(200) ​

= 5.83 × 10−47 ​

p ≈ 7.64 × 10−24 kg ⋅ m/s

Transverse Momentum Uncertainty

Slit width:

Δx = 1.0 nm = 10−9 m

Using uncertainty relation:

ℏ
Δpx ≈
2Δx
​ ​

61
 1.054 × 10−34
Δpx =
2 × 10−9
​ ​

Δpx = 5.27 × 10−26

​

Scattering Angle
For small angles:
Δpx
θ≈
​

5.27 × 10−26
θ=
7.64 × 10−24
​

θ ≈ 6.9 × 10−3 rad

Thus,

α≈7

Final Answer
7 ​

Question 53:
Muons are unstable relativistic particles created at high altitudes above the Earth, having a
lifetime of 2.2 × 10−6 s in their rest frame. As measured by an observer on the ground, the
minimum velocity muon requires to travel a distance of 6000 m is v . The value of v/c is .
(Rounded off to three decimal places)
Speed of light c = 3 × 108 m/s

Solution:
Time Dilation
Proper lifetime:

τ0 = 2.2 × 10−6 s
​

Dilated lifetime observed on Earth:

τ = γτ0 ​

where
1
γ=
1 − v 2 /c2
​

62
Condition to Reach Ground
To just reach 6000 m:

distance = vτ

6000 = v(γτ0 ) ​

6000 = vγ(2.2 × 10−6 )

Substitute v = βc

6000 = βcγ(2.2 × 10−6 )

Insert c = 3 × 108 :

6000 = β(3 × 108 )γ(2.2 × 10−6 )

6000 = βγ(660)

βγ = 9.09

Use Identity
1
γ=
1 − β2
​

β
βγ = = 9.09
1 − β2
​

Square both sides:

β2
= 82.64
1 − β2
​

β 2 = 82.64(1 − β 2 )

β 2 = 82.64 − 82.64β 2

83.64β 2 = 82.64

β 2 = 0.988

β = 0.994

Final Answer
0.994 ​

63
Question 54:
A particle of mass m undergoes periodic motion in one-dimension with its total energy given
as E = 12 mẋ2 + 14 kx4 , where k is a positive constant and ẋ = dx
​ ​

dt
. Assuming that E is
conserved, the time period T has the relation T ∝ E −1/n
.
The value of n is ___.
(Answer in integer)

Solution:
Turning Point (Amplitude–Energy Relation)
At maximum displacement x = A, velocity is zero:
1 4
E= kA
4
​

A ∝ E 1/4

Expression for Period

From velocity definition:
dx dx
ẋ = ⇒ dt =
​ ​

dt ẋ
Hence, time between two positions is
dx
t=∫ ​

ẋ

For one full oscillation (using symmetry):

A
dx
T = 2∫ ​ ​

−A ẋ

Use Energy Conservation

2 1
ẋ = (E − kx4 )
4
​ ​ ​

Thus,
A
dx
T ∝∫
E − kx4
​ ​

−A ​

Extract Energy Dependence

Substitute:

64
 x = Ay with A ∝ E 1/4

Then:

dx ∝ E 1/4 dy

Denominator:

E − kA4 y 4 ∝
​ E(1 − y 4 ) ∝ E 1/2 ​

So,

E 1/4
T ∝
E 1/2
​

T ∝ E −1/4

Compare with Given Form

T ∝ E −1/n

1 1
=
4
​ ​

n
n=4

Final Answer
4 ​

Question 55:
An electron is confined in a one-dimensional box of width L = 10 Å. The electron in the first
excited state de-excites to the ground state. The wavelength of the emitted radiation, in μm,
is ___.
(Rounded off to one decimal place)
Use: me = 9.1 × 10−31 kg, h = 6.625 × 10−34 J ⋅ s and c = 3 × 108 m/s
​

Solution:
Energy Levels in 1D Box
n 2 h2
En =
8mL2
​ ​

Transition: n = 2 → n = 1

ΔE = E2 − E1 ​ ​

65
 4h2 h2
= −
8mL2 8mL2
​ ​

3h2
=
8mL2
​

Substitute Values

L = 10 Å = 10−9 m

3(6.625 × 10−34 )2
ΔE =
8(9.1 × 10−31 )(10−9 )2
​

h2 = 4.39 × 10−67

3(4.39 × 10−67 )
ΔE =
8(9.1 × 10−31 )(10−18 )
​

1.317 × 10−66
=
7.28 × 10−48
​

ΔE ≈ 1.81 × 10−19 J

Find Wavelength
hc
ΔE = ​

λ
hc
λ=
ΔE
​

hc = (6.625 × 10−34 )(3 × 108 ) = 1.9875 × 10−25

1.9875 × 10−25
λ=
1.81 × 10−19
​

λ ≈ 1.10 × 10−6 m

Convert to μm

λ = 1.10 μm

Final Answer
1.1 ​

Question 56:

66
A particle of mass m in a potential V (x) = 12 kx2 is described by the normalized
​

wavefunction ψ = ∑∞ n=0 ( 2)
​ ​
−(n+1)
ϕn (x), where ϕn are the energy eigenstates.
​ ​

The energy corresponding to the wavefunction, in units of h

π ​

m,
k
​ ​

is ___.
(Rounded off to two decimal places)
Given: ∑∞
n=0 a​
−n
= a
a−1
, a>1

Solution:
Identify the System
This is a quantum harmonic oscillator:

k
ω= ​ ​

m
1
En = (n + ) ℏω
2
​ ​

Key Point: Since the state is a superposition of eigenstates (not a single eigenstate), the
energy is not definite; hence we compute the expectation value ⟨E⟩.
Calculate Coefficients

cn = ( 2)−(n+1) = 2−(n+1)/2
​ ​

1
∣cn ∣2 = 2−(n+1) =
2n+1
​ ​

Expectation Value of Energy

∞
⟨E⟩ = ∑ ∣cn ∣2 En ​ ​ ​

n=0

∞
n + 12
= ℏω ∑ n+1
​

2
​ ​

n=0

∞ ∞
= ℏω [∑ ∑ n+1 ]
n 1 1
+
2n+1 2 n=0 2
​ ​ ​ ​ ​

n=0

Use the Given Geometric Series

Given:
∞
a
∑ a−n =
a−1
​ ​

n=0

67
For a = 2:
∞ ∞
1 1
∑ n = 2 ⇒ ∑ n+1 = 1
2 2
​ ​ ​

n=0 n=0

To evaluate the n-series, :

Evaluate the n-sum using differentiation
Given:
∞
a
∑ a−n =
a−1
​ ​

n=0

Let x = a−1 = 1
a
​

Then
∞
1
∑ xn =
1−x
​ ​

n=0

Differentiating both sides with respect to x:

∞
1
∑ nxn−1 =
(1 − x)2
​ ​

n=1

Multiply by x:
∞
x
∑ nxn =
(1 − x)2
​

n=1

Or equivalently (since n = 0 term is zero):

∞
x
∑ nxn =
(1 − x)2
​

n=0

∑ xn = 1
1−x
​ to get ∑ nxn = x
(1−x)2
. ​

For x = 12 :
​

∞ ∞
n n
∑ n = 2 ⇒ ∑ n+1 = 1
2 2
​ ​ ​

n=0 n=0

Final Value
1 3
⟨E⟩ = ℏω [1 + (1)] = ℏω
2 2
​ ​

68
Since ℏ = h
2π
​:

3 3 h k 3h k
ℏω = ⋅ ⋅ =
2 2 2π 4π
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

m m

3 h k
= ⋅
4 π
​ ​ ​ ​

Final Answer
0.75

Question 57:
A spacecraft is placed 200 km above Earth in a circular orbit. The minimum change in the
speed required to place the spacecraft in a parabolic orbit, in km/s, is ___.
(Rounded off to one decimal place)
Given: G = 6.67 × 10−11 Nm2 /kg2 , M = 6 × 1024 kg and R = 6400 km

Solution:
Orbital Radius

r = R + h = 6400 + 200 = 6600 km = 6.6 × 106 m

Circular Orbital Speed

For a circular orbit, the gravitational force provides the centripetal force:

GM
vc =​ ​ ​

This is the speed needed to maintain a stable circular orbit at radius r.

GM = (6.67 × 10−11 )(6 × 1024 ) = 4.002 × 1014

4.002 × 1014
vc = = 6.06 × 107
6.6 × 106
​ ​ ​ ​

vc ≈ 7.79 × 103 m/s ≈ 7.8 km/s

​

Escape (Parabolic) Speed at Same Radius

A parabolic orbit has zero total mechanical energy (kinetic + potential = 0), which is the
minimum energy to escape to infinity. This requires:

2GM
ve = = ​ ​ 2 vc
​ ​

69
 ve = 1.414 × 7.8 ≈ 11.0 km/s
​

Required Change in Speed

The spacecraft must be accelerated from circular speed to escape speed:

Δv = ve − vc = 11.0 − 7.8 = 3.2 km/s

​ ​

Conceptual Note: The change is applied tangentially (in the direction of motion) to increase
the orbital energy from a bound circular orbit to an unbound parabolic trajectory.

Final Answer
3.2 ​

Question 58:
On the surface of a thin water film of refractive index 1.33, two light beams of wavelengths
λ1 = 0.64 μm and λ2 = 0.40 μm are incident at an angle of 30∘ .
​ ​

The light of wavelength λ1 exhibits maximum reflection, but that of wavelength λ2 is not
​ ​

reflected at all.
The minimum thickness of the water film, in μm, is ___.
(Rounded off to two decimal places)

Solution:
Using Snell's law:
sin 30∘ 0.5
sin r = = = 0.376
1.33 1.33
​ ​

r ≈ 22∘ , cos r ≈ 0.927

Interference conditions
Top Surface Reflection: Light traveling from air to water reflects off a medium with a
higher refractive index. This causes a phase shift of π (λ/2), effectively adding half a
wavelength (λ/2) to the path.
Bottom Surface Reflection: Light traveling from water back to air reflects off a medium
with a lower refractive index. There is no phase shift here.
The Interference: The "role" of the bottom reflection is to provide a second wave that has
traveled an extra distance (2nt cos r) through the water. When this second wave
recombines with the first reflection, they interfere.
If they are in-phase, we see a maximum.
If they are out-of-phase, they destroy each other, and we see no reflection.

70
The optical path difference (Δ) for a film of thickness t and refractive index n at a refraction
angle r is:

Δ = 2nt cos r

Now its given that

Constructive reflection (happened for λ1 ): ​

1
2nt cos r = (m + ) λ1
2
​ ​

Destructive reflection (happened for λ2 ):​

2nt cos r = m′ λ2 ​

Since both equal the same path difference:

1
(m + ) λ 1 = m ′ λ 2
2
​ ​ ​

1
m+ 2 λ2 0.40 5
⇒ = = =
​
​

m′ 0.64 8
​ ​ ​ ​

λ1 ​

For minimum thickness, we choose the smallest integers satisfying

Smallest integer solution:

m = 2 ⇒ m′ = 4

Find thickness
Using destructive condition:

2nt cos r = 4(0.40) = 1.60

2(1.33)t(0.927) = 1.60

2.464t = 1.60

1.60
t= = 0.65 μm
2.464
​

Final Answer
0.65

Question 59:

71
Consider a light source having a spectral linewidth of 1010 Hz, used in a Michelson
interferometer. The mirrors M1 and M2 are equidistant from the beam-splitter of negligible
​ ​

thickness as shown in the figure. The minimum distance d2 that the mirror M1 is to be moved
​ ​

for the interference pattern to completely disappear, in cm, is ___.

(Rounded off to one decimal place)
Use speed of light c = 3 × 108 m/s

Solution:
Interference disappears when the path difference exceeds the coherence length of the
source.
Coherence time
1
τc =
Δν
​ ​

Given:

Δν = 1010 Hz

1
τc = 10
= 10−10 s
10
​ ​

Coherence length Relation to mirror displacement

Lc = cτc ​ ​

= (3 × 108 )(10−10 )

= 3 × 10−2 m

Lc = 3 cm
​

In a Michelson interferometer:
If mirror moves by d, path difference changes by

2d

For complete disappearance:

2d = Lc ​

72
 Lc
d=
​

2
​

3
d= = 1.5 cm
2
​

Final Answer
1.5 ​

Question 60:
Consider a simple pendulum of length l and time period T . In a laboratory experiment, the
time for 100 oscillations is measured to be 80 s using a stopwatch with least count 1 s. The
gravitational constant is known with a percentage error of 2.5%.
The percentage error in the measured length of the pendulum, in %, is ___.
(Answer in integer)

Solution:
Pendulum formula
For a simple pendulum:

l
T = 2π ​ ​

Rearranging:
gT 2
l=
4π 2
​

Error relation
Taking fractional errors:
Δl Δg ΔT
=
​ +2 ​ ​

l g T

Error in time measurement

Time for 100 oscillations:

t = 80 s

Least count = 1 s
So maximum absolute error:

Δt = 1 s

73
Fractional error in t:
Δt 1
= = 0.0125 = 1.25%
80
​ ​

t
Since T = t
100
​, the fractional error in T is the same:
ΔT
= 1.25%
​

T
Calculate error in length
Substitute into error relation:
Δl
= 2.5% + 2(1.25%)
​

l
= 2.5% + 2.5%

= 5%

Final Answer
5 ​

74