CHAPTER#01

SHORT RESPONSE QUESTIONS

Q:1 How physics plays an important role in our life

Ans: Physics extends to your daily life to describe the motion, forces, and energy of the ordinary
experience. Physics is at work in tasks such as walking, driving a car or using a phone. Knowledge of
physics is helpful in everyday situations as well as in non-scientific tasks. For example, physics helps you
understand:

 How food is cooked in a microwave oven,

 Why a radiator helps to dissipate the heat of a car engine, and
 Why a white ceiling helps to keep the inside of a house cool.
Q:2 Estimate your age in minutes and seconds ?
Ans: Type in your age in years - multiply by 365 to get it in days, multiply that by 24 to get it in
hours, then by 60 to get minutes - and finally, multiply by 60 again to get it in seconds.
Q:3 What base quantities are involved in these derived physical quantities; force, pressure,
power and charge.
Ans: Force: Mass, Length, and Time
* Force is derived from the base quantities of mass, length, and time, according to the equation

F = ma, where F is force, m is mass, and a is acceleration.

Pressure: Mass, Length, and Time

* Pressure is derived from the base quantities of mass, length, and time, and is defined as force per unit
area, or P = F/A, where P is pressure, F is force, and A is area.

Power: Mass, Length, and Time

* Power is derived from the base quantities of mass, length, and time, and is the rate of doing work or the
rate of energy transfer, defined as P = W/t, where P is power, W is work, and t is time.

Charge: Electric Current and Time

* Electric charge is a fundamental physical quantity that is not derived from other base quantities.
However, the derived quantity of electric current, which is the rate of flow of electric charge, is defined in
terms of the base quantities of electric current (ampere) and time.

Q:4 Show that prefix micro is thousand time smaller than prefix milli.

Ans: This is because 10^-6 (micro) is 1000 times smaller than 10^-3 (milli). To put it in
perspective, if you have a millimeter, there are 1000 micrometers in it. Hence, the prefix micro is
a thousand times smaller than the prefix milli.

Q:5 Justify that displacement is a vector quantity while energy is a scalar quantity.
 Ans: The displacement is a vector (straight line in a certain direction). The energy you used to
walk there (calories burned) is a scalar value (amount of energy), not a vector (no direction
involved)
Q:6 Screw gauge can give more precise length has Vernier calipers. Briefly explain why?

Ans: As compare to Vernier calipers, screw gauge is more precise because the least count of
Vernier calipers is 0.1 mm and for screw gauge it is 0.01 mm. So, a screw gauge can measure
more precisely than a Vernier caliper.
Q:7 Differentiate between mechanical stop watch and digital stop watch.
Ans: Mechanical stopwatches are powered by a mainspring, which must be wound up by
turning the knurled knob at the top of the stopwatch.
Digital electronic stopwatches are available which, due to their crystal oscillator timing
element, are much more accurate than mechanical timepieces.
Q:8 How measuring cylinder is used to measure volume of an irregular shaped stone?

Ans: Because many objects are not regularly shaped their volume cannot be determined using a volume
formula. The volume of these objects can be found by water displacement. A volume of water sufficient
to cover the object is placed in a graduated cylinder and the volume read. The object is added to the
cylinder and the volume read again. The difference between the two volumes is the volume of the
object. This method is demonstrated using the same battery used above.

Q: 9 What precautions should be kept in mind while taking measurement using measuring cylinder?

Ans: Precautions to be taken while measuring the volume of the liquid with a measuring
cylinder:
 Make sure the measuring cylinder is placed on a flat surface.
 Take care of the meniscus and take the reading accurately.
 Avoid parallax error while taking the measurement.
Q: 10 Why do we need to consider significant digits in measurements?
Ans: By using significant figures, we can show how precise a number is. If we express a number
beyond the place to which we have actually measured (and are therefore certain of), we
compromise the integrity of what this number is representing.
Q:11 How random errors can be reduced?
Ans: Random error is almost always present in scientific studies, even in highly controlled
settings. While you can't eradicate it completely, you can reduce random error by taking
repeated measurements, using a large sample, and controlling extraneous variables.
Q:12 Differentiate between precision and accuracy.
Ans: Accuracy reflects how close a measurement is to a known or accepted value, while
precision reflects how reproducible measurements are, even if they are far from the accepted
value.

LONG RESPONSE QUESTION:

Q:1 Define physics. Describe its revolutionary role in technology.
Ans: Physics is the branch of science that studies matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature,
and the interactions between them. It seeks to understand the underlying principles governing the
behavior of the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest cosmic structures.
Revolutionary Role in Technology:

 Electronics: Physics helps us understand how to make gadgets like smartphones and computers. The
principles of electricity and magnetism allow us to create tiny components, like transistors, that power
these devices.

 Communication: Thanks to physics, we have technologies like radio, TV, and the internet.
Understanding how electromagnetic waves work lets us send information across the globe almost
instantly.

 Medical Tools: Physics is behind many medical devices that help doctors diagnose and treat illnesses.
For example, X-rays and MRI machines use physics to look inside our bodies without surgery.

 Energy: Physics helps us find and use different types of energy. It plays a role in making power plants
work, creating renewable energy sources like solar panels, and developing better batteries.

 Materials: Physics helps scientists create new materials with special properties. This means we can
make stronger, lighter, or more flexible materials used in everything from sports gear to spacecraft.

 Space Exploration: Understanding gravity and motion through physics has allowed us to explore
space. We can send satellites to space, land on the moon, and send robots to other planets.
Overall, physics underpins many of the technological advancements that have transformed modern life,
shaping how we communicate, travel, work, and understand the world around us.
Q:2 List with brief description of different branches of physics.

 Mechanics:

 Description: Studies the motion of objects and the forces acting on them. It deals with concepts
like velocity, acceleration, and Newton's laws of motion. It's essential for understanding everyday
phenomena like the motion of cars and projectiles.
 Electromagnetism:
 Description: Focuses on electric and magnetic fields and their interactions. This branch explains
how electric charges and currents produce magnetic fields and vice versa, forming the basis for
technologies like electric motors, transformers, and telecommunications.
 Thermodynamics:
 Description: Examines heat, work, energy, and the laws governing their transformations. It
explains concepts such as temperature, entropy, and efficiency, crucial for understanding engines,
refrigerators, and heat transfer.
 Quantum Mechanics:
 Description: Studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. It introduces
concepts like wave-particle duality and quantization of energy. Quantum mechanics is
fundamental for understanding atoms, molecules, and the development of technologies like
semiconductors and lasers.
 Relativity:
 Description: Deals with the effects of gravity on space and time. Special relativity addresses
objects moving at high speeds, while general relativity explains how massive objects like planets
and stars warp space-time. This branch is essential for understanding phenomena like black holes
and the expansion of the universe.
 Optics:
 Description: Focuses on the behavior of light and its interactions with matter. It includes the
study of lenses, mirrors, and the phenomena of reflection, refraction, and dispersion. Optics is
crucial for designing instruments like microscopes and telescopes.
 Nuclear Physics:
 Description: Investigates the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei. It explores nuclear
reactions, radioactive decay, and nuclear energy. This branch has applications in nuclear power
generation, medicine (e.g., radiation therapy), and understanding fundamental particles.
Q:3 What are physical quantities? Distinguish between base physical quantities and derive physical
quantities Give at least three examples to show that derived physical quantities are derived from base
physical quantities.
hysical quantities are measurable aspects of physical phenomena that can be quantified and expressed
numerically. They can be categorized into two main types: base physical quantities and derived
physical quantities.
Base Physical Quantities
Base physical quantities are the fundamental quantities that are defined independently and are used to
describe the physical properties of the universe. These quantities are considered fundamental because
they cannot be defined in terms of other quantities. In the International System of Units (SI), there are
seven base physical quantities:
1. Length (L)
2. Mass (M)
3. Time (T)
4. Electric Current (I)
5. Temperature (Θ)
6. Amount of Substance (N
7. Luminous Intensity (J)
Derived Physical Quantities
Derived physical quantities are those that are defined in terms of base physical quantities. They are
obtained by combining base quantities through multiplication, division, or other mathematical operations.
Examples of Derived Physical Quantities
Here are three examples showing how derived physical quantities are derived from base physical
quantities:
1. Velocity (v):
 o Base Quantities: Length (L) and Time (T) Explanation: Velocity is derived from length
and time. It measures how fast an object moves and is calculated by dividing the distance
traveled (length) by the time taken.
2. Force (F)
o Base Quantities: Mass (M), Length (L), and Time (T) Explanation: Force is derived
from mass and acceleration (which is length divided by time squared). It measures the
interaction that changes the motion of an object.

3. Pressure (P):
o Base Quantities: Force (F) and Length (L) Explanation: Pressure is derived from force
and area (which is length squared). It measures the force applied per unit area.
Q:4 What do you mean by unit of physical quantities? Define base units and derived units?
Ans: A unit of a physical quantity is a specific measure that is used to express that quantity. It provides a
standard for measurement, allowing different measurements to be compared and understood consistently.
Physical quantities, such as length, mass, time, and temperature, require units to describe their magnitude.
Base Units:

Base units are the fundamental units of measurement defined for fundamental physical quantities. These
units are not derived from any other units and form the foundation for all other measurements. In the
International System of Units (SI), there are seven base units, each associated with a specific fundamental
quantity:

1. Meter (m) - for length

2. Kilogram (kg) - for mass
3. Second (s) - for time
4. Ampere (A) - for electric current
5. Kelvin (K) - for thermodynamic temperature
6. Mole (mol) - for the amount of substance
7. Candela (cd) - for luminous intensity

Derived Units:

Derived units are created by combining base units according to the rules of algebra. These units are used
to measure physical quantities that are derived from the fundamental quantities. For example:

1. Newton (N) - for force: N=kg⋅m/s2

2. Joule (J) - for energy: J=kg⋅m2/s2
3. Watt (W) - for power: W=J/s=kg⋅m2/s3
4. Pascal (Pa) - for pressure: Pa=N/m2=kg/m⋅s2

Q:5 What are prefixes? What is their use in measurements?

Prefixes:

Prefixes are symbols or abbreviations added to the beginning of units of measurement to represent powers
of ten. They are used to express very large or very small quantities more conveniently. Prefixes help
avoid the use of long strings of zeros and make numerical values easier to read, write, and understand.

Use of Prefixes in Measurements:

Prefixes are used to scale units up or down by factors of ten. This scaling allows for concise
representation of quantities across a wide range of magnitudes. For example, instead of writing 0.000001
meters, you can write 1 micrometer (1 µm).
Examples of Prefix Usage:
1. Distance:
o 1 kilometer (km) = 1,000 meters (m)
o 1 millimeter (mm) = 0.001 meters (m)
2. Mass:
o 1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g)
o 1 milligram (mg) = 0.001 grams (g)
3. Time:
o 1 megasecond (Ms) = 1,000,000 seconds (s)
o 1 microsecond (µs) = 0.000001 seconds (s)
Q:6 What is scientific notation or standard form of notating down a measurement? Give at least five
examples.
Ans: Scientific notation, also known as standard form, is a way of expressing numbers that are too large
or too small to be conveniently written in decimal form. This notation allows for easier handling of these
numbers, particularly in scientific and engineering contexts. It is written as the product of a number
(between 1 and 10) and a power of 10. The general form is:
a×10n
where 1≤ a < 10 and n is an integer
Here are five examples:
1. Speed of light in a vacuum: 299,792,458 m/s
In scientific notation: 2.99792458×108 m/s
2. Mass of a proton: 0.0000000000000000000000000016726219 kg
In scientific notation: 1.6726219×10-27kg
3. Earth's average distance from the Sun: 149,600,000
In scientific notation: 1.496×108 km
4. Charge of an electron: 0.0000000000000000001602176634
In scientific notation: 1.602176634×10-19 C
5. Diameter of a hydrogen atom: 0.0000000000529177 m
In scientific notation: 5.29177×10-11 m
Q:7 Describe the construction and working of Vernier caliper in detail.
Construction of a Vernier Caliper
A Vernier caliper is a precision measuring instrument that consists of the following parts:
1. Main Scale: This is a fixed scale engraved on the body of the caliper. It is usually graduated in
millimeters or inches.
2. Vernier Scale: This is a smaller, movable scale that slides along the main scale. It allows for the
measurement of fractions of the smallest division on the main scale, thereby increasing the
precision of the measurement.
3. Fixed Jaw: Attached to the main scale, it remains stationary.
4. Movable Jaw: Attached to the Vernier scale, it slides along the main scale.
5. Depth Rod: A thin rod that extends from the end of the caliper when the jaws are moved apart. It
is used to measure the depth of holes or recesses.
6. Locking Screw: This screw is used to lock the movable jaw in place after taking a measurement.
7. Thumb Screw/Fine Adjustment Screw: This is used for fine adjustment of the movable jaw to
get a precise measurement.

Working of a Vernier Caliper

The Vernier caliper operates on the principle of aligning line divisions between the main scale and the
Vernier scale to achieve more precise measurements. Here's how it works:

1. Zeroing the Caliper: Before taking any measurements, ensure that the caliper is zeroed. Close
the jaws completely and check if the zero on the Vernier scale aligns with the zero on the main
scale. If not, adjust accordingly.
2. Taking a Measurement:
o External Measurement: Place the object between the fixed and movable jaws. Close the
jaws gently until they touch the object, then lock the movable jaw using the locking
screw.
o Internal Measurement: Use the smaller jaws located at the top of the caliper. Insert
these jaws into the object to measure its internal dimensions.
o Depth Measurement: Extend the depth rod into the hole or recess to measure its depth.
3. Reading the Measurement:
o Main Scale Reading: Note the reading on the main scale just before the zero mark on the
Vernier scale.
o Vernier Scale Reading: Identify the mark on the Vernier scale that aligns exactly with
any mark on the main scale. The number of this mark gives the Vernier scale reading.
o Calculation: Add the main scale reading to the Vernier scale reading to get the final
measurement.
Example Calculation
1. Main Scale Reading: Suppose the main scale reading is 3.2 cm.
2. Vernier Scale Reading: Suppose the 6th mark on the Vernier scale aligns with a mark on the
main scale. If each division on the Vernier scale is 0.01 cm, the Vernier reading is 6×0.01=0.066
3. Total Reading: Add the two readings: 3.2+0.06=3.26 cm.
Q:8 What is screw gauge? What is pitch and least count? How is it used to measure thickness of thin
copper wire?
A screw gauge, also known as a micrometer screw gauge, is a precision instrument used to measure
small linear dimensions, thicknesses, or diameters of small objects. It consists of a calibrated screw that
is used to amplify small distances that are too small to measure directly.
Pitch:
 The pitch of a screw gauge is the distance the spindle moves per complete revolution of the
thimble. It is usually measured in millimeters (mm).
 For example, if the spindle moves 0.5 mm per complete turn of the thimble, the pitch is 0.5 mm.
Least Count:
 The least count is the smallest distance that can be measured with the screw gauge.
 It is calculated by dividing the pitch by the number of divisions on the thimble.
 For example, if the pitch is 0.5 mm and there are 50 divisions on the thimble, the least count is:
Least count = Pitch / no of division on thimble =0.5 / 50=0.01mm
Using a Screw Gauge to Measure the Thickness of a Thin Copper Wire
1. Zero Error Check:
o Before measuring, close the spindle gently against the anvil and check for zero error.
Note any deviation, which needs to be corrected in the final reading.
2. Place the Wire:
o Place the thin copper wire between the anvil and the spindle.
3. Rotate the Thimble:
o Rotate the thimble until the spindle gently touches the wire. Use the ratchet stop to ensure
uniform pressure is applied.
4. Read the Linear Scale:
 o Note the reading on the sleeve (linear scale) that is visible just before the thimble’s edge.
This reading is the main scale reading (MSR).
5. Read the Thimble Scale:
o Note the reading on the thimble that aligns with the main scale’s horizontal line. This is
the thimble scale reading (TSR).
6. Calculate the Total Reading:
o The total measurement is given by adding the main scale reading and the product of the
thimble scale reading and the least count:
Total Reading=MSR+ (TSR× Least Count)
Q:9 Define error. Differentiate between random and systematic error. How can these errors can be
reduced?
An error is the difference between the measured value and the true value of the quantity being
measured
Random Errors:
 Random errors occur unpredictably and vary in magnitude and direction.
 They are caused by unpredictable fluctuations in experimental conditions, such as electrical noise,
temperature variations, or human errors in reading instruments.
 These errors affect the precision of measurements but not necessarily the accuracy.
Examples:
 Fluctuations in temperature affecting the length of a metal rod during measurement.
 Variations in human reaction time when using a stopwatch.
Reduction Methods:
 Repeating Measurements: Taking multiple measurements and calculating the average helps to
minimize the impact of random errors.
 Using Precise Instruments: Employing instruments with higher precision can reduce random
errors.
 Controlled Environment: Conducting experiments in a controlled environment can minimize
external influences that cause random errors.

Systematic errors:
 Systematic errors are consistent, repeatable errors associated with faulty equipment, calibration
errors, or flawed experimental design.
 They cause a bias in the measurement, leading to results that are consistently too high or too
low.
 These errors affect the accuracy of measurements.
Examples:

 A miscalibrated scale that always reads 5 grams heavier.

 A thermometer that consistently reads 2 degrees higher than the actual temperature.

Reduction Methods:

 Calibration: Regularly calibrating instruments against known standards can help to identify and
correct systematic errors.
 Instrument Maintenance: Ensuring that instruments are properly maintained and in good
working condition can reduce systematic errors.
 Experimental Design: Reviewing and refining the experimental setup to eliminate any biases or
flaws can help reduce systematic errors.
  Cross-Verification: Using different methods or instruments to measure the same quantity and
comparing results can help identify systematic errors.

Q:10 Differentiate between scalar and vectors quantities justify that distance, speed, mass and energy
are scalars while displacement, velocity, acceleration and force are vectors.

Scalar and Vector Quantities

Scalar Quantities:
 Definition: Scalar quantities have only magnitude (size or numerical value) and no direction.
 Properties: Scalars are described completely by a single number and units.
 Examples:
o Distance: The total path length traveled, irrespective of direction.
o Speed: The rate at which an object moves, calculated as distance divided by time,
without considering direction.
o Mass: The amount of matter in an object, which is independent of direction.
o Energy: The capacity to do work, measured in joules, with no directional component.
Vector Quantities:
 Definition: Vector quantities have both magnitude and direction.
 Properties: Vectors are described by a numerical value (magnitude), a unit, and a direction.
 Examples:
o Displacement: The straight-line distance between the initial and final position of an
object, including direction.
o Velocity: The rate of change of displacement, indicating how fast an object moves and
in which direction.
o Acceleration: The rate of change of velocity, including the direction of the change.
o Force: An interaction that changes the motion of an object, described by both
magnitude and direction (e.g., 10 N east).
Q:11 Justify and illustrate the use of a mearing cylinder to measure the volume of a liquid.
A measuring cylinder is a common laboratory tool used to measure the volume of a liquid.
Here's how it works:
**Step 1: Choose the right measuring cylinder**
Select a measuring cylinder that is suitable for the volume of the liquid you want to measure.
Measuring cylinders come in various sizes, ranging from small ones for measuring small
amounts of liquid to large ones for measuring larger volumes.
**Step 2: Fill the measuring cylinder with the liquid**
Carefully pour the liquid into the measuring cylinder, making sure not to spill or overflow. Fill the
cylinder to the desired level or mark.
**Step 3: Read the measurement**
Look at the measuring cylinder and read the measurement from the calibrated markings on the
side. The markings are usually in units of volume, such as milliliters (mL) or liters (L).

**Step 4: Record the measurement**

Write down the measurement in your notebook or record it digitally. Make sure to include the
unit of measurement (e.g., mL or L).

**Illustration:**

Here's an example of how to use a measuring cylinder to measure the volume of a liquid:
Suppose you want to measure 50 mL of water. You would fill the measuring cylinder to the 50
mL mark, and then read and record the measurement.
**Justification:**
The use of a measuring cylinder is justified because it provides an accurate and precise way to
measure the volume of a liquid. Here are some reasons why:
* **Calibration**: Measuring cylinders are calibrated to ensure accurate measurements. The
markings on the side are precisely engraved, making it easy to read the measurement.
* **Consistency**: Measuring cylinders are designed to provide consistent measurements. As
long as you fill the cylinder to the same mark, you can rely on getting the same volume.
* **Easy to use**: Measuring cylinders are simple and easy to use, even for students or
beginners. Just fill and read!
By using a measuring cylinder, you can accurately measure the volume of a liquid, which is
essential in many scientific and practical applications, such as chemistry, biology, and
engineering.
Q:12 Differentiate between precision and accuracy.
Accuracy is the degree of closeness between a measurement and its true value. Precision is the
degree to which repeated measurements under the same conditions show the same results.