Short Questions Year 12

Physics 12: Full Book Short Questions (Exercises only) ~1~
CHAPTER 12 ELECTROSTATICS
Exercise Questions
12.1 The potential is constant throughout a given region of space. Is the electrical
field zero or non-zero in this region? Explain.
Ans: Zero, if the potential is constant throughout a given region of space, the electric field in this
region will be zero.
Proof: the electric field (E) and potential (V) are related by:
V
E 
r
Now, if V = constant then, ΔV  change in potential  0
0
Thus; E  0
r
12.2 Suppose that you follow an electric field line due to a positive point charge. Do
electric field and the potential increase or decrease?
Ans: If we follow an electric field line due to a positive point charge, both the electric field (E)
and potential (V) will decrease.
Proof: the electric field and potential are given by:
q 1
E k  E 
r2 r2
q 1
And V k  V 
r r
When we follow a radially outward line, the distance (r) increases. The above equations
show that if r increases, electric field and potential decreases.
12.3 How can you identify that which plate of a capacitor is

positively charged?
Ans: By using an electronic device named as “gold leaf

electroscope”, we can identify that which plate is positively
charge.
Procedure: this device is brought near the plate of a capacitor.

If the leaves of the device get diverged, the plate is positively
charge and vice versa.
12.4 Describe the force or forces on a positive point charge

when placed between parallel plates:
a) with similar and equal charges
The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

b) with opposite and equal charges
Ans: When a positive charge “q” is placed between two plates:
a) with similar and equal charges b) with opposite and equal charges
Here, two forces will act upon it, which Here, two forces will act upon the charge,
are both: unlike, equal and opposite which are: like, equal and parallel,
Thus: Thus:
Net force = F + (– F) = 0 Net force = F + F = 2F
12.5 Electric lines of force never cross. Why?
Ans: “Electric lines of force never cross”. This is because an electric field (E) has only one
direction at any given point. If two lines of force cross, that means there are two electric
fields at that point. This phenomena is physical impossible.
2.6 If a point charge q of mass m is released in a non-uniform electric field with field
lines pointing in the same direction, will it make a rectilinear motion?
Ans: Yes, it will make a rectilinear motion.
Proof: here we let:
 a positive charge: +q
 whose mass: m
 moving in a non-uniform electric field
 from positive to negative plate.
It is shown in the Fig. that when the charge is placed b/w two oppositely charged parallel
plates, it will move on a straight line due to two like and opposite parallel forces.
12.7 Is E necessarily zero inside a charged rubber balloon if balloon is spherical?

Assume that charge is uniformly distributed over the surface.
Ans: Yes, the electric field (E) inside a charged spherical rubber
balloon is necessarily zero.
Proof: if the charge is uniformly distributed over the spherical

surface of the balloon, the flux inside the balloon is given by:
q
Φe   EA
εo

q
Or E
εo A
Now charge (q) in the Gaussian surface is zero, i.e. q = 0
0
Thus; E 0
εo A
12.8 Is it true that Gauss’s law states that the total number of lines of forces crossing
any closed surface in the outward direction is proportional to the net positive
charge enclosed within the surface?
Ans: Yes, the given statement is true.
Proof: according to Gauss’s law, the flux through any closed

surface is:
1
Φe  Q
εo
Or Φe  Q
i.e. the flux (lines of force crossing any closed surface in the outward direction) is directly
proportional to the net positive charge enclosed within a surface.
12.9 Do electrons tend to go to region of high potential or of

low potential?
Ans: Electrons tend to go to region of high potential.
Reason:
It is shown in the following figure. Electrons are negatively

charged and they reside at negative terminal (low potential) of
the battery. When the circuit is closed they move towards the
positive terminal (high potential) of the battery.
CHAPTER 13 CURRENT ELECTRICITY
Exercise Questions
13.1 A potential difference is applied across the ends of a copper wire. What is the
effect on the drift velocity of free electrons by:
(i) Increasing the potential difference

(ii) Decreasing the length and the temperature of the wire
Ans: (i) Drift velocity (vd) will increase by increasing the potential difference (V).
Reason: the drift velocity of free electrons is given by:

V
vd 
neAR
If n, e, A and R are constants: vd  V
i.e. by increasing potential difference, drift velocity will also increase.
(ii) Drift velocity will increase by decreasing the length and temperature of the wire.
Reason: since the drift velocity is given by;
V
vd 
neAR
1
This implies that: vd 
R
1
Now since: R  L i.e. vd  , decreasing length, drift velocity will increase.
L
1
And similarly: R  T i.e. vd  , decreasing temperature, vd will increase.
T
13.2 Do bends in a wire affect its electrical resistance? Explain
Ans: No, bends in a wire do not affect its electrical resistance.
Reason: the resistance of a wire is:
L
R 
A
1
This implied that: R  L and R 
A
Now, bends do not change the length and area of the wire, therefore there will be no
change in the resistance of the wire (R: constant).
13.3 What are the resistance of the resistors given in the figures A and B? What is the
tolerance of each? Explain, what is meant by the tolerance?
Ans: Fig. A = 1500 ± 5%, Fig. B = 49000 ± 10%
Tolerance: “by tolerance we mean the percentage change in the written value.”
13.4 Why does the resistance of a conductor rise with temperature?

Ans: The resistance is directly proportional to the temperature of the conductor.
Explanation: with an increase in temperature:
 amplitudes of vibration of atoms increase,

 then collision cross-section increases,
 then collision rate increases,
 this causes an increase in resistance.
13.5 What are the difficulties in testing whether the filament of a lighted bulb obeys
Ohm’s law?
Ans: The main difficulty is the variation in the physical state like temperature changes.
Explanation: the I-V graph of a lighted filament bulb is given below:
 during A to B:
o current: small,
o resistance: constant,
o Ohm’s law is obeyed i.e. V = IR
 During B to C:
o Current: large
o resistance ≠ constant
o Ohm’s law is not obeyed i.e. V ≠ IR
13.6 Is the filament resistance lower or higher in a 500W, 220V light bulb than in a
100W, 220V bulb?
Ans: Let’s compute and compare their resistances.
Case 1 Case 2
P1 = 500 watt, V = 220 volts P2 = 100 watt, V = 220 volts
V2 V2
P1  P2 
R1 R2
V2 V2
R1  R2 
P1 P2
220 2  220 2
R1  R2 
500 100
R1  96.8  R2  484 
Now since R2>R1, thus the resistance will be higher for 100 watt bulb.
13.7 Describe a circuit, which will give a continuously varying potential.
Ans: The circuit of a potentiometer provides a continuously

varying potential.
Circuit: the potentiometer is an electronic device (circuit)

which is used to supply a potential of the desired value. It
is given in the following Fig.
The voltage between A and C is given by:

r
V AC  E
R
 as “r” changes between min (0) to max (R),

 the value of voltage VAC changes between min. (0) to max. (E)
13.8 Explain why the terminal potential difference of a battery decreases when the
current drawn from it is increased.
Ans: The terminal potential difference decreases due to an increase in energy dissipation.
Explanation: the circuit diagram of a battery (or cell) is given below. The terminal
potential difference (Vt) is given by:
Vt  E  Ir
i.e. energy utilized = total energy – energy lost
 when current (I) will be increased,

 then “Ir”, i.e. energy lost will increase,
 and consequently Vt will decrease.
13.9 What is Wheatstone bridge? How can it be used to determine an unknown

resistance?
Ans: Wheatstone bridge is an electronic circuit which is used to

determine the unknown resistance applied in that circuit.
Circuit diagram: the circuit diagram of a Wheatstone bridge

is given below. The mathematical form of circuit is given by:
R1 R3

R 2 R4
Now if R2, R3, and R4 are known and R1 = ? Then
R3
R1  R2 
R4
>>>O<<<

CHAPTER 14 ELECTROMAGNETISM
Exercise Questions
14.1 A plane conducting loop is located in a uniform magnetic field that is directed
along the x-axis. For what orientation of the loop, is the flux a maximum? For
what orientation, is the flux a minimum?
Ans: Maximum Flux: when the loop is placed  (θ = 0o) to the

field, the flux will be maximum.
Mathematically, it is:
B  BA cos   BA cos 0o  BA 1  BA (max)
Minimum Flux: when the loop is placed at parallel (θ = 90o)

to the field, the flux will be minimum.
B  BA cos   BA cos 90 o  BA  0  0 (min)
14.2 A current in a conductor produces a magnetic field, which can be calculated by

using Ampere’s law. Since current is defined as the rate of flow of charge, what
can you conclude about the magnetic field due to stationary charges? What
about moving charges?
Ans: (i) For charges at rest, magnetic field will be zero.
Reason: according to Ampere’s law:
B  onI
If charges are at rest, current I = 0, then
B  on 0  0
(ii) Charges in motion produce a magnetic field.
14.4 At a given instant, a proton moves in the positive x-direction in a region where
there is magnetic field in the negative z-direction. What is the direction of the
magnetic force? Will the proton continue to move in the positive x-direction?
Explain.
Ans: (i) If the proton is moving along +x-axis, a force will

act along the +y-axis.
Reason: magnetic force on proton is given by:

  

F  e v  B 

 
By R.H.R. the direction of F is normal to the plane containing v and B and that is along +y-
axis.
(ii) No, the proton will not continue to move along positive x-axis.
Reason: since magnetic force is just a deflecting force and it bends the straight path of a
moving charge into a circle.
14.3 Describe the change in the magnetic field inside a solenoid carrying a steady
current I, if (a) the length of the solenoid is doubled but eh number of turns
remains the same and (b) the number of turns is doubled, but the length remains
the same.
Ans: According to Ampere’s law, the magnetic field inside a solenoid is given by:
B  onI
N N
Or B  o I … (1) n 
l l
Case I Case II
In Eq.(1) o and I are constants if N is In Eq.(1) o and I are constants if l is
constant then; constant then;
1
B  const 
l B  const  N
1 B N
B
l Now, if number of turns N is doubled,
Now, if length is doubled, B will get half. B will also doubled
14.5 Two charged particles are projected into a region where there is a magnetic field
perpendicular to their velocities. If the charges are deflected in opposite
directions, what can you say about them?
Ans: One of the given charged particles is proton while the other is electron.
Logic: the force due to a magnetic field is given by:

  

F  q v B 
The force on a positive charge particle q = +e is:
  

F  e v  B  …. (1)
And the force on a negative charge particle q = - e is:

  

F  e v  B  …. (2)
From Eq. (1) and (2), it is clear that:
Force on Electron = - Force on Proton

14.6 Suppose that a charge q is moving in a uniform magnetic field with a velocity v.
Why is there no work done by the magnetic force that acts on the charge q?
Ans: Magnetic force is simply a deflecting force, it does not work.
Proof: the magnetic force acting on a charged particle is given by:

  

Fb  q v  B 
According to R.H.R. the force is perpendicular to the plane containing
v and B, thus the angle b/w F and v (d/t) is 90o. Therefore
 
Work done: W  F .d  Fd cos   Fd cos 900  Fd  0  0
14.7 If a charged particle moves in a straight line through some region of space, can
you say that the magnetic field in the region is zero?
Ans: There would be both possibilities, i.e.
(i) Either the magnetic field is zero: B = 0
Fb  qvB sin  qv  0  sin  0
(ii) Or the charge moves parallel (0o) or anti-parallel (180o)
Fb  qvB sin   qvB  sin 0 o  qvB  sin180 o  0
14.8 Why does the picture on a TV screen become distorted when a magnet is brought
near the screen?
Ans: Since the CRO of a TV uses the electron beams to form a picture on screen. Electron
beams are like charge particles. When a magnet is brought near the TV screen, a force acts
on the electron beams:
  

Fb  q v  B 
Due to this force, the electron beams are deviated from their paths. This causes a
distortion in picture on the screen,
14.9 Is it possible to orient a current loop in a uniform magnetic field such that the
loop will not tend to rotate? Explain.
Ans: Yes, it is possible to orient the loop such that it will not tend to rotate.
Proof: the torque on a current carrying loop is given by:
  IBA cos 
If the plane of loop is perpendicular to the magnetic field, then   90o
  IBA cos90o  IBA  0  0
Thus, at 90o, there will be no rotation in the loop.

14.10 How can a current loop be used to determine the presence of a magnetic field in a
given region of space?
Ans: By checking the rotation of the loop in the magnetic field.
Explanation: the torque on a current carrying loop is given by:
  IBA cos 
 if the loop rotate at any angle other than   90o , then there is a magnetic field
in that region, and
 if the loop does not rotate at any angle, there is no magnetic field in that region.
14.11 How can you use a magnetic field to separate isotopes of chemical element?
Ans: To separate the isotopes of a chemical element that element is passed through a
magnetic field. Two equal and opposite forces act upon it:
Fb  Fc
mv 2
qvB 
r
mv
qB 
r
mv
r 
qB
r m
The radii of particles of different masses will be different. In this way, the isotopes of an
element can be separated.
14.12 What should be the orientation of a current carrying coil in a magnetic field so
that torque acting upon the coil is (a) maximum (b) minimum?
Ans: (a) When the plane of a current carrying coil is parallel to field, the torque will be max.
Proof: the torque on a current carrying coil is:
  NIBA cos 0o  NIBA 1  NIBA (max)
(b) When the plane of current carrying coil is perpendicular to field, the torque will be min
Proof: for the coil to be perpendicular we have:   90o
  NIBA cos 90 o  NIBA  0  0 (min)
14.13 A loop of wire is suspended between the poles of a magnet with its plane parallel
to the pole faces. What happens if a direct current is put through the coil? What
happens if an alternating current is used instead?

Ans: For both DC and AC currents, the torque of the loop will be zero.
Reason: since the plane of the loop is parallel to the pole faces, the angle b/w loop and
field will be:   90o , thus:
  IBA cos   IBA cos 90o  IBA  0  0
14.14 Why the resistance of an ammeter should be very low?
Ans: The resistance of an ammeter is kept low so that maximum current could pass
through it.
Reason: to measure the current, the ammeter is connected in series with the circuit. If
the resistance is high, it will become a load and will disturb the measurement. That is
why its resistance should be low.
14.15 Why the voltmeter should have a very high resistance?
Ans: The resistance of a Voltmeter is kept high so that minimum current could pass
through it.
Reason: to measure the potential difference, the voltmeter is connected in parallel

with the circuit. If the resistance is low, it will become a load and will disturb the
measurement. That is why the resistance of a voltmeter should be high.
CHAPTER 15 ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION
Exercise Questions
15.1 Does the induced emf in a circuit depend on the resistance of the circuit? Does
the induced current depend on the resistance of the circuit?
Ans: (i) No, the induced emf does not depend upon the resistance of the circuit.
Proof: the induced emf depends upon the time rate of change of flux:

  N
t
(ii) Yes, the induced current depends upon the resistance of the circuit. Mathematically:

I 
R
15.2 A square loop of wire is moving through a uniform magnetic field. The normal to
the loop is oriented parallel to the magnetic field. Is an emf induced in the loop?
Give a reason for your answer.
Ans: No, there will be no emf in the loop.
Proof: the emf induced in a loop due to its motion through a

magnetic field is given by:

  vBl sin   vBl sin0o  vBl  0 = 0
15.3 A light metallic ring is released from above into a vertical bar magnet. Viewed
from above, does the current flow in the clockwise or anti-clockwise in the ring?
Ans: The direction of the current will be clockwise.
Proof: the emf induced in the ring is given by:

 
t
Negative sign shows that the emf opposes he change in flux. This is because the induced
current generates another magnetic field with opposite polarity.
15.5 Does the induced emf always act to decrease the magnetic flux through a circuit?
Ans: No, the induced emf does not act to decrease the magnetic flux.
Proof: since the induced emf is given by:

  N
t
This equation shows that the induced emf does not decrease the magnetic field. It
only acts to oppose the change in flux.
15.8 How would you position a flat loop of wire in a changing magnetic field so that
there is no emf induced in the loop?
Ans: If the flat loop is paled parallel to the magnetic field, no emf will be induced in it.
Proof: according to Faraday’s law:
 BA cos 90 o
  N  N
t t
BA  0
  N 0
t
15.9 In a certain region the earth’s magnetic field point vertically down. When a plane
flies due north, which wingtip is positively charged?
Ans: The west wing-tip will be positively charged.
Proof: since the force on a charge particle is give by:

  
F  q(v  B )
By right hand rule, the positive charge particles in the body of the
plane will experience a leftward force whereas the negative
charge particles will move rightward, i.e. opposite to positive
charges. In this way the west wingtip will get positively charged.

Δφ
15.10 Show that ε and have the same units?
Δt
 BA
Ans: Given equation is:   
t t
T  m 2 NA 1m 1  m 2 Nm J
Writing units: volt      volt
sec sec A sec C
15.11 When an electric motor, such as an electric drill, is being used, does it also act as
a generator? If so, what is the consequence of it?
Ans: Yes, an electric motor can act as an electric generator.
Proof: when the coil rotates in the magnetic field, the magnetic flux changes through it.
Due to this an emf is induced in it. This emf is also known as the back emf. If the motor is
overloaded the induced emf gets increased due to which the electric motor may burn.
15.12 Can a D.C motor be turned into a D.C generator? What changes are required to be
done?
Ans: Yes, a D.C. motor can be turned into a D.C. generator.
Changes: the following changes need to be made:
i. electric source into a mechanical source,

ii. the coil into an armature,
iii. the load into a source.
15.13 Is it possible to change both the area of the loop and the magnetic field passing
through the loop and still not have an induced emf in the loop?
Ans: Yes, it is possible.
Proof: if the plane of the loop is parallel to the magnetic field, angle between area and
magnetic field is 90o. The magnetic flux is given by:
  BA cos 
 BA cos90o  BA  0  0
 0
Thus, the emf is:   N  N 0
t t
15.14 Can an electric motor be used to drive an electric generator with the output from
the generator being used to operate the motor?
Ans: No, it is impossible.
Reason: this is because it is against the law of conservation of energy. Since it

becomes a self operating system which works without getting any energy from an external
source. This is naturally impossible.

15.15 A suspended magnetic is oscillating freely in a horizontal plane. The oscillations

are strongly damped when a metal plate is placed under the magnet. Explain
why this occurs?
Ans: When a metal plate is placed under a magnet, it experiences a magnetic force due to a
change in magnetic flux through it. This causes an induced current in the plate. This
induced current produces another magnetic field. The oscillations are damped due to
interaction of these two magnetic fields.
15.16 Four unmarked wires emerge from a transformer. What steps would you take to
determine the turns ratio?
Ans: The following steps are taken.
 primary & secondary coils are separated by Ohm-meter,

 input (Vp) and output (Vs) voltages are measured,
 the turns ratio is measured by:
N S VS

N P VP
15.17 a) Can a step-up transformer increase the power level?
b) In a transformer, there is no transformer of charge from the primary to the

secondary. How is then the power transferred?
Ans: (a) No, a step-up transformer cannot increase the power level.
Reason: for an ideal transformer, the input power is equal to output power, i.e.
Pin  Pout
VP I P  VS IS
VP I P
VS 
IS
The voltage level is increased only by changing the current level while power level
remains constant.
(b) In a transformer there is no electrical connection between two coils. The power is
transferred through magnetic flux.
     
   
 t  primary  t 2ndry
15.18 When the primary of a transformer is connected to A.C. mains the current in it:
a) is very small if the secondary circuit is open, but

b) increases when the secondary circuit is closed. Explain these facts.
Ans: (a) For an ideal transformer, the input power is equal to the output power, i.e.

VP I P  VS IS
VS I S
IP 
VP
If the secondary circuit is open (off), I s  0 , the primary current. I p  0
(b) And if the secondary circuit is closed (on), IS  0 , thus, I P  0 and with increasing value
of secondary current, the primary current will also increase.
CHAPTER 16 ALTERNATING CURRENT
Exercise Questions
16.1 A sinusoidal current has r.m.s. value of 10 A. What is the maximum peak value?
Ans: Given values: I rms  10 A and I o  ? . Since we know that: I rms  0.707 I o
I rms 10
Thus: Io    14 .14 A
0 .707 0 .707
16.2 Name the device that will (a) permit flow of direct current but oppose the flow of
alternating current (b) permit flow of alternating current but not the direct
current.
Ans: (a) Inductor is a device that allows the flow of direct current and opposes the flow of
alternating current.
(b) Capacitor is a device that allows the flow of alternating current and opposes the flow
of direct current.
16.3 How many times per second will an incandescent lamp reach maximum brilliance
when connected to a 50 Hz source?
Ans: 100 times per second. Any lamp shows its maximum brilliance at peak value of voltage.
Since for an A.C. source of voltage, the value of voltage reaches its peak twice a cycle.
Therefore: No. of peak values per second  2  f  2  50  100
Thus lamp will blink for 100 times per second in one second at 50 Hz frequency.
16.4 A circuit contains an iron-cored inductor, a switch and a D.C. source arranged in
series. The switch is closed and after an interval reopened. Explain why a spark
jumps across the switch contacts?
Ans: When a circuit is closed and shortly re-opened, current changes between minimum and
maximum. This change in current induces a back emf. The interaction of this back emf
and the applied emf give rise to a spark across the ends of the switch.
16.5 How does doubling the frequency affect the reactance of:

a) an inductor?
b) a capacitor?
Ans: Affect on the reactance by doubling the frequency.
(a) Inductor (b) Capacitor

The reactance of an inductor is given by: The reactance of a capacitor is given by
X L  2 fL 1 1
XC  XC 
i.e. XL  f 2  fC f
Now, if frequency is doubled, reactance will Now, if frequency is doubled, then
also get doubled reactance will also get doubled
16.6 In an R-L circuit, will the current lag or lead the voltage? Illustrate your answer
by a vector diagram.
Ans: Vector diagram of an R-L series circuit is given below.
It is clear from the circuit that in an R-L series circuit, the current lags behind the
voltage by an angle:
V  X 
  tan1  L   tan1  L 
 VR   R 
And the impedance of the circuit will be: Z  R 2  X L2
16.7 A choke coil placed in series with electric lamp in an A.C. circuit causes the lamp
to become dim. Why is it so? A variable capacitor added in series in this circuit
may be adjusted until the lamps glows with normal brilliance. Explain, how this
is possible?
Ans: We will discuss both the cases in detail below.
Case I Case II
When the chock coil is placed in series When a variable capacitor is added into
with an electric bulb, the impedance of the the circuit, the impedance of the circuit
circuit is: is:
Z  R 2  X L2 2
Z  R 2   X L  XC 
Z  R At resonant frequency (fr): X L  XC
Irms  decreases due to the increase in
resistance. Z  R2  02  R
Hence lamp will glow dim. Resistance = normal, Irms = normal
Hence lamp will glow with its normal
brilliance.

16.8 Explain the conditions under which the electromagnetic waves are produced from
a source.
Ans: When the electric charges are accelerated at a high frequency by an A.C. source, the
electric and magnetic flux changes. These changes give rise to electric and magnetic
fields (E and B). These fields occupy certain region of space. Both of these fields move
together by supporting each other. Such moving electric and magnetic fields are known as
electromagnetic waves.
16.9 How the reception of a particular radio station is selected on your radio set?
Ans: The resonant frequency of an L.C. circuit is given by:
1
fr 
2 LC
The frequency of the radio is synchronized with the frequency of a particular radio
station, e.g. 94, 101 or 104 MHz. When both of these frequencies are equal, resonance
occurs and the radio set start receiving the information for that radio station.
16.10 What is meant by A.M and F.M?
Ans: A.M. means the amplitude modulation. This is a type of radio waves in which amplitude
of the carrier waves is increased or decreased. The A.M. transmission frequencies range
between 540 kHz to 1600 kHz
F.M. means the frequency modulation. This is also a type of radio waves in which
frequency of the carrier waves is increased or decreased. The F.M. transmission
frequencies range between 88 MHz to 108 MHz.
CHAPTER 17 PHYSICS OF SOLIDS
Exercise Questions
17.1 Distinguish between crystalline, amorphous and polymeric solids.
Ans: Crystalline Solids: “In this group of solids there is a regular arrangement of atoms and
molecules”.
Examples: in metals: copper, iron, zinc, in ionic compounds: sodium chloride (NaCl) in
ceramics: zirconium
Amorphous Solids: “a group of solids in which there is no regular arrangement of

atoms and molecules is called the amorphous solids”.
Examples: Ordinary glass, Plastics, and amorphous silicon, etc
Semi-crystalline Solids: “in this group of solids the atoms and molecules are partially
or poorly arranged”.
Examples: Polymers, Synthetic plastics, Synthetic rubbers.

17.2 Define stress and strain. What are their SI units? Differentiate between tensile,
compressive and shear modes of stress and strain.
Ans: Stress: “the force applied on a unit area of an object to produce any change in its length,
volume or shape is known as stress”. Its SI unit is Nm–2, also known as pascal (Pa).
Tensile Stress: “when the applied force changes the length of the object, the stress will
be called the tensile stress”.
Volumetric Stress: “when the applied force changes the volume of the object, the stress
will be called the volumetric stress”.
Shear Stress: “when the applied force changes the shape of the object, the stress will
be called the shear stress”.
Strain: “strain is a measure of the deformation of the solid when a stress is applied on it”.
It’s a unitless and dimensionless quantity.
Tensile Strain: “if the strain is produced due to the tensile stress, it is known as tensile
strain”.
Compressive Strain: “if the strain is produced as a result of compressive stress, it is

known as compressive strain”.
Volumetric Strain: “in case when the applied stress changes the volume, the fractional
change in volume is known as volumetric strain”.
17.3 Define modulus of elasticity. Show that the units of modulus of elasticity and
stress are the same. Also discuss its three kinds.
Ans: Modulus of Elasticity: “the ratio of stress to strain is called the modulus of elasticity”.
Mathematically, it is given by:
Stress
Modulus of Elasticity 
Strain
Units: the unit of modulus of elasticity is the same as that of the stress, i.e. Nm–2 or Pa
Types of Modulus of Elasticity: there are three types of modulus of elasticity.
 Young’s modulus,
 Bulk modulus
 Shear modulus
Young’s Modulus: “in case of linear deformation, the ratio of tensile stress to tensile
strain is called the Young’s modulus”.
F /A
Y 
l / l
Bulk Modulus: “in case of three dimensional deformations, when volume is involved,
the ratio of applied stress to volumetric strain is strain Bulk modulus”.

F /A
K 
V /V
Here V is the change in volume where V is the original volume.
Shear Modulus: “in case of shape changes, the ratio of shear stress to shear strain is
called shear modulus”.
F /A
G 
tan 
17.4 Draw a stress-strain curve of a ductile material, and then define the terms:
Elastic limit, Yield point and Ultimate tensile stress.
Ans: See from Notes Chapter 17
17.5 What is meant by strain energy? How can it be determined from the force-
extension graph?
17.6 Describe the formation of energy bands in solids. Explain the difference amongst
electrical behavior of conductors, insulators and semi-conductors in terms of
energy band theory.
17.7 Distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic semi-conductors. How would you
obtain n-type and p-type material from pure silicon? Illustrate it by schematic
diagram.
17.8 Discuss the mechanism of electrical conduction by holes and electrons in a pure
semi-conductor element.
17.9 Write a note on superconductors.
Ans: Superconductors: “the conductors which show zero resistivity at a certain temperature
are known as superconductors”. The temperature at which the resistivity becomes zero is
known as critical temperature TC.
Characteristics of Superconductors: the superconductors
 are perfect conductors,

 offers no resistance to electric current,
 dissipate no energy,
 once the current is established, continues to exist forever without any source of emf.

Metals as superconductors: there are some metals which are also superconductors are
certain temperatures.
 Aluminum at 1.18 K
 Tin at 3.72 K
 Lead at 7.2 K
17.10 What is meant by para, dia ad ferromagnetic substances? Give examples for
each.
Ans: Paramagnetic Substances: the substances in which the orbit and the spin axes of the
electrons in an atom are so oriented that their magnetic fields support each other and the
atom behaves like a tiny bar magnet are called paramagnetic substances.
Examples: Aluminum, Platinum and Manganese etc.
Diamagnetic Substances: the substances in which magnetic fields produced by orbital

and spin motions of the electrons add up to zero are called diamagnetic substances.
Examples: atoms of water, copper, bismuth and antimony.
Ferromagnetic Substances: the substances in which the atoms co-operate with each
other in such a way so as to exhibit a strong magnetic effect are called ferromagnetic
substances.
Examples: Iron, Nickel, Cobalt
17.11 What is meant by hysteresis loss? How is it used in the construction of a

transformer?
Ans Hysteresis loss: when a ferromagnetic material is placed in an alternating current

solenoid, the energy is needed to magnetize and demagnetize the material during each
cycle of magnetizing current. This energy is needed to do work against internal friction of
domains. This work is lost as heat. It is called hysteresis loss.
Construction of transformer: iron frame is used as the core of transformer as it has

small hysteresis area which shows that small energy is lost during magnetization and
demagnetization of iron. By finding the hysteresis we can decide that which material is
best for the construction of a transformer.


CHAPTER 18 ELECTRONICS
Exercise Questions
18.1 How does the motion of an electron in an n-type substance differ from the motion
of holes in a p-type substance?
Ans: Motion of electrons and holes in:
 n-type substance:
o electrons drift towards the positive end of the battery, while holes move towards
the negative end,
o the negative charge carries are in majority while the holes are in minority.
 p-type substance:
o in this type of substance, holes are in majority while the electrons are in
minority,
o the current is mainly due to the flow of holes (positive charge carriers).
18.2 What is the net charge on an n-type or a p-type substance?
Ans: The net charge on an n-type or p-type substance is zero.
Reason: The net charge on n-type or a p-type material is zero, because both of these
substances are electrical neutral in the absence of an electric field.
18.3 The anode of a diode is 0.2 V positive with respect to its cathode. Is it forward
biased?
Ans: Yes, it is forward biased.
Explanation: as the anode (p-type) of the diode is at high potential with respect to
cathode (n-type) so it is forward biased. In this case potential of anode is 0.2V which is
greater than the potential of cathode, therefore p-n junction is forward biased and the flow
of electron takes place from cathode to anode.
18.4 Why charge carriers are not present in the depletion region?
Ans: Reason: In p-n junction, the n-region contains free electrons as majority charge carrier
and p-region contains holes. As a result of diffusion the recombination of electrons
and holes takes place within the depletion region. Due to this recombination a charge-
free region is formed around the junction in which no charge carriers are present.
18.5 What is the effect of forward and reverse biasing of a diode on the width of
depletion region?
Ans: When the p-n junction is forward biased the width of the depletion decreases, whereas
in the reverse biased the width of the depletion region increases.
18.6 Why ordinary silicon diodes do not emit light?
Ans: Reason: in silicon, when an electron recombines with a hole, 0.7 eV energy is released.
This energy is released in the form of light. The wavelength of this light is:

hc 1.99  10 25 Jm
   1776 10 9 m
E 0.7 1.6 10 19 J
  1776 nm
This wavelength is much greater than the wavelength of visible light which is from 750 –
400 nm. Therefore silicon diode do not emits visible light.
18.7 Why photodiode is operated in reverse biased state?
Ans: Reason: in the reverse biased state, the reverse current is negligible in the absence of
light. But when p-n junction of the photodiode is exposed to light, the photons in the light
give energy to electrons and holes due to which the current begins to flow in the reverse
direction. When the intensity of light increases, the number of photons increases
which increases the number of electrons and holes and thus increases the reverse
current.
18.8 Why is the base current in a transistor very small?
Ans: Reason: the base of the transistor is very thin and has very small doping level as
compared to emitter and collector. Thus it has only a small number of electrons and
holes to recombine. Therefore the majority of the electrons coming from emitter does not
combine with some holes and thus escape out of the base. Hence the majority of
electrons are attracted towards the collector.
18.9 What is the biasing requirement of the junctions of a transistor for its normal
operation? Explain how these requirements are met in a common emitter
amplifier?
Ans: Biasing Requirements: the requirements for the normal operation of a transistor are:
 emitter-base junction should be forward biased, and

 base-collector junction should be reversed biased.
For common-emitter amplifier: for common-emitter amplifier:
 input signal is applied between base and emitter junction, and

 the output signal is taken from the collector-emitter junction.


CHAPTER 19 DAWN OF MODERN PHYSICS
Exercise Questions
19.1 What are the measurements on which two observers in relative motion will
always agree upon?
Ans: The two measurements on which two observers will always agree upon are:
 speed of light in free space, and

 the force on a moving object.
19.2 Does the dilation means that time really passes more slowly in moving system or
that it only seems to pass more slowly?
Ans: Yes, time really passes more slowly in moving system.
Explanation: according to special theory of relativity time is not an absolute quantity.

It depends upon the motion of frame of reference. According to this theory moving clock
runs slow and this is true.
19.3 If you are moving in a spaceship at a very high speed relative to the Earth, would
you notice a difference (a) in your pulse rate (b) in the pulse rate of the people on
Earth?
Ans: (a) If we are moving in a spaceship at a very high speed relative to the Earth, we will fell
no change in our pulse rate. This is because inside spaceship such an environment is
created that man feels like as in office on Earth.
(b) Due to relative motion, we will found a change in pulse rate of the people on Earth.
19.4 If the speed of light were infinite, what would the equations of special theory of
relativity reduce to?
Ans: If the speed of light were infinite, there will be no relativistic change in mass, length
and time. But energy will become infinite.
v2
Reason: here c   and  0 , thus, the equations of STR are:
c2
mo mo
1. mass: m   mo
v2 1
1
c2
v2
2. length: l  l o 1   l o  1  lo
c2
to to
3. time: t   to
v2 1
1
c2
4. energy: E  mc 2  

19.5 Since mass is a form of energy, can we conclude that a compressed spring has
more mass than the same spring when it is not compressed?
Ans: Yes, a compressed spring has more mass as compressed to an uncompressed spring.
Reason: the work done on a spring appears as its elastic potential energy. According
to mass energy equation E = mc2, energy and mass are inter-convertible thus the energy
in spring will increase its virtual mass.
19.6 As a solid is heated and begins to glow, why does it first appear red?
Ans: Reason: when a solid is heated, it emits radiation. The nature of the radiation
depends upon the temperature. At low temperature, a body emits radiation of long
wavelength whereas at high temperature, it emits radiation of shorter wavelength.
Example: when platinum wire is heated, it appears dull red at 500 oC and becomes
yellow at 1300 oC and finally white at 1600 oC
19.7 What happens to total radiation from the blackbody if its absolute temperature
is doubled?
Ans: If the absolute temperature is doubled, the total radiation from the blackbody will
increase to 16 times.
Proof: according to Stefan-Boltzmann law, the total radiation is given by:
E  T 4
Here if temperature = 2T, then energy will be:

4
E     2T   16  T 4  16 E
19.8 A beam of red light and a beam of blue light have exactly the same energy. Which
beam contains the greater number of photons?
Ans: A beam of red light will have greater number of photons.
Proof: as energy of photon is calculated by:
hc
E  hf 

The energy of a beam of photons which contains n number of photons is:
hc
E n

E
Or n 
hc
Here, h, c are constants, if energy E is also constant, then:
n 

This equation shows that the number of photons depends upon the wavelength of a beam.
The wavelength of red light is greater than the blue light, thus it will more number of
photons.
19.9 Which photon, red, green or blue carries the most (a) energy and (b) momentum?
Ans: (a) Energy: the energy of a photon is given by:
hc 1
E   E 
 
Now since the wavelength of blue light is shorter than the red and green, thus its
energy will also be greater than the other two.
(b) Momentum: the momentum of a photon is given by:
h 1
p  p
 
Again due to shorter wavelength, the momentum of blue light will be larger than other.
19.10 Which has the lower energy quanta? Radio-waves or X-rays?
Ans: The radio-waves will contain low energy quanta.
Proof: the energy of a photon (quanta) of light is given by:
hc 1
E   E 
 
Now since the radio-waves have longer wavelength as compared to x-rays thus they will
contain photons of lower energy.
19.11 Does the brightness of a beam of light primarily depend on the frequency of
photons or on the number of photons?
Ans: The brightness of a beam of light depends upon the number of photons in it.
Reason: brightness means the intensity of light and intensity of light is the energy
delivered per unit time per unit area and this energy is directly proportional to the number
of photons not the frequency of light. Mathematically, it is:
hc
E n

19.12 When ultraviolet light falls on certain dyes, visible light is emitted. Why does this
not happen when infrared light falls on these dyes?
Ans: (i) When ultraviolet light falls on certain dyes, visible light is emitted because the
atoms of the dyes are first excited and then de-excited. During de-excitation, they emit
the absorbed energy in the form of light.
(ii) In case of infrared light, visible light is not emitted.

19.13 Will bright light eject more electrons from a metal surface than dimmer light of
the same colour?
Ans: Bright light will eject more electrons from a metal surface.
Proof: photo-electric effect proves this fact that the number of electrons emitted
depends upon the intensity, i.e. brightness of light. Greater the intensity of light, greater
will the number of electrons emitted.
19.14 Will higher frequency light eject greater number of electrons than low frequency
light?
Ans: The number of electrons does not depend upon the frequency of light. Thus the same
number of electrons will emit for a higher or lower frequency light. The number of electrons
depends upon the intensity of light.
19.15 When light shines on a surface, is momentum transferred to the metal surface?
Ans: Yes, when light shines on a surface, momentum is transferred to the metal surface.
Proof: in photo-electric effect, when photons strike the surface of metal, they transfer their
energy and momentum to the electrons in the metal surface.
19.16 Why can red light be used in a photographic dark room when developing films,
but a blue or white light cannot?
Ans: The wavelength of red light is greater than the blue or white light. According to the
following equation:
hc 1
E   E 
 
Due to longer wavelength, red light has least energy. Thus it does not affect the photo-
graphic film.
19.17 Photon A has twice the energy of photon B, what is the ratio of momentum of A to
that of B?
Ans: According to Einstein equation: E  mc 2  mc  c  pc
For photon A, it is: EA  pAc … (1)
For photon B, it is: EB  pBc … (2)
EA p c p
Dividing (2) by (1), we have:  A  A
EB pB c pB
2E B p
Now since: E A  2EB , thus:  A
EB pB
Or pA : pB  2 : 1

19.18 Why don’t we observe a Compton Effect with visible light?
Ans: We do not observe a Compton’s effect with visible light because photons of visible light
have smaller energy and momentum. It is absorbed by a single electron of an atom and
thus scattering does not occur.
19.19 Can pair production take place in vacuum? Explain
Ans: No, pair production cannot take place in vacuum.
Reason: for the pair production, the energy and momentum of heavy nucleus need to
be conserved. As in the vacuum there is no nucleus, therefore the pair production in
vacuum cannot take place.
19.20 Is it possible to create a single electron from energy? Explain.
Ans: No it is impossible to create a single electron from energy.
Reason: a single particle cannot be created from energy because the creation of two
particles with equal and opposite charges is essential for charge conservation in the
universe. The anti-particle of electron is known as positron.
19.21 If electrons behaved only like particles, what pattern would you expect on the
screen after the electron passes through the double slit?
Ans: Only a few spots will be seen on the screen.
Reason: if electrons behave like particles, there will be no interference pattern on the
screen. Thus no finite images could become on screen. Only the slit images will be seen.
19.22 If an electron and a proton have the same de Broglie wavelength, which particle
has greater speed?
Ans: The particle lighter in mass i.e. electron will have the greater speed.
Proof: the de-Broglie wavelength is given by:
h

mv
h
Or v 
m
This shows that speed is inversely proportional to the mass. Thus electron which is
small in mass than the proton will have greater speed.
19.23 We do not notice that de Broglie wavelength for a pitched cricket ball. Explain
why?
Ans: This is because the mass of a pitched cricket ball is very large as compared to the sub-
atomic particles.
Explanation: the de-Broglie wavelength is given by:

h

mv
Greater the mass of an object, smaller will be its wavelength. That’s why the wave of a
cricket ball is invisible.
19.24 If the following particles have the same energy, which has the shortest
wavelength? Electron, alpha particle, neutron, proton.
Ans: Massive the particle, shorter will be its wavelength.
Proof: the de-Broglie wavelength is given by:
h

mv
Wavelength and the mass of a particle are inversely related. From the given
particles (i.e. electron, alpha particle, neutron and proton), alpha particles are heavier than
the others, thus its wavelength will be shortest.
19.25 When does light behave as a wave? When does it behave as a particle?
Ans: Light as a wave: light behaves as a wave when it travels from a source to a place where
it is detected. This happens in:
 interference
 diffraction
 polarization
Light as a wave: light behaves as a stream of photons when it interacts with matter.
This happens in:
 photoelectric effect
 Compton’s effect
 pair production
19.26 What advantages an electron microscope has over an optical microscope?
Ans: Advantages of electron microscope over an optical microscope:
 its resolving power is 1000 times greater than an ordinary optical microscope.
 minor detail can easily be seen which cannot be seen with the ordinary microscope.
 a 3D image of remarkable quality can also be obtained with it.
19.27 If measurements show a precise position for an electron, can those measurements
show precise momentum also? Explain.
Ans: No, the measurements which show a precise position of an electron do not show
precise momentum also.
Proof: according to Heisenberg uncertainty principle, position and momentum of a

particle cannot be accurately measured at the same time.

CHAPTER 20 ATOMIC SPECTRA
Exercise Questions
20.1 Bohr’s theory of hydrogen atom is based upon several assumptions. Do any of
these assumptions contradict classical physics?
Ans: Yes, 1st postulate of Bohr’s theory of hydrogen atom contradicts with classical physics.
Explanation:
 according to classical physics:

o an orbiting electron emits electromagnetic waves,
o its energy decreases and orbit become smaller and thus finally it should falls
into the nucleus .
 while according to Bohr’s theory:
o an electron bound to the nucleus in an atom can move around the nucleus only
in certain circular orbits and it does not radiate.
20.2 What is meant by a line spectrum? Explain how line spectrum can be used for the
identification of elements?
Ans: Line Spectrum: when a gas is excited at low pressure by passing an electric current
through it, it emits radiations. The emitted radiations are in the form of sharp parallel
lines. The spectrum made by these lines is known as line spectrum.
Identification of lines: each line of the line spectrum indicates a particular wavelength
and frequency. Each element has its own set of wavelengths in the line spectrum. This is
because electrons of the atoms in different elements have different energy in their orbits.
20.3 Can the electron in the ground state of hydrogen absorb a photon of energy
13.6eV and greater than 13.6eV?
Ans: Yes, it can absorb a photon of energy 13.6 eV or greater than 13.6 eV.
Reason: since the ionization energy of hydrogen in the ground state is 13.6 eV. Thus an
electron can absorb a photon of energy 13.6 eV at its ground level and if it absorbs a
photon of energy more than 13.6 eV, the energy above 13.6 eV appears in the form of
kinetic energy of the electron.
20.4 How can the spectrum of hydrogen contain so many lines when hydrogen
contains one electron?
Ans: When a hydrogen atom is excited with energy more than

13.6 eV, its electron jumps to some higher energy state.
When the same electron de-excites, it emits the energy in
the form of light. It does not jump directly to the ground
state rather it jumps to lower energy states in steps and
at every jump it emits radiation of different wavelength.
That’s why its spectrum has so many lines.

20.5 Is energy conserved when an atom emits a photon of light?
Ans: Yes, energy remains conserved when an atom emits a

photon of light.
Proof: when an electron jumps from a low energy state

to a high energy state, it absorbs a photon of energy
hf. When it de-excites, it emits a photon of same energy.
So during excitation and de-excitation, the energy of the
atom remains conserved.
20.6 Explain why a glowing glass gas gives only certain wavelengths of light and why
that gas is capable of absorbing the same wavelengths? Give a reason why it is
transparent to other wavelengths?
Ans: An atom emits or absorbs the photons of same wavelength at a certain state. A gas
discharge tube is filled with gas at low pressure. Its atoms also emit or absorb the waves
of light of same wavelengths. The wavelengths depend upon the state to which the photon
is being absorbed/emitted. The photons emitted from different states will have different
wavelengths. That is why each and every wave is transparent to other waves.
20.7 What do we mean when we say that the atom is

excited?
Ans: When an electron in an atom jumps from a low energy

state to a high energy state, it absorbs a photon of
light. The energy absorbed by the electron is equal to
the energy difference between two levels. In this state
the atom is said to be excited.
20.8 Can X-rays be reflected, refracted, diffracted and polarized just like any other
waves? Explain.
Ans: Yes, just like any other wave x-rays can also be reflected, refracted, diffracted and
polarized.
Reasons: this is because x-rays are:
 electromagnetic waves,
 obey wave particle duality,
 have great amount of energy with shorter wavelength,
 as an example in Davison Germer’s experiment, x-rays are diffracted by
crystals.
20.9 What are the advantages of laser over ordinary light?
Ans: Advantages of Laser:
 it is a coherent beam of light,

 it is unidirectional and mono-chromatic,
 it is an intense beam of light and can move to a long distance,
 it can be used to focus to a fine spot.

20.10 Explain why laser action could not occur without population inversion between
atomic levels?
Ans: Population Inversion in Laser: if population inversion does not occur, this means;
 number of atoms in meta-stable state < number of atoms at ground state,

 the incident photons will be absorbed by atoms in the ground state,
 rate of stimulated emission > rate of induced absorption,
 thus, laser amplification will not occur
CHAPTER 21 NUCLEAR PHYSICS
Exercise Questions
21.1 What are isotopes? What do they have in common and what are their
differences?
Ans: Isotopes: “the nuclei of an element which have the same charge number but different
mass number are known as the isotopes of that element”.
Similarities Differences
 They contain equal number of  They have different number of
protons. neutrons
 They have the same chemical  They have different physical
properties. properties.
21.2 Why are heavy nuclei unstable?
Ans: Unstable nuclei: if the atomic number of an element is greater than 82, it will be named
as unstable nuclei because it automatically emits some radiations.
Reason: the binding energy per nucleon for heavy nuclei is very small; therefore a small
amount of energy is required to split it. That’s why they are unstable.
21.3 If a nucleus has a half-life of one year, does this mean that it will be completely
decayed after 2 years? Explain
Ans: No, it will not decay completely in two years.
Reason: half life of an element is that period in which half of the atoms decay. We let the
numbers of atom = 1000, and half life = one year.
 after 1 year the atoms remains = 500,

 after 2 year the atom remains = 250, and so on,
 it will completely decay in an infinite time.
21.4 What fraction of a radio-active sample decays after two half-lives have elapsed?
Ans: ¾ i.e. 75 % of a radioactive sample will decay after two half lives elapses.
Proof: Let No = number of atoms originally present

n
No. of un-decayed atoms after n-half lives  1  2 No , n = 2
2 1
Then, No. of un-decayed atoms  1  2 No 
4
N o  25% of N o
Fraction of decayed atoms = 100% – 25 % = 75%
226
21.5 The radio-active element 88 R has a half-life of 1.6 × 103 years? Since the Earth
is about 5 billion years old, how can you explain why we still can find this
element in nature?
Ans: The half life of Radium is 1.6 × 103 years, i.e. in this time period its number of atoms of
radium will decay into half.
 The total number of atoms will decay in an infinite time,

 This is a common property of all the radio-active elements to decay in an infinite
time.
 A radio-active element never decays completely.
21.6 Describe a brief account of interaction of various types of radiations with matter.
Ans: Electromagnetic radiations or photons interact with matter in three different ways.
Their interaction mainly depends upon their energy. These interactions are of three types:
i. at low energies (less than about 0.5 MeV), the dominant process that removes
photons from a beam is the photoelectric effect,
ii. at intermediate energies, the dominant process is the compoton scattering,
iii. at higher energies (more than 1.02 MeV), the dominant process is pair production.
21.7 Explain how alpha and beta particles may ionize an atom without directly
hitting the electrons? What is the difference in the action of two particles
producing ionization?
Ans: Ionization by alpha particle: since alpha particle is a helium nuclei, it requires electron,
it ionizes an atom by pulling the electron by electrostatic attraction.
 thus, it ionizes an atom by force of attraction.
Ionization by beta particle: since beta particle is an electron, it requires a positive

charge, it ionizes an atom by repelling the electron by electrostatic repulsion.
 thus, it ionizes an atom by force of repulsion.
21.8 A particle which produces more ionization is less penetrating. Why?
Ans: Particles which have more ionization power are less penetrating or have small range.
Reason: a particle with greater ionizing power will lose whole of its energy in a short
distance inside that medium. That’s why its range in that medium will be very small.
21.9 What information is revealed by the length and shape of the tracks of an incident
particle in Wilson cloud chamber?

Ans: In Wilson cloud chamber, the length and shape of the tracks gives the following
information:
i. the thick, straight and continuous tracks show that:

a. incident particle is massive, i.e. alpha particle (helium nuclei),
b. it is more ionizing, i.e. small length (range)
ii. the thin, and discontinuous track in erratic manner show that:
a. incident particle is smaller in mass, i.e. electron,
b. it is less ionizing, i.e. greater penetration (range)
iii. if the tracks have no definite shape and has greater length, it shows that:
a. incident particle has very less ionizing power,
b. it has much greater penetration power, i.e. greater range.
21.10 Why must a Geiger Muller tube for detecting α–particles have a very thin end
window? Why does a Geiger Muller tube for detecting γ -rays not need a window
at all?
Ans: For alpha particle: since alpha particles are massive therefore their penetration power is
very small that’s why a very thin window is kept in GM tube so that alpha particles could
penetrate into the tube.
For gamma rays: since the penetration power of gamma ray is very large that’s there is
no need to keep a window in the GM tube.
21.11 Describe the principle of operation of a solid state detector of ionization

radiation in terms of generation and detection of charge carriers?
Ans: Principle of Solid State detector: a solid state detector is a specially designed p-n
junction that operates under a reversed bias in which electron-hole pairs are produced
by the incident radiation to cause a current pulse to flow through the external circuit. The
detector is made from a p-type silicon or germanium.
21.12 What do we mean by the term critical mass?
Ans: Critical Mass: such a mass of uranium in which one neutron, out of all the neutrons
produced in one fission reaction, produces further fission is known the critical mass.
 The volume of this mass of uranium is known as the critical volume.
21.13 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power compared to the use
of fossil fuel generated power?
Ans: Advantages: the advantages are:
1. it can be generated in large amount,

2. it is a cheaper way to produce electricity,
3. nuclear waste can be re-used
Disadvantages: its disadvantages are:
1. it is dangerous and harmful for living things,

2. nuclear waste cannot be transported through populated area,
3. Uranium mining is more dangerous than the fossil fuel mining.

21.14 What factors make a fusion reaction difficult to achieve?
Ans: To make a fusion reaction, high temperature and sufficient thermal kinetic energy
are two factors which are difficult to achieve.
Explanation: for the fusion of two light nuclei they have brought closer to each other with
very high velocity. This is done by increasing their temperature up-to millions of degree
Celsius. At this temperature the nuclei get sufficient thermal kinetic energy to overcome the
electrostatic repulsion. But these conditions cannot be easily achieved.
21.16 What do you understand “background radiation”? State two sources of this
radiation.
Ans: Background Radiations: “it is a radiation dose rate at a specified location which is
generated by any combination of natural and artificial ionizing radiation sources”.
Sources of background radiation: a chart of background radiation is given below:
1) 85% of background radiations are natural, rest of 15% is artificial,

2) Radon gas from the ground, 50%,
3) Foods and drinks, 11.5 %, cosmic rays 10%,
4) Gamma rays from the ground and building 15%
21.15 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of fission power from the point of
safety, pollution and resource?
Ans: Advantages and disadvantages of fusion power: these are as follows:
Safety Issues: the safety problems are:
 fission power provides more energy but the radioactive wastes cannot be easily
stored,
 this is a cheap method to produce electricity but there is always a risk of
accidently release of large amount of radiations,
 it gives more energy per nucleon but during fission control of reactors is very
difficult.

Pollution: its advantages are:
 fission power produces no environmental pollution, but produces harmful

radiations,
 these do not create any air pollution,
 while the burning of fuel produces a lot of air pollution.
Resources: its sources are:
 natural uranium which contains only 0.7% of U-235,

 while other 99.3% of uranium is not fissionable
1.17 If someone accidently swallows an alpha-source and a β-source, which would be

the more dangerous to him? Explain why?
Ans: The source of alpha particles will be more dangerous to our body than the β-source.
Reason: the ionizing power of alpha particles is much greater than the beta particle that
is alpha particles will cause more damage to our body by ionizing the flesh and the bones.
21.18 Which radiation dose would deposit more energy to the body?
a) 10 mGy to the hand,

b) 1 mGy dose to the entire body?
Ans: The radiation does is measure by:
energy (E )
Absorb does 
mass (m )
That is: Energy: E = does (D) × mass
a) let mass of hand: m = 5kg & does: D = 10 mGy = 10 mGy = 10 mJkg – 1
Thus: Energy: E = (10 × 5) mJ = 50 mJ
b) let mass of body: m = 70 kg & does: D = 1 mGy = 1 mJkg – 1
Thus: Energy: E = (1 × 70) mJ = 70 mJ
This is clear that more energy will be absorbed in the entire body than the hand.
21.19 What is a radioactive tracer? Describe one application each in medicine,

agriculture and industry.
Ans: Radioactive Tracer: the behavior of radio-isotope is similar to a normal isotope inside a
living organism. The location and concentration of a radio-isotope can be found by
measuring the radiation emitted by it.
Uses of Tracers: the tracer technique is used in many fields of life.
 In medicine: in medicine the tracer technique is used to detect the malignant

tumors.

 In agriculture: in agriculture tracer are used to study the uptake of fertilizer by a

plant.
 In industry: in industry radioactive isotope are used to manufacture the tyre of
vehicles.
21.20 How can the radioactivity help in the treatment of cancer?
Ans: Treatment of Cancer by Radiation: the treatment of cancer with radiation is known as
radiotherapy. Here gamma rays from cobalt-60 are used for the treatment. The cancerous
cells that multiply rapidly absorb more radiations and are more easily destroyed than the
normal cells.


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Physics 12: Full Book Short Questions (Exercises only) ~1~

Now, if V = constant then, ΔV  change in potential  0

Proof: the electric field and potential are given by:

12.3 How can you identify that which plate of a capacitor is

Ans: By using an electronic device named as “gold leaf

Procedure: this device is brought near the plate of a capacitor.

12.4 Describe the force or forces on a positive point charge

a) with similar and equal charges

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

b) with opposite and equal charges

Ans: When a positive charge “q” is placed between two plates:

12.5 Electric lines of force never cross. Why?

Ans: Yes, it will make a rectilinear motion.

Proof: here we let:

12.7 Is E necessarily zero inside a charged rubber balloon if balloon is spherical?

Proof: if the charge is uniformly distributed over the spherical

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

Now charge (q) in the Gaussian surface is zero, i.e. q = 0

Ans: Yes, the given statement is true.

Proof: according to Gauss’s law, the flux through any closed

12.9 Do electrons tend to go to region of high potential or of

Ans: Electrons tend to go to region of high potential.

It is shown in the following figure. Electrons are negatively

CHAPTER 13 CURRENT ELECTRICITY

(i) Increasing the potential difference

Reason: the drift velocity of free electrons is given by:

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

If n, e, A and R are constants: vd  V

i.e. by increasing potential difference, drift velocity will also increase.

Reason: since the drift velocity is given by;

13.2 Do bends in a wire affect its electrical resistance? Explain

Ans: No, bends in a wire do not affect its electrical resistance.

Reason: the resistance of a wire is:

Ans: Fig. A = 1500 ± 5%, Fig. B = 49000 ± 10%

13.4 Why does the resistance of a conductor rise with temperature?

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

Ans: The resistance is directly proportional to the temperature of the conductor.

Explanation: with an increase in temperature:

 amplitudes of vibration of atoms increase,

Explanation: the I-V graph of a lighted filament bulb is given below:

Ans: Let’s compute and compare their resistances.

13.7 Describe a circuit, which will give a continuously varying potential.

Ans: The circuit of a potentiometer provides a continuously

Circuit: the potentiometer is an electronic device (circuit)

The voltage between A and C is given by:

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

 as “r” changes between min (0) to max (R),

i.e. energy utilized = total energy – energy lost

 when current (I) will be increased,

13.9 What is Wheatstone bridge? How can it be used to determine an unknown

Ans: Wheatstone bridge is an electronic circuit which is used to

Circuit diagram: the circuit diagram of a Wheatstone bridge

Now if R2, R3, and R4 are known and R1 = ? Then

The Smart Solution By The KNM Books

Ans: Maximum Flux: when the loop is placed  (θ = 0o) to the

B  BA cos   BA cos 0o  BA 1  BA (max)

Minimum Flux: when the loop is placed at parallel (θ = 90o)

B  BA cos   BA cos 90 o  BA  0  0 (min)

14.2 A current in a conductor produces a magnetic field, which can be calculated by

Ans: (i) For charges at rest, magnetic field will be zero.

Reason: according to Ampere’s law:

If charges are at rest, current I = 0, then

(ii) Charges in motion produce a magnetic field.

Ans: (i) If the proton is moving along +x-axis, a force will