III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

BANGALORE UNIVERSITY B.Sc.

III SEM PHYSICS : CBCS: QUESTION BANK
DC Circuit analysis
PART A
1. What is meant by internal resistance of a source? (1)
2. What is an ideal voltage source? (2)
3. What is an ideal current source? (2)
4. Establish the equivalence (duality) between the voltage and current sources. (3)
5. Distinguish between an ideal voltage source and an ideal current source. (3)
6. State and explain Kirchhoff’s current law and voltage law. (3)
7. State and prove Thevenin’s theorem. (6)
8. Describe the process of thevenization of a circuit. (4)
9. State and prove Superposition theorem. (8)
10. State and prove Maximum power transfer theorem (6)
11. Show that the maximum power transferred to the load is half the power generated
by the source. (3)
12. Show that emf of the source is 𝐸 = √4 𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑅𝑇ℎ
13. State and explain Norton’s theorem. (4)
14. Discuss the Nortonization of a circuit (4)
15. Explain the equivalence between Norton’s and Thevenin’s circuits. (4)
16. State Reciprocity theorem.

PART B
1. A voltage source representation is as shown. Find 𝑅𝑆
the equivalent current source circuit. Given 𝑉𝑆 =
12𝑉 and 𝑅𝑆 = 4𝑘Ω . (2)
𝑉𝑆
𝑉𝑆
[Hint : 𝐼𝑆 = ]
𝑅𝑆
A
2. Find the current in the 5𝑘Ω resistor by converting
the current source to the voltage source in the given
circuit. Given 𝐼𝑆 = 10𝑚𝐴 , 𝑅𝑆 = 2𝑘Ω and 𝑅𝐿 = 5𝑘Ω 𝐼𝑆
𝑅𝑆 𝑅𝐿
(4)
𝑉𝑆
[Hint 𝑉𝑆 = 𝐼𝑆 𝑅𝑆 Current through load 𝐼𝐿 = 𝑅 ]
𝑆 + 𝑅𝐿
B
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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

3. In the circuit shown in figure, find the

current through the branch BD using
Kirchhoff’s laws
[Hint : Using KCL and KVL ]

4. In the network shown, find the

𝐴
current through 𝑅𝐿 using Thevenin’s
𝑅1 𝑅3
theorem
𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝐸
Given 𝑅1 = 6Ω, 𝑅2 = 3Ω , 𝑅3 = 4Ω ,
𝑅𝐿 = 5Ω and E = 12V
𝐵
E E R2
[Hint : I VTh 
R1  R2 R1  R2

R1 R2 𝑉𝑇ℎ
RTh  R3  𝐼𝐿 = ]
R1  R2 𝑅𝑇ℎ + 𝑅𝐿

𝐴
5. Using Thevenin’s theorem, find the 𝑅1 𝑅3
pd across AB for the circuit Given
𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝑅1 = 5Ω, 𝑅2 = 2Ω , 𝑅3 = 4Ω , 𝑅𝐿 = 𝐸

20Ω and E = 50V.

E E R2 𝐵
[Hint : I VTh 
R1  R2 R1  R2

R1 R2 𝑉𝑇ℎ
RTh  R3  𝐼𝐿 = 𝑉𝐴𝐵 = 𝐼𝐿 𝑅𝐿 ]
R1  R2 𝑅𝑇ℎ + 𝑅𝐿

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

6. Find the current through 8Ω resistor using

the superposition theorem in the given 𝑅1 𝑅2
circuit 𝑅1 = 4Ω, 𝑅2 = 6Ω , 𝑅3 = 8Ω , 𝐸1 = 𝐸1 𝐸2
𝑅3
6𝑉 and 𝐸2 = 8V.
[Hint :
Explanation: By mesh current analysis.
1. Consider the network as shown. The currents in different branches of the network are
I 1 , I 2 and I as shown. Also I 1  I 2  I .
2 Let the internal resistance r of the cells be
𝐼′1 𝑅1 𝑅2 𝐼′2
negligible].
The cell E2 is removed and the terminals 𝐸1 𝑅3 𝐸2
are short as shown. Now the currents in 𝐼′⬚
the branches are I 1 , I 2 and I  . Also

I   I 1  I 2 .

3 The E1 is removed and the terminals are 𝐼’′1 𝑅1 𝑅2 𝐼′′2

short as shown. The currents are I 1 , I 2 and I  𝐸1 𝐸2

𝑅3
. Also I   I 1  I 2 . 𝐼′′⬚

According to superposition theorem I 1  I 1  I 1 . I 2  I 2  I 2 and I  I   I 

I  I1  I2
]

7. Find the current in different resistances

of the circuit using the superposition 𝑅1 𝑅2

theorem 𝐸1 𝑅3 𝐸2
𝑅1 = 20Ω, 𝑅2 = 30Ω , 𝑅3 = 20Ω ,
𝐸1 = 32𝑉 and 𝐸2 = 20V.
[Hint: same as above]

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

8. Find the thevenin’s equivalent circuit for the network shown below and find the
current through 𝑅𝐿 = 6Ω.
𝑅1 = 3Ω, 𝑅2 = 6Ω , 𝑅3 = 2Ω , 𝑅𝐿 = 6Ω 𝑅1 𝑅3
and E = 18V
𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
[Hint : same as problem (4)] 𝐸

9. For the network shown below,

𝑅1 𝑅3
determine the value of 𝑅𝑇ℎ for
maximum power to 𝑅𝐿 and calculate 𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝐸
the power delivered under these
conditions
𝑅1 = 6Ω, 𝑅2 = 3Ω , 𝑅3 = 8Ω ,
and E = 12V
E E R2 R1 R2
[Hint : I  VTh  RTh  R3 
R1  R2 R1  R2 R1  R2

𝑉𝑇ℎ 2 𝑉𝑇ℎ 2
When 𝑅𝑇ℎ = 𝑅𝐿 , 𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 = ( ) 𝑅𝑇ℎ or 𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 = ( ) 𝑅𝑇ℎ ]
𝑅𝑇ℎ + 𝑅𝑇ℎ 2𝑅𝑇ℎ

10. Using superposition theorem find the

𝑅1 𝑅2
current through 1𝑘Ω in the circuit shown.
𝐸
𝐼𝑆1 𝑅3 𝐸2
𝑅2 = 1𝑘Ω , 𝑅3 = 3𝑘Ω , 𝐼𝑆 = 8𝑚𝐴
and 𝐸2 = 32V

11. Calculate the current through 10Ω

resistor using Norton’s theorem for 𝑅1 𝑅3
the circuit shown.
𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝑅1 = 2Ω, 𝑅2 = 5Ω , 𝑅3 = 3Ω , 𝐸

and E = 30V

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

𝑅2 𝑅3 𝐸 𝑅2 𝑅1 𝑅2
[Hint : 𝑅𝑒𝑓𝑓 = 𝑅1 + , 𝐼= , 𝐼𝑁 = 𝐼 × , 𝑅𝑁 = 𝑅3 + Current
𝑅2 + 𝑅3 𝑅𝑒𝑓𝑓 𝑅2 + 𝑅3 𝑅1 + 𝑅2

𝐼 𝑅
through load 𝐼𝐿 = 𝑅 𝑁+ 𝑅𝑁 ]
𝑁 𝐿

12. Draw the Thevenin’s and Norton’s

equivalent circuits for the network
𝑅1 𝑅3
shown below and find the current
through the load in each case. 𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝐸
𝑅1 = 6Ω, 𝑅2 = 8Ω , 𝑅3 = 8Ω , and
E = 24V 𝑅𝐿 = 32Ω .

13. Find the value of 𝑅𝐿 required to

obtain maximum powe in the
𝑅1 𝑅3
circuit shown. Also find the
value of maximum power. 𝑅2 𝑅𝐿
𝐸
𝑅1 = 300Ω, 𝑅2 = 100Ω , 𝑅4

𝑅3 = 25Ω and E = 100V 𝑅4 = 50Ω

14. Is current in the circuit shown below 𝐴

𝐼𝐿 𝑅𝑇ℎ
maximum or minimum when the load
𝑉𝑇ℎ 𝑅𝐿
resistance is short circuited? (2)

PART C
1. What is the resistance of an ideal voltage and ideal current source?
2. Can a real voltage source be imagined to be an ideal voltage source? Explain.
3. Can a real current source be imagined as an ideal current source? Explain.
4. Why the internal resistance of an ideal voltage source is zero? Explain.
5. The resistance of an ideal current source is zero. True of false? Justify.
6. Can a voltage source be converted into a current source? Explain.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

7. Can the Kirchhoff’s laws be applicable to AC circuits also? Explain.

8. Is Kirchhoff current law in accordance with law of conservation of charge?
Explain.
9. Is Kirchhoff Voltage law in accordance with law of conservation of energy?
Explain.
10. Can the superposition theorem be applied to nonlinear circuits? Explaim.
11. When is the power transferred to the load maximum?
12. Are the Thevenin’s and Norton’s theorem applicable only to DC circuits? Explain.
13. What is the maximum power delivered across the load with respect to the power
generated at the source?

Transient currents

PART-A
1. Define self-inductance of a given coil. Arrive at the expression for the magnetic
energy stored in an inductor. (4)
2. Derive an expression for the self inductance of a solenoid in terms of number of
turns and area of the solenoid.
3. Obtain an expression for the growth of current in an series LR circuit with a battery
of emf E. Define time constant. Represent the variation of current with time
graphically.
4. Derive an expression for the decay of current in an series LR circuit. Define time
constant. Represent the variation of current with time graphically.
5. Obtain an expression for the growth of charge in a series RC circuit with an emf E.
Define capacitive time constant. Represent variation graphically.
6. Obtain an expression for the decay of charge in a series R-C circuit. Define
capacitive time constant. Represent variation graphically
7. Derive an expression for the decay of charge of a capacitor in an LCR series circuit.
8. Explain the conditions of overdamping, critical damping and underdamping in a
LCR series circuit. Show the variation graphically.
PART-B
1. The magnetic flux passing through a coil of 200 turns is 0.5 mWb, when a 2 A
𝑁𝜑
current passes through it. Find its inductance. [𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝐿 = ]
𝐼

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

2. The self inductance of a coil is 3 mH and an electric current of 5 A is flowing

through it. On switching off the current from 5 A to zero in 0.1 s. Calculate the
average self induced emf in the coil.
𝑑𝐼
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑒 = |𝐿 |]
𝑑𝑡
3. A coil having a resistance of 15  and an inductance of 10 H is connected to a 90 V
battery. Determine the value of current (i) after 0.67 s and after (ii) 2s.
𝑅
𝐸 𝐿
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼0 = , 𝜏 = 𝑅 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒−𝐿 𝑡 )]
𝑅

4. A sensitive electronic device of resistance 175 Ω is designed to operate with a

current of 36 mA. To avoid damage to the device, an inductor is connected in series
so that the current can rise to 4.9 mA in the first 58 𝜇𝑠. (a) What emf must the source
have? (b) What inductance is required to satisfy the given condition? (c) What is
the time constant?
𝑅
𝐸 𝐿
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: (𝑎) 𝐼0 = 36 × 10−3 = , (𝑏) 𝐼 = 4.9 × 10−3 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒−𝐿 𝑡 ) , 𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑑 𝐿 (𝑐)𝜏 = ]
𝑅 𝑅

5. A Coil has an inductance of 5.3 mH and a resistance of 0.35Ω. (a) If a 12 V emf is

applied across the coil, how much energy is stored in the magnetic field after the
current has built up its equilibrium value? (b) After how many time constants will
half this equilibrium energy be stored in the magnetic field?
𝑡
𝐸 1 𝑈
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼0 = , 𝑈 = 𝐿𝐼02 , 𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑈 ′ = , 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒 −𝜏 ) ]
𝑅 2 2

6. A capacitor of 1F is first charged and then discharged through a resistance of

1M. Calculate the time in which the charge on the capacitor will fall to 36.8% of
its initial value.
𝑡
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑞 = 0.368𝑞0 , 𝑞 = 𝑞0 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶 ]

7. A capacitor of capacity 0.5 𝜇𝐹 is discharged through a resistance of 10 M. Find

the time taken for half the charge on the capacitor to escape.
1 𝑡
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑞 = 𝑞 , 𝑞 = 𝑞0 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶 ]
2 0
8. In an oscillatory LCR circuit L = 0.2 H, C = 0.0012 F.What is the maximum value
of resistance for the circuit to be oscillatory?
4𝐿
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑅2 = ]
𝑐

9. An LCR circuit has L = 0.45H, C = 2.5× 10−5 F and resistance R. (a) what is the
frequency of the circuit when R = 0? Also calculate the angular frequency. What
value must R have to give a 5% decreases in angular frequency compared to the

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

value calculated in the previous case?

1 1 1 1 𝑅2
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑓 = √ , 𝜔=√ , 𝜔′ = 95% 𝑜𝑓 𝜔, 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑑 𝑅 𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝜔′ = √ − ]
2𝜋 𝐿𝐶 𝐿𝐶 𝐿𝐶 4𝐿2

10. An oscillating LC circuit consisting of a 1.0 nF capacitor and a 3.0 mH coil has a
maximum voltages of 3.0 V. (a) What is the maximum charge in the capacitor? (b)
What is the maximum current through the circuit? (c) What is the maximum
energy stored in the magnetic field of the coil?
1 2
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡 ∶ (𝑎) 𝑞0 = 𝐸𝐶, (𝑏)𝐼0 = 𝐼0 = 𝜔𝑞0 , 𝑈 = 𝐿𝐼 ]
2 0
11. A capacitor of capacitance 1µF is charged to 200V. If it is discharged through a
resistance of 200Ω in what time its potential drop to 100V?
𝑡
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑞0 = 𝐸𝐶, 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑉 ′ = 100𝑉 𝑖𝑠 𝑞 ′ = 𝐸 ′ 𝐶, 𝑞′ = 𝑞0 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶 ]

12. A capacitor discharges through an inductor of 0.1H and a resistor of 100Ω. If the
frequency of oscillation is 1000 Hz, calculate the capacitance.
1 1 𝑅2
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑓 = √ − 2]
2𝜋 𝐿𝐶 4𝐿

13. Calculate the value of the current after 1 second when a p.d of 10V is applied to a
circuit of resistance 20 ohm and self-inductance 0.1H in series.
𝑅
𝐸
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼0 = , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒−𝐿 𝑡 )]
𝑅

14. A capacitor of capacitance 1 𝜇𝐹 is discharged through a resistance. Time taken for

half the charge on the capacitor to leak is found to be 10 s. Calculate the value of
resistance.
1
1
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑞 = 𝑞0 , 𝑞 = 𝑞0 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶𝑡 ]
2

15. A capacitor of capacitance 1 μF is connected to a battery of 2 V through a resistance

of 10 k. Calculate the initial current and current after 0.02 s.
1
𝑞
𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝑞 = 𝑞0 (1 − 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶𝑡 ) 𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑦 𝐶 𝑜𝑛 𝑒𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 𝑉 𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝐶
[ ]
1
𝑞0 − 𝑡 𝑉 𝑉0
= 𝑉0 , 𝑤𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑉 = 𝑉0 (1 − 𝑒 𝑅𝐶 ) 𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝐼 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼0 =
𝐶 𝑅 𝑅

16. A potential difference of 1 V is applied to a coil of resistance 2 and self inductance

𝑅
2 H. What is the current after 0.1 s? [𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒 −𝐿 𝑡 )]
17. A capacitor of capacitance 1 𝜇𝐹 is charged to 200 V. If it is discharged through a
resistance of 200  In what time will its potential drop to 100V?
1
𝑞 𝑞0
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: = 𝑉 𝑎𝑛𝑑 = 𝑉0 , 𝑤𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑉 = 𝑉0 (1 − 𝑒 −𝑅𝐶𝑡 )]
𝐶 𝐶

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

18. In an LR circuit, the current attains (1/3) of its final steady value in one second
after the circuit is closed. What is the time constant of the circuit?
1 𝑅
𝐿
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼 = 𝐼0 , 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒 − 𝐿 𝑡 ) 𝜏 = ]
3 𝑅

19. A coil having an inductance of 20 H and a resistance of 10  is connected to a

battery. How long will it take for the current to reach half of the final value?
1 𝑅
[𝐻𝑖𝑛𝑡: 𝐼 = 𝐼0 , 𝐼 = 𝐼0 (1 − 𝑒 − 𝐿 𝑡 ) ]
2

20. A 100𝜇𝐹 capacitor having an energy stored in it as 50J is used to operate a floash
lamp. (a) What voltage is required to charge the capacitor, (b) How much charge
passes though the floash lamp?
21. A 20𝜇𝐹 capacitor is connected to a 45V battery through a circuit whose resistance
is 2000. (a) What is the final charge on the capacitor? (b) How long it takes for
the charge to reach 63% of its final value?

PART C
1. The inductance coils are made of copper. Why?
2. A coil is removed from the magnetic field (i) rapidly (ii) slowly. In which case more
work will be done?
3. Is there any loss of energy due to the production of back emf in an LR circuit?
Why?
4. What is the significance of time constant of an R-L series circuit?
5. Can the time constant be infinity in case of a LR series circuit? Explain.
6. Does the time constant depend on the applied emf in an LR series circuit? Explain.
7. What is the significance of time constant of an R-C series circuit?
8. Can we connect a capacitor directly to a dc source? Explain.
9. Self inductance of a coil is also called electrical inertia. Explain
10. When does LCR circuit get critically damped?
11. How do you increase the time constant of CR circuit?
12. What happens to the frequency of oscillation in an LCR circuit when the capacitor
is filled with a dielectric?
13. How do you increase the time constant of LR circuit?
14. Is total energy conserved in a LC circuit with negligible resistance? Explain.
15. How do you increase the frequency of oscillations in a LC circuit?

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

16. What is the effect of frequency in an LCR series circuit if a inductor of higher
number of turns is used?
17. Is there a change in the magnetic field energy in a current carrying solenoid when
the direction of current is reversed? Justify.

UNIT – II : MAGNETIC FORCES AND FIELDS

PART-A
1. Write an expression for the force on a moving charge in a magnetic field . Under
what conditions force is maximum and minimum?
( 2+2)
2. What is Lorentz force? Mention the expression for the same ( 2)
3. Define magnetic field based on the force experienced by a charged particle and
define its SI unit ( 2)
4. Obtain an expression for the force on a current carrying conductor placed in a
uniform magnetic field. Give the condition for maximum and minimum force
(4+2)
5. Derive an expression for the force between two parallel and infinitely long
conductors carrying current and hence define ampere.
(4+1)
6. State and explain Biot – Savart’s law. (4)
7. Derive an expression for the magnetic field at a point due to straight conductor of
finite length carrying current. Hence find the magnetic field at a point on its
perpendicular bisector. (6+2)
8. Derive an expression for the magnetic field at a point due to straight conductor of
finite length carrying current. What will be the magnetic field if it’s length is
infinite
(6+2)
9. State Ampere’s swimming rule and Right hand palm rule (4)
10. Derive an expression for the magnetic field at a point along the axis of a circular
coil carrying current. (8)
11. Using the expression for the field along the axis of the circular coil, arrive at the
expression for the field at the centre of the circular coil. Represent graphically the
variation of magnetic field along the axis of circular coil. (2+2)
12. Derive an expression for the torque acting on a rectangular current loop of N turns,
with the normal of the loop at an angle  with respect to the magnetic field B
(6)

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

13. What is a solenoid? Derive an expression for the magnetic field at a point along
the axis of the solenoid carrying current. (1+7)
14. Derive an expression for the magnetic field at a point along the axis of the
solenoid carrying current. Hence deduce the expressions for the magnetic fields
at the centre and one of the ends along the axis of infinitely long solenoid.
(6+2)
15. Give the principle and theory of a Ballistic Galvanometer. Define ballistic
reduction factor (6+2)
16. Give the principle and theory of a Ballistic Galvanometer. Define charge sensitivity
of a ballistic galvanometer (6+2)
17. Give the conditions under which the ballistic galvanometer is dead beat. Define
logarithmic decrement.
18. With necessary theory, describe an experiment to determine the high resistance by
leakage using a ballistic galvanometer (8)
19. Give the theory of Helmholtz double coil galvanometer and hence define
reduction factor of the galvanometer. Also represent graphically the variation of
the field along the axis of the double coil. (8)
20. State and explain Ampere’s circuital law. (4)
21. Using Ampere’s circuital law, deduce an expression for magnetic field inside a
toroid carrying current. (4)
22. Using Ampere’s circuital law, deduce an expression for magnetic field along the
axis of the solenoid carrying current. (4)
23. Using Ampere’s circuital law, deduce an expression for magnetic field at a point
due to a straight conductor carrying current. (4)
PART-B
1. A uniform magnetic field of 1.5 T points horizontally from south to north. A proton
of energy 5 MeV moves vertically downwards through this field. Calculate the
force on the proton.
(Mass of proton=1.7X10-27kg and charge on proton=1.6X10-19C)
(𝐴𝑛𝑠: 7.37 × 10−12 N)
2. A proton is moving northwards with a velocity 5x106ms-1 in a magnetic field of
0.1T directed eastwards. Find the force on the proton.
Given charge on proton=1.6X10-19C) (Ans:8x10-14N)
3. A proton and an alpha particle of the same velocity enter a uniform magnetic field
acting perpendicular to their direction of motion. Find the ratio of radii of proton
and alpha particle. (Ans 1 : 2)

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

4. A long straight wire carries a current of 20 A. An electron travelling at 107 ms-1

speed is 0.02 m from the wire. What force acts on the electron if its motion is
towards the wire (Ans: 3.2x10-16N)
5. Calculate the force on a wire of length 0.1m in which a current of 8A is flowing ,if
the wire is kept at an angle of (i) 30° and (ii) 0° to the direction of field of 1T.
(Ans: 0.4N,zero)
6. Two long wires P and Q are held perpendicular to the plane of the paper with a
distance of 5m between them. If Pand Q carry currents of 2.5 A and 5A respectively
in the same direction calculate the magnetic field at a point half-way between the
wires.

(Ans: 5x10-2N)
7. The two long straight wires in each carry a
current of I = 5 A in opposite directions and are
separated by a distance d = 30 cm. Find the
magnetic field a distance l = 20 cm to the right of
the wire on the right.
(Ans: 3.0 x 10- 6 T directed out of the page)
8. Two infinitely long straight conductors carrying
a current of 10A each are separated by a distance of 0.01m. Find the force acting
per each metre of conductor by the other.
(Ans : 2x10-3N. Force is attractive if the currents are in the
same direction and it is repulsive if the currents are in
opposite direction)
9. Find the force of attraction on a straight conductor of length 10cm carrying a
current of 5A kept parallel to another straight long conductor carrying a current
of 8A in the same direction at a distance of 2 cm.
(Ans: 4x10-5N)
10. For the arrangement shown in Fig the long straight wire carries a current of I1 = 5
A. This wire is a distance d = 0.1 m away from a rectangular loop of dimensions a
= 0.3 m and b = 0.4 m which carries a current I2 = 10 A. Find the net force exerted
on the rectangular loop by the long straight wire.
(Ans: 3x10-5N directed to the left)
11. Calculate the strength of the magnetic field at the centre of the coil of radius 0.1m
and having 50 turns carrying a current of 1 A.
(Ans: 3.14x10-4T acting perpendicular to the plane of the coil)

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

12. A coil of radius 0.1m and 100 turns carries a current of 2A. Find the magnetic field
at a point 5cm from the centre of the coil on its axis (Ans: 8.991x10-4T )
13. A solenoid of length 0.2 m and radius 0.02 m wound uniformly with 3000 turns of
wire. If it carries a current of 2 A, what is the value of magnetic field (i) on the axis
of solenoid at the centre (ii) on the axis at one end.
(Ans : 37.68x10-3 T, 18.84x10-3T)
14. A coil of area 50cm2 having 300 turns carries a current of 5mA,is suspended in a
magnetic field of strength 2x10-2T. Find the torque acting on the coil if the plane of
the coil makes an angle 60° with the direction of magnetic field.

15. A capacitor of capacitance 500pF is charged to a potential of 1.5V and then

discharged through a ballistic galvanometer. The first throw noted on a scale
placed away is 0.6m.If the time period of oscillation is 5s and the logarithmic
decrement is 0.02, calculate the ballistic constant and figure of merit of the
galvanometer.
(Ans: 1.554x10-9,1.237x10-9 C m-1 )
16. A capacitor of capacitance 100 µF is charged to a potential of 1.5V and then
discharged through a ballistic galvanometer. The first throw noted on the scale is
0.6m. If the period of BG is 6s and logarithmic decrement is 0.04, calculate the
ballistic constant and figure of merit of BG.
(Ans: 2.565x10-4, 2.45x10-4Cm-1)
17. The successive throws on the same side of the mean position for an oscillating coil
is 25, 24.9 and 24.8 cm. Calculate the logarithmic decrement.
(Ans : 2.0172x10-3)
18. A capacitor charged by a battery of 2V is discharged through a ballistic
galvanometer , produces a deflection of 10 cm. If the capacitor is charged again
and its charge is allowed to leak through a high resistance for 3s and then
discharged through BG, the deflection is reduced to 8cm. Calculate the value of
the high resistance. The period of the BG is 10s and its current sensitivity is
106/𝜋 mA-1.
(Ans: 53.77M)
19. The electron in a Bohr atom moves in a circular orbit of radius 5.1X10-11 m making
6.8X1015 revolutions per second. Calculate the equivalent magnetic dipole.
(Ans:8.9x10-24Am2)
20. Two circular coils of radius 0.1m,each having 20 turns are mounted co-axially at a
distance of 0.1m apart. A current of 0.5 A is passed through both of them (i) in the

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

same direction and (ii) in the opposite direction. Find the magnetic induction at
the centre of each coil. (Ans : 8.5x10-5T, 4.06x10-5T)
21. A Helmholtz galvanometer has coils of radius 0.11 m and number of turns70 √5.
Calculate the current through the coils which produces a deflection of 45 °. What
will be the deflection if the current is doubled? BH = 0.32 × 10-4 T.
(Ans: 0.025A, 63.43°)
22. If the coils of the Helmholtz galvanometer have diameter 0.14 m and 275 turns
each, calculate the magnetic field midway between the coils when a current of 0.1
A flows through it. The distance between the coils is 0.07 m. (Ans:2.25x10-6T)

PART C
1. Is it possible for a charge to pass through a magnetic field without getting
deflected?
2. Kinetic energy of a charged particle moving in a magnetic field remains constant.
Explain.
3. The force acting on a closed loop carrying current placed in a uniform magnetic
field is zero. Explain.
4. What is the work done by a uniform magnetic field on a charge particle moving in
it. Explain.
5. Does the momentum of a charged particle moving in a uniform magnetic field
change? Explain.
6. What is an ideal solenoid?. What is the nature of the magnetic field at a point inside
the solenoid.
7. Why phosphor bronze wire is used in a ballistic galvanometer?
8. What is the function of the soft iron cylinder in a moving coil.
9. Why the magnetic pole pieces are made concave in ballistic galvanometer?.
10. What is the force experienced by a current carrying conductor placed along a
magnetic field? Explain.
11. The free oscillations of a moving coil BG are suddenly brought to rest when free
ends of the coils are shorted. Explain.
12. Why does earth’s magnetic field not affect the working of a moving coil ballistic
galvanometer?
13. Using BG, only high resistance can be determined by leakage method. Why?
14. The plane of the coils of Helmholtz tangent galvanometer is aligned perpendicular
to the magnetic meridian. Explain what happens to the deflection when current is
passed through it .

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

15. What is the need for two coils in Helmholtz tangent galvanometer?
16. How will the magnetic field at the centre of a circular coil carrying current change,
if the current through the coil is doubled and the radius of the coil is halved?
17. The net charge in a current carrying conductor is zero, but the conductor
experiences a force in a magnetic field. Why?
18. A solenoid tends to contract when current is passed through it . Explain.
19. HTG cannot be used for measurements at poles. Why?
UNIT III : ELECTROMAGNETISM
Two mark Questions
1. Give the physical significance of gradient of a scalar with an example.

2. Give the physical significance of divergence of a vector with an example.

3. Give the physical significance of curl of a vector with an example.

4. State and explain Gauss Divergence theorem.

5. State and explain Stokes’ theorem.

6. How is the equation of continuity modified for steady currents?

7. What is the physical significance of the equation ∇. 𝑩 = 0?

8. What is the physical significance of the equation  • D   ?

9. Define Poynting vector. Write an expression for the electromagnetic wave in vacuum.

10. Write the dimensions of √𝜇0 𝜖0

11. Give the expression for the energy density of the electromagnetic field.

12. Write the relation between refractive index and the dielectric constant of a medium.

13. What is skin effect? Write an expression for skin depth.

14. What is intrinsic or characteristic impedance? What is its value for free space?

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Obtain the equation of continuity. 4 marks

2. Derive the Maxwell’s field equations:

(i) ⃗ =𝜌
∇∙𝐷

(ii) ⃗ =0
∇∙𝐵

⃗
𝜕𝐵
(iii) ∇ × 𝐸⃗ = − 𝜕𝑡

⃗
𝜕𝐷
(iv) ⃗ =𝐽+
∇×𝐻
𝜕𝑡

Explain the physical significance of each (𝐸𝑎𝑐ℎ ∶ 3 + 1)

3. Derive the Maxwell’s electromagnetic wave equations:

D
i.  • D   ii. H  J  . (4 + 4)
t
4. Derive the Maxwell’s field equations:


 

 B   D
(i)   E   (ii)   B    J   (4 + 4)
t  t 
 
5. Explain the modification made by Maxwell in Ampere’s circuital law. 4 marks

6. Explain Displacement current. Mention its characteristics. 3+5

7. Derive Maxwell’s electromagnetic wave equations for the electric field and the
magnetic field in free space using Maxwell’s equations. 8

8. (a) Obtain the wave equation for the electric field using the Maxwell's Equations in
dielectric medium.

(b) Explain why light is considered as an electromagnetic wave. 6+2

9. Derive an expression for the velocity of electromagnetic waves in terms of electric
and magnetic fields. 8

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

10. Define Poynting vector. Explain Poynting theorem. 4

11. Show that electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature. 8

12. Starting from Maxwell’s equations set up differential equation for electromagnetic
wave. Establish the relation between electric and magnetic vectors. 6+2

13. Obtain an expression for the energy density of an electromagnetic wave. 8

14. Obtain the expression for the momentum imparted by an electromagnetic wave on a
material particle. Write the expression for the radiation pressure. 6+2

𝜕 1
15. Prove ∫𝑉(𝐸 × 𝐻)𝑑𝑉 = − ∫𝑉 (𝜀0 𝐸 2 + 𝜇0 𝐵 2 )𝑑𝑉 and hence state the Poynting
𝜕𝑡 2

theorem. 6+2

16. Using Maxwell’s field equations, derive an expression for refractive index of a
conducting medium. Write the expression for skin depth. 8

PROBLEMS
1. Find the divergence of an electric field E= ix2z+j2y2z2+kxy2z at point (1,-1,1)

(𝑎𝑛𝑠 ∶ −1𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡)
2. If electric potential is given by  = 3x2yi-y3z2j, find grad at point (1,-2, 1).

(𝐴𝑛𝑠 ∶ −24 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠)

3. Show that ∇. ∇𝜑 = ∇2 𝜑 where  is a scalar function?

4. Describe the electric field that go with the following potential : 𝜙 =x2+y2+z2.

Ans E= -2xi-2yj-2zk
5. If magnetic induction is given by B= ix2y-j2xz+k2yz find curl B

𝐢 𝐣 𝒌
𝜕 𝜕 𝜕
Hint :use the determinant| 𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑧 |
𝐵𝑥 𝐵𝑦 𝐵𝑧

6. Prove ∇. (∇×A)=0.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

7. Calculate the curl and the divergence of the following vector field.

𝑬𝒙 = 𝑥 + 𝑦; 𝑬𝒚 = −𝑥 + 𝑦; 𝑬𝒛 = −2𝑧
8. A 50pF capacitor has plates of area 10-2m2. It is charged by a battery of 70V through
a resistor of 20Ω. At the instant the battery is connected calculate (1) the
displacement current (2) the rate of change of electric field between the plates

𝑉
Ans: For an RC circuit instantaneous current is given by i= i0e-t/RC= e-t/RC at t=0 i=3.5A
𝑅
𝑑𝐸
this is also equal to the displacement current. ID= 𝜖0 A
𝑑𝑡

9. The voltage between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor of capacitance 1µF is
changing at the rate of 5Vs-1. What is the displacement current in the capacitor?

𝑑𝑉
[Hint : Q = CV ID=C ]
𝑑𝑡

10. A plane electromagnetic wave is given by

By = 10−7 sin(0.5 × 103 𝑥 + 1.5 × 1011 𝑡) T.
(a) What is the wavelength and frequency of the wave
(b) Write an expression for the electric field.
[Hint: the equation is in the form B =A sin (t+kx)]
11. An AC voltage is applied directly across an 8µF capacitor. The frequency of the ac
source is 3kHz.and the voltage amplitude is30 V. Find the displacement current
between the plates of the capacitor.
[Ans: = 2f =6x103 Hz v= E0sint ID= C(dV/dt) = 3.52 cos(6x103t) A]
12. A plane electromagnetic wave travelling along X-direction in an unbounded lossless
dielectric medium of µr = 2 and 𝜀𝑟 = 5 has peak electric field strength of 10 Vm-1.
Calculate (i) the velocity of the wave (ii) intrinsic impedance of magnetic strength and
(IV) value of pointing vector.
𝑐 2 𝐸
[Hint v = n = √𝜖𝑟 𝜇𝑟 U = 𝜖0 𝐸𝑎𝑣 where Eav= √20 ]
√ 𝜖 0 𝜇0

13. The electric field amplitude of an electromagnetic wave is 120 N C-1 and its frequency
is 50MHz. Determine amplitude of the magnetic field, angular frequency, prorogation
constant and wavelength. Also find the expression for vector E and vector B.
[Ans: amplitude of mag field B0=E0/c Propagation constant k= /c]

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

14. Find the value of emf produced in an antenna 1m long of a radio receiver at a distance
of 100km from a transmitter of power 100 kW.
[P = 100kW S= P/area area = 4𝜋𝑟 2 r= 100 km]
15. Calculate the refractive index of a medium whose μr=2 and εr=3

1 1
[ c= v= n= c/v n=2.5]
√𝜇0𝜖0 √𝜇𝑟𝜖𝑟

16. Find the total magnetic energy within a cube of side 0.1 m if the magnetic field is 1T.

1 𝐵2
[uB= UB= uB(vol)]
2 𝜇0

17. Calculate the skin depth for radio wave of wavelength 3m ( free space ) in copper
whose electrical conductivity is 6 × 107 S m-1

𝑐 1
[f= 𝛿= ]
𝜆 √𝜋𝑓𝜇𝜎

18. An airplane receives a signal from the transmitter of an air traffic tower over a
hemisphere with a power of 12 kW. Calculate the amplitude of electric and magnetic
field at the receiver of the plate at distance 1.8km.

[S= P/2πr2 r = 1.8 km Erms= √Sμ0c Brms=Erms/c]

CONCEPTUAL QUESTIONS
1. If the divergence of a vector at a point is positive, the point is called source. Explain.

Ans : As the flux of the vector is outwards it is called a source.

2. A closed surface has an electric dipole. Is there a divergence of Electric field?

Ans :No as the net charge enclosed is zero

3. Displacement current is as real as conduction current. Explain.

Ans : It also produces magnetic field as the case of conduction current. However it is not
linked with the motion of charges but with the rate of change of displacement
vector.
4. Light is electromagnetic in nature. Explain why?

Ans : Light waves are oscillating electric and magnetic field vectors perpendicular to
each other.
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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

5. Light rays, X-rays,  -rays are not deflected by electric and magnetic fields. Yet they
are called electromagnetic waves. Explain why?

Ans : They do not carry electric charges and the fields are induced fields. They are
generated by vibrating electric and magnetic fields
6. Velocity of electromagnetic wave in a dielectric medium is less than that in free space.
Explain why?

Ans : When an em wave enters a medium the atoms absorb and reemit the waves with
same frequency but with a reduced speed.
7. Is it possible to have only electric wave or magnetic wave propagating through space?
Explain.

Ans : No a changing electric field induces a magnetic field and a magnetic field induces
an electric field.
8. A variable frequency source is connected to a capacitor. What happens to the
displacement current with increase in frequency? Explain.

Ans : Increases. Frequency and current for a capacitor are directly proportional.
9. If the divergence of a vector field is zero, then the field is called solenoidal. Explain.

Ans : If the divergence of field is zero means lines of flux are closed loop without any
source or sink. Thus they are referred to as solenoidal.
10. Magnetic monopoles do not exist. Explain.

Ans : Even a single atom generates magnetic dipole and the magnetic field lines
always form closed loops described by DivB =0
11. Velocity of electromagnetic waves in dielectric medium is less than that in vacuum.
Explain.

12. Light of uniform intensity shines perpendicularly on a totally absorbing surface. If the
area of the surface is decreased what happens to radiation pressure? Explain.

Ans : No change, intensity is per unit area

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

13. Radiowaves diffract pronouncedly around a building while light waves do not.
Explain why?

Ans : Because of large wavelength of radio waves

14. Do the magnitudes of the electric intensity and magnetic intensity vector in an
electromagnetic wave become maximum simultaneously? Explain why?

Ans : Yes field vectors E and B always propagate in phase.

15. Which one of the Maxwell’s equations confirm the existence of positive and negative
charges? Explain.

Ans : DivD = ρ
16. In an electromagnetic field, is energy equally shared between electric and magnetic
fields? Explain.

Ans : As the energy density of electric and magnetic fields are equal in magnitude energy
is shared equally. E = cB

UNIT IV : ALTERNATING CURRENT

PART-A
1. Define the terms average value and rms value of an alternating current. (2 marks)
2. Define and obtain an expression for average value of the alternating current.
(4 marks)
3. Define and obtain an expression for the root mean square value of an alternating
current (4 marks)
4. Explain the representation of sinusoids by complex numbers. (4 marks)
5. Using j Operator method, derive expressions for impedance, current and phase angle
of a series L-R ac circuit. (8 marks)
6. Using j Operator method, derive expressions for impedance, current and phase angle
of a series R-C ac circuit. (8 marks)
7. Using j Operator method, derive expressions for impedance, current and phase angle
of a series LCR ac circuit. (8 marks)
8. Define resonance in series LCR ac circuit. Explain the condition for resonance with
proper diagrams. Derive an expression for resonant frequency. (6 marks)
9. What is resonance of series LCR circuit? Mention the condition for resonance and
write the expression for frequency at resonance. (3 marks)

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

10. Define resonance in series LCR ac circuit. With the help of a suitable graph, obtain the
expression for Band width and Q-factor. (8 marks)
11. Using j Operator method, derive expressions for impedance, current and phase angle
of an ac circuit having LR parallel with C. (8 marks)
12. Define resonance in an ac circuit having LR parallel with C. Mention the condition for
resonance and derive an expression for resonant frequency. Show graphically, the
variation of impedance and current with frequency. (6 marks)
13. Define resonance in an ac circuit having LR parallel with C. Show graphically, the
variation of impedance and current with frequency and hence define band width and
Q-factor. (5 marks)
14. With necessary theory, describe the method of determination of self-inductance of a
coil using Maxwell’s impedance bridge. (4 marks)
15. Give the differences between series and parallel resonant circuits.
(4 marks)

PART- B
1. For ac i=2sin 100πt, calculate (a) period, (b) rms value of current and (c) the current at
t= (T/16) s

2. For ac i=2sin 100πt, calculate (a) period and (b) time required by the current to change
its value from zero to rms value.
3. If the ac from the mains supply is 220 volt, determine its average value, the peak value
and peak to peak value. (Ans: 198 V, 311 V, 622 V)
4. A coil of resistance 30Ω and inductance 127.4 mH is connected to (a) 240 V dc supply and
(b) 220 V, 50 Hz ac mains. Find the current in the coil in each case.

(Ans: (a) Idc=8A (b) Iac=4A)

5. A series combination of 10 Ω resistor and 20 mH inductor is connected across a 100 V,
50 Hz mains. Find the current in the circuit. (Ans: 10.5 A)

6. A series combination of 15 Ω resistor and 40 mH inductor is connected across a 120 V,

50 Hz mains. Find the potential drops across them.

(Ans: VL=76.9 volt, VR=92 volt)

7. A 15 V bulb can handle a maximum current of 10 A. Find the inductance that must be
connected with the lamp to run it on 220 V, 50Hz mains.

(Ans: 70 mH)

8. A 100 V bulb can handle a maximum current of 500 mA. Find the capacitance that must
be connected in series with the lamp to run it on 200 V, 50Hz mains.
(Ans: 9.2µF)
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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

9. A dc 20 V, 5 W bulb is to be run on 200 V, 50Hz mains. Find the capacitance of the

capacitor to be connected in series for safe operation of the bulb.

(Ans: 4 µF)

10. A 60 V, 10W dc lamp is to be run on 100V, 60 Hz mains. Calculate the inductance of the
choke required in series for safe operation of the bulb.

11. A 100 µF capacitor in series with a 40Ω resistance is connected to a 100V, 60 Hz supply.
Calculate the (a) maximum current in the circuit (b) phase lag between the current and
the voltage maximum.

12. An alternating voltage of 110 V, frequency 50 Hz is applied to a circuit which contains an

inductance of 0.02 H and resistance of 10Ω in series. Determine the current and the phase
lag.

13. An LR circuit of impedance 400 Ω and resistance 300 Ω is connected to 220V, 50 Hz

supply. Calculate the inductance and current in the circuit.

14. An ac of 100V, 50Hz is applied to a circuit containing an inductor of 80 mH and a resistor

of 20 Ω in series. Find the current in the circuit and phase angle by which the current lags
behind the voltage.

15. A capacitor of reactance 40  and a resistance of 30  are in series with 220 V ac mains.
Calculate the current in the circuit.

16. An ac of 100 V, 50 Hz is applied to a circuit containing a capacitor of 1µF and a resistor of

50 Ω. Calculate the peak value of the current.

17. An ac voltage of 100 V is applied to a circuit consisting of an inductance of 10 mH, a

capacitor of 1µF and a resistance of 10Ω. Calculate the resonant frequency and current at
resonance.

18. An ac source of 220V, 50 Hz is connected to a series combination of 20Ω resistor, 5µF

capacitor and 2mH inductor respectively. Calculate the current through the combination.

19. An LCR series circuit contains a 100V, 60 Hz ac source. A current of 1 A flows in the circuit.
The voltage drops across the resistor, the capacitor and the inductor are 60 V, and 100 V
respectively. Calculate the values of L and C.

20. In a series LCR circuit R=300 ohm, L=60 mH, and C=0.5 µF. The rms voltage is 50 V and
the angular frequency is 10,000 rad/s. Find the impedance Z.

21. In a series LCR circuit R=300 ohm, L=60 mH, and C=0.5 µF. The rms voltage is 50 V and
the angular frequency is 10,000 rad/s. Find the impedance Z and the current.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

22. In a series LCR circuit R=300 ohm, L=60 mH, and C=0.5 µF. The rms voltage is 50 V and
the angular frequency is 10,000 rad/s. Find the phase difference  between the applied
voltage and current.

23. A person with a 3mH coil of resistance 20  desires to construct a resonant circuit of
frequency 1000 Hz. What is the capacitance of the capacitor that he has to use for this
purpose? If applied ac voltage is 100 V, find the current at resonance.

24. An inductance of 10 H is connected in series with a resistance of 50 Ω to a 220 V, 50 Hz

a.c. source. Calculate the capacitance to be connected in series for resonance. Also,
calculate the current at resonance.

25. A series LCR circuit having R=300 ohm, L=60 mH, and C=0.5 µF is connected to an ac
source of 100 V. Find (a) the resonance frequency, (b) the inductive reactance and (c) the
capacitive reactance and the impedance at the resonant frequency.
26. A series LCR circuit having R=300 ohm, L=60 mH, and C=0.5 µF is connected to an ac
source of 100 V. At resonance find (a) the current at resonance and (d) the voltage across
each of the circuit element at resonance.
27. A coil of reactance 3  and resistance 4  is in parallel with a capacitor of reactance 8 .
The applied voltage is 100 V, 50 Hz. Find the impedance of the circuit and the main
current.
28. A capacitor of 0.2 F is connected in series with a resistor and 220 V, 50 Hz supply.
Potential drop across the capacitor and resistor are same. Calculate the resistance and
the pd across the components.

PART-C
1. Why is ac preferred for long distance transmission?
2. Average value of an ac is taken over half a cycle while rms value is taken over a complete
cycle. Give reason.
3. Why are ac voltages and currents expressed in rms values and not in average values?
Explain.
4. An ac ammeter reads 10 A. What is the corresponding peak value?
5. A bulb and a choke coil are connected in series to an ac source. What is the effect on the
brightness of the bulb if an iron core is inserted in the choke coil? Explain.
6. The real resistors, inductors and capacitors are not ideal. Explain.
7. Mention the difference in the performance of a capacitor in a DC circuit and in an AC
circuit.
8. A series LCR circuit is used to obtain a large magnification of ac voltage. Justify.
9. Why a series LCR resonant circuit is called an acceptor circuit?
10. When does an LCR series circuit behave like an inductive circuit? Explain.
11. When does an LCR series circuit behave like a capacitive circuit? Explain.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

12. When does an LCR series circuit behave like a pure resistive circuit? Explain.
13. A capacitor blocks dc but allows ac. Why?
14. Can resonance be achieved without changing the supply frequency? Explain.
15. Does the resonant frequency of a series R-L-C circuit depend on the resistance? Explain.
16. Does the sharpness of resonance of a series R-L-C circuit depend on the resistance?
Explain.
17. Explain how the sharpness of resonance of a series R-L-C circuit increases by increasing
the Q-value of the coil.
18. In series RL circuit, is the current in the resistor always the same as that in the
inductor? Explain.
19. In an inductive circuit, current lags behind voltage. Explain why.
20. In a capacitive circuit, current leads voltage. Explain why.
21. A series LCR circuit at resonance is resistive in nature. Comment.
22. Mention two drawbacks of AC over DC.
Ans: i) Ac cannot be used for electroplating, only DC can be used ii)For the same voltage,
AC is dangerous than DC iii) AC carrying wires need better insulation than the DC
carrying wires and iv)AC cannot be used for charging batteries, only DC can be used.
23. Mention two advantages of AC over DC.
Ans: i) AC is easy to produce than DC ii) The voltage of AC can be changed relatively than
DC iii) AC can be transmitted over long distances with lesser loss of power than DC iv)
Power in AC circuits can be easily reduced by use of chokes or capacitors.
24. Can LCR series circuit behave as a pure resistive circuit? Explain.
Ans. Yes. LCR series circuit behaves as a pure resistive circuit under resonance.
25. A DC voltage and an identical rms ac voltage is applied in turn across an electrical heating
coil. Which produces higher current? Justify.
Ans: DC voltage produces more current. This is due to inductance of coil for AC. The coil
exhibits no inductance for DC. Thus the coil has higher impedance for AC than the
resistance for DC.
26. Mention one common feature and one difference between reactance and resistance.
Ans: i) Common feature: Both oppose the current.
ii) Difference: Pure capacitor and pure inductor opposes by reactance. Reactance
varies with frequency while resistance does not vary with frequency.
27. Two coils one made of copper and other of silver wire having same inductance are in
series in an ac circuit. Will they have same impedance? Explain.
28. Does the reactance of an inductor depend on the type of material used for the wires?
Explain.
Ans: No. the inductance and hence reactance depends only on the physical dimensions
and number of turns of the coil.
29. Frequency of ac applied to a coil is increased. What happens to its resistance and
reactance?

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

30. When the given ac is said to be of 220V, what voltage is being quoted and why?
Ans: The voltage of ac quoted is its rms value. This is because a dc of the same voltage
produces the same effect as that of the given ac.
31. For long distance transmission, do people prefer ac or dc? Why?
Ans: For long distance transmission people prefer ac over dc. This is because the
transmission losses involved with ac is low.
32. Why the LCR parallel resonance circuit is called the rejecter circuit?
Ans: At resonance, the LCR parallel circuit will have the highest impedance hence carries
minimum current. Therefore, the LCR parallel resonance circuit called the rejecter
circuit.
33. Can the peak voltage across the inductor be greater than the peak voltage of the source
in an LCR circuit? Explain.

THERMOELECTRICITY
PART-A
1. What is Seebeck effect? Explain with a diagram. (3 marks)
2. What is Seebeck series? Explain its significance. (3 marks)
3. What are Seebeck constants? Mention their units. (3 marks)
4. Explain with a graph, the temperature dependence of thermo emf. Define neutral
temperature and inversion temperature. Write the expressions for these in terms of
Seebeck constants. (6 marks)
5. State and explain the laws of thermoelectricity. (4 marks)
6. Explain Peltier effect. Define Peltier coefficient and mention its unit. (3 marks)
7. Distinguish between Peltier effect and Joule heating effect. (4 marks)
8. Explain Thomson Effect. Define Thomson coefficient. Mention its unit. (3 marks)
9. Explain positive and negative Thomson effects with an example each. (3 marks)
10. Distinguish between Thomson effect and Joule heating effect. (4 marks)
11. Distinguish between Peltier and Thomson effects. (4 marks)
𝑇
12. With usual meaning of symbols show that 𝑒 = (𝜋2 − 𝜋1 ) + ∫𝑇 2(𝜎𝐴 − 𝜎𝐵 )𝑑𝑇.
1
OR
Derive an expression for the total emf of a thermocouple in terms of Peltier and Thomson
coefficients. (6marks)
𝑑2 𝐸
13. With usual meaning of symbols, show that (𝜎𝐴 − 𝜎𝐵 ) = −𝑇 . (8 marks)
𝑑𝑇 2
𝑑 𝜋 (𝜎𝐴 −𝜎𝐵 )
14. With usual meaning of symbols, show that ( )+ = 0. (6 marks)
𝑑𝑇 𝑇 𝑇
15. Apply the principles of thermodynamics to deduce expressions for Peltier and Thomson
coefficients. (4+2 marks)
16. Prove that the Peltier coefficient for a pair of metals at any temperature is the product of
absolute temperature and the thermoelectric power.
OR
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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

𝑑𝐸
Apply the principles of thermodynamics and arrive at the relation 𝜋 = 𝑇 . (6 marks)
𝑑𝑇
17. What is a Tait diagram (thermo electric power line)? Explain how it can be used to
determine the neutral temperature and thermo emf. (8 marks)
18. Explain how a Tait diagram can be used to determine the Peltier coefficient, Seebeck
constant and Thomson coefficient. (8 marks)
19. Explain with a diagram the working of a thermopile. (6 marks)
20. Describe the construction and working of Boy's Radio micrometer with a diagram.
(6marks)
21. Explain with a diagram the construction and working of a thermoelectric pyrometer.
(5 marks)
PART B
1. The emf of a thermocouple is 400 V when its junctions are at 00C and 500C and it is 500
µV in the same direction at junction temperatures 00C and 1000C. Calculate (a) Seebeck
coefficients and (b) neutral temperature of the thermocouple.
2. For a thermocouple, the junctions are at temperature of 00C and t0 C respectively, the
Seebeck emf is e=16t 0.04 t2  V. Calculate (a) the neutral temperature and (b) the
inversion temperature. [ans: 2000C, 4000C]
3. The e.m.f. of a thermocouple one junction of which is at 00C is given by
E=150.022V. Determine the neutral temperature and the temperature of
inversion.
4. The thermo e.m.f. in a circuit in which the cold junction is at 00C and hot unction at t0C is
found to be 3.5µV at t = 1000C and 9µV at t = 2000C. Assuming the thermo e.m.f. to be
governed by the equation 𝑒 = 𝑎𝑡 + 𝑏𝑡 2 , find the constants a & b and the neutral
temperature.
5. For a thermocouple, the junctions are at temperature of 00C and t0 C respectively, the
Seebeck emf is e=16t 0.04 t2  V. What is the thermoelectric power at the inversion
temperature? [ans: 32V/0C]
6. Calculate the total emf and neutral temperature of a thermocouple between 00C and
1000C for which Seebeck coefficients are a=10 𝜇𝑉/0C and b= - 0.025 𝜇𝑉/0C2.
7. The thermo emf of a Cu-Fe thermo couple whose cold junction is at 00C is 1179 𝜇𝑉. If the
thermocouple constants for this thermocouple are a=13.89 𝜇𝑉/0C and b=-0.042 𝜇𝑉/0C2,
find the temperature of the hot junction.
8. The thermo emf in a circuit in which the cold junction is at 00C and the hot junction is at
θ0C is found to be 3.5 𝜇𝑉 at 1000c and 9.0 𝜇𝑉 at 2000C. Assuming that thermo emf to be
governed by the equation 𝑒 = 𝑎𝜃 + 𝑏𝜃 2 , find the constants 'a' and 'b'.
9. The thermoelectric power (de/dT) of iron-lead junction at a temperature t0C is given by
(1734  4.87t ) x108 V/0C and that for Cu-Pb is (136 + 0.95t)x 108V/0C. Find the emf of
a Cu-Fe couple with junctions at 00C and 1000C.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

10. The thermoelectric power for copper at 00C and 1000C are 2. 8 µ V/0C and 3.98 µ V/0C
and those of iron at these temperatures are 16.7 µ V/0C and 13.7µV/0C respectively.
Calculate the thermoelectric current when the junctions are at 00C and 1000C.
11. The thermoelectric powers of silver and iron with respect to lead are 3.34+0.08 θ and
16.65 - 0.03 θ respectively. Calculate the neutral temperature and thermo emf of silver-
iron thermocouple between 1000C and 1210C.
12. The thermoelectric power for copper at 00C and 1000C are 2. 8 µ V/0C and 3.98 µ V/0C
and those of iron at these temperatures are 16.7 µ V/0C and 13.7µV/0C respectively.
Calculate the neutral temperature for Cu-Fe thermocouple.
13. Thermo emf of a thermo couple is given by the equation 𝐸 = 𝑎𝑡 + 𝑏𝑡 2 , with usual
notations. Calculate the Seebeck emf of a Cu-Fe thermocouple working between 00C and
1000C.
𝑎𝐶𝑢−𝑀 = 2.71𝜇𝑉/0C, 𝑏𝐶𝑢−𝑀 = 0.008𝜇𝑉/0C2
𝑎𝐹𝑒−𝑀 = 16.7𝜇𝑉/0C, 𝑏𝐹𝑒−𝑀 = −0.029𝜇𝑉/0C2
14. A metal rod of area of cross-section 5x104 m2 has a uniform temperature gradient of
10C/cm. The specific resistance of the material is 1.2x106Ω m. When a current of 50mA
is passed through this from the hot to the cold junction, the temperature gradient is
unaltered. Calculate the Thomson coefficient.
15. At 1000C, the thermoelectric powers of iron and copper w.r.t lead are +10.5 and +3.5 V
respectively. Find the emf of copper-iron thermocouple with junctions at 500C and1500C.
[ans: 700V]
16. Thermoelectric power of iron is 17.3 𝜇𝑉/ C at 0 C and 12.5 𝜇𝑉/ Cat 100 C and that of
0 0 0 0

silver is 2.9 𝜇𝑉/0C at 00C and 4.1 𝜇𝑉/0C at 1000C. Calculate

i)Peltier coefficient between iron and silver at 1000C
ii)Thomson coefficient of iron at 500C.
17. Thermoelectric power of iron is 17.3 𝜇𝑉/0C at 00C and 12.5 𝜇𝑉/0Cat 1000C and that of
silver is 2.9 𝜇𝑉/0C at 00C and 4.1 𝜇𝑉/0C at 1000C. Calculate the thermo emf between the
two metals when the junctions are at 00C and 1000C.

PART C
1. Is Seebeck effect reversible? Explain.

2. Does neutral temperature vary with cold junction temperature? Explain.

3. Does inversion temperature vary with cold junction temperature? Explain.

4. What is the value of thermoelectric power at neutral temperature of a thermocouple?

5. For a given temperature difference, which thermocouple gives more emf antimony-
bismuth or copper-iron? Justify.

6. Does thermoelectric effect obey the law of conservation of energy? Explain.

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III SEM PHYSICS BU PHYSICS TEACHERS’ FORUM QUESTION BANK

7. Is the direction of current for Cu-Fe thermocouple the same for any temperature of the
hot junction? Explain.

8. The Sb-Bi thermocouple gives higher thermo emf compared to other thermocouples.
Justify.

9. A thermocouple cannot be used to measure temperatures greater than the neutral

temperature. Justify.

10. Why is lead used as a reference metal in thermoelectricity?

11. Is Peltier effect reversible? Explain.

12. Is Thomson effect reversible? Explain.

13. Mention any two advantages of using a thermocouple as a thermometer.

14. A copper-iron thermocouple cannot be used to measure temperatures in the range

1000C to 5000C? Give reason.

15. Why is Sb-Bi thermocouple preferred over Fe-Cu thermocouple?

16. Mention the factors on which the temperature of inversion depends.

17. Does a thermocouple circuit exhibit Peltier phenomenon when is passed through a
thermocouple instead of dc? Explain.
18. How are the neutral temperature and the inversion temperature affected when the cold
junction temperature is increased from 00C to 1000C?
19. Name the factors on which inversion temperature depend.
[Ans: i)Nature of materials forming the thermocouple
and
ii) Temperature of the cold junction]
20. Distinguish between the Peltier effect and the Joule effect.
[Ans: i)Heat evolved due to Peltier effect is proportional to the strength of current.
But the heat evolved due to Joule effect is proportional to the square of
strength of current.
ii) Peltier effect can be reversed by reversing the current. Joule effect cannot be
reversed by reversing the current]
21. Name a factor each on which the neutral temperature depends.
[Ans: i) Dependent on nature of metal ]
22. Why lead is used as a reference metal in thermoelectricity?
[Ans : Because the Thomson coefficient of lead is zero. This makes lead as a
convenient reference metal to express thermo emf or thermo electric
constants of other metals]

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