60

KEY POINTS
Physical Quantity Formulae Used SI Unit

E3
Quantization of charge q = + ne C
kq q
Coulomb’s force | F| = 12 2 N
r
In vector form
ID =
kq1q2 → kq1q2 
r213
r21 = 2 . r 21
r21
U
Dielectric constant (or relative KD = ∈r = = = Unit less
YG

permitivity) =

Hence F0 > Fm as free space has

minimum permitivity
D

Linear charge density λ= Cm–1

U

Surface charge density σ= Cm–2

ST

Volume charge density ρ= Cm–3

Electric field due to a

 kq1 
point charge  In numerical, we use E = 2 
 r 

Unit I - II 1
 The components of electric field, Ex = = NC–1

Ez =

60
Torque on a dipole in a uniform (or τ = pE sin θ) Nm

electric field
→
Electric dipole moment p = q ⋅ (2a ) or Cm

E3
Potential energy of a dipole in a U= (or U = – pE cos θ) J

uniform electric field

Electric field on axial line of an

ID Eaxial = NC–1

electric dipole
U
When 2a << r, Eaxial =
YG

Electric field on equatorial line Eequatorial =

of an electric dipole
D

When 2a << r, Eequatorial

=
U

dV → →
Electric field as a gradient of E= − or E⋅ d r =
− dV
ST

dr
potential

Electric potential differences VA – VB = Volts (or JC–1)

between ponts A & B

Electric potential at a point VA = =

2 Physics Class - XII)

 C1V1 + C 2V2
Common potential V=
C1 + C 2
Electric potential due to a V=
system of charges
1 p cos θ
V=
4π ε 0 (r − a 2 cos 2 θ)
2

60
Electric potential at any point due When, θ = 0° or θ = 180°,

to an electric dipole V=

E3
If r >> a, V =

ID
When, θ = 90°, Vequi = 0

qnet
Total electric flux through a φe = = ∈ Nm2C–1
U
0

closed surface S qnet = Net charge enclosed by a

⇒ Gaussian surface
YG

Electric field due to line charge E= NC–1 (or V/m)

Electric field due to an infinite E=

D

plane sheet of charge

Electric field between two infinitely E =

U

charged plane parallel sheets

having change density +s and –s
ST

Electric field due to a uniformly E=

charged spherical shell

When r = R, E0 =

When r < R, E × 4πr2 = 0

⸫E=0

Unit I - II 3
 Loss of energy (in Parallel 1 C1C2 2
compinaton of two capacitors DU = 2 (C + C ) (V1 − V2 )
1 2

Electrical capacitance C= F(SI Unit)

Capacitance of an isolated sphere C0 = 4π∈0 r

Capacitance of a parallel plate C=

60
Capacitors in series

E3
Capacitors in parallel C = C1 + C2 + C3

Capacitance of a parallel plate C=

capacitor with dielectric slab
between plates

Capacitance of a parallel plate

capacitor with conducting slab
ID
between plates
U
Energy stored in a charged U= J
YG

capacitor

Resultant electric field in a where Cm–1

polarised dielectric slab
D

= Applied electric field and

= Electric field due to
U

polarization

Polarization density P = ∈0 χE Vm–1 or Nc–1

ST

Dielectric constant (in terms of KD = 1 + χ

electric susceptibility or atomic Where K is dieletric
polarisability) Contant

4 Physics Class - XII)

 CURRENT ELECTRICITY
IMPORTANT FORMULA

 eE
1. Drift Velocity vd =
− τ – electric fluid
m
τ = Relaxation time
2. Relation b/w I = neAυd e = charge on electrons.
current and m = mass of electron

60
Drift Velocity n = number density of electrons
3. Ohm’s Law V = RI A = Cross Section Area

4. Resistance R= V = potential difference across

E3
conductor
5. Specific Resistance ρ= l = length of conductor
or Resistivity
6.
7.
8.
Current density
Electrical Conductivity
Resistances in Series
ID
j = I/A = neVd
σ = 1/ρ
Req = R1 + R2 + R3
U
Parallel Combination
YG

9. Temperature Rt = R0 (1 + αt) Rt = Resistance at t°C

Dependance of a = Cofficent of temprature
Resistance t = Temperature
D

10. Internal Resistance r= Ro = Resistance at 0°C

of a cell
U

11. Power P = VI = I2R =

ST

12. Cells in Series Eeq = E1 + E2

E1 E2
Equivalent emf Eeq = E1 – E2 E1 > E2
A B
Equivalent Internal req = r1 + r2 E1 & E2 are emf of two cells
Resistance
vd
Mobility ( µ ) CGS unit Cm2s–1v-1
E SI unit M s–1s–v-1
2

Unit I - II 5
 r1 and r2 are their internal
resistances respectively
Equivalent Current I= n = no. of cells in series.

13. Cells in parallel Equivalent e.m.f.

Eeq =

60
Equivalent resistance

req =

E3
Equivalent Current I= m = number of cells in parallel

14. Kirchoff’s Laws Σi = o (at a junction) i = Current

ΣiR = ΣE or ΣiR = 0 R = Resistance


ID
(in a closed loop)
E = e.m.f.
U
15. Wheatstone Bridge P, Q, R and S are resistances in
(balanced condition) Ohm in four arms of Wheatstone
YG

Bridge.

16. Slide wire Bridge or S= R

metre Bridge
17. Potentiometer
D

Comparison of Emf l1 and l2 are balancing lengths

on potentiometer wire for cells
U

E1 and E2
ST

Internal Resistance r= l1 and l2 are balancing lengths on

potentiometer wire for emt E and
Pot. diff. V across R.
=

6 Physics Class - XII)

 UNIT–I & UNIT–II
ELECTROSTATICS AND
CURRENT ELECTRICITY
QUESTIONS

60
VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (1 MARK)

E3
1. Draw schematically an equipotential surface of a uniform electrostatic field
along x-axis.
Ans.
2. Sketch field lines due to (i) two equal positive charges near each other (ii)

Ans.
a dipole. ID
U
3. Name the physical quantity whose SI unit is volt/meter. Is it a scalar or a
vector quantity ?
Ans. Electric field intensity. It is a vector quantity.
YG

4. Two point charges repel each other with a force F when placed in water of
dielectric constant 81. What will be the force between them when placed
the same distance apart in air ?
D

Ans. ∈r = ⇒ F0 = ∈r Fm ⇒ F0 = 81 Fm

5. Electric dipole moment of CuSO4 molecule is 3.2 × 10–28 Cm. Find the
U

separation between copper and sulphate ions.

3.2 × 10–28
Ans. p = q(2a) ⇒ Length of dipole a = = 10–9 cm
ST

2×1.6×10-19
6. Net capacitance of three identical capacitors connected in parallel is
12 microfarad. What will be the net capacitance when two of them are
connected in (i) parallel (ii) series ?

Ans. Cp = 12µf ⇒ C = = 4µF.

Cp = C1 + C2 = 8µF

Unit I - II 7
 Cs = = = 2µF

7. A charge q is placed at the centre of an imaginary spherical surface. What

will be the electric flux due to this charge through any half of the sphere.

Ans. φ=

60
φ′ =

8. Draw the electric field vs distance (from the centre) graph for (i) a long
charged rod having linear charge density λ > 0 (ii) spherical shell of radius

E3
R and charge Q > 0.
Ans.

ID
U
YG

9. Diagrammatically represent the position of a dipole in (i) stable (ii) unstable

equilibrium when placed in a uniform electric field.
Ans.
–q +q +q –q
D
U

10. A charge Q is distribution over a metal sphere of radius R. What is the

electric field and electric potential at the centre ? Ans. E = 0, V = kQ/R
ST

Ans. Electric field inside conductor E = 0

dV Q
E = = 0 ⇒ V = Constant = =k
dr R
11. If a body contains n1 electrons and n2 protons then what is the total charge
on the body ?
Ans. Q = q1 + q2 +.... + qn. (Additive property of charge)
Q = (n2 – n1)e

8 Physics Class - XII)

 12. What is the total positive or negative charge present in 1 molecule of water.
Ans. H2O has 10 electrons (2 of hydrogen and 8 of oxygen)
Total charge = 10e
13. How does the energy of dipole change when it is rotated from unstable
equilibrium to stable equilibrium in a uniform electric field.
Ans. Work done = pE (cos 180° – cos 0°)
= – 2pE

60
i.e., energy decreases.
14. Write the ratio of electric field intensity due to a dipole at a point on the
equatorial line to the field at a point on the axial line, when the points are

E3
at the same distance from the centre of dipole.
2kp kp
Ans. Eaxial = 3 Eequatorial = 3
r r
∴ ID
Eaxial = 2Eequatorial
15. Draw equipotential surface for a dipole.
Ans.
U
YG

16. An uncharged conductor A placed on an insulating stand is brought near a

charged insulated conductor B. What happens to the charge and potential
D

of B ?
Ans. Total charge = 0 + q = q remains same.
U

P. D. decreases due to induced charge on A.

17. A point charge Q is placed at point O shown in Fig. Is the potential difference
ST

VA – VB positive, negative or zero, if Q is (i) positive (ii) negative charge.

Ans. VA – VB > 0 for Q > 0 and VA – VB < 0 for Q < 0

As electric field lines are in the direction of decreasing potential.
18. An electron and proton are released from rest in a uniform electrostatic
field. Which of them will have larger acceleration ?

Unit I - II 9
 Ans. acceleration = , mp > me
ap < ae
19. In an uniform electric field of strength E, a charged particle Q moves point
A to point B in the direction of the field and back from B to A. Calculate
the ratio of the work done by the electric field in taking the charge particle
from A to B and from B to A.

60
Ans. =–1

∴ WAB + WBA = 0
| WAB | = | – WBA |

E3
20. If a dipole having charge ±2µC is placed inside a sphere of radius 2 m, what
is the net flux linked with the sphere.

Ans. Net flux = = =0

ID
21. Four charges + q, – q, + q, – q are placed as shown in the figure. What is
the work done in bringing a test charge from ∞ to point 0.
U

Here, OA = OB = OC = OD
YG

& q0 = Test charge

Ans. V0 =
D

W = q0 × V0 = 0
22. Calculate electric flux linked with a sphere of radius 1m and charge of 1C
U

at its centre.
Ans. Electric flux linked with the sphare (closed surface)
q 1
ST

φe = 
0 0
23. If the metallic conductor shown in the figure is continuously charged from
which of the points A, B, C or D does the charge leak first. Justify.

10 Physics Class - XII)

 Ans. Charge leaks from A first as surface charge density (σ) at A (sharp ends) is
more.
24. What is dielectric strength ? Write the value of dielectric strength of
air.
Ans. Maximum electric field which can be safely applied across a dielectric
before its break down is called dielectric strength.

60
Dielectric strength of air = 3 × 106 V/m.
25. Two charges – q and + q are located at points A (0, 0, – a) and B (0, 0, +

E3
a). How much work is done in moving a test charge from point (b, 0, 0) to
Q (– b, 0, 0) ?

Ans. W = Edr cos 90° = 0

ID
∴ E along equitorial line of dipole is anti-parallel to dipole moment, hence
perpendicular to displacement or W = 20 × q0 × Vequatorial = q0 × 0 = 0 J.
26. If an electron is accelerated by a Potential difference of 1 Volt, Calculate
U
the gain in energy in Joule and electron volt.
Ans. Gain in Energy = eV = 1.6 × 10–19 × 1 = 1.6 × 10–19 J
YG

or ∆KE = 1e × 1 volt = 1.6 × 10–19 C × 1 volt = 1.6 × 10–19J

27. Draw schematically the equipotential surface corresponding to a field
that uniformly increases in magnitude but remains in a constant (say z)
D

direction.
Ans.
U
ST

E increases therefore, equipotential surface are closer i.e., d1 > d2.

28. Figure shows six charged lumps of plastic coin. The cross-section of a
Guassian surface S is indicated. What is the net electric flux through the
surface ?

Unit I - II 11
 60
+ q1 −q2 + q3 q4
Ans. φ= − .
∈0 ∈0 ∈0 ∈0
29. Without referring to the formula C = ∈0 A/d. Explain why the capacitance

E3
of a parallel plate capacitor reduces on increasing the separation between
the plates ?
Ans. P. D. = V = E × d
‘d’ increases hence V increases.

as C =
ID
∴ C decreases.

30. Draw field lines to show the position of null point for two charges + Q1
U
and – Q2 when magnitude of Q1 > Q2 and mark the position of null point.
YG
D

Ans. |Q1| > |Q2 |, N is the neutral point.

U

31. How does the relaxation time of electron in the conductor change when
ST

temperature of the conductor decreases.

Ans. When temperature of the conductor decreases, ionic vibration in the
conductor decreases so relaxation time increases.
32. Sketch a graph showing variation of resistivity with temperature of (i)
Copper (ii) Carbon.

12 Physics Class - XII)

 Ans.

60
33. The emf of the driver cell (Auxiliary battery) in the potentiometer experiment
should be greater than emf of the cell to be determined. Why ?

E3
Ans. If emf of a driver cell is less, then null point will not be obtained on the
potentiometer wire.
34. You are required to select a carbon resistor of resistance 47kΩ + 10% from
ID
a large collection. What should be the sequence of color bands used to code it ?
Ans. Yellow, Violet, Orange, Silver.
35. Find the value of i in the given circuit :
U
YG
D

Ans.
On applying Kirchoff current law on junction A, at junction A
U

2+3=I+4
so, I = + 1A
ST

36. Two wire one of copper and other of manganin have same resistance and
equal length. Which wire is thicker ?
lc l ρ A
Ans. R = ρc =
ρm m ⇒ c =c < 1
Ac A m ρm A m
∴ Manganin is thicker.

Unit I - II 13
 37. You are given three constants wires P, Q and R of length and area of
cross-section (L, A), respectively. Which has highest
resistance ?

ρ(2 L) 4ρL
Ans. RP = RQ = =
A A
2

60
Þ RR = ⇒ RQ = 4RP, RR =

Q has the highest resistance,

38. V – I graph for a metallic wire at two different temperatures T1 and T2

E3
is as shown in the figure. Which of the two temperatures is higher and
why ?

ID
U
YG

Ans. Slope of T1 is large, so T1 represents higher temperature as resistance

increases with temperature for a conductor

R= = slope.
D

39. Out of V – I graph for parallel and series combination of two metallic
resistors, which one represents parallel combination of resistors ? Justify
U

your answer.
ST

14 Physics Class - XII)

 Ans. The resistance for parallel combination in lesser than for series combination
for a given set of resistors. Hence B represents parallel combination sinc
is more. Hence Resistance = is less.

40. Why is the potentiometer preferred to a voltmeter for measuring emf of a

cell ?
Ans. Emf measured by the potentiometer is more accurate than cell because the

60
cell is in open circuit giving no current.
41. How can a given 4 wires potentiometer be made more sensitive ?
Ans. By connecting a resistance in series with the potentiometer wire in the

E3
primary circuit, the potential drop across the wire is reduced.
42. Why is copper not used for making potentiometer wires ?
Ans. Copper has high temperature coefficient of resistance and hence not
preferred. ID
43. In the figure, what is the potential difference between A and B ?
U
Ans. VA – VB = – 8 volt.
44. A copper wire of resistance R is uniformally stretched till its length is
YG

increased to n times its original length. What will be its new resistance ?
Ans. R′ = n2R

\ R′ = = = n2R
D

45. Two resistance 5Ω and 7Ω are joined as shown to two batteries of emf
2V and 3V. If the 3V battery is short circuited. What will be the current
U

through 5Ω
ST

Ans. I =

46. Calculate the equivalent resistance between points A and B in the figure
given below.

Unit I - II 15
 Ans. We obtain using wheatstone bridge balencing condition.

60
E3
47. What is the largest voltage that can be safely put across a resistor marked
196Ω, 1W ?

Ans. P =
ID
= P R = 1 × 196 = 196

V = 14 Volt.
U
48. When does the terminal voltage of a cell become (i) greater than its emf
(ii) less than its emf ?
YG

Ans. (i) When the cell is being charged terminal potential difference (V) becomes
greater than emf (E), V = E + Ir
(ii) When the cell is discharged, then V < E
V=E–Ir
49. A car battery is of 12V. Eight dry cells of 1.5 V connected in series also
D

give 12V, but such a combination is not used to start a car. Why ?
Ans. Dry cell used in series will have high resistance (= 10Ω) and hence provide
low current, while a car battery has low internal resistance (0. 1Ω) and hence
U

gives high current for the same emf, needed to start the car.
50. Two electric lamps A and B marked 220 V, 100W and 220V, 60W
ST

respectively. Which of the two lamps has higher resistance ?

Ans. As R = lamp has higher resistance.

51. Resistors of high value are made up of carbon. Why ?

Ans. High resistivity and low temperature Coefficient of resistance.

16 Physics Class - XII)

 52. Draw graph showing the variation of electronic field & electronic potential
with distances 'r' due to a point change.
53. Net capacitance of three identical capacitors in series is 1µF. What will be
their net capacitance if connected in parallel. Find the raio of energy stored
in two combinations connected across the same battery.
54. Distinguish with the help of a suitable diagram,the difference in the
behaviour of conductor and a dielectric substance placed in an external

60
electric field. How does the polarised dielectric modifies the external field.
55. A parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C is charged to a potential of
V volt. It is then connected across another uncharged capacitor of same

E3
capacitance .Find the ratio of initial energy of single capacitor to the final
energy combination . [Ans -2:1]
56. An infinite large plane thin charged sheet has surface charge density σ.
Obtain an expression for work done in carrying a point charge q from finity
to a point at a distanceID
57. A proton and a alpha particle are accelerated from rest through a potential
difference of 100 volt. Find (i) Their KE in eV and Joule (ii) which particle
U
will move faster.
[Ans: (1) 100 eV, 200 eV, 1.6 x 10-17J, 3.2x 10-17J (ii) Proton]
YG

58. An electron starting from rest takes 14×10-9 sec to reach from one plate to
other of a capacitor placed 2 cm apart. If charge to mass ratio of electron
is 1.8×1011 CI kg. Then find the potential difference between the plates.
 [Ans: V = 2400 Volt]
59. An alpha particle of charge 3.2×10- cm/sec and mass 6.8×10-27Kg is
19
D

initially moving at speed 107 when it is at far distance from another fixed
point charge 112×10-19C. Find the distance of closest approach.
U

 [Ans: r = 9.4×10-15 m]
6
60. If the dielectric strength of air is 3×10 V /m, what will be the maximum
ST

potential at the surface of a metal sphere of radius 1m.

 [Ans: V = 3×106 Volt]
61. Two point charge each +3 µC are placed along the diameter of a circle of
radius 15 cm. Calculate the ectric potential at the ends of perpendicular
diameter  [Ans: V = 2.52×105 Volt]
62. An electric dipole of dipole moment 40×10-6C-m is enclosed by a closed
surface. What is the net flux coming out of the surface? [Ans: zero]

Unit I - II 17
 63. Does the charge given to a metallic sphere depend on whether it is solid or
hollow .Give reason.
[Ans: Charge comes on the outer surface only, like charges repel and
conductor allows flow of charge]
64. A and B are two conducting spheres of the same radius, A being solid and
B hollow. Both have same field on their surface. What will be the relation
between the charges on the two spheres? [Ans: Same]

60
65. How does the electric flux due to a point charge enclosed by a spherical
gaussian surface is affected ,if radius is increased
[Ans: remains same as it does not depend upon shape and size of
Gaussian surface]

E3
66. How does the Coulomb force between two point charges depend upon the
dielectric constant of the intervening medium?
[Ans: It decreases with increasing dielectric constant of medium]
67. The distance of the field point, on the equatorial plane of a small electric
ID
dipole, is halved. By what factor will the electric field, due to the dipole,
change?[Ans: As E oc 1/r3, 8 times]
68. Two plane sheets of charge densities +σ and -σ are kept in air as shown in
figure.What are the electric field intensities at points A and B?
U
[Ans: zero, σ/ ε0]
•A
+σ
YG

•B
-σ
69. Why does the electric field inside a dielectric decrease when it is `aced in
an external electric field?
D

[Ans: Due to induced field is opposite direction]

70. A charge Q is uniformly distributed over a ring of radius a.Obtain an
U

expression for electric field intensity at a point on the axis of ring. show
that at far point ring behaves as a point charge.
71. Figure shows electric lines of force due to two point charges q1 and q2 placed
ST

at points A and B respectively. Write the nature of charge on them.

 [Ans: Q1 <0, Q2 < 0]

A B

Q1 Q2

18 Physics Class - XII)

 72. Two points charges q1 and q2 are placed close to each other. What is the
nature of force between the charges when q1 <0, q2 > 0, q1 < 0, q2 < 0
[Ans: Attractive, repulsive]
73. A metal rod of square cross-section area A having length l has current I
flowing through it, when a potential difference of V volt is applied across
its ends (figure I). Now the rod is cut parallel to its length in two Identical

60
pieces and joined as shown in (figure-II). What potential difference must
be maintained across the length 2l so that the current in the rod is still
remains I ?

E3
Ans. R1 =

ID
R2 = = 4R1
U
I= =
YG

V V
= 2
R1 4R1
V2 = 4V
74. (a) Define torque acting on a dipole moment Placed in a uniform electric
D

field Express it in the vector form and point out the direction along
which it acts.
U

(b) What happens if the electric field is non-uniform ?

(c) What would happen if the external field is increasing (i) Parallel to
ST

→ →
p (ii) anti-parallel to p ?
75. State the condition under which the terminal potential difference across a
battery and its emf are equal.
Ans. When battery is in open circuit i.e. when no current is being drawn from
the cell. Vopen = emf of cell or battery

Unit I - II 19
 76. State the condition for maximum current to be drawn from a cell.

Ans. I = for I maximum R = 0 i.e., for maximum current the terminals of

a cell must be short circuited.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (2 MARKS)
1. An oil drop of mass m carrying charge – Q is to be held stationary in the

60
gravitational field of the earth. What is the magnitude and direction of the
electrostatic field required for this purpose ? Ans.E = mg/Q, downward
2. Draw E and V versus r on the same graph for a point charge.

E3
3. Find position around dipole at which electric potential due to dipole is zero
but has non zero electric field intensity. →
– 1 p
Ans. Equitorial position, V = 0, = (a << r)
4π ∈0 r 3
ID
4. Derive an expression for the work done in rotating an electric dipole
from its equilibrium position to an angle θ with the uniform electrostatic
field.
U
5. A electrostatic field line can not be discontinuous.Why ?
6. A thin long conductor has linear charge density of 20 µC/m. Calculate
YG

the electric field intensity at a point 5 cm from it. Draw a graph to show
variation of electric field intensity with distance from the conductor.
Ans. 72 × 105 N/C
7. What is the ratio of electric field intensity at a point on the equatorial line
to the field at a point on axial line when the points are at the same distance
from the centre of the dipole ? Ans. 1 : 2
D

8. Show that the electric field intensity at a point can be given as negative of
potential gradient.
U

9. A charged metallic sphere A having charge qA is brought in contact with an

uncharged metallic sphere of same radius and then separated by a distance
ST

d. What is the electrostatic force between them. Ans.

10. An electron and a proton travel through equal distances in the same uniform
electric field E. Compare their time of travel. (Neglect gravity)
11. Two point charges – q and + q are placed 2l metre apart, as shown in Fig.
Give the direction of electric field at points A, B, C and D, A is mid point
between charges – q and + q.
20 Physics Class - XII)
 D

B –q A +q C
2l

60
12. The electric potential V at any point in space is given V = 20x3 volt, where
x is in meter. Calculate the electric intensity at point P (1, 0, 2).
Ans. 60 NC–1
13. Justify why two equipotential surfaces cannot intersect.

E3
14. Find equivalent capacitance between A and B in the combination given
below : each capacitor is of 2 µF. Ans. 6/7 µF

ID
15. What is the electric field at O in Figures (i), (ii) and (iii), ABCD is a square
U
of side r.
YG
D

2q 4q
Ans. (i) Zero, (ii) 2 along OB (iii) r2 along OD
4πε 0 r 4πε 0
U

16. What should be the charge on a sphere of radius 4 cm, so that when it is
brought in contact with another sphere of radius 2 cm carrying charge of
ST

10 µC, there is no transfer of charge from one sphere to other ?

Ans. Va = Vb, Q = 20µC.
17. For an isolated parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C and potential
difference V, what will be change in (i) charge on the plates (ii) potential
difference across the plates (iii) electric field between the plates (iv)
energy stored in the capacitor, when the distance between the plates is
increased ?
Unit I - II 21
 Ans. (i) No change (ii) increases (iii) No change (iv) increases.
18. Does the maximum charge given to a metallic sphere of radius R depend
on whether it is hollow or solid ? Give reason for your answer.
Ans. No, charge resides on the surface of conductor.
19. Two charges Q1 and Q2 are separated by distance r. Under what conditions
will the electric field be zero on the line joining them (i) between the charges

60
(ii) outside the charge?
Ans. (i) Charge are alike (ii) Unlike charges of unequal magnitude.
20. Obtain an expression for the electric field due to electric dipole at any point

E3
on the equatorial line.
21. The electric field component in the figure are
Calculate the electric flux through, (1, 2, 3) the square surfaces of side
5 m. ID
U
YG

22. Calculate the work required to separate two charges 5µc and – 2µc placed
at (– 3 cm, 0, 0) and (+ 3 cm, 0, 0) infinitely away from each other.
Ans. 1.5 J
23. What is electric field between the plates with the separation of 2 cm and (i)
with air (ii) dielectric medium of dielectric constant K. Electric potential
D

of each plate is marked in the following figure.

_____________ 150 V
U

(i) ______________ – 50 V Ans. E0 = 104 NC–1, E =

ST

24. A RAM (Random access Memory) chip a storage device like parallel plate
capacitor has a capacity of 55pF. If the capacitor is charged to 5.3V, how
may excess electrons are on its negative plate ? Ans. 1.8 × 109
25. The figure shows the Q (charge) versus V (potential) graph for a combination
of two capacitors. identify the graph representing the parallel combination.

22 Physics Class - XII)

 Ans. A represents parallel combination

60
26. Calculate the work done in taking a charge of 1 µC in a uniform electric
field of 10 N/C from B to C given AB = 5 cm along the field and AC = 10
cm perpendicular to electric field.

E3

ID Ans. WAB = WBC = 50 × 10–8 J. WAC = 0J
27. Two charges – q and + q are located at points A (0, 0, – a) and B (0, 0, + a)
U
respectively. How much work is done in moving a test charge from point
P (7, 0, 0) to Q (– 3, 0, 0) ? (zero)
YG

28. The potential at a point A is – 500 V and that at another point B is + 500 V.
What is the work done by external agent to take 2 units (S.I.) of negative
charge from B to A. WBA = 2000 J
29. How does the (i) Potential energy of mutual interaction (ii) net electrostatic
D

P.E. of two charges change when they are placed in an external electric field.
30. With the help of an example, show that Farad is a very large unit of
U

capacitance.
31. What is meant by dielectric polarisation ? Why does the electric field inside
ST

a dielectric decreases when it in placed in an external field ?

32. In charging a capacitor of capacitance C by a source of emf V, energy
supplied by the sources QV and the energy stored in the capacitor is ½QV.
Justify the difference.
33. An electric dipole of dipole moment p, is held perpendicular to an electric
field. If the dipole is released does it have (a) only rotational motion

Unit I - II 23
 (b) only translatory motion (c) both translatory and rotatory motion
explain?
34. The net charge of a system is zero. Will the electric field intensity due to
this system also be zero.
35. A point charge Q is kept at the intersection of (i) face diagonals (ii) diagonals
of a cube of side a. What is the electric flux linked with the cube in (i) &
(ii) ?

60
36. There are two large parallel metallic plates S1 and S2 carrying surface charge
densities σ1 and σ2 respectively (σ1 > σ2) placed at a distance d apart in
vacuum. Find the work done by the electric field in moving a point charge

E3
q a distance a (a < d) from S1 and S2 along a line making an angle π/4 with
the normal to the plates.
37. Define mobility of electron in a conductor. How does electron mobility
change when (i) temperature of conductor is decreased (ii) Applied potential
ID
difference is doubled at constant temperature ?
38. On what factor does potential gradient of a potentiometer wire depend ?
39. What are superconductors ? Give one of their applications.
U
40. Two copper wires with their lengths in the ratio 1 : 2 and resistances in
the ratio 1 : 2 are connected (i) in series (ii) in parallel with a battery.
YG

What will be the ratio of drift velocities of free electrons in two wires in (i)
and (ii) ? Ans. (1 : 1, 2 : 1)
41. The current through a wire depends on time as i = i0 + at where i0 = 4A and
a = 2As–1. Find the charge crossing a section of wire in 10 seconds.
42. Three identical resistors R1, R2 and R3 are connected to a battery as shown
D

in the figure.What will be the ratio of voltages across R1 and R2. Support
your answer with calculations. (2 : 1)
U

E
ST

R2

R1
R3

43. In the arrangement of resistors shown, what fraction of current I will pass
through 5Ω resistor ?

24 Physics Class - XII)

 44. A 100W and a 200 W domestic bulbs joined in series are connected to the
mains. Which bulb will glow more brightly ? Justify. (100W)

60
45. A 100W and a 200 W domestic bulbs joined in parallel are connected to
the mains. Which bulb will glow more brightly ? Justify. (200W)
46. A battery has an emf of 12V and an internal resistance of 2Ω. Calculate
the potential difference between the terminal of cell if (a) current is drawn

E3
from the battery (b) battery is charged by an external source.
47. A uniform wire of resistance R ohm is bent into a circular loop as shown
in the figure. Compute effective resistance between diametrically opposite
points A and B. ID [Ans. R/4]
U
48. In a potentiometer arrangement, a cell of emf 1.25V gives a balance point
YG

at 35 cm length of the wire. If the cell is replaced by another cell, then the
balance point shifts to 63 cm. What is the emf of the second cell ?
[Ans. 2.25V]
49. In a meter bridge, the balance point is found to be 39.5 cm from end A. The
D

known resistance Y is 12.5Ω. Determine unknown resistance X.

[Ans. 8. 16Ω]
U
ST

50. A meterbridge is in balance condition. Now if galvanometer and cell are

interchanged, the galvanometer shows no deflection. Give reason.
[Ans. Galvanometer will show no deflection. Proportionality of the arms
are retained as the galvanometer and cell are interchanged.]

Unit I - II 25
 51. If the emf of the driving cell be decreased. What will be effect on the position
of zero deflection in a potentiometer.
52. Why should the area of cross section of the meter bridge wire be uniform
? Explain.
53. Given any two limitations of Ohm’s law.
54. Which one of the two, an ammeter or a milliammeter has a higher resistance

60
and why ?
55. Name two factors on which the resistivity of a given material depends ? A
carbon resistor has a value of 62kΩ with a tolerance of 5%. Give the colour

E3
code for the resistor.
56. If the electron drift speed is so small (~ 10–3 m/s) and the electron’s
charge is very small, how can we still obtain a large amount of current in
a conductor. ID
57. A battery of emf 2.0 volts and internal resistance 0.1Ω is being charged with
a current of 5.0 A. What is the potential difference between the terminals
U
of the battery ?
A B
YG

5A 2.0V 0.1Ω
58. Why should the jockey be not rubbed against potentiometer wire ?
59. What is meant by the sensitivity of a potentiometer of any given length ?
60. Five identical cells, each of emf E and internal resistance r, are connected
in series to form (a) an open (b) closed circuit. If an ideal voltmeter is
D

connected across three cells, what will be its reading ?

[Ans. (a) 3E; (b) zero]
U

61. An electron in a hydrogen atom is considered to be revolving around a

ST

proton with a velocity in a circular orbit of radius If I is the

equivalent current, express it in terms of m, e, n.

62. In the given circuit, with steady current, calculate the potential drop across
the capacitor in terms of V.

26 Physics Class - XII)

 63. A cell of e.m.f. ‘E’ and internal resistance ‘r’ is connected across a variable

60
resistor ‘R’. Plot a graph showing the variation of terminal potential ‘V’
with resistance ‘R’. Predict from the graph the condition under which ‘V’
becomes equal to ‘E’.

E3
64. Winding of rheostat wire are quite close to each other why do not they get
short circuted ?
Ans. The wire has a coating of insulating oxide over it which insulate the
winding from each other.
ID
65. Why is it necessary to obtain the balance point in the middle of bridge wire
? Explain.
66. What are the possible cause of one side deflection in Galvanometer while
U
performing potentiometer experiment ?
Ans. (i) Either +ve terminals of all the cells are not connected to same end
YG

of potentiometer.
or
(ii) The total potential drop across wire is less than the emf to be measured.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (3 MARKS)

D

1. Define electrostatic potential and its unit. Obtain expression for electrostatic
potential at a point P in the field due to a point charge.
U

2. Calculate the electrostatic potential energy for a system of three point

charges placed at the corners of an equilateral triangle of side ‘a’.
ST

3. What is polarization of charge ? With the help of a diagram show why

the electric field between the plates of capacitor reduces on introducing a
dielectric slab. Define dielectric constant on the basis of these fields.
4. Using Gauss’s theorem in electrostatics, deduce an expression for electric
field intensity due to a charged spherical shell at a point (i) inside (ii) on

Unit I - II 27
 its surface (iii) outside it. Graphically show the variation of electric field
intensity with distance from the centre of shell.
5. Three capacitors are connected first in series and then in parallel. Find the
equivalent capacitance for each type of combination.
6. A charge Q is distributed over two concentric hollow sphere of radii r
and R (R > r), such that their surface density of charges are equal. Find

60
Potential at the common centre.
7. Derive an expression for the energy density of a parallel plate capacitor.
8. You are given an air filled parallel plate capacitor. Two slabs of dielectric

E3
constants K1 and K2 having been filled in between the two plates of the
capacitor as shown in Fig. What will be the capacitance of the capacitor of
initial area was A distance between plates d ?

ID
Ans. C1 = (K1 + K2)C0
U
C2 =
YG

9. In the figure shown, calculate the total flux of the electrostatic field through
the sphere S1 and S2. The wire AB shown of length l has a liner charge
density λ given λ = kx where x is the distance measured along the wire
from end A.
D
U
ST

l l
1 2
Ans. Total charge on wire AB = Q = ∫ =
λdx ∫ k x=
dx kl
o o
2

By Gauss’s theorem.

28 Physics Class - XII)

 Total flux through S1 =

Total flux through S2 =

10. Explain why charge given to a hollow conductor is transferred immediately

60
to outer surface of the conductor.
11. Derive an expression for total work done in rotating an electric dipole
through an angle θ in an uniform electric field. Hence calculate the potential
energy of the dipole.

E3
12. Define electric flux. Write its SI unit. An electric flux of f units passes
normally through a spherical Gaussian surface of radius r, due to point
charge placed at the centre.
(1) What is the charge enclosed by Gaussian surface ?
ID
(2) If radius of Gaussian surface is doubled, what will be the flux
through it ?
13. A conducting slab of thickness ‘t’ is introduced between the plates of
U
a parallel plate capacitor, separated by a distance d (t < d). Derive an
expression for the capacitance of the capacitor. What will be its capacitance
YG

when t = d ?
14. If a dielectric slab is introduced between the plates of a parallel plate
capacitor after the battery is disconnected, then how do the following
quantities change.
D

(i) Charge
(ii) Potential
(iii) Capacitance
U

(iv) Energy.
15. What is an equipotential surface ? Write three properties Sketch equipotential
ST

surfaces of
(i) Isolated point charge
(ii) Uniform electric field
(iii) Dipole
16. If charge Q is given to a parallel plate capacitor and E is the electric field
between the plates of the capacitor the force on each plate is 1/2 QE and

Unit I - II 29
 if charge Q is placed between the plates experiences a force equal to QE.
Give reason to explain the above.
17. Two metal spheres A and B of radius r and 2r whose centres are separated
by a distance of 6r are given charge Q, are at potential V1 and V2. Find the
ratio of V1/V2. These spheres are connected to each other with the help of
a connecting wire keeping the separation unchanged, what is the amount
of charge that will flow through the wire ?

60
E3
18. Define specific resistance. Write its SI unit. Derive an expression for
ID
resistivity of a wire in terms of its material’s parameters, number density
of free electrons and relaxation time.
19. A potential difference V is applied across a conductor of length L and
U
diameter D. How are the electric field E and the resistance R of the conductor
affected when (i) V is halved (ii) L is halved (iii) D is doubled. Justify your
answer.
YG

20. Define drift velocity. A conductor of length L is connected to a dc source of

emf E. If the length of conductor is tripled by stretching it, keeping E constant,
explain how do the following factors would vary in the conductor ?
(i) Drift speed of electrons (ii) Resistance and (iii) Resistivity
D

21. Define potential gradient. How can potential gradient of a potentiometers

be determined experimentally. In the graph shown here, a plot of potential
U

drop versus length of the potentiometer is made for two potentiometers.

Which is more sensitive – A or B ?
ST

30 Physics Class - XII)

 22. Define conductivity of a substance. Give its SI units. How does it vary
with temperature for (i) Copper (ii) Silicon ?
23. Two cells of emf E1 and E2 having internal resistance r1 and r2 are connected
in parallel. Calculate Eeq and req for the combination.
24. The graph A and B shows how the current varies wiht applied potential
difference across a filament lamp and nichrome wire respectively. Using

60
the graph, find the ratio of the values of the resistance of filament lamp to
the nichrome wire
(i) when potential difference across them is 12 V.

E3
ID
U
(ii) when potential difference across them is 4V. Give reason for the change
in ratio of resistance in (i) and (ii).
YG

25. Electron drift speed is estimated to be only a few mm/s for currents in the
range of few amperes ? How then is current established almost the instant
a circuit is closed.
26. Give three differences between e.m.f. and terminal potential difference of
D

a cell.
27. Define the terms resistivity and conductivity and state their S. I. units.
U

Draw a graph showing the variation of resistivity with temperature for a

typical semiconductor.
ST

28. The current flowing through a conductor is 2mA at 50V and 3mA at 60V.
Is it an ohmic or non-ohmic conductor ? Give reason.
29. Nichrome and copper wires of same length and area of cross section are
connected in series, current is passed through them why does the nichrome
wire get heated first ?

Unit I - II 31
 30. Under what conditions is the heat produced in an electric circuit :
(i) directly proportional
(ii) inversely proportional to the resistance of the circuit.

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (5 MARKS)

1. Two charged capacitors are connected by a conducting wire. Calculate
common potential of capacitors (ii) ratio of their charges at common

60
potential. Show that energy is lost in this process.
2. Derive an expression for the strength of electric field intensity at a point on
the axis of a uniformly charged circular coil of radius R carrying charge Q.

E3
3. Derive an expression for potential at any point distant r from the centre O
of dipole making an angle θ with the dipole.
4. Suppose that three points are set at equal distance r = 90 cm from the
ID
centre of a dipole, point A and B are on either side of the dipole on the axis
(A closer to +ve charge and B closer to negative charge) point C which is
on the perpendicular bisector through the line joining the charges. What
U
would be the electric potential due to the dipole of dipole moment 3.6 ×
10 19 Cm at points A, B and C ?
YG

5. Derive an expression for capacitance of parallel plate capacitor with

dielectric slab of thickness t(t < d) between the plates separated by distance
d. How would the following (i) energy (ii) charge, (iii) potential be affected
(a) if dielectric slab is introduced with battery disconnected, (b) dielectric
D

slab is introduced after the battery is connected.

6. Derive an expression for torque experienced by dipole placed in uniform
U

electric field. Hence define electric dipole moment.

7. State Gauss’s theorem. Derive an expression for the electric field due to
ST

a charged plane sheet. Find the potential difference between the plates of
a parallel plate capacitor having surface density of charge 5 × 10–8 Cm–2
with the separation between plates being 4 mm.
8. Define current density. Give its SI unit. Whether it is vector or scalar ?
How does it vary when (i) potential difference across wire increases (ii)
length of wire increases (iii) temperature of wire increases (iv) Area of
cross-section of wire increases justify your answer.
32 Physics Class - XII)
 9. Using Gauss’s theorem obtain an expression for electric field intensity
due to a plane sheet of charge. Hence obtain expression for electric field
intensity in a parallel plate capacitor.
10. Write any four important results regarding electro statics of conductors.
11. State Kirchhoffs’s rules for electrical networks. Use them to explain the
principle of Wheatstone bridge for determining an unknown resistance.

60
How is it realized in actual practice in the laboratory ? Write the formula
used.
12. Define emf and terminal potential difference of a cell. When is the terminal

E3
charging potential difference greater than emf ? Explain how emf and
terminal potential difference can be compared using a potentiometer and
hence determine internal resistance of the cell.
13. For three cells of emf E1, E2 and E3 with internal resistance r1, r2, r3
ID
respectively connected in parallel, obtain an expression for net internal
resistance and effective current. What would be the maximum current
U
possible if the emf of each cell is E and internal resistance is r each ?
14. Derive an expression for drift velocity of the electron in conductor. Hence
YG

deduce ohm’s law.

15. State the principle of potentiometer. How can it be used to :
(i) Compare e.m.f. of two cells
(ii) Measure internal resistance of a cell ?
D

16. Explain how does the conductivity of a :

(i) Metallic conductor
U

(ii) Semi conductor and

ST

(iii) Insulator varies with the rise of temperature.

17. Derive expression for equivalent e.m.f. and equivalent resistance of a :
(a) Series combination
(b) Parallel combination
of three cells with e.m.f. E1, E2, E3 & internal resistances r1, r2, r3
respectively.

Unit I - II 33
 18. Deduce the condition for balance in a Wheatstone bridge. Using the
principle of Wheatstone bridge, describe the method to determine the
specific resistance of a wire in the laboratory. Draw the circuit diagram
and write the formula used. Write any two important precautions you
would observe while performing the experiment.

NUMERICALS

60
1. What should be the position of charge q = 5µC for it to be in equilibrium on
the line joining two charges q1 = – 4 µC and q2 = 16 µC separated by 9 cm.

E3
Will the position change for any other value of charge q ? (9 cm from – 4
µC)
2. Two point charges 4e and e each, at a separation r in air, exert force of
magnitude F. They are immersed in a medium of dielectric constant 16.

them remains unchanged.

ID
What should be the separation between the charges so that the force between
(1/4 the original separation)
3. Two capacitors of capacitance 10 µF and 20 µF are connected in series
U
with a 6V battery. If E is the energy stored in 20 µF capacitor what will be
the total energy supplied by the battery in terms of E. (6E)
YG

4. Two point charges 6 µC and 2 µC are separated by 3 cm in free space.

Calculate the work done in separating them to infinity. (3. 6 joule)
5. ABC is an equilateral triangle of side 10 cm. D is the mid point of BC
D

charge 100 µC,– 100µC and 75 µC are placed at B, C and D respectively.

What is the force experienced by a 1 µC positive charge placed at A ?
U

6. A point charge of 2 µC is kept fixed at the origin. Another point charge of

ST

4 µC is brought from a far point to a distance of 50 cm from origin. (a)

Calculate the electrostatic potential energy of the two charge system.
Another charge of 11 µC is brought to a point 100 cm from each of the
two charges. What is the work done ? (a) 144 × 10–3 J
7. A 5 MeV α particle is projected towards a stationary nucleus of atomic
number 40. Calculate distance of closest approach. (1.1 × 10–4 m)

34 Physics Class - XII)

 8. To what potential must a insulated sphere of radius 10 cm be charged so
that the surface density of charge is equal to 1 µC/m2. (1.13 × 104V)
9. A slab of material of dielectric constant K has the same area as the plates
of parallel plate capacitor but its thickness is where d is separation
between plates, How does the capacitance change when the slab is inserted
between the plates ?

60
10. A point charge developes an electric field of 40 N/C and a potential
difference of 10 J/C at a point. Calculate the magnitude of the charge and
the distance from the point charge. (2.9 × 10–10 C, 25 cm)

E3
11. Figure shows three circuits, each consisting of a switch and two capacitors
initially charged as indicated. After the switch has been closed, in which
circuit (if any) will the charges on the left hand capacitor (i) increase (ii)
decrease (iii) remain same ?
ID
U
(1 remains unchanged, 2 increases, 3 decreases).
YG

12. For what value of C does the equivalent capacitance between A and B is
1µF in the given circuit.
D
U

All capacitance given in micro farad Ans. 2 µF

13. A pendulum bob of mass 80 mg and carrying charge of 3 × 10–8 C is
ST

placed in an horizontal electric field. It comes to equilibrium position at an

angle of 37° with the vertical. Calculate the intensity of electric field. (g =
10m/s2) (2 × 104 N/C)
14. Eight charged water droplets each of radius 1 mm and charge 10 × 10–10 C
coalesce to form a single drop. Calculate the potential of the bigger drop.
(3600 V)

Unit I - II 35
 15. What potential difference must be applied to produce an electric field that
can accelerate an electron to 1/10 of velocity of light. (2.6 × 103 V)
16. A 10 µF capacitor can withstand a maximum voltage of 100 V across it,
whereas another 20 µF capacitor can withstand a maximum voltage of
only 25 V. What is the maximum voltage that can be put across their series
combination ?

60
17. Three concentric spherical metallic shells A < B < C of radii a, b, c
(a < b < c) have surface densities σ, – σ and σ respectively. Find the potential
of three shells A, B and C (ii). If shells A and C are at the same potential

E3
obtain relation between a, b, c.
18. Four point charges are placed at the corners of the square of edge a as shown
in the figure. Find the work done in disassembling the system of charges.

ID
U
YG

19. Find the potential at A and C in the following circuit :

D
U
ST

20. Two capacitors A and B with capacitances 3 µF and 2 µF are charged

100 V and 180 V respectively. The capapitors are connected as shown in the
diagram with the uncharged capacitor C. Calculate the (i) final charge on
the three capacitors (ii) amount of electrostatic energy stored in the system
before and after the completion of the circuit.

36 Physics Class - XII)

 21. Fig. shows two parallel plate capacitors X and Y having same area of plates

60
and same separation between them : X has air while Y has dielectric of
constant 4 as medium between plates

E3
(a) calculate capacitance of each capacitor, if equivalent capacitance of
ID
combination is 4µF (b) calculate potential difference between plate X and
Y (c) what is the ratio of electrostatic energy stored in X & Y.
Ans. (a) 5µF, 20µF, (b) 9.6V, 2.4V (c) 4
U
22.
YG
D

In the following arrangement of capacitors, the energy stored in the 6µF

capacitor is E.
U

Find :
(i) Energy stored in 12 µF capacitors.
ST

(ii) Energy stored in 3µF capacitor.

(iii) Total energy drawn from the battery.

Ans. (i) E = = = 3 × 10–6 V2

V2 =

Unit I - II 37
 Energy stored in 12µF capacitor =

= 2E
(ii) Charge on 6µF capacitor
Q1 =

60
=
Charge on 12µF capacitor
Q2 =

E3
=
=
Charge on 3µF capacitor Q = Q1 + Q2
ID
=
Energy stored in 3µF capacitor

= =
U
= 18E
(ii) Capacitance of parallel combination = 18µF
YG

Charge on parallel combination Q = CV

= 18 × 10–6 V
Charge on 3µF = Q = 3 × 10–6 V1
18 × 10–6 V = 3 × 10–6 V1
D

V1 = 6V
U

Energy stored in 3µF capacitor =

=
ST

= 18E
(iii) Total eEnergy drawn = E + 2E + 18E = 21E
23. The charge passing through a conductor is a function of time and is given as
q = 2t2 – 4t + 3 milli coulomb. Calculate (i) current through the conductor (ii)
potential difference across it at t = 4 second. Given resistance of conductor
is 4 ohm. Ans. I = 12A, V = 48 V

38 Physics Class - XII)

 24. The resistance of a platinum wire at a point 0°C is 5.00 ohm and its resistance
at steam point is 5.40Ω. When the wire is immersed in a hot oil bath, the
resistance becomes 5.80Ω. Calculate the temperature of the oil bath and
temperature coefficient of resistance of platinum.
Ans. a = 0.004°C; T = 200°C
25. Three identical cells, each of emf 2V and internal resistance 0.2 ohm, are
connected in series to an external resistor of 7.4 ohm. Calculate the current

60
in the circuit and the terminal potential difference across an equivalent.
Ans. I = 0.75; V = 5.55 V
26. Calculate the equivalent resistance and current shown by the ammeter in

E3
the circuit diagram given. Ans. R = 2Ω ; I = 5A

ID
U
YG

27. A storage battery of emf 12V and internal resistance of 1.5Ω is being
charged by a 12V supply. How much resistance is to be put in series for
charging the battery safely, by maintaining a constant charging current of
6A. Ans. R = 16.5 Ω
D

28. Three cells are connected in parallel, with their like poles connected
U

together, with wires of negligible resistance. If the emf of the cell are 2V,
1V and 4V and if their internal resistance are 4Ω, 3Ω and 2 Ω respectively,
ST

find the current through each cell.

29. A 16 ohm resistance wire is bent to form a square. A source of emf 9 volt is
connected across one of its sides. Calculate the potential difference across
any one of its diagonals. Ans. 1V

Unit I - II 39
 30. A length of uniform ‘heating wire’ made of nichrome has a resistance 72
Ω. At what rate is the energy dissipated if a potential difference of 120V is
applied across (a) full length of wire (b) half the length of wire (wire is cut
into two). Why is it not advisable to use the half length of wire ?
Ans. (a) 200W, (b) 400W, 400W >> 200W but since current becomes large
so it is not advisable to use half the length

60
31. With a certain unknown resistance X in the left gap and a resistance of 8Ω
in the right gap, null point is obtained on the metre bridge wire. On putting
another 8Ω in parallel with 8Ω resistance in the right gap, the null point is
found to shift by 15 cm. Find the value of X from these observations.

E3
Ans. 8/3 Ω
32. Figure show a potentiometer circuit for comparison of two resistances.
The balance point with a standard resistance R = 10Ω is found to be 160

value of X.
ID
cm. While that with the unknown resistance X is 134.4 cm. Determine the
[Ans. 2 Ω]
U
YG
D

33. In a potentiometer, a standard cell of emf 5V of negligible internal resistance

U

maintains a steady current through Potentiometer wire of length 5m. Two

primary cells of emf E1 and E2 are joined in series with (i) same polarity
ST

(ii) opposite polarity. The balancing point are found at length 350 cm and
50 cm in two cases respectively.
(i) Draw necessary circuit diagram
(ii) Find the value of emf E1 and E2 of the two cells (if E1 > E2)
Ans. E1 = 2V, E2 = 1.5V

40 Physics Class - XII)

 34. Potential difference across terminals of a cell are measured (in volt)
against different current (in ampere) flowing through the cell. A graph was
drawn which was a straight line ABC. Using the data given in the graph.
Determine (i) the emf. (ii) The internal resistance of the cell.
Ans. r = 5Ω emf = 1.4V

60
E3
35. Four cells each of internal resistance 0.8Ω and emf 1.4V, d are connected
ID
(i) in series (ii) in parallel. The terminals of the battery are joined to the
lamp of resistance 10Ω. Find the current through the lamp and each cell in
both the cases.
U
Ans. Is = 0.424A, Ip = 0.137A current through each cell is 0.03A
36. In the figure, an ammeter A and a resistor of resistance R = 4Ω have been
YG

connected to the terminals of the source to form a complete circuit. The

emf of the source is 12V having an internal resistance of 2Ω. Calculate
voltmeter and ammeter reading.
Ans. Voltmeter reading : 8V, Ammeter reading = 2A
D
U
ST

37. In the circuit shown, the reading of voltmeter is 20V. Calculate resistance
of voltmeter. What will be the reading of voltmeter if this is put across
200Ω resistance ?

Unit I - II 41
 60
38. For the circuit given below, find the potential difference b/w points B
and D. Ans. 1.46 Volts

E3
ID
U
39. (i) Calculate Equivalent Resistance of the given electrical network b/w
points A and B.
YG

(ii) Also calculate the current through CD & ACB if a 10V d.c. source
is connected b/w points A and B and the value of R = 2Ω.
D
U
ST

40. A potentiometer wire AB of length 1m is connected to a driver cell of emf

3V as shown in figure. When a cell of emf 1.5V is used in the secondary
circuit, the balance point is found to be 60 cm. On replacing this cell by a
cell of unknown emf, the balance point shifts to 80 cm. :

42 Physics Class - XII)

 60
(i) Calculate unknown emf of ε′ the cell.
(ii) Explain with reason, whether the circuit works if the driver cell is
replaced with another a cell of emf IV.

E3
(iii) Does the high resistance R, used in the secondary circuit affect the
balance point ? Justify your answer.
41. A battery of emf 10V and internal resistance 3Ω is connected to a
resistor. If the current in the circuit is 0.5A, what is the resistance of the
ID
resistor ? What is the terminal voltage of the battery when the circuit is
closed ?
U
42. A network of resistance is connected to a 16V battery with internal
resistance of 1Ω as shown in Fig. on next page.
YG

(i) Compute the equivalent resistance of the network.

(ii) Obtain the current in each resistor.
(iii) Obtain the voltage drop VAB, VBC & VCD.
D
U
ST

43. The number density of conduction electrons in a Copper Conductor

estimated to be 8.5 × 1028 m–3. How long does an electron take to drift
from one end of a wire 3.0 m long to its other end ? The area of cross
section of the wire is 2.0 × 10–6 m2 and it is carrying a current of 3.0 A.

Unit I - II 43
 44. A voltmeter of resistance 400Ω is used to measure the potential difference
across the 100Ω resistor in the circuit shown in figure. What will be the
reading of voltmeter.

60
E3
45. Find magnitude of current supplied by battery. Also find potential
difference between points P and Q in the given fig. Ans.1A, 1.5V

ID
U
46. A copper wire of length 3 m and radius r is nickel plated till its radius
YG

becomes 2r. What would be the effective resistance of the wire, if specific
resistance of copper and nickel are ρc and ρn respectively.

[Hint : Pc = Rn =
D

R= .
U

47. In the figure, if the potential at point P is 100V, what is the potential at point
Q?
ST

Ans. – 10V

44 Physics Class - XII)

 48. Given two resistors X and Y whose resistances are to be determined using
an ammeter of resistance 0.5Ω and a voltmeter of resistance 20 kΩ. It is
known that X is in the range of a few ohms, while Y is in the range of
several thousand ohm. In each case, which of the two connection shown
should be chosen for resistance measurement ?

60
Ans. Small resistance : X will be preferred; large resistance :

E3
Y will be preferred
49. When resistance of 2Ω is connected across the terminals of a battery,
the current is 0.5A. When the resistance across the terminal is 5Ω, the
ID
current is 0.25A. (i) Determine the emf of the battery (ii) What will be
current drawn from the cell when it is short circuited.
Ans. E = 1.5 V, I = 1.5A
U
50. A part of a circuit in steady state, along with the currents flowing in
the branches and the resistances, is shown in the figure. Calculate energy
YG

stored in the capacitor of 4µF capacitance. Ans. VAB = 20V, U = 8 × 10–4 J

D
U

51. With two resistance wires in two gaps of a meter bridge, balance point was
ST

found to be 1/3m from zero end, when a 6Ω coil is connected in series with
smaller of two resistances the balance point shifted to 2/3m from the same
end. Find resistances of two wires. Ans. 2Ω, 4Ω
52. A voltmeter with resistance 500Ω is used to measure the emf of a cell of
internal resistance 4Ω. What will be the percentage error in the reading of
the voltmeter. Ans. 0.8%

Unit I - II 45
 HINTS FOR 2 MARKS QUESTIONS

10. =
14.

60
E3
21. φ= =
φ1 = 0, φ2 = 50 Vm, φ3 = 150 Vm
28. WBA = 90 (VB – VA) = 2 × 1000 = 2000 J

40. = ⇒
ID ⇒ = ∴ =1
U
(i) in series neA, (Vd) = neA2(Vd)2 ⇒ =1
YG

(ii) i1R1 = i2R2 ⇒ =

43. Current through 5Ω = =

D

64. Sensitivity of Wheatstone Bridge is maximum when resistance of all

its four arms are nearly of same order, so the accuracy of result of the
U

experiment will be highest, if balance point is in the middle of wire.

32. In the capacitor the voltage increases from O to V, hence energy stored
ST

will correspond to average which will be ½ QV. While the source is at

constant emf V. So energy supplied will be QV. The difference between
the two goes as heat and emf radiations.
35. Construct a closed system such that charge is enclosed within it. For the
charge on one face, we need to have two cubes place such that charge is

46 Physics Class - XII)

 on the common face. According to Gauss’s theorem total flux through the
Gaussian surface (both cubes) is equal to . Therefore the flux through
one cube will be equal to

36. Work done = fd cos θ = qEd cos θ =

60
e
61. I= = v → speed
2πr / v
ev

E3
=
2πr
ee 2 me 2 me5
= =
n 2πn 2 2πn3

ID
62. In steady state the branch containing C can be omitted hence the current

I= =
U
For loop EBCDE
– VC – V + 2V – 1 (2R) = 0
YG

⇒ VC =

51. If e.m.f. decreases ⇒ decreases ⇒ position of zero deflection increases.

52. Otherwise resistance per unit length of Bridge wire be different over
D

different length of meter Bridge.

54. Milliammeter. To produce large deflection due to small current we need a
U

large number of turns we need a large number of turns in armature coil ⇒

Resistance increases.
ST

55. Temperature, Material Blue, Red, Orange, Gold

56. The electron number density is of the order of 1029 m–3 , ⇒ the net current
can be very high even if the drift spread is low.
57. V = E + ir
= 2 + 0.15
= 2.15V

Unit I - II 47
 58. Affects the uniformity of the cross-section area of wire and hence changes
the potential drop across wire.
59. A potentiometer is said to be sensitive if :
(i) It can measure very small potential differences.
(ii) For a small change in potential difference being measured it shows
large change in balancing length.

60
HINTS FOR NUMERICALS

E3
9. V= =

V=

C=
ID = =

14. r = 1 mm
U
= ⇒ R = 2 mm
YG

Q = 8q = 8 × 10 × 10–10 C

V=
D

= = 36000 Volt

21. Cx = C, Cy = KC = 4C
U

= C = 4 ⇒ C = 5µf
ST

(a) Ceq = Cx = 5µf

Cy = 20µf

(b) = 12 (Vx = V, Vy = as q constant)

V = 9.6 Volt, Vx = 9.6 Volt, Vy = 2.4 Volt

48 Physics Class - XII)

 (c) = =4

31. = ...(1)

= = ⇒ Rp = 4,

60
= ...(2)
⇒ u sing (1) & (2)

E3
l2 – 85l + 1500 = 0
l = 25 cm or l = 60 cm
At l = 60 cm using (1) X =

32.
ID
l = 60 cm using (1) X = 12Ω.

ix = = =
U
= = = ⇒ x = 2 Ω.
YG

HINTS FOR 3 MARKS QUESTIONS

16. If E′ be the electric field due to each plate (of large dimensions) then net
electric field between them
E = E′ + E′ ⇒ E′ = E/2
D

Force on change Q at some point between the plates F = QE

Force on one plate of the capacitor due to another plate F′ = QE′ = QE/2
U

17. V1 = =
ST

V2 = = =

Vcommon = = = V′

Unit I - II 49
 Charge transferred equal to
q′ = C1V1 – C1V′ =

= =

28. R1 = = = 25,000Ω

60
R2 = = = 20,000Ω.
As resistance changes with I, therefore conductor is non ohmic.

E3
29. Rate of production of heat, P = I2R, for given l, P × R, ∴ ρnichrome > ρcu
∴ RNichrome > Rcu of same length and area of cross section.
30. (i) If I in circuit is constant because H = I2 Rt

ID
(ii) If V in circuit is constant because H =

NUMERICALS
U
17. VA =
YG

= k 4πaσ – k4πbσ + k4πcσ

= 4πaσ (a – b + c)

=
D

VB = =
U

=
ST

VC =

When VA = VC

ac – bc + c2 = a2 – b2 + c2

50 Physics Class - XII)

 c (a – b) = (a – b) (a + b)
c =a + b
19. Q = CV
Total charge Q = Total capacitance in series × voltage

= = 10 × 10–3 coulomb

60
VAB = = = 10V

E3
VBC = = = 2V.

When B is earthed VB = 0, VA = 10V and VC = – 2V.

ID
21. Before dielectric is introduced.

EA = EB =
U
E = EA + EB = CV2
YG

After disconnecting the battery and then introducing dielectric

E′A =
D

E′B = =
U

=
E′ = E′A + E′B
ST

33. Pot. gradient k = = 1Vm–1

l1 = 350 cm = 3.5 m
E1 + E2 = kl1 = 3.5 ...(1)

Unit I - II 51
 E1 – E2 = 0.5 ...(2)
E1 = 2V, E2 = 1.5 Volt
39. RAB = 2Ω

ICD = 0, IACB = = = 2.5A

60
E3
ID
U
40. (i) ⇒ = = 2.0V
YG

(ii) The circuit will not work if emf of driven cell is IV,/total Voltage
across AB is 1 V, which cannot balance the voltage 1.5V.
(iii) No, since at balance point no current flows through galvanometer G.
D

i.e., cell remains in open circuit.

41. E = I (R + r)
U

10 = 0.5 (R + 3)
ST

R = 17Ω

V = E – Ir = 10 – 0.5 × 3 = 8.5V

42. Req = 7W

I4Ω = 1A, I1Ω = 2A, I12Ω = I6Ω = A,

52 Physics Class - XII)

 VAB = 4V, VBC = 2V, VCD = 8V

43. I = enAVd =

t= = 2.7 × 104 s

60
44. I= = = 0.3A

E3
P.d. across voltmeter & 100Ω combination

= = 24V.
ID
U
YG

When, I << r,

45. RAB = 4.5Ω

D

i= = = 1A.
U
ST

iAP = iAQ = 0.5A, VAP = 3 ⇒ Vp = 3 Volt

VAQ = 1.5 VQ = 4.5 Volt

VQ – VP = 1.5 Volt

Unit I - II 53
 51. For two resistor P and Q

= = = ...(i)

Q = 2P, P < Q

60
Now, P′ = P + 6, I′ = 2/3

E3
= = =

ID=

On solving (i) & (ii), P = 2Ω, Q = 4Ω.

...(ii)
U
YG
D
U
ST

54 Physics Class - XII)