Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

1. An aircraft is moving with velocity v through air of density ρ and has wings of width L. The lift force per
unit wingspan depends on L, v and ρ as

a) Lv2ρ2 b) L2v2ρ c) Lv2𝝆 d) L2v2ρ2

Sol 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 𝑀𝐿𝑇 −2

Lift force per unit wingspan: F = 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ : 𝐿
= 𝑀𝑇 −2
F = va𝜌𝑏 Lc
𝑀𝑇 −2 = [LT-1]a [ML-3]b [L]c
Comparing the powers of similar terms: b = 1; a – 3b + c = 0; a = 2
Solving the above expressions: c = 1
So, the lift force per unit wingspan: F = Lv2𝝆

2. (1+3𝑥)2 − (1+2𝑥)3
Let L be the limit lim (1+3𝑥)1/3 − (1+2𝑥)1/2 . Then L equals
𝑥→0

a) 6 b) −6 c) 1 d) −1
6 6

Sol (𝟏+𝟑𝒙)𝟐 − (𝟏+𝟐𝒙)𝟑 12 −13 0

lim (𝟏+𝟑𝒙)𝟏/𝟑 − (𝟏+𝟐𝒙)𝟏/𝟐 : put x = 0; 11/3 −11/2 = 0
𝒙→𝟎
0
Simplify the given expression and remove 0 form.
(9𝑥 2 +6𝑥+1)−(8𝑥 3 +12𝑥 2 +6𝑥+1) −8𝑥 3 −3𝑥 2 𝑥 2 (−8𝑥−3) −3
lim 𝑥2
= lim 𝑥2
= lim 1 = 1 =6
𝒙→𝟎 (1+𝑥−𝑥 2 +⋯..)−(1+𝑥− +⋯.) 𝒙→𝟎 −𝑥 2 − +⋯. 𝒙→𝟎 𝑥 2 (−1+ ) −
2
2 2 2

3. A stone is dropped from the window of a train compartment moving in a

horizontal direction as shown below. As observed by a person standing on
the ground, which path would the most closely follow after leaving the
window?

a) path A b) path B c) path C d) path D

Sol When an object is dropped from a stationary point, its initial velocity is zero. It becomes a freely falling
body. A freely falling body follows path B.
Since the stone is dropped from moving train, its initial velocity is equal to the velocity of the train.
So, the stone becomes a horizontal projectile. It follows parabolic path D.

𝑟
4. If the circumcenter of a triangle lies on its incircle, then the ratio 𝑅 , where r is the inradius and R is the
circumradius of the triangle, is closest to

a) 0.2 b) 0.3 c) 0.4 d) 0.5

Sol Given: circumcenter (O) of the triangle lies on incenter (I).

OA = OB = OC = R: circumradius and OI = r: inradius
Distance between circumcenter and incenter: √𝑅 2 − 2𝑟𝑅 → r = √𝑅 2 − 2𝑟𝑅 → r2 = 𝑅 2 − 2𝑟𝑅
𝑟2 𝑟
Divide with R2 on both sides: 𝑅2 = 1 – 2 𝑅
𝑟
Put x = 𝑅; then the equation: x2 + 2x – 1 = 0 → (x + 1)2 = 2 → x + 1 = √2 → x = √2 − 1 = 0.4

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

5. A flat circular ring has mass M, outer radius a and inner radius b (see figure). The measured values of these
quantities are M = 0.191 ± 0.003 kg, a = 110 ± 1 mm and b = 15 ± 1 mm, the moment of inertia of the
ring about an axis passing through the centre, and normal to the plane of the ring along with its error is:
𝑀
Given I = 2 (a2 + b2)

(a) (1.18 ± 0.04) x 10-3 kg m2 (b) (1.18 ± 0.02) x 10-3 kg m2

(c) (1.18 ± 0.05) x 10-3 kg m2 (d) (1.18 ± 0.08) x 10-3 kg m2

Sol 𝑀
Moment of inertia of the circular ring: I = (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 )
2
0.191
I= 2
(12100 + 225) x 10-6 = 1.18 x 10-3 kg m2
Differentiate the MI equation:
𝑑𝑀 2 𝑀 𝑑𝑀 𝑀 𝑑𝑀
dI = 2
a + 2 2a da + 2
b2 + 2
2b db = 2
(a2 + b2) + M (a da + b db)
0.003
dI = 2
(1102 + 152) x 10-6 + 0.191 (110 x 1 + 15 x 1) x 10-6 = 0.04 x 10-3
MI of the ring: I ± ∆I = (1.18 ± 0.04) x 10-3 kg m2

6. There are a certain number of red balls and white balls in an Urn. The probability of picking up white ball
1
is more than that of a red ball. If 6 white balls are added to the Urn the above difference is doubled. If
6
instead, 6 white balls are removed, the probability of picking up a white ball is

a) 1 b) 2 c) 𝟒 d) 5
6 9 𝟗 9

Sol Number of red balls: kx and Number of white balls: 𝑙x

𝑘𝑥 1 𝑙𝑥 𝑙𝑥−𝑘𝑥 1 𝑙−𝑘 1
Given: 𝑘𝑥+𝑙𝑥 + 6 = 𝑘𝑥+𝑙𝑥 → 𝑙𝑥+𝑘𝑥 = 6 → 𝑙+𝑘 = 6 (𝑙 = 7 and k = 5 satisfy the relation)
Number of red balls: 5x and Number of white balls: 7x
7𝑥+6 5𝑥
If we add 6 white balls, then the probability: = 2( )→ 7x + 6 = 10x → x = 2
12𝑥+6 12𝑥+6
7𝑥−6 14−6 𝟒
When we remove 6 balls, then the probability: 12𝑥−6 = 24−6 𝟗
=

7. A chlorine molecule with an initial velocity of 600 ms-1 absorbs a photon

of wavelength 350 nm and is then dissociated into two chlorine atoms.
One of the atoms is detected moving perpendicular to the initial
direction of the molecule and having a velocity of 1600 ms-1, The
binding energy of the molecule is
[Neglect the momentum of the absorbed photon. The relative atomic
mass of chlorine is 35]

a) 3.36 x 10-17 J b) 3.36 x 10-19 J c) 3.36 x 10-21 J d) 3.36 x 10-28 J

Sol Initial momentum of the chlorine molecule: Pi = 2mu = 2m (600) = 1200 m (along x axis)
Conservation of momentum along y axis: 0 = m (1600) – mvy → vy = 1600 m/s
Conservation of momentum along x axis: 1200 m = 0 + mvx → vx = 1200 m/s
Velocity of second chlorine atom after dissociation: v = √𝑣𝑥 2 + 𝑣𝑦 2 = √12002 + 16002 = 2000 m/s
1
Initial kinetic energy of the system: ki = 2 2m u2 = m (600)2 = 360000m = 3.6 x 105 m
Final kinetic energy of the system:
1 1 1 1
kf = 2 mV2 + 2 mv2 = 2 m (V2 + v2) = 2 m (16002 + 20002) = 32.8 x 105 m
ℎ𝑐 1240
Energy of the photon: E = 𝜆 = 350 = 3.54 eV = 3.54 x 1.6 x 10-19 = 5.7 x 10-19 J
Binding energy of chlorine molecule: BE = E − ∆k = 5.7 x 10-19 – (1.7 x 10-19) = 4 x 10-19 J
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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

8. Let z be a complex number such that |z + 2| + |z - 3| = 5. Then the locus of z is

a) an ellipse b) a straight-line segment c) a circle d) a hyperbola

Sol Let Z ∈ ℂ such that |𝑍 + 2| + |𝑍 − 3| = 5

First find the stationary points of modulus: |𝑍 + 2| = 0 ⇒ Z = - 2 and |𝑍 − 3| = 0 ⇒ Z = 3
So, there are two stationary points of above eqn i.e. A = - 2 and B = 3
Now consider one-point p(z) for locus of given eqn
i.e. |𝑍 + 2| + |𝑍 − 3| = 5
i.e. PA + PB = AB
So, locus of the given equation is a straight-line segment

9. A car of mass m travelling at speed v moves on a horizontal track so that the centre of mass describes a
circle of radius r. If 2a is the separation of the inner and outer wheels and h is the height of the centre of
mass above the ground, the limiting speed beyond which the car will overturn is given by

𝑔𝑟𝑎 2𝑔𝑟𝑎 5𝑔𝑟𝑎 𝒈𝒓𝒂

a) v2 = b) v2 = c) v2 = d) v2 =
2ℎ 3ℎ 3ℎ 𝒉

Sol Normal reaction on the outer wheel is more than that on the inner wheel: R2 > R1
𝑚𝑣 2
For translational equilibrium: R1 + R2 = mg (vertical) and f = 𝑟
(horizontal)
For rotational equilibrium:
ℎ 𝑚𝑣 2 ℎ
R2 (a) = R1 (a) + fh → R1 = R2 – f 𝑎 = R2 – 𝑟 𝑎 → R2 > R1
From the above expression: R1 decreases with increase in v.
𝒈𝒓𝒂
At overturning: R1 = 0 → R2 = mg / R2(a) = fh → v = √ 𝒉

10. In a triangle ABC, the side lengths are given by BC = 5, CA = 6, AB = 4. Let I be its in Centre; AI be
𝐼𝐷
produced to meet BC in D. Then the ratio 𝐴𝐼 is equal to
a) 𝟏 b) 1 c) 2 d) 2
𝟐 3 5

Sol ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶, BC = 5, CA = 6, AB = 4, ‘I’ is in center

In ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶, Let AQ ⊥ BC, extend AI to BC so it meets at points D on BC
join IP = r so IP ⊥ BC ∵ BC is tangent to in circle
Now consider ∆𝑃𝐼𝐷 and ∆𝑄𝐴𝐷: ∠P = ∠Q = 900, then AQ ‖ PI
So ∠QAD = ∠PID (Corresponding angles)
So ∆PID = ∆QAD (By AA property)

Hence, their side ratios are equal 1

∆ = 2
× a×h
𝑎ℎ
𝐼𝐷 𝐼𝑃 𝑃𝐷 ⇒ r. s =
⇒ = = 2
𝐴𝐷 𝑄𝐴 𝑄𝐷 ℎ 2𝑠
𝐼𝐷 𝑟 ⇒ =
⇒ 𝐴𝐷
= ℎ 𝑟 𝑎
5+6+4 15
𝐼𝐷 𝑟 𝐴𝐼+𝐼𝐷 ℎ Now s = = 2 ⇒ 2s = 15; a = 5
⇒ 𝐴𝐼+𝐼𝐷
= ℎ⇒ 𝐼𝐷
= 𝑟 𝐴𝐼
2
2𝑠
𝐴𝐼 ℎ 𝐴𝐼 ℎ ⇒ 𝐼𝐷
= 𝑎 -1
⇒ 𝐼𝐷
+1 = 𝑟 ⇒ 𝐼𝐷
= 𝑟
-1 15
𝑎+𝑏+𝑐 = 5 - 1
Now ∆ = 𝑟. 𝑠 , where s = and
2 𝑰𝑫 𝟏
∆ =
1
× BC × AD ⇒ =
𝑨𝑰 𝟐
2

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

11. The ratio of the height h of a cushion on a snooker table to the radius r of
a ball (solid sphere as shown in figure), such that when the ball hits the
cushion with a pure rolling motion it rebounds with a pure rolling motion.
(Assume that the force exerted on the ball by the cushion is horizontal
during the impact and that the ball hits the cushion normally)

a) 𝟕 b) 5 c) 5 d) 3
𝟓 7 3 5

Sol Linear impulse: J = ∆P = mv – (−mv) = 2mv

2 14
Change in angular momentum: ∆L = 2 Iω = 2 ( 𝑚𝑟 2 + 𝑚𝑟 2 ) ω = 𝑚𝑟 2 ω
5 5

Angular impulse about point of contact on ground A: Jh = ∆L

14 14 𝑣 ℎ 𝟕
2mvh = 5
𝑚𝑟 2 ω → 2mvh = 5
𝑚𝑟 2 𝑟 →𝑟=𝟓

12. (𝑥 −2)2 𝑦2
If the parabola y2 = 8x and the ellipse 𝑝2
+ 𝑞2
= 1, 0 < p < p is tangent to each other then

a) q = 2 √2 − √4 − 𝑝 b) q = 2 √2 + √4 + 𝑝

c) q = 2 √2 − √4 − 𝑝2 d) q = 2 √𝟐 + √𝟒 − 𝒑𝟐

Sol (𝑥 −2)2 𝑦2
parabola is y2 = 8x and ellipse is + = 1, 0 < p < q [given that they are tangents to each other]
𝑝2 𝑞2
(𝑥 −2)2 𝑦2 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4 𝑦2
for ellipse + =1→ + = 1 → q2 (x 2– 4x + 4) + p 2y 2= p2q2
𝑝2 𝑞2 𝑝2 𝑞2

⇒ q2x 2–q2 . 4x + 4q2 + p 2 . 8x = p2q2 (∵ y2 = 8x)

⇒ q2x 2 + (8p2 – 4q2)x + 4q 2 − p2q2 = 0
Here D = 0 ∵ b2 = 4ac
⇒ (8p2 – 4q2)2 = 4. q 2 . (4q2 – p2q2) → ⇒ q 4−16 q2 + 16 p2= 0
16 ± √256 −64 𝑝2
q2= 2
→ q 2 = 8 ± 4√4 − 𝑝2

As roots of given eqn is positive (∵ q2 > 0)

So, q2 – 2p2 > 0 ⇒ 8 – 4 √4 − 𝑝2 rejected because 8 – 4 √4 − 𝑝2 < 0

So, q2 = 8 + 4 √4 − 𝑝2 ⇒ q = √8 + 4√4 − 𝑝2 ⇒ q = 2√𝟐 + √𝟒 − 𝒑𝟐

13. A sphere of uniform density ρ has within it a spherical cavity whose centre is at a distance a from the
centre of the sphere. The gravitational field within

(a) non – uniform and zero at the centre of the cavity

(b) zero at every point inside the cavity
(c) uniform and not zero
(d) same magnitude but has different direction at different points

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge
𝐺𝑀 4𝜋𝐺
Sol Field at point p due to solid sphere: 𝐸̅1 = 3 r1 = ρ𝑟̅1
𝑅 3
4𝜋𝐺
Field at point p due to mass in cavity: 𝐸̅2 = 3
ρ 𝑟̅2
4𝜋𝐺 4𝜋𝐺
Net field at p: 𝐸̅1 − 𝐸̅2 = 3 ρ𝑟̅1 − 3 ρ 𝑟̅2
4𝜋𝐺 𝟒𝝅𝑮
𝐸̅1 − 𝐸̅2 = 3 ρ (𝑟̅1 − 𝑟̅2 ) → 𝐸̅1 − 𝐸̅2 = 𝟑 ρ 𝒂
̅

14. Four young kids want to exchange their toys, so that each one of them gets a new toy. The number of ways
they can exchange the toys is

a) 3 b) 7 c) 9 d) 4

Sol De arrangements of N objects is

1 1 1 1 1 1 1
!N = N! (1 − 1! + 2! − 3! + 4! − 5! + 6! … … N!)
So in question 4 kids are there ⇒ N = 4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 12 −4 +1
So !4 = 4 ! (1 − 1! + 2! − 3! + 4! ) = 4! (1 − 1 + 2 − 6 + 24 ) = 24 ( 24 ) ⇒ !4=9

15. A hole is bored in a straight line through the Earth from A to B and a ball–bearing is dropped at end A.
Assuming that friction and air resistance are negligible, and that the Earth may be uniform–density sphere
of radius 6400 km, how long does it take for the ball bearing to arrive at B? [Neglect any effects due to the
rotation of the Earth, and assume the acceleration due to gravity at the Earth’s surface to be 9.8 ms-2]

a) 2.5 x 103 s b) 3.5 x 103 s c) 3.0 x 103 s d) 3.2 x 103 s

Sol 𝑅
The ball bearing will execute SHM with a time period: T = 2𝜋 √𝑔
𝑇 𝑅
Time taken by the ball bearing to reach the other end: point B: t = 2 = 𝜋√𝑔
𝟔𝟒𝟎𝟎 𝒙 𝟏𝟎𝟑
t = 𝝅√ 𝟗.𝟖
= 2.5 x 103 s

16. 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1
The value of the integral ∫0 [tan x] dx is

𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 5𝜋
a) and 4 b) and 3 c) and d) and 𝜋
6 4 3 18 18

Sol QUESTION DELETED

17. In 1910 AD, on its sixth trip around the Sun after that of 1456 AD, Halley’s comet was observed to pass
near the Sun at distance of 9.0 x 1010 m. The maximum distance from the Sun (1 AU: 1.50 x 1011 m)

a) 5.3 x 1010 m b) 5.3 x 1014 m c) 5.3 x 1011 m d) 5.3 x 1012 m

Sol 1910−1456
time period of Halley’s comet: Th = 6
= 75.67 y
Time period of Earth: Te = 1 y
𝑎3
Time period of the comet: Th = 2𝜋 √𝐺𝑀 ---- (1)
𝑅3
Time period of Earth: Te = 2𝜋 √𝐺𝑀 ---- (2)
𝑇ℎ 𝑎 3 75.67 𝑎 3
(1) / (2): 𝑇𝑒
= √(𝑅) → 1
= √(1.5 𝑥 1011 ) → a = 18 x 1.5 x 1011 = 27 x 1011 m

Maximum distance from sun: rmax = 2a – rmin = 54 x 1011 – 9.0 x 1010 = 531 x 1010 = 5.3 x 1012 m

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

18. The planet Jupiter has a radius equal to 11.2 times the Earth’s radius, a mass equal to 318 times the Earth’s
mass and a period of rotation about its axis of 10.2 hours. The minimum velocity with which a rocket
would need to leave the Jupiter surface in order to escape entirely from the gravitational attraction of
Jupiter is, (take the escape velocity from the Earth to be 11.2 km s-1)

a) 64. 4 kms-1 b) 59.7 kms-1 c) 49.7 kms-1 d) 63.7 kms-1

Sol Radius of Jupiter = 11.2 radius of Earth: rj = 11.2 re

mass of Jupiter = 318 mass of Earth: mj = 318 me
Time period of rotation of Jupiter: Tj = 10.2 hr
2𝐺𝑀
Escape velocity from a planet: ve = √
𝑅
𝑣𝑒𝑗 𝑚𝑗 𝑟𝑒 𝑣𝑒𝑗 1
Escape velocity from Jupiter: 𝑣 = √𝑚 → 11.2 = √318 𝑥 = 5.4 → vej = 59.7 km/s
𝑒𝑒 𝑒 𝑟𝑗 11.2

19. A polynomial of degree 14 takes the value zero at each of the first 7 odd prime and also at their
𝑃(2)
reciprocals. Then the ratio 1
𝑃( )
2

a) 47 b) −47 c) 27 d) 0

Sol Here p(x) is a polynomial of degree 14: i.e. P(x) = a14 x14 + a13 x13 + ------ + ax + a0
According to question, it takes value zero at each of first 7 odd primes and their reciprocals
so first 7 odd primes are 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19
So, Now p(x) is given by p(x) = a (x - 3) (x - 5) (x - 7) (x -11) ( x - 3) (x - 17) (x - 19)
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(x - 3) (x - 5) (x - 7) (x - 11) ( x - 13) (x - 17) (x - 19) , a ≠ 0
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Now p(𝑥) = a (𝑥 − 3) (𝑥 − 5) (𝑥 − 7) (𝑥 − 11) (𝑥 − 13) (𝑥 − 17) (𝑥 − 19).
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(𝑥 − 3) (𝑥 − 5) (𝑥 − 7) (𝑥 − 11) (𝑥 − 13) (𝑥 − 17) (𝑥 − 19)
𝑝 (𝑥) 𝑝 (2)
Now 1 = x14 → 1 = 214 = 47
𝑝( ) 𝑝( )
𝑥 2

20. A reasonable guess for the dimensions of a thundercloud might be a 1–km cube. If all the charge is
separated to opposite faces of the cloud, it behaves like a parallel–plate capacitor. If the breakdown electric
field in air is 3 x 106 Vm-1, approximate charge that flows down a lightning bolt is

a) 30 C b) 20 C c) 15 C d) 40 C

Sol Breakdown electric field of air: E = 3 x 106 V/m

𝜎 𝑞
Electric field intensity between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor: E = 𝜀 = 𝐴𝜀
0 0
𝑞
3 x 106 = 106 𝑥 8.85 𝑥 10−12 → q = 26.55 C ≅ 30 C

21. In a triangle ABC, right angled at A, AB = 4C = 3. Suppose P is a point lying outside triangle ABC, and
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐴𝐶
lying the angular region formed by the rays AB ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (such that PA intersects BC in its interior).
Suppose the perpendicular distance from P to AB and AC are 7 and 8 respectively. Then the perpendicular
distance from P to BC is

a) 4 b) 5 c) 8 d) not determinable using the data

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Given: PQ ⊥ BC
𝑥 𝑦 𝑥 𝑦
Now equation of ̅̅̅̅
𝐵𝐶 is 𝑎 + 3 = 1 → 4 + 3
= 1 ⇒ 3x + 4y = 12
Now perpendicular distance from point P to BC
|𝑎𝑥1 +𝑏𝑦1 +𝑐|
i.e.
√𝑎 2 + 𝑏2
|3.8 +4 . 7 − 12| |24+ 28 −12| 𝟒𝟎
= → PQ = = =8
√32 + 4 2 5 𝟓

22. A light bulb filament is constructed from 2 cm of tungsten wire of diameter 50 𝜇𝑚 and is enclosed in
evacuated glass bulb. What temperature does the filament reach when it is operated at a power of 1W?
(Assume the emissivity of the tungsten surface to be 0.4)

a) 2.44 x 103 K b) 1.94 x 103 K c) 2.54 x 103 K d) 2.34 x 103 K

Sol Surface area of the filament: A = 2𝜋𝑟𝑙 = 2 x 3.14 x 25 x 10-6 x 2 x 10-2 = 314 x 10-8 m2
Power emitted by a body: P = 𝜎AeT4
𝑃 1 10000
T4 = 𝜎𝐴𝑒 = 5.67 𝑥 10−8 𝑥 314 𝑥 10−8 𝑥 0.4 = 712.152 x 1012 → T = 1.94 x 103 K

23. Let n ∈ {1, 2, 3, ……, 9}. The number of such n, for which there is at least one permutation of the digits
1, 2,……, n which is divisible by 11 is

a) 3 b) 4 c) 5 d) 6

Sol n ∈ {1, 2, 3, ……, 9}

Any number which is divisible by 11 if and only if sum of all odd places digits and all even place digits is
equal or their difference is divisible by 11.
for one digit ⟶ not possible and for two digit ⟶ not possible
for three digit ⟶ (132), (231), (154), (451) ------ i.e. 3 – permutation
for four digit ⟶ (1243) ------ i.e. 4 – permutation
for five digit ⟶ not possible and for six digit ⟶ not possible
for seven digit ⟶ (1236475) ------ i.e. 7 – permutation
for eight digit ⟶ (13862475) ------ i.e. 8 – permutation
for nine digit ⟶ (142738695) ------ i.e. 9 – permutation
So, total number of 5 possible of n – permutation

24. Three, point charges –Q, 2Q and – Q are placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. Of the following
quantities, the one whose magnitude is zero is

(a) the electric field at the centroid (b) the potential at the centroid
(c) the potential gradient at the centroid (d) dipole moment of the system

Sol Let the side of the triangle: a

𝑎
Distance of the centroid from the vertex: d = 2
√3

Potential at the centroid of the triangle: V = VA + VB + VC

𝑘 2𝑄 𝑘𝑄 𝑘𝑄
V=𝑎 −𝑎 −𝑎 =0
⁄2 3 ⁄2 3 ⁄2 3
√ √ √

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

25. A capacitor is charged using a battery. The work done by the battery is W and energy stored in the
capacitor is U. Then which of the following is correct?

a) U=W b) 𝑾 c) 𝑊 d) 𝑊
U= U= 3
U= 4
𝟐

Sol 1 1 1 𝑄2
Energy stored in a capacitor: U = 2 CV2 = 2 QV = 2 𝐶
Work done by the battery: W = QV
𝑾
From the above expressions: W = 2U → U = 𝟐

26. 1 1 1 1 1
The sum ∑672
𝑘=1 (3𝑘 −2)(3𝑘+1) = 1.4 + 4.7 + 7.10 + ⋯ + 2014.2017 is expressed as a rational number where p

and q are mutually coprime positive integers. Then the value of p + q lies between

a) 2000 and 4000 b) 4000 and 6000 c) 6000 and 8000 d) 8000 and 10,000

Sol 1 1 1 1 1
∑672
𝑘=1 = 1.4 + 4.7 + 7.10 + ⋯ + 2014.2017
(3𝑘 −2)(3𝑘+1)
1 1 1 1
Now (3𝑘 −2)(3𝑘+1)
= 3 ((3𝑘 −2) − (3𝑘+1))

(using telescopic Sum) take summation on both sides

672 1 672 1 1 1 1 672 1 1
∑ 𝑘=1 (3𝑘 −2)(3𝑘+1) = ∑ 𝑘=1 3 ((3𝑘 −2) − (3𝑘+1)) = ∑ 𝑘=1 ((3𝑘 −2) − (3𝑘+1))
3
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= 3
[(1 − 4) + (4 − 7) + (7 − 10) + … … ]

using telescopic sum all middle terms will get cancel only first and last term will be left.
1 1 1 1 2016 672 𝑝
i.e. (3𝑘 −2)(3𝑘+1)
= 3 [1 − 2017] = 3
(2017) = 2017
= 𝑞

Now p + q = 672 + 2017 = 2689 ⇒ 2000 < 2689 < 4000

p + q 𝝐 (2000, 4000 )

27. A uniform electric field exists along positive x–axis. A particle of mass m and charge Q is projected with a
velocity v0 along y–axis from origin. The x–coordinate of the particle at which its kinetic energy doubles is

a) 𝒎𝒗𝟎 𝟐 b) 2𝑚𝑣0 2 c) 𝑚𝑣0 2 d) 𝑚𝑣0 2

x= x= x= x=
𝟐𝑬𝑸 𝐸𝑄 3𝐸𝑄 𝐸𝑄

Sol Initial velocity of the particle: v0

1
Initial kinetic energy of the particle: ki = 2 mv02 = k
1
Final kinetic energy of the particle: kf = 2 x 2 mv02 = mv02 = 2k
Force on the particle due to electric field: Fe = EQ along +ve X axis.
Work Energy theorem: wnet = ∆k
1 𝒎𝒗𝟎 𝟐
EQx = 2k – k = k = 2 mv02 → x = 𝟐𝑬𝑸

28. Suppose AB is a diameter of circle of radius 5, and C and D are two points on the circle lying on the same
side of AB such that AD = BC = 6. Then the length of CD is closest to

a) 2 b) 3 c) 4 d) 5

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Here ABCD is isosceles trapezium.

52 + 52 − 62 14
In ∆ OBC cos 𝜃 = → cos 𝜃 =
2.5.5 50
In ∆ OCD, ∠COD = 180 – 2θ = 2 (900 - 𝜃)
0

52 + 52 – 𝐶𝐷2 50 – 𝐶𝐷2
cos (1800 − 2𝜃) = 2.5.5
→ - cos 2𝜃= 50
50 − 𝐶𝐷 2
− (2cos2 𝜃 − 1 ) =
50
14 2 392
50 (1 – 2. (50) ) = 50 – CD2 → 50 - 50
= 50 − CD2
392 14√2
CD2 = 50
→ CD = 5 √2
= 2.8 ~ 3

29. The resistivity of a conductor increases with temperature as

(a) relaxation time increases with temperature.

(b) relaxation time decreases with temperature.
(c) number density of electrons decreases with temperature.
(d) number density of electrons increases with temperature.
𝑚
Sol Resistivity of a conductor: 𝜌 = 𝑛𝑒 2 𝜏
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑠
m: mass of the electron and n: free electron density:
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒
e: charge on electron and τ: relaxation time
With increase in temperature, the randomness of the electron movement increases due to which the number
of collisions also increases, thus reducing the relaxation time.

30. A drop of water is trapped between two glass plates. Area of contact between each plate and water is A and
T is the surface tension of water. Separation between the plates is t. Then the force F required to separate
the plates is

a) 𝑇𝐴 b) 𝟐𝑻𝑨 c) 𝑇𝐴 d) 4𝑇𝐴
4𝑡 𝒕 2𝑡 𝑡

Sol 𝑡
Separation between the plates: t = 2 CA = 2R cos θ → R = 2 cos 𝜃
𝑇 𝑇
Pressure difference between A & B: PA – PB = 𝑅 → PB = Patm− 𝑅
𝑇𝐴 𝑇𝐴 2𝑇𝐴 cos 𝜃
Force to separate the plates: F = (Patm – PB) A = 𝑅
= 𝑡/2 cos 𝜃 = 𝑡
Angle of contact between water and glass: θ = 0
𝟐𝑻𝑨
So, the force required to separate the glass plates: F = 𝒕

31. The product of two positive integers is 42000. What is the maximum possible value their gcd?

a) 10 b) 20 c) 70 d) 40

Sol Let two positive integers are a, and b

ab = 42000 = 42 × 103 = (7 × 6) (2 × 5)3 = 7 × 2 × 3 ×23 × 53 = 24 × 3 × 53 × 7
Now a = 2𝛼1 . 3𝛼2 . 5𝛼3 . 7𝛼4 and b = 2𝛽1 . 3𝛽2 . 5𝛽3 . 7𝛽4 so that ab = 42000
comparing, we will get: 𝛼 1 + 𝛽1 = 4 and 𝛼 2 + 𝛽2 = 1 and 𝛼 3 + 𝛽3 = 3 and 𝛽4 + 𝛼 4 = 1
for gcd (a, b) = 2𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼1 , 𝛽1 ) . 3𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼2 , 𝛽2 ) . 5𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼3 , 𝛽3 ) . 7𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼4 , 𝛽4 )
max (gcd (a,b)) = max {𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼1 , 𝛽1 )} ----- max {𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛼4 , 𝛽4 )} = (2, 0, 1, 0)
By choosing pairs {(2,2), (1, 0), (2, 1), (1, 0) }
So, max (gcd (a,b)) = 22 . 30. 51 . 70 = 22. 51 = 20

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

32. 64 number of small identical droplets of a liquid coalesce to form a single droplet. Radius of each small
drop is r. Surface tension of the liquid is T and density is ρ. Then the rise in the temperature is (assume that
excess energy dissipates only as heat)

a) 4𝑇 b) 3𝑇 c) 𝟗𝑻 d) 𝑇
9𝑟𝜌𝐶 2𝑟𝜌𝐶 𝟒𝒓𝝆𝑪 𝑟𝜌𝐶

Sol Surface area of each droplet: a = 4𝜋𝑟 2

Total initial surface area: A1 = 64 (4𝜋𝑟 2 )
4 4
Volume of the droplets = volume of the drop → 64 x 𝜋r3 = 𝜋R3 → R = 4r
3 3

Surface area of the drop: A2 = 4𝜋R2 = 4𝜋 x 16r2 = 16 (4𝜋𝑟 2 )

Decrease in surface area: ∆A = A1 – A2 = 64 (4𝜋𝑟 2 ) − 16 (4𝜋𝑟 2 ) = 48 (4𝜋𝑟 2 )
Work done: w = T ∆A = 48T (4𝜋𝑟 2 )
4
Heat released: Q = mC ∆𝜃 = 𝜋𝑅 3 𝜌𝐶 ∆𝜃
3
4 𝟗𝑻
Given: w = Q → 48T (4𝜋𝑟 2 ) = 3 𝜋𝑅 3 𝜌𝐶 ∆𝜃 → ∆𝜽 = 𝟒𝒓𝝆𝑪

33. Consider an n by n chess board having n2 squares. Two squares are said to be neighbors if they share a
common edge. Let k1, k2, k3, ….., kn2 be the number of neighbors of all the n2 squares, and 𝛼 be the
average of these n2 numbers. Then the number of possible values of n for which 𝛼 lies in the internal [6,
7] is

a) 5 b) 6 c) 7 d) 8

Sol QUESTION DELETED

34. Two closed pipes are emitting their fundamental notes 250 Hz and 255 Hz. Ratio of their lengths is

a) 49 b) 50 c) 49 d) 𝟓𝟏
50 49 51 𝟓𝟎
𝑣
Sol Fundamental frequency of closed organ pipe: f = 4𝑙
250 𝑙2 𝑙1 250 𝟓𝟏
Given: = → = =
255 𝑙1 𝑙2 255 𝟓𝟎

35. A source of sound emitting 459 Hz is travelling along positive x–axis with
a speed of 30 ms-1. An observer is moving along the negative y – axis with
a speed of 20 ms-1 as shown in the figure. The sound emitted by source when
it is at 400m away from origin is received by the observer when he is 300m
away from the origin. The frequency recorded by the observer is
(speed of sound = 330 ms-1)

a) 535.5 Hz b) 513 Hz c) 486.8 Hz d) 504.9 Hz

Sol Apparent frequency received by the observer: f1 = f ( 𝑣 − 𝑣0

𝑣 + 𝑣 cos 𝜃
)
0 cos 𝜑
300
330 +20 330+12 459 𝑥 342
500
f1 = 459 ( 400 ) = 459 (330−24) = 306
= 513 Hz
330 −30
500

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

36. A scooter and a bicycle travel along the perimeter of a square PQRS of side length
45 km. They both start at the vertex P and go through Q, R, S, P, Q, R, S, …… in
that order several times. The scooter travels at a constant speed of 25 kmph and
the bicycle at 15 kmph. After some time, they meet at a vertex of the square PQRS
for the first time. This vertex is

a) P b) Q c) R d) S

Sol ✓ As the scooter is travelling faster than bicycle, the separation between them keeps increasing.
✓ They meet for the first time when the separation between them equals to perimeter of the square.
Relative velocity: vr = 25 – 15 = 10 kmph
Separation between scooter and bicycle: s = 4 x 45 = 180 km
𝑠 180
Time taken t = = = 18 hr
𝑣𝑟 10

Distance travelled by scooter during this time: ds = 25 x 18 = 450 km

This distance is equal to two and half perimeters: the two will meet at vertex R.

37. A certain ideal gas undergoes expansion and its PV diagram is as shown in the figure. The ratio of rms
speeds of molecules at state A and B is

a) 1/2 b) 2 c) 1/3 d) 1

Sol 3𝑅𝑇
rms speed of a gas molecule: v = √ → v ∝ √𝑇
𝑀
The given PV diagram represents isothermal process.
𝑃𝑉 3𝑃 𝑉
Temperature at point A: T = = 0 0
𝑅𝑇 𝑅𝑇
𝑃𝑉 𝑃 (3𝑉 )
Temperature at point B: T = 𝑅𝑇 = 0 𝑅𝑇 0
So, the ratio of rms speeds of gas molecules at state A and B: 1

38. An ideal gas undergoes two isothermal and two adiabatic processes as shown in the figure. The
temperature during isothermal process from 3 to 2 is 2T and that during process from 1 to 4 is T. If V1, V2,
V3, V4 are the volumes of the gas at state 1, 2, 3 and 4 (refer figure) then which the following is correct

v3 v 𝐯𝟑 𝐯𝟒 v4 2v2 v4 v2
a)
v4
= v1 b)
𝐯𝟐
= 𝐯𝟏
c) = d) =
2 v3 v1 v3 2v1

Sol Relation between temperature and volume in adiabatic process:

TVγ-1 = constant
For the adiabatic process: 2 – 1: 2T V2γ-1 = T V1γ-1 ---- (1)
For the adiabatic process: 4 – 3: T V4γ-1 = 2T V3γ-1 ---- (2)
2𝑇 𝑉 𝛾−1 𝑇 𝑉1 𝛾−1 𝑉 𝛾−1 𝑉 𝛾−1 𝑉 𝑉 𝒗 𝒗𝟒
(1) / (2): 2𝑇 𝑉2 𝛾−1 = 𝑇𝑉4 𝛾−1
→ 𝑉2 𝛾−1 = 𝑉1 𝛾−1 → 𝑉2 = 𝑉1 → 𝒗𝟑 = 𝒗𝟏
3 3 4 3 4 𝟐

39. Let P(x) be a polynomial of degree 4 with real coefficients, If P(1) = 1, Pi (1) = 1, Pii(1) = 4, Piii (1) = 24,
Piv (1) = 72, then the value of P(2) is

a) 9 b) 11 c) 13 d) 15

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol given polynomial is of degree four so we need to find coefficients using given conditions
i.e. P(1) = 1, Pi (1) = 1, Pii(1) = 4, Piii (1) = 24, Piv (1) = 72
P(x) = ax4 + bx3 + cx2 + dx + e , a ≠ 0 ____ ①
P(1) = a + b + c + d + e = 1 _______ ②
differentiate eqn ①
1
P (x) = 4ax3 + 3bx2 + 2cx + d _______ ③
P1(1) = 4a + 3b + 3c + d = 1 _______ ④
differentiate eqn ③
P11(x) = 12ax2 + 6bx + 2c ________ ⑤

Pii(1) = 12a + 6b + 2c = 4 put in eqn ⑥

6𝑎 + 3𝑏 + 𝑐 = 2 ______ ⑥ 𝑐=8
differentiate eqn ④ Again put all values in eqn ④
Piii(x) = 24 ax + 6b ______ ⑦ 𝑑 = −3
P111(1) = 24a + 6b = 24 then put all values in eqn ②
4𝑎 + 𝑏 = 4 ______ ⑧ we will get 𝑒 = 1
iv
P (x) = 24 a So eqn ① becomes
Piv (1) = 24 a = 72 p (x) = 3x4 – 8x3 + 8x2 – 3x + 1
𝑎=3 P (2) = 3 . 24 – 8. 23 + 8. 22 – 3 . 2 + 1
Put in eqn ⑧ = 48 – 64 + 32 – 6 + 1
then 𝑏 = −8 P(2) = 11

40. Four rods of identical dimensions (cross sectional area A and length L) arranged as shown in the figure.
The thermal conductivity of each rod is indicated in the figure. Temperature at junction B is

a) 720 C b) 400 C c) 600 C d) 480 C

Sol ∆𝜃 ∆𝜃
Thermal current: ith = 𝑅 = 𝑙
𝑡ℎ ⁄𝐾𝐴
Let the temperature at A: x / Let the temperature at B: y
100 − 𝑥 𝑥−0 𝑥 − 48
Kirchhoff’s current law: 𝑙⁄ = 𝑙⁄ +2𝑙⁄
3𝐾 𝐴 𝐾𝐴 𝐾𝐴
𝑥 − 48 𝑥
3 (100 – x) = x + 2
→ 300 – 3x = x + 2 − 24 → x = 720 C
For the rod AB:
72 −𝑦 𝑦 − 48
𝑙⁄ = 𝑙⁄ → 72 – y = y – 48 → 2y = 120 → y = 600 C
𝐾𝐴 𝐾𝐴

41. In the quadrilateral ABCD, diagonal AC is perpendicular to diagonal BD. If AB = 20, BC = 24, CD = 15,
then the length of side AD is

a) 6 b) 24 c) d) 7
√2 4√3
5

Sol In quad ABCD, dig. AC⊥ BD, AB = 20, BC = 24, CD = 15, AD =?

consider ∆ AOB: p2 + q2 = 400 ___ ①
∆ BOC: q2 + r2 = 576 _ ②
∆ COD: r2 + s2 = 225 ___ ③
In ∆ AOD: s2 + p2 = x2 ___ ④
Solving eqn ① and ②: 𝑟 2 − 𝑝2 = 176 ____ ⑤
Solving eqn ③ and ⑤: s2 + p2 = 225 – 176 = 49
x2 = 49 using eqn ④ ⇒ x = 7; So, 𝑨𝑫 = 𝟕

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

42. In the figure, B is a spherical object of density ρB floating in a beaker containing immiscible liquids A and
C of densities ρA and ρC respectively. If one third of volume of B is in liquid A, the correct relation
between the densities is

a) 𝝆𝑨 +𝟐𝝆𝑪 b) 2𝜌𝐴 +𝜌𝐶 c) 𝜌𝐴 +𝜌𝐶 d) 𝜌𝐴 +𝜌𝐶

𝝆B = 𝜌B = 𝜌B = 3
𝜌B = 2
𝟑 3

Sol The sphere is in equilibrium: Fg = FbA + FbC

1 2
VρBg = 3 VρAg + 3 VρCg
1 2
ρB = 3 ρA + 3 ρC
𝝆𝑨 +𝟐𝝆𝑪
𝝆B = 𝟑

43. 𝑡𝑎𝑛√𝑥 −𝑠𝑖𝑛 √𝑥

The limit lim is
𝑥 →0+ 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 𝑥 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 𝑥

a) 0 b) 1 c) ∞ d) −∞

Sol 𝑡𝑎𝑛√𝑥 −𝑠𝑖𝑛 √𝑥 0 −0 0

lim ; put x = 0: lim (0 − 0) = form
𝑥 →0+ 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 𝑥 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 𝑥 𝑥 →0+ 0
0
Now removing 0
form using series expansion of 𝑡𝑎𝑛√𝑥 , sin√𝑥 ,𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 𝑥 , 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 𝑥 upto some

certain terms
3 3
(√𝑥) (√𝑥)
(√𝑥 + + ….) − (√𝑥 − + ….) 3 1 1 1 1
3 3! (√𝑥) ( 3 + 3! + ….) ( +
3 3!
+ ….) −1
lim 𝑥3 𝑥3
= lim 1 1 = lim 1 1 = 0
= −∞
𝑥 →0+ (𝑥 − …… ) − (𝑥 + + ….) 𝑥 →0+ 𝑥 3 (− − ….) 𝑥 →0+ 𝑥 3/2 (− − ….)
3 6 3 6 3 6

𝜋
44. Approximate angular speed of Sun relative to earth is 12 rad–hr-1. Then ratio of area of shadows of a
circular ring measured 2 hour after the sunrise and 4 hour after the sunrise is

a) 1 b) 2 c) 3 d) 1/2
𝜋
Sol Relative angular velocity of sun: ω = 12 rad/hr
Angle of elevation, 2 hr after sunrise:
𝜋 ℎ
θ1 = x 2 = 300 → tan 300 = ---- (1)
12 𝑑1
Angle of elevation, 4 hr after sunrise:
𝜋 ℎ
θ2 = 12 x 4 = 600 → tan 600 = 𝑑 ---- (2)
2
tan 30 𝑑 1 𝑑 𝑑
(1)/(2): tan 60 = 𝑑2 → 3 = 𝑑2 → 𝑑1 = 3
1 1 2

45. A point object O is placed between two plane mirrors as shown in figure. Due to
multiple reflections several images are formed. I1 and I2 are the nearest images
formed by mirrors M1 and M2 respectively. Then the angle between PI1 and PI2
is

𝜋 𝟐𝝅 𝜋 𝜋
a) rad b) rad c) rad d) rad
3 𝟑 2 6

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Angle of incidence = angle of reflection

For plane mirror: object distance (u) = image distance (v)
Angle between mirror M1 and PI1 = 200
Angle between mirror M2 and PI2 = 400
Angle between the mirrors: 600
Angle between the lines PI1 and PI2: 20 + 60 + 40 = 1200

46. In triangle ABC, B = 2 C, and BC = 2AB. The triangle is

(a) a scalene and acute angled triangle (b) an isosceles acute angled triangle
(c) an obtuse - angled triangle (d) a right - angled triangle

Sol In ∆ABC, ∠B = 2 ∠C, and BC = 2AB

∠𝐵
given ∠B = 2 ∠C ⇒ ∠𝐶
= 2 and ∠A + ∠B + ∠C = 𝜋, BC = 2 AB ⇒ a = 2c
∠A + 2∠C + ∠C = 𝜋 → ∠A + 3∠C = 𝜋 → 3∠C = 𝜋 - ∠A
sin 3C = sin (𝜋 − 𝐴) → sin 3C = sin A and B = 2C ⇒ sin B = sin 2C
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐴
= sin 𝐵 = sin 𝐶 (sine Rule)
2𝑐 𝑐
As a = 2c, sin 𝐴
= sin 𝐶
⇒ sin A = 2 sin C ⇒ sin 3C = 2 sin C
⇒ 3 sin C - 4 sin C = 2 sin C ⇒ 4 sin3 C - sin C = 0
3

sin C (4 sin2 C - 1) = 0 ⇒ sin C = 0 or ⇒ 4 sin2 C – 1 = 0 sin C = 0 (not possible), So 4 sin2 C – 1 = 0

1 1
⇒ sin2 C = 4
→ sin C = 2
⇒ C = 300 and B = 600 ⇒ ∠A = 900. So, it is Right angle ∆le

47. The value of the integral ∫2

5 [√x]
dx lies between
√[x]

a) 2.00 and 2.25 b) 2.25 and 2.50 c) 2.50 and 2.75 d) 2.75 and 3.00

Sol Before calculating this integral first we should define [x] (greatest integer function of x)
i.e. n ≤ [x] < n + 1 were n ∈ ℤ
for example [2.3] = 2 , [2] = 2, [2.99] = 2, [- 2.3] = −3. So, given integral limits break between integers.
5 3 4 5 [√𝑥]
i.e. ∫2 𝑓(𝑥)dx = ∫2 𝑓(𝑥) dx + ∫3 𝑓(𝑥) dx + ∫4 𝑓(𝑥) dx where f(x) =
√[𝑥]
5 3 [√2] 4 [√3] 5 [√4]
⇒ ∫2 𝑓(𝑥)dx = ∫2 dx + ∫3 dx + ∫4 dx
√[2] √[3] √[4]
3 1 4 1 5 2
= ∫2 √2 dx + ∫3 3 dx + ∫4 √4 dx
√
1 1 2
= [3 - 2] + [4 - 3 ] + [5 - 4]
√2 √3 √4
1 1
= + 3 + 1 ≈ 0.7 + 0.57 + 1 ≈ 2.27
√2 √

48. In the adjoining circuit, currents in some of branches are shown. Currents in other branches can be
determined using circuit analysis. The following statements are made
(i) Current in 3 is 1.2 A (ii) Voltage across AB is 10 V

(a) statements (i) and (ii) are correct (b) statements (i) is correct and (ii) is incorrect
(c) statements (i) is incorrect and (ii) is correct (d) statements (i) and (ii) are incorrect

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Kirchhoff’s current law (junction rule) at E: 0.8 + 0.4 = 1.2 A

Current flowing through 3  resistor: 1.2 A
Kirchhoff’s current law (junction rule) at F: 1.2 + 0.8 = 2 A
Current flowing through 5  resistor: 2 A
Potential drop across AB: VAB = 2 x 5 = 10 V

49. The locus the point (x, y) which satisfies the condition |x| + 2|y| = 1 is

(a) a rectangle, which is not a square (b) a rhombus

(c) an isosceles trapezium (d) a polygon of 8 sides

Sol The Locus the point (x, y) which satisfies the condition |x| + 2|y| = 1
Now, define the conditions
𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 1 ; 𝑥 > 0, 𝑦 > 0, 𝑄1
− 𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 1 ; 𝑥 < 0, 𝑦 > 0, 𝑄2
|x| + 2|y| = 1 = {
− 𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 1 ; 𝑥 > 0, 𝑦 < 0, 𝑄3
𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 1 ; 𝑥 > 0, 𝑦 < 0, 𝑄4
this eqn represents four line segments
1 5
Here AB = BC = CD = DA = √1 + 4 = √4 DB ⊥ AC.
So, ABCD is a Rhombus

50. Two particle A and B are moving along concentric circles of radii 3 m and 4
m respectively. Angular speed of A is 𝜋/3 rad–min-1 and angular speed B is
𝜋/6 rad–min-1. At t = 0, they cross x – axis simultaneously as shown. What is
the separation between them after 3 minutes?

a) 7m b) 5m c) 1m d) 0.5 cm

Sol Radius of circular path followed by A: rA = 3 m

Radius of circular path followed by B: rB = 4 m
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
Angular velocity of A: 𝜔A = 3 rad/min = 180 rad/sec [vA = rA 𝜔A = 3 x 180 = 60 m/s]
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
Angular velocity of B: 𝜔B = 6 rad/min = 360 rad/sec [vB = rB 𝜔B = 4 x 360 = 90 m/s]
𝜋
Angular displacement of A: θA = 180 x 3 x 60 = 𝜋 rad
𝜋 𝜋
Angular displacement of B: θA = 360 x 3 x 60 = 2 rad
Separation between A & B: √32 + 42 = 5 m

51. The lengths of the medians of triangle ABC are 3, 4, 5. The area of triangle ABC is

a) 8 b) 4 c) 8 d) 12
3
Sol In ∆ABC, AD, BE CF are medinas
given that AD = 3, BE = 4, CF = 5.
1
Area of triangle formed with sides as medians is 2 × 𝑏 × h.
(Because 3, 4, 5 forms a Right angled ∆le)
1
Now Area = 2 × 3 × 4 = 6 sq. units.
4 4
Again, Area of triangle ABC = 3 × (Area of ∆formed with its median) = 3 × 6 = 8 sq. units

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52. A circular loop carrying current I is placed in a uniform magnetic field B. If radius of the circle is R and
material of the loop has young’s modulus Y, the strain on the loop is

a) 𝐵𝐼𝑅 b) 2𝐵𝐼𝑅 c) 𝐵𝐼𝑅 d) 𝑩𝑰𝑹

3𝐴𝑌 𝐴𝑌 2𝐴𝑌 𝑨𝒀

Sol Consider an elemental part of the ring of mass dm, length d𝑙 subtending an
angle d𝜃.
Force on the elemental part: dF = BI d𝑙 = BI (R d𝜃)
This force is balanced by the tension in the ring: 2T sin (d𝜃/2)
For equilibrium: 2T sin (d𝜃/2) = BI (R d𝜃)
2T (d𝜃/2) = BI (R d𝜃) [for small angles: sin θ = θ]
T = BIR
𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑇 𝑩𝑰𝑹
Strain in the ring: = =
𝑌 𝐴𝑌 𝑨𝒀

53. A rod of is suspended horizontally at a certain height above the ground, the two ends C and D is observed
from two points A and B on the ground which are such that the four points A, B, C, D are in the same
vertical plane. If the angles of elevation of C and D from A are 600 and 300 and those from B are 300 and
600, and AB = a then the length of the rod CD can be (some other correct option may be missing)

𝑎 𝒂 𝑎
a) √3
a or
2
a b) √3 a or c) 2a or d) √2 a or
2 √3 √3 𝟐 √2

Sol Here ∆ APC ≅ ∆ BQD (By RHS Rule): So AP = QB = y (say)

let PQ = x, then AB x + 2y = a and CD = x
ℎ
In ∆ APC, tan 600 = = √3 ⇒ ℎ = √3 𝑦
𝑦
𝑄𝐷 ℎ 1
Now in ∆ AQD: tan 300 = 𝐴𝑄
= 𝑥+ 𝑦 =
√3
√3y 1
using h = √3y, = → x + y = 3y → 𝑥 = 2𝑦
𝑥+ 𝑦 √3
𝑎 𝒂
we Know that a = x + 2y ⇒ a = 2x ⇒ x = → 𝑪𝑫 = 𝟐
2

AB = x
ℎ ℎ
In ∆ APC, tan 600 = 𝐴𝑃 → AP =
√3
ℎ ℎ
In BPC, tan 600 = → BP =
𝐵𝑃 √3
ℎ ℎ 2ℎ
Hence AB = AP + PB = + = 3 =a
√3 √3 √
ℎ
Now, in ∆ BQD, tan 300 = → BQ = h√3
𝐵𝑄
Now, CD = PQ = PB + BQ
ℎ 4ℎ 2ℎ
CD = 3 + h√3 = 3 = 2 ( 3) = 2a
√ √ √
𝒂
So, CD = 2a or
𝟐

54. Let the earth and moon distance is d. The mass of earth is 81 times that of the moon. A body located at a
distance x from the earth on line joining the centers of earth and moon does not experience gravitational
force when x is

a) 𝑑 b) 𝟗𝒅 c) 5𝑑 d) 9𝑑
10 𝟏𝟎 10 11
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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Distance between earth and moon: d

Mass of the earth: 81 x mass of moon
A body does not experience gravitational force at the null point.
𝐺(81𝑚)𝑀
Force due to earth: F1 = 𝑥 2
𝐺𝑚𝑀
Force due to moon: F2 = (𝑑−𝑥)2
𝐺(81𝑚)𝑀 𝐺𝑚𝑀 9 1
For null point: F1 = F2 → 𝑥2
= (𝑑−𝑥)2 → 𝑥 = 𝑑−𝑥
𝟗𝒅
x = 9d – 9x → 10x = 9d → x = 𝟏𝟎

Passage question (55 through 58)

A rocket drifts sideways in outer space from point “a” to point “b” as shown below. The rocket is
subjected to no outside forces. Starting at position “b”, the rocket engine is turned on and produces
constant thrust (force on the rocket) at right angles to the line “ab”. The constant thrust is maintained until
the rocket reaches a point “c” in space.

55. Which of the paths below best represents the path of the rocket between points “b” and “c”?

Sol The rocket has constant speed in horizontal direction and increasing speed (acceleration due to thrust) in
vertical direction. So, it follows a parabolic path as shown in figure D.

56. As the rocket moves from position “b” to position “c” its speed is:

(a) constant (b) continuously increasing

(c) continuously decreasing (d) increasing for a while and constant thereafter

Sol As the thrust force is continuously acting on the rocket, it accelerates in that direction. So, the speed of
rocket increases continuously till it reaches point C.

57. At Point “c” the rocket’s engine is turned off and the thrust immediately drops to zero. Which of the paths
below will the rocket follow beyond point “c” ?

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol As there is no thrust beyond C, the rocket will follow straight line path in a direction it has just before
reaching C.

58. Beyond position “c” the speed of the rocket is:

(a) constant (b) continuously increasing

(c) continuously decreasing (d) increasing for a while and constant thereafter

Sol As there is no thrust beyond point C, the rocket travels with uniform speed.

59. The number of 4 – letter palindromes which contain at least one vowel (a palindrome is a word which
reads the same from left to right and from right to left, eg., DEED) lies between

a) 200 and 210 b) 210 and 220 c) 220 and 230 d) 230 and 240

Sol number of 4 - letter palindromes which contain at least one vowel

Case – 1 when one vowel and one constant, then 5C1 x 21C1 x 2! = 5 × 21 × 2 = 210
Case – 2 when two vowels but both are same, then 5C1 = 5
5×4
Case – 3 when two vowels but both are different: i.e. 5C2 × 2! = 2
× 2 = 20
So Total number of words = 210 + 5 + 20 = 235

60. The number of positive integers n such that both the equations, x2 – 20x + n2 and x2 – nx + 10 = 0 have
real roots is

a) 4 b) 8 c) 12 d) 16

Sol Let ax2 + bx + c = 0, a ≠ 0 then eqn has real roots if b2 – 4ac ≥ 0

Now x2 – 20x + n2 and x2 – nx + 10 = 0
Both have real Roots and n ∈ ℕ ⇒ b2 – 4ac ≥ 0
So, 202 – 4n2 ≥ 0 and n2 - 40 ≥ 0
⇒ n2 ≤ 100 and n2 ≥ 40
⇒ 40 ≤ n2 ≤ 100
⇒ √40 ≤ n ≤ 10 ⇒ n = 7, 8, 9, 10
So, only four possible values of n

61. A book lies at rest on a table. The table is at rest on the surface of the earth. By Newton’s third law
reaction force to the weight of the book is

(a) The gravitational force of the earth on the book (b) The normal force exerted by table on the book
(c) The normal force exerted by earth on the book (d) The gravitational force of the book on the earth

Sol Weight of the book: Gravitational force (downward) exerted by the earth on the book.
Reaction force: Equal (to weight) and opposite (upward) force exerted by the book on the earth.

62. A student has myopia. Her near point and far point of vision are at 25 cm and 120 cm, respectively.
Standing 90 cm in front of a plane mirror she holds up a pencil 30 cm in front of her eye. Then

(A) she can see both the pencil and its image clearly
(B) she can see the pencil clearly but not its image
(C) she can see the image of the pencil clearly but not the pencil itself
(D) she cannot see either the pencil or its image clearly

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol The student is suffering from myopia (short sight): she cannot see objects at longer distances.
Near point of the person: 25 cm
Far point of the person: 120 cm
Distance of the object (pencil) from the plane mirror: u = 60 cm
Distance of the image of the pencil from the plane mirror: v = 60 cm
Distance of the image of the pencil from the person: 90 + 60 = 150 cm
So, the student can see the pencil directly but not its image as the image is beyond her far point.
63. A ball is thrown into the air and it moves along the path shown in the figure. Ignore air resistance. At the position A
the ball is at the highest in its path, whereas position B is just before the ball hits ground. Which of following
statements is true?

(A) the speed of the ball at A is zero and acceleration of the ball B is the same as at A
(B) the speed of the ball at A is the same as the speed at B and the acceleration at B is higher than at A
(C) the speed at A is lower than the speed at B and the acceleration at A is higher than the acceleration at B
(D) the speed at A is lower than the speed at B and the acceleration at A is the same as the acceleration at B

Sol The ball is an oblique projectile and it is following parabolic path.

Point A: Highest point in the path of the projectile: speed: u cos 𝜽 [𝜃 is angle of projection]
Point B: Ground level: speed: u [speed of projection/initial speed]
An oblique projectile is under the influence of gravity. As long as it stays in air, its acceleration is g.

64. Consider a circle, centre O, radius 10. Let P and Q be two points on the circumference such that
POQ = 600. Let A be a point on the radius OP; B and C be points on are PQ; D be a point on the radius
OQ such that ABCD is a square. Then the side length of the square is closest to

a) 5 b) 6 c) 7 d) 8

Sol Here OP = OQ = r = 10 and POQ = 600 and P = Q (∵ OP = OQ)

So ∆POQ is an equilateral triangle: QP = 10
Now ABCD is a square, hence AB = BC = CD = DA and AB ⊥ PQ; CD ⊥ PQ
⇒ AD || PQ hence OAD = OPQ = 600
ODA = OQA = 600 ⇒ ∆OAD is also an equilateral ∆le
𝐴𝐷 1 𝐴𝐷 1
Now using mid point theorem: 𝑃𝑄
= 2
⇒ 10
= 2
⇒ AD = 5

65. When astronaut observes Earth from moon he will see

(a) Earth rising in the west and setting in the east

(b) Earth neither setting nor rising but stays at one position throughout
(c) Earth rising in the east and setting in the west
(d) Earth will have a complex motion, sometime rising in the east and sometime in the west

Sol • (Tidal locking also called gravitational locking or captured rotation) occurs when the long-term
interaction between a pair of co-orbiting astronomical bodies drives the rotation rate of at least one
of them into the state where there is no more net transfer of angular momentum between this body
(e.g. a planet) and its orbit around the second body (e.g. a star); this condition of "no net transfer"
must be satisfied over the course of one orbit around the second body.

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

• In the special case where the orbital eccentricity and obliquity are nearly zero, tidal locking results
in one hemisphere of the revolving object constantly facing its partner, an effect known as
synchronous rotation.
• For example, the same side of the Moon always faces the Earth, although there is some libration
because the Moon's orbit is not perfectly circular. A tidally locked body in synchronous rotation
takes just as long to rotate around its own axis as it does to revolve around its partner.

66. Which of the following best describes what the microwave background radiation?

(A) The particles that move throughout the Universe that were created during the Big Bang and thrown out
in all directions.
(B) Radiation that is present everywhere in the Universe that came from the time when light first
was able to travel through the early universe without being absorbed
(C) The shockwave or echo that travels throughout the Universe that marks the event we all the Big Bang
(D) The total light we observe when we look at the blackbody curve for all the wavelength of radiation
given off by all the stars in the Universe

Sol ❑ The cosmic microwave background in Big Bang cosmology, is electromagnetic radiation as a
remnant from an early stage of the universe, also known as "relic radiation".
❑ The CMB is faint cosmic background radiation filling all space. It is an important source of data
on the early universe because it is the oldest electromagnetic radiation in the universe, dating to the
epoch of recombination.
❑ With a traditional optical telescope, the space between stars and galaxies (the background) is
completely dark. However, a sufficiently sensitive radio telescope shows a faint background noise,
or glow, almost isotropic, that is not associated with any star, galaxy, or other object. This glow is
strongest in the microwave region of the radio spectrum.

67. 3D images of moon were obtained by

a) Luna mission b) Apollo mission

c) Hubble Space Telescope d) Chandrayaan mission

Sol Chandrayaan 1 was the first Indian lunar probe under Chandrayaan
program. It was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation in
October 2008 and operated until August 2009. The mission included a
lunar orbiter and an impactor. India launched the spacecraft using a
PSLV-XL rocket on 22 October 2008 at 00:52 UTC from Satish Dhawan
Space Centre, at Sriharikota.

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

68. Suppose D is an interior point of triangle ABC such that

𝐵𝐶
AB = AC and AD = BD = CD = BC. Then the ratio 𝐴𝐵 is closest to

a) 0.4
b) 0.5
c) 0.6
d) 0.7
Sol Given, D is an interior point of ∆ ABC such that AB = AC, AD = BD = CD = BC
Let’s draw the diagram.
Here ∆ BCD is an equilateral ∆ le and ∆ ABC, ∆ DAB and ∆ DAC are isosceles triangles.
But ∆ DAB ≅ ∆ DAC are congruent By SSS Rule. So ∠DAB = 𝜃
then ∠DAB = ∠DBA = ∠DAC = ∠DCA = 𝜃 ⇒ ∠ADC = ∠ADB = 1800 − 2𝜃
Now center angel ∠D = 3600
So 3600 = 1800 – 2𝜃 + 1800 – 2𝜃 + 600 ⇒ 4𝜃 = 600 ⇒ 𝜃 = 150
𝐴𝐵 𝐵𝐶 𝐴𝐵 𝐵𝐶
So Apply Sine Rule in ∆ ABC: sin 𝐶 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝐴
⇒ sin 𝐶 (60+𝜃) = 𝑠𝑖𝑛 2𝜃
, 𝜃 = 150
𝐴𝐵 𝐵𝐶 𝐵𝐶 sin 30 1/2
⇒ = ⇒ = =
sin 75 𝑠𝑖𝑛 30 𝐴𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛 75 √3+1
2√2

𝐵𝐶 1 2√2 𝐵𝐶 √2 𝑩𝑪
⇒ 𝐴𝐵 = 2
× ⇒ 𝐴𝐵 = = 0.5176 ⇒ 𝑨𝑩 ≈ 0.5
√3+1 √3+1

69. Imagine that the Earth’s spin were to be reversed, so that the planet rotated about its axis from East to
West, at the same rate at which it now rotates from West to East. If Earth’s orbital motion about the Sun
were unchanged, which of these statements is true?

(a) The duration of the sidereal day would not change

(b) The sidereal day would be 8 minutes longer than it is now
(c) The duration of the Solar day would not change
(d) The solar day would be 8 minutes longer than it is now

Sol Sidereal day:

Time taken by the earth to complete one rotation w.r.to celestial sphere (or)
The time taken for a star to appear at the same angle in the sky (as seen from the earth) after one day.
[A celestial sphere is an abstract sphere that has arbitrarily large radius and concentric to earth]

Solar day:
Time taken by the earth to complete one rotation w.r.to sun (or)
The time taken for the sun to appear at the same angle in the sky (as seen from the earth) after one day.
Solar day (24 hr) is 4 min. longer than a sidereal day (23 hr 56 min).

70. Cepheid variable stars have fluctuating masses. Some astronomers attempt to use these stars to

(a) Compare to dying stats to determine time of stellar death

(b) Mark distances throughout a galaxy
(c) Map a solar system
(d) Both b & c

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol ✓ A Cepheid variable is a type of star that pulsates radially, varying in both diameter and
temperature and producing changes in brightness with a well-defined stable period and amplitude.
✓ A strong direct relationship between a Cepheid variable's luminosity and pulsation period
established Cepheids as important indicators of cosmic benchmarks for scaling galactic and
extragalactic distances.
✓ This robust characteristic of classical Cepheids was discovered in 1908 by Henrietta Swan Leavitt
after studying thousands of variable stars in the Magellanic Clouds.
✓ This discovery allows one to know the true luminosity of a Cepheid by simply observing its
pulsation period. This in turn allows one to determine the distance to the star, by comparing its
known luminosity to its observed brightness.

71. The bar graph below shows some characteristic X of all the planets in our solar system. What is the
characteristic?

a) Mass b) Density c) Eccentricity of the orbit d) Period of oscillation

Sol S.NO PLANET ECCENTRICI

. TY

1 MERCURY 0.205
2 VENUS 0.006
3 EARTH 0.016
4 MARS 0.093
5 JUPITER 0.048
6 SARTURN 0.054
7 URANUS 0.047
8 NEPTUNE 0.008

72. A mirror is in shape of the parabola y2 = 4x. Then ray y = 4, when incident on the parabola is reflected
along

a) 3x – 4y + 4 = 0 b) 3x – 4y − 4 = 0 c) 4x – 3y + 4 = 0 d) 4x – 4y − 4 = 0

Sol Equation of the parabola (mirror): y2 = 4x

Equation of the reflected ray:
𝑦 −𝑦
y – y1 = m (x – x1) → y – y1 = 2 1 (x – x1)
𝑥2 −𝑥1
0−4
Equation of the reflected ray: y – 4 = 1−4 (x – 4)
4
y – 4 = (x – 4) → 3y – 12 = 4x – 16 → 4x – 3y – 4 = 0
3

73. An absorption line that is found at 5000 A0 in the lab is found at 5050 A0 when analyzing the spectrum of a
particular galaxy. The velocity of the galaxy is

a) 3000 kms-1 b) 2500 km/s c) 3500 km/s d) 4000 km/s

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol Wavelength of the line in the lab: λ = 5000 A0

Wavelength of the line from the galaxy: λ1 = 5050 A0
∆λ 𝑣 5050−5000 𝑣
Doppler effect in light: λ
=𝑐→ 5000
= 300000 → v = 3000 km/s

74. In the above problem using Hubble’s constant to be 71 km (Mpc-s)-1 the distance of that galaxy from us is
obtained as

a) 52.25 Mpc b) 35.25 Mpc c) 40.25 Mpc d) 42.25 Mpc

Sol Hubble’s constant: 71 km/Mpc s

𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛
Hubble’s constant: 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑜𝑏𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑒𝑟
𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 3000
Distance from the observer: 𝐻𝑢𝑏𝑏𝑙𝑒 ′ 𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡
= 71
= 42.25 Mpc

75. A star is seen to be rising on eastern horizon at 23.00 hrs. At what time the same star will rise 20 days
later?

a) 00 : 00 hr b) 21 : 40 hr c) 23 : 20 hr d) 23 : 00 hr

Sol Time period of rotation of earth: T = 23 hr 56 min

Time delay for each day: 4 min
Time delay for 20 days: 20 x 4 = 80 min = 1 hr 20 min
Time of star rise: 23.00 – 1.20 = 21.40 hr = 21 hr 40 min

76. Two stars A and B are assigned apparent magnitude of +3.5 and – 1.5 respectively. If observed from the
earth,

(a) Star A is 5 times brighter than B (b) Star B is 5 times brighter than A
(c) Star A is 25 times brighter than B (d) Star B is 100 times brighter than B

Sol QUESTION DELETED

77. How many circles can be drawn in the plane such that any two of them touch each other at the same fixed
point?

a) Two b) Three c) Four d) Infinitely many

Sol Infinitely many. Just give a look at the diagram and so on so we will get infinitely many.

78. If all nuclear reaction in the sun now were to suddenly stop forever, then

(a) Distances between planets and sun would decrease

(b) Angular momentum of planets would increase
(c) Inner planets will be engulfed by the sun
(d) Speed of rotation of the sun would increase

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Kalyan’s Physics Challenge

Sol ➢ The nuclear fusion reaction taking place in sun generates lot of heat energy. Due to high
temperature of the sun, the matter (hydrogen and other gases) expands outward.
➢ At the same time, due to high mass of the sun, the gravitational effects are so huge that the
escaping gases would be pulled towards the center, thus giving sun a spherical shape.
➢ When the nuclear fusion reactions suddenly stop, the gravitational force pulls the entire mass of
the sun towards the center, reducing the radius to a very small value.
➢ Due to this, the moment of inertia of sun decreases and angular velocity increases: L = Iω.
➢ Angular momentum is conserved as there is no external torque acting on sun.
79. A certain number of boys and girls can be seated in a row such that no two girls are together in 1440 ways.
If one more boy joins them, the number of ways in which they can be seated in a row such that no two girls
are together increases

a) 4 - fold b) 6 - fold c) 8 - fold d) 10 – fold

Sol Let number of boys = n and number of girls = m

Let first ‘n’ boys seated in a Row, then (n + 1) place for girls to sit such that no two girls are together
(n + 1) = (n −1) between the ‘n’ boys + 2 are at ends
So Now number of ways to choose the places is n+1Cm.m! . n! = 1440 (Acc. to ques)
By verification n = 4, m = 3
Now one boy is increased, so total number of boys = 4 + 1 = 5 and total number of girls = 3
Now, choosing places for girls in same way:
6×5×4
i.e. 6𝐶3 . 3! . 5! = × 3! × 5! = 14400 = 1440 × 10
3×2×1

So, it increases by 10 – fold

80. Two dice whose faces are numbered from 1 to 6 are rolled. The probability that the sum of the numbers
that up is a prime number is approximately

a) 3/12 b) 5/12 c) 7/12 d) 23/36

Sol Total number of favourable out comes

probability of an event = P(E) =
Total number os possible outcomes
for two dice possible outcomes = 6 × 6 = 36
favorable outcomes ⟶ sum of the numbers that show up is a prime number
= {(1, 1), (1, 2), (1, 4), (1, 6), (2, 1), (2, 3), (2, 5), (3, 2), (3, 4), (4, 1), (4, 3), (5, 2),
(5, 6), (6, 1), (6, 5)} = 15
𝟏𝟓 𝟓
P(E) = 𝟑𝟔
= 𝟏𝟐

MATHEMATICS CONTRIBUTOR: SANDEEP MOHAN M.Sc. (MATHS) - IITM

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