al maximum of the other and vice versa. and the objective lens.

The term 2u sin is

es i_ 51. Resolving power of a telescope: Smallest known as numerical aperture (N.A.) of the
Sof
microscope.
NULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS [Questions of 1 mark each]
pe
ne.
Q.1. The prism angle and refractive index for a Q.3. A prism with a prism angle 60° shows
lar
prism are 60° and v2 respectively. The minimum deviation at angle of incidence
ed of 52°. The value of angle of minimum
angle of minimum deviation will be: deviation is [NIOS Oct. 2018]
le
[NIOS 2019] (a) 30° (b) 52°
(a) 15o (b) 30o (c) 18° (d) 44o
(c) 45° (d) 60° Ans. (d) 44°
Ans. (b) 30° Q.4. Deviation of a ray of light passing th rough
Q.2. Light of which of the following colours is a prism does not depend on:
al
scattered the most in passing through a [NIOS Oct. 2017]
fluid? [NIOSOct. 2018] (a) Angle of prism
(a) Blue (b) Yellow (b) Wavelength of light
(c) Green (d) Red () Size of prism
Ans. (a)Blue (d) Velocity of light in prism
Ans. (c) Size of prism
90 TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper
Fig. 6.3
Q.5. The phenomenon responsible for the blue
colour of the sky is: [NIOS Oct. 2017] (a) A (b) B
(a) Interference of light (c) C (d) 90°
(b) Diffraction of light Ans. (c) C
() Dispersion of light Q.8. Which of the following sources generates
(4) Scattering of light
Ans. (d) Scattering of light
cylindrical wavefront? [NIOS2019]
Q.6. A ray incident on a prism ABC (AB - BC) (a) Point source (b) ine source
travels as shown in figure. The least value (c) Spherical source (d) None of these
of refractive index of the materialof prism Ans. (b) Line source
would be: (NIOS 2016] Q.9. Two light waves of wavelength Àeach reach
a point having a path difference of At

this point the phase difference between

them is: [NIOS 2018]
() (6) 2
(c) n (d) 2t
Fig. 6.2 Ans. (b)
(a) 1.5 (6) V2
(c) 1.33 () V3 Q10. Which one of the following electromagnetic
Ans. (b) V2
radiations is most energetic? [NIOS2017]
(a) Ulraviolet radiation
Q.7. In Fig. 6.3, the ray is incident an the face (6) X-rays
AC of a prism and emerges out of the façe (c) Infra-red radiation
BC. Then, the angle of prism is:
[NIOS 2016] () ight rays
Ans. (b) X-rays

VERY SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS [Questions of 2 marks each)

Q.1. A concave lens of power 3D is placed in
contact with a convex lens of power 4D.
Find the focal length of the combination.
[NIOS Oct. 2016]
Ans. Here P, =-3Dand P, = + 4D
power of lens combination
P= P, + P, =-3D+ 4D =+ 1D
.. focal length of the combination
Q.2. A glass slab of refractive index 1,45
disappears when immersed in a liquid.
What is the value of refractive index of the
liquid? [NIOS 2016]
Ans. Since glass slab disappears on immersing
into the liquid, hence refractive index of
liquid = refractive index of glass = H=
1.45.

j==1mor 1 100 cm. Q.3. In the figure, the path of parallel beam
of
D 1 of light, passing through a convex lens
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper
refractive index ,, kept in a medium of
refractive index H, is shown. How are n,
and n, related to each other?
[NIOS Oct. 2015]
Fig. 6.4
Ans. As light rays pass from medium to glass
straight without any deviation, it means
that their refractive indices are exactly
the same. So we have
Q.4. A concave mirror of large aperture does
not produce a sharp point image of a
point object. Name the defect of spherical
mirror.
[NIOS 2014]
Ans. The given mirror suffers with the defect
of 'spherical aberration' due to which it
does not produce a sharp point image of
apoint object situated in front of it.
Q.5. What is the name given to the light of a
single wavelength. Give an example too.
[NIOS 2013]
Ans. Light of a single wavelength is known as
a monochromatic light. A sodium lamp
emits monochromatic light of yellow
colour having a wavelength =5893 .
Q.6. Give reasons for the following:
(a) Sky appears blue during the day
(b)Clouds appear white. [NIOS 2019]
Ans. (a) As per Rayleigh's law light of blue
colour is scattered much more than
that of red light because its wavelength
is less. As a result when we look at the
sky in a direction away from the sun,
it appears blue.
(b) Clouds are formed by the assembly
of small water drops whose size is
more than the wavelength of light.
As a result, light of all wavelengths
(colours) are almost equally scattered Q.10. How does the intensity of scattered light
and so the cloud appears white.
91
Q.7. Which, out of the red and green light, will
scatter more and why? Explain.
[NIOS Oct. 2018]
Ans. In accordance with Rayleigh's law the
intensity of scattered light is inversely
proportional to the fourth power of its
wavelength As wavelength of
green light is less than that of red light,
hence scattering of green light is more as
compared to red light.
Q.8. With the help of a ray diagram, explain
refraction of light through a prism.
[NIOS 2018]
Ans. Refraction of light is shown here. When
alight ray is incident on refracting face
AB, it emerges from the face AC after
suffering a deviation of Z8, where
Z8 =Zi + Le-A
and ZA= Zr + Zr
A
B
Fig. 6.5
Q.9. What is meant by dispersion of light?
Mention the cause of dispersion.
[NIOS Ot. 2017]
Ans. Dispersion of light is the phenomenon of
splitting of white light into its constituent
wavelengths (colours) while passing
through a prism or any other dispersive
medium.
Cause of dispersion is variation of
refractive index of glass prism for
different colours. Refractive index is
maximum for violet light and so it is
deviated the most. Refractive index for
red light is minimum and so red light is
deviated least. It causes dispersion.
depend on the wavelength of the light?
92
Why does sky appear dark to an astronaut
in a spaceship flying at a high altitude?
[NIOS Oct. 2016]
Ans. Intensity of scattered light is inversely
proportional to the fourth power of the
wavelength of light i.e.,
To an astronaut in a spaceship flying at
a high altitude mnuch above the earth's -Ve
atmosphere the sky appears dark because
scattering is not possible in free space. 0.14. How is a wavefront different from a ray?
Q.11. For a material medium of refractive index
V3, calculate the polarising angle for a
beam of unpolarised light incident on the
interface separating this medium from
vacuum. [NIOS Oct. 2018]
Ans. As refractive index of medium u= /3
tan i,==3
»Polarising angle i,= tan(V3) =60°.
Q.12. Explain the construction and working of a
polaroid. [NIOS Ot. 2017]
Ans. Polaroid is a device to produce plane
polarised light. A polaroid consists Q.15. Find the ratio of intensities at two pointsX
of long chain molecules aligned in a
particular direction. When unpolarised
light is incident on it, the vibration
along the direction of alignment of
molecules are absorbed by polaroid. As
a result, only those vibrations come out
of polaroid which are along a direction
perpendicular to the aligned molecule.
Thus,emergent light is plane polarised.
Q.13. Draw a single slit diffraction pattern. How
is it different from interference pattern due
to double slit? (Give just one point).
[NIOS Oct. 2016]
Ans. Single slit diffraction pattern is drawn
here. Intensity of successive diffraction
maxima goes on decreasing rapidly but
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved PaDer
all maxima are having equal intensity in
Young's double slit interference patterm.
+ve
Fig. 6.6
State Huygen's principle. (NIOS 2016]
Ans. A wavefront is a surface of constant
phase but a light ray travels in a direction
perpendicular to a wavefront.
Huygen's principle states that
(i) Each point on a wavefront behaves as
a secondary sources of light and emits
wavelets which travel in all directions
with the speed of light.
(ii) The c¡mmon envelope of these wave
lets in the forward direction at any
moment gives the position of new
wavefront.
and Y on a screen in Young's double slit
experiment, where waves from S, and S,
have path difference of (a) zero, and
[NIOS 2015]
Ans. (a) At point X, path difference A = 0,
hence phase difference &
=0
.:. Intensity at X,
1, = 4l cos? (0°) = 4I ..)
(b) At point Y, path difference A= 4 so
x ,
the phase difference S = 4 2
.:. Intensity at Y,
4l cos?
ly= 4lcos?
..()
4
or l,:ly =4:1.
1
 TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper 93

o.16. With the help of a self explanatory labelled| Q.17. An astronomical telescope consists of two
ray diagram establish a relation between thin convex lenses A and B placed 36 cm
the polarising angle and the refractive apart and has a magnifying power 8 in
index of any transparent material when an normal adjustment. What will be the focal
unpolarised light is reflected by it. lengths of the two lenses of the telescope?
[NIOS 2014] [NIOS Oct. 2015]
P o l a r iLs e
i g
d h t

R Ans. Let focal lengths of two lenses be f, and f.

respectively. Then as per question
L=f, +f,= 36 cm
Unpolarised
Light and n = = 8
Air

Glass 90° ’ f= 8f, and hence 8f, +f, = 36

(0) f, = 4cm.
and f, =8f = 8 x 4 = 32 cm.
Q.18. How is the resolving power of amicroscope
affected, when the (a) wavelength of
illuminating radiation decreases, and (b)
diameter of the objective lens decreases?
Fig. 6.7 State reasons to justify your answers.
Ans. When unpolarised light beam I0 is [NIOS 2013]
incident On a transparent material Ans. Resolving power of a microscope
(say glass) of refractive index u at the 2u sin 9 N.A.
polarising angle i, the reflected light OR
is polarised one and the transmitted ray
OT travels perpendicular to the reflected (a) If wavelength à of the illuminating
ray i.e., i, + r= 90°. radiation decreases, the resolving
of microscope increases
From Snell's law: power
sin i, sin ip sin i, because R.P. c
=tan i
sin r
sin (90° -i,) cos i,
(b) If diameter of the objective lens
The relation u = tan i, is called Brewster's decreases, then value of and hence
law. N.A. decreases and consequently
resolving power decreases.
[Questions of 4 marks each]
SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

Applying lens formula for lens L,, we

Q.1. You are given three convex lenses L,, L, and
L, each of focal length 20 cm. An object is
have
1 1 1
kept at 40 cm in front of L,. The final real -s 1 1 1
y (-40) 20
image is formed at the focus of L,. Find the
separation between L, and L,. 1 1 1 1
[NIOS 2015] 20 40 40
Ans. Here f, = f, =f=+ 20 cm, Distance of
U, = 40 cm
object from lens L, u, = 40 cm and As final image l is at the focus point of L,
distance of final real image Ifrom lens Ly
hence light beam incident on lens L, (or
U, = 20 cm. light beam emerging from lens L,) must
94 TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper

be aparallel beam as shown in Fig. 6.8. It Ans. Path of a ray of light passing through a
ispossible only if inage I, formed by lens glass prism is shown in Fig. 6.5. Here (
L, is situated at the principal focus point angle Sis the angle of deviation, and (i)
of lens L, ic.,1,L, =f, - 20 cm. angle p is the angle of ernergence.
A graph showing variation of angl
L
Af, =20 cm \= 20cm/fa =20 cm
of deviation 8 with change in ange
of incidence . has beern drawn here
[Fig. 6.10|.
The angle of deviation depends on (i) the
+ 40 cm 40 cm + d - m refractive index of glass prism, (i)angle
Fig. 6.8 of prism, and (ii) angle of incidence.
. Separation between L, and L, 40 +20
=60cnm
Q.2. Explain why
() Sky appears blue when viewed from
earth.
(n) Sun appears red at the time of sunrise
and sunset. [NIOS 2017]
Ans. () As per Rayleigh's law light of blue Fig. 6.10
colour is scattered much more than Q.4. Derive an expression for the refractive
that of red light because its wavelength index of the material of a prism in terms of
is less. As a result when we look at the angle of minimum deviation and angle of
skv in adirection away from the sun, prism. [NIOS Oct. 2018, 2016]
it appears blue. Ans. For refraction through a prism we know
(ii) At the time of sunrise or sunset the that
sun is near the horizon and sunlight ZA+ Z8 = Zi+ Ze
passes through a longer -distance in and LA = Lr t r
earth's atmosphere before reaching From 8- i graph we find that initially on
an observer situated on the earth. increasing Zi the value of ZS decreases,
So most of the blue violet light is acquires a minimum value for a
scattered away and only red light certain angle of incidence and then again
reaches the observer's eye. So the sun begins to increase. In minimum deviation
appears reddish. position i= le and consequently r, =
Blue scattered away
Sun appears reddish ’ ZA+ Z., = Zi + Zi
or i= A
+on
Sun near 2
horizone
Earth A
and ZA = Zr+ Zr or
2
Fig. 6.9
refractive index of the material of
Q.3. Trace the path of a ray of light passing
through a glass prism. Mark () angle of sin
A + om )
deviation and (ü) angle of emergence sin i
prism =
in it. Show graphically the variation of Sin r sin
angle of deviation with change in angle of
incidence. On what factors does the angle Q.5. Define dispersive power of a prism. The
of deviation depend? [NIOS Oct. 2016]
refracting angle of a prism is 21° and its
 95
Previous Years Solved Paper
TOP Physics
refractive index is 1.7. Calculate the S, P- S, P= S, K= d sin 9
deviation caused by the prism.
[NIOS 2018]
the material
Ans. Dispersive power (o) of ratio of the
of a prism is defined as the
angular dispersion caused by the prism d

to the mean
deviation. S, K

.:. dispersivepower o D

8 l-1 Fig. 6.12

Here angle of prismn A If O is small then:
1° and u = 1.7 dx
A = de=
2 D
..Angle of deviation & be an integer multiple
1°
= 0.35° If path difference A
= (u-1) x A = (1.7 -1) x bright
2
of wavelength of light we get
Q.6. Describe Young's double slit experiment. fringes. Thus, for nth bright fringe
nD.
of the
Deduce an expression for the width =n). or I,th =
interference fringes. [NIOS 2019]
bright
Ans. An experimental arrangement for Distance between two consecutive
the fringe
Young's double slit experiment is (or dark) fringes is known as
light
shown here. A monochromatic width B.
single slit.
source is placed in front of a arranged .:. Fringe width 3
There are two slits S, and S, = (xoright -En-lorght
S
symmetrically with respect to S, and nD). (n-1) D. AD
to double slit.
is a screen held parallel allowed
is d d
When monochromatic light by
to fall on slit S, we get
alternate bright Q.7. Briefly discuss polarisation of light
law.
'fringes', on the reflection. Hence derive Brewster's
and dark bands, called as [NIOS 2019]
SCreen.
Ans. On the basis of his experimental studies
Double slit Screen

Single Brewster found that ordinary light

slit
is completely polarised in the plane
when it is reflected from a transparent
(unpolished) medium at a particular
angle i, called as the "Polarising angle"
0

In this situation, the reflected light

s,
Fig. 6.11
Let P be a point situated at a distance x
from symmetrical point O on the screen,
then path difference A between waves
coming from two slits is
beam and refracted light beam travel
in mutually perpendicular directions.
Brewster further proved that tangent
of angle of polarisation is numerically
equal to the refractive index of the
medium. This is called Brewster's law
and mathematically expressed as:
 96 TOP Physics Previous Years
eL
d ight
Solved Paper
There are two slits S, and S,
P o l a r i s e d

symmetrically with respect to S, and s

is ascreen held
arranged
Unpolarised
Light
parallel·to
When monochromatic light double
slit
is allowed
to fall on slit S, we get
and dark bands, called as alternate bright
Air

Glass 90
SCreen.
'fringes', on the
(u)
Let P be a point situated at a distance y
from symmetrical point Oon the
screen.
then path difference A between waves
coming rom two slits is
S, P- S, P = S, K=d sin 9
Fig. 6.13
l= tani.
To derive Brewster's law, we
of Snell's law which states thatmake use
for light
incident at polarising angle, we have
sin lp
Sin r
But D
r= (90° -i,)
hence u=
sin lp sin i, Fig, 6.15
sin (90° -i,) If O is small then:

= tan i! D
which is the Brewster's law.
Q.8. With the help of a diagram, describe Ifpath difference Abe an integer
of wavelength of light we getmultiple
fringes. Thus, for nth bright fringe bright
Young's double slit, experiment to
demonstrate interference of light. Derive dx
an expression for intensity of fringes. nD.
D Or Xnth
[NIOS Oct. 2018]
Ans. An experimental
arrangement for Distance between two consecutive bright
Young's double slit experiment is (or dark) fringes is known as the fringe
shown here. A monochromatic light width B.
source is placed in front of a single slit. .:. Fringe width B
Double slit Screen = (Ilbright -n-bright
Single nD, (n-1) DA AD
slit d d
Let us consider interference of two
light
waves of same frequency and same
amplitude but differing in phase 6, let
displacements due to these waves be:
y=a sin ot
and y = asin (ot + )
Then resultant displacement
Y=y t y, =asin ot + asin (ot + Ô)
Fig. 6.14
= 2a sin ot +
2
 Previous Years Solved Paper 97
TOP Physics
The observed diffraction pattern of a
Asinof +) single slit has also been drawn (refer to
fig. 6.6).
Here A= 2a cos 2 L.
2
W AL1
= amplitude of resultant wave
.. Intensity of resultant wave
I, = kA?=k4a' cos? = 4I cos?
2 2
where I = ka' = intensity due to either of WB
the two superposing waves. +f+ Wavefront
Slit Screen
Case I: if phase difference 8 = 0 or 2n
where is an integer, then Fig. 6.16
show the
I, = 4/ cos² (nn) = 4I(+ 1)? Q.10. Draw a labelled diagram to
=4A = Maximum experimental set up of Young's double
Derive condition for
slit experiment. destructive
This is the condition of constructive interference
constructive and
interference of bright fringe. a sin ot and y, a sin
of two waves y,
Case Il: If phase difference &= (2n -1) , [NIOS Oct. 2017]
where n isan integer, then (ot + 8). for
Ans. An experimental arrangement
I, = 4l cos (2n -1) 2 is
Young's double slit experimentlight
shown here. A monochromatic
= 4l x (0) =0= Minimum
destructive source is placed in front of a single
slit.
This is the condition of
interference of dark fringe. There are two slits S, and S, arranged
significance of symmetrically with respect to S, and S
Q.9. What is the physical Why is diffraction is a screen held parallel to
double slit.
diffraction of light?
of sound but not
so When monochromatic light is allowed
SQ common in case bright
common incase of light? Draw
schematic
a to fall on slit S, we get alternate
set up for
diagram of the experimental draw the and dark bands, called as 'fringes', on the
Also
single slit diffraction. of a single slit.
SCreen.
Double slit Screen
observed diffraction pattern
[NIOS Oct. 2018] Single
Ans. Diffraction of light is significant as it slit
wave
experimentally demonstrates the
nature of light.
diffraction the size of
For pronounced
aperture/obstacle should be comparable
given wave. As
to the wavelength of
wavelength of sound is large, sound from
diffraction
waves can easily exhibit
ordinary sized apertures and obstacles,
But wavelength of light is extremely Fig,6.17
distance x
small, diffraction effect is not so common Let P be a point situated at a
screen,
in light. from symmetrical point Oon the waves
Aschematic diagram of the experimental then path difference A between
set up for single slit diffraction has been coming from two slits is
drawn here.
98 TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper
the two superposing waves.
S, P- S,P = S, K=dsin Case I: if phase difference ð = 0or 2nT
where n is an integer, then
I, = 4lcos (nn) 41 (+ 1)2
= 4A = Maximum
This is the condition of constructive
interference of bright fringe.
Case II: If phase difference ×= (2n-1) n.
where n is an integer, then
D

Fig. 6.18 I, = 4lcos (2n -1)|

IfOis small then: = 4I x (0)² = Minimum
A = de = dx This is the condition of destructive
D interference of dark fringe.
If path difference Abean integer multiple Q.11. With the help of adiagram describe the set
of wavelength of light we get bright up of Young's double slit experiment. Write
fringes. Thus,for nth bright fringe conditions for the formation of bright and
dx nD. dark fringes in terms of (i) path difference,
= n or Xth (i) phase difference. [NIOS 2017]
D
Ans. An experimental arrangement for
Distance between two consecutive bright
(or dark) fringes is known as the fringe Young's double slit experiment is
shown heré. A monochromatic light
width ß.
.. Fringe width B source is placed in front of a single slit.
There are two slits S, and S, arranged
=(pbright- (-1brigtht symmetrically with respect to S, and S
nD. (n-1) DA D
d
is ascreen held parallel to double slit.
When monochromatic light is allowed
Let us consider interferernce of two light to fall on slit S, we get alternate bright
waves of same frequency and same and dark bands, called as 'fringes',on the
amplitude but differing in phase 8, let SCreen.
Double slit Screen
displacements due to these waves be:
y, =asin ot Single
and Y =a sin (ot + 8) slit
Then resultant displacement
y=y+ y, =asin ot + asin (ot + )
= 2a
asin (ot +cos
A
sin

Here A =2a cos

2
Fig. 6.19
- amplitude of resultant wave Bright fringes (constructive interference)
.. Intensity of resultant wave are obtained on the screen if path
8 = 4I cos? difference between the superposing
I, = kA²=k4g' cos? 2 2 waves is an integer multiple of
wavelength of light i.e.,
where I = ka' = intensity due to either of
 Years Solved Paper 99
Physics Previous
TOP
pathdifference xd = n
D
A

where i1=0, 1, 2, ... pbject

p
Interms offphase.
difference bright fringes B Fo
difference
Pe obtained when phase
an even
between superposing waves is Objective
multiple of n i.e., 2 xd Eye piece
= 2nn Final
phase difference 2 D image
A"kD+
where n = 0, 1, 2 ... Fig. 6.20
Dark fringes (destructive interference) If L be the length of
microscope tube
are obtained on the screen if path then to the first approximation
difference isan odd multiple of i.e., m= -Ll1+D
2
xd
path difference
D
(2n -1) 2 a microscope is
(c) Resolving power ofdistinct images of
its ability to form
where n = 1,2, 3 ... very close
fringes are two point objects situated
In termns of phase, dark odd to each other
obtained if phase difference is an Resolving power R.P.
multiple of r i.e., 2u sin Numerical aperture
2n xd
phase difference = = (211 -1)
2 D
on
where n =1,2, 3... Thus, resolving power increases
aperture
diagram showing (i) increasing the numerical
Q.12. (a) Draw a labelled ray compound of the objective of microscope, and
the image formation by a image is (i)decreasing the wavelength of light
microscope when the final used to illuminate the object to be
formed at the near point.
magnifying seen.
(6) Write the expression for its Q.13. (a) Draw a neat labelled ray
diagram
power. (M.P.)
(R.P.) of a showing image formation of an object
(c) Define the resolving powertwo factors by a compound microscope. Write an
microscope. What are the expression for its magnifying power.
power can be
by which resolving[NIOS
increased? Oct. 2016] (6) You have been given four convex lenses
of focal lengths 35 cm, 25 cm, 8 cm
Ans. (a) Labelled ray diagram has been shown and 4 cm. Which two convex lenses will
here.
(b) Magnifying power of microscope you select for designing a compound
microscope for maximum magnifying
m = power and why? [NIOS Oct. 201s]
Ans. (a) For labelled ray diagram (Fig. 6.20)
where Vo = distarnce of object from and magnifying power of compound
objective, v, = distance of image microscope see Q. no. 12 just above.
formed by objective from the objective (b) We shall prefer convex lenses of focal
and D is the near point distance. lengths 4 cm and 8 cm for maximum
magnifying power of microscope
because magnifying povwer of
microscope is inversely proportional
 100
to focal lengths of objective and eye
piece of microscope.
Q.14. Define the following terms:
(a) Near point of an eye
(b) Angular magnification of a simple
microscope
(c) Magnifying power of a microscope
(d) Resolving power of a telescope
[NIOS 2014]
Ans. (a) Near point of an eye is the least
distance from the eye where an object
may be placed so that its clear image
is formed on the retina of eye.
(b) Angular magnification of a simple
microscope is defined as the ratio of
the angle subtended (B) by the image
at the eye to the angle subtended (a)
LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS
Q.1. Drawing a neat labelled diagram, showthe
refraction of light passing through a prism
of equiangular triangle base. How does the
value of angle of deviation change as we
increase the value of angle of incidence?
Draw the corresponding graph.
If deviation is minimum for the angle of
incidence 45°, calculate the value of (Ö)
angle of minimum deviation, (ii) refractive
index of the material of the prism.
[NIOS 2017]
Ans. Refraction of light passing through an
equiangle prism (ZA = 60) is shown
here. In figure Zi angle of incidence, Le
= angle of emergence and 28 = angle of
deviation.
A=
60
Incidentray
Fig. 6.21
Emergnt ray
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper
by the object at the unaided eye when
the object is placed at least distance of
distinct vision from the eye.
(c) Magnifying power of a microscope is
same as its angular magnification.
Thus, magnifying power = Angular
magnification =
(d) Resolving power of a telescope is a
measure of its ability to form distinct
images of two distant objects situated
close to each other. If a telescope can
just form distinct images of two
distant objects subtending an angle 6,
then resolving power of telescope =
1
[Questions of 6 marks each
Starting from a small value as angle of
incidence Zi is gradually increased, the
value of angle of deviation 6gradually
falls till for aparticular angle of incidence
angle of deviation becomes minimum
(having a value .). Subsequently, angle
of deviation increases on increasing the
angle of incidence. Variation is shown as
below. In minimum deviation position
Le= Ziand Zr = Lr:
(i) Here ZA = 60° and in minimun
deviation position Zi=45°
’ angle of minimum deviation
Sm = 2i-ZA
= 2 x 45° 60° =30°
(iü) Refractive index of prism
sin A+ m sin
60°+ 30
2
60°
sin() sin
2
sin 45o
Sin 30°
V2.
R
 Paper 101
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved
For secondary wavelets going straight
and meeting at central point O the
path difference between the wavelets
is zero and hence we get central
maximum at O.
Wavelets diffracted at an angle 0,
the path differernce between extreme
wavelets reaching point P on the
screen is
BD = ABsin =a sin
, the
If path difference a sin e =
wavefront may be supposed to consist
of two equal halves AC and CB
having
Om between the
a path difference
e. 2
corresponding points. Consequently,
Fig. 6.22 effect of one half is nullified by the
other half and so we get first minima.
Q.2. (a) Write two important conditions to
observe diffraction of light. In general, if path difference a sin , =
t nà, where n = 1, 2, 3, ..., we get nth
(b) With the help of Huygen's construction, secondary minimum corresponding
explain the phenomenon of diffraction of
light at a single narrow slit.[NIOS 2019] tothe angle ,
However, if for some point P, the
Ans. (a) Two important conditions to observe path difference between extreme
diffraction of light are as follows:
32 then the
(i) The size of the obstacle or the wavelets a sin =
aperture should be of the order of 2

wavelength of the incident light wavefront may be divided into three

wave.
equal parts such that path difference
(1) The separation between the between corresponding points on two
obstacle or aperture and the
screen should be very very large Consecutive half is As a result,
2
as compared to the size of the effect of 1st half is nullified by 2nd
obstacle or aperture. half but due to 3rd half we have some
(b) When a plane wavefront WW' falls
on a single slit ACB of width 'a', light and so point P, behaves as first
each point on unblocked part ACB secondary maxima. In general a sin ,
of wavefront sends out secondary = (2n +1),where n= 1,2,3..,gives
wavelets in allthe directions.
Ly the condition for nth secondary
diffraction maximna.
WA P
Q.3. What are coherent sources? Obtain
X
the expression for fringe width in the
s interference pattern of Young's double slit
experiment with slit width 'd on a screen
W' B kept 'D' distance away from the slit when
Wavefront illuminated by monochromatic light of
Slit Screen
wavelength .. [NIOS 2018]
Fig. 6.23 Ans. Two light sources are said to be coherent
 TOP Physics Previous Years. Solved
102
Paper
if they emit light of exactly the same destructively giving rise to a dark
wavelength in such a way that the fringe (i.e.,a minima). Thus, for dark
originating phase difference between fringe
waves emitted by them is either zero or (2n + 1) DA
has a constant value.
(th)dark 2d
Fringe width ß in the interference
pattern is defined as the distance
between two consecutive bright (or
dark) fringes. Thus,

S, K nDâ, (n -1)D,
d d
D
AD
B=
Fig. 6.24 2
Let S, and S, be two fine slits separated Q.4. (a) What is meant by polarisation of light?
by a distance 'd'. Monochromatic light With the help of suitable diagram, show
waves of wavelength à passes through that light waves are transverse in nature.
the slits, superpose on each other and (b) State and explain Brewster's law. The
form interference fringes on a screen refractive index of amedium is V3.
situated at a distance D from the slits.
At symmetrical point O waves from S, Find the polarising angle for a beam of
and S, travel equal paths and meet at O unpolarised light incident on it from
air. [NIOS Oct. 2016]
in same phase. So central interference
maxima is formed at O. Ans. (a) Polarisation is the property of
At apoint P situated at a distance OP =x,
= restricting vibrations of light in
the path difference one particular plane perpendicular
S, P- S, P=A= dsin 0 to the direction of propagation of
For small value of 0, we have light. Polarisation is possible only in
transverse waves and thus we can
sin = =tan =
D say that light waves are transverse
A=
xd in nature. We can consider following
D experiment in this context:
Following two cases arise: Eye
(i) If path differernce = nà, where n =
D
0, 1, 2,3 ... then the two waves are in
Same
phase and interfere Unpolarised Polarised Polarised
light P, light P light
constructively giving rise to a bright (a)
fringe (i.e.,a maxima). Thus, for bright
fringe Eye
nD.
(th) dark d

()If path difference Xd = (2n - 1) , Unpolarised Polarised No light

D light light
where n =1,2,3 .., then the two waves (b)
are in opposite phase and interfere Fig. 6.25
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper 103

Place two polarised P, and P, parallel N gh

R
to each other (Fig. 6.25 (a). When
ordinary unpolarised light from a Unpolarised
P o l a t

source S passes through P, as well as Light

P, no change in intensity of light is Air
visible.
However, if polaroid P, is rotated so Glass 909
that its axis is perpendicular to that ()
of P, we find that no light passes
through P, It shows that light waves
are transverse waves which can be
polarised.
(b) On the basis of his experimental Fig. 6.26
studies Brewster found that ordinary To derive Brewster's law, we mnake
light is completely polarised in the use of Snell's law which states that for
plane when it is reflected from a light incident at polarising angle, we
transparent (unpolished) medium have
at a particular angle i, called as the
"Polarising angle". In this situation, sin 1p
the reflected light beam and refracted sin r
light beam travel in mutually But r= (90° -i)
perpendicular directions. Brewster Sin 1, sin lp
further proved that tangent of angle hence u=
of polarisation is numerically equal sin (90°-i) cos i
to the refractive index of the medium. = tan
This is called Brewster's law and which is the Brewster's law.
mathematically expressed as: Here u = V3, hence tan i,
H= tan i, ’ Angle of polarisation i =
tan' (V3) =60°.
Q.5. Distinguish between unpolarised and plane polarised light. Describe with the help of a diagram
to show that light waves are transverse in nature.
Explain polarisation by reflection. Hence deduce Brewster's law of polarisation.
[NIOS 2016]
Ans.

Unpolarised light Plane polarised light

() In an unpolarised light vibration are in () In plane polarised light vibrations take
all possible directions perpendicular to place in a particular plane only which
the direction of propagation of light. is perpendicular to the direction of
propagation of light.
(ii) When unpolarised light is passed |(i) When plane polarised light is passed
through a polaroid, intensity of through a polaroid and the polaroid
transmitted light does not change on is rotated, there is a variation in light
rotating the polaroid about its axis. intensity between zero and a definite
maximum value.
104
Polarisation is the property of restricting
vibrations of light in one particular
plane perpendicular to the direction
of propagation of light. Polarisation is
possible only in transverse waves and
thus we can say that light waves are
transverse in nature. We can consider
following experiment in this context:
Place two polariods P, and P,
each other (Fig. 6.25 (a). Whenparallel to
TOP Physics Previous Years Solved Paper
In this situation, the reflected light
beam and refracted light beam travel
in mutually perpendicular directions.
Brewster further proved that tangent
of angle of polarisation is numerically
equal to the refractive index of the
medium. This is called Brewster's law
and mathematically expressed as:
N
P o l a r iL
s eidg h t

I
ordinary RR
unpolarised light from a source S passes Unpolarised
through P, as well as P, no change in Light
intensity of light is visible.
Air

Glass 902
(M)

Unpolarised Polarised Polarised

light P light P2 light
(a)
N' T
Eye Fig. 6.28
H= tan i,
To derive Brewster's law, we
of Snell's law which states thatmake use
for light
Unpolarised Polarised No light
light light incident at polarising angle, we have
(b) sin i,
Fig. 6.27 sin r
On the basis of his experimental studies But
Brewster found that ordinary light
r=
(90P sin
-i)1,
is completely polarised in the plane hence u= sin 1p
when it is reflected from a sin (90° -i,)
(unpolished) medium at atransparent
cOS 1,

angle i, called as the "Polarisingparticular

angle".
= tan iy
which is the Brewster's law.