Questions from Reference books

B.Tech. 1st year, Odd and Even Semester - 2023

Subject : Physics Subject code: BSCPH101/BSCPH201

Module 1: Classical Mechanics and Oscillation

Classical Mechanics:
Group A (2 marks questions)

1. State which of the following are scalars and which are vectors
a)speed b)momentum c) energy d)distance
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition , Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter 1,Prob No 1, Page 4 )

2. If φ(x,y,z) = 3x2y - y3z2, find ∇ф (or grad φ) at the point (1,-2,-1).

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 1,Page -59)

3. If A = xz3i-2x2yzj + 2yz4k, find 𝛁 × 𝐀 (or curl A) at the point (1,-1,1).

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 23, Page-67)

4. Prove that the moment of force or torque about the origin O of a coordinate system is
equal to the time rate of change of angular momentum.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-2, Page 46, Q2.20 )

5. Give the set of generalized coordinates needed to completely specify the motion of a
particle constrained to move on an ellipse.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-11, Page 285, Q11.1 )

6. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when a particle moving on a plane curve.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 187, Q7.33 )

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 7. Assuming that the planet Mars has a period about the sun equal to 687 earth days
approximately, find the mean distance of Mars from the sun. Take the distance of the
earth from the sun as 150 million km.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-5, Page 139, Q5.78 )

8. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when a particle moving on apce curve.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 172, Q7.1 )

9. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when five particles moving freely in a
plane.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 172, Q7.1 )

10. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when five particles moving freely in
space.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 172, Q7.1 )

11. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when two particles connected by a rigid
rod moving freely in a plane.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 172, Q7.1 )

12. Find the number of degrees of freedom for a rigid body which can move freely in three
dimensional space.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 172, Q7.2 )

13. Determine the number of degrees of freedom when two particles moving on a space
curve and having constant distance between them.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-7, Page 187, Q7.33 )

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Group B (5 marks questions)
1. Find𝛁φ if (a) φ = In| r |
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition,Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 3, Page -60)
2. Find the directional derivative of φ(x, y, z) = x2 yz +4xz2at (1,-2,-1) in the direction
2i-j-2k.
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition,Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 10, Page -62)
3. Given φ(x, y, z) = 2x3y2z4. Find𝛁. 𝛁φ
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition,Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 16, Page-64)
4. . Find𝛁 𝟐 (𝟏/r).
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 17, Page-64)
5. 𝛁. (𝒓/𝒓𝟑).
(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 19, Page-65)

6. Set up the Lagrangian for a simple pendulum. Then applying Lagrange’s equation
obtain the equation of motion of the simple pendulum.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-11, Page 289, Q11.12 )

7. Prove that for a particle moving in a central force field the angular momentum is
conserved.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-5, Page 122, Q5.2 )

8. Prove that if a particle moves in a central force field, then its path must be a plane curve.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-5, Page 121, Q5.1 )

9. A particle moving in a central force field travels in a path which is the cycloid 𝑟 =
𝑎 (1 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃). Find the law of force.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-5, Page 143, Q5.143 )

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 𝐾
10. Show that if the law of central force isdefined by 𝑓(𝑟) = − 𝑟 2 , 𝐾 > 0, then the path of
the particle is a conic.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-5, Page 125, Q5.13 )

11. Use Lagrange’s equations to set up the differential equation of the vibrating masses.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-11, Page 291, Q11.14 )

12. Use Lagrange’s equations to find the differential equation for a compound pendulum
which oscillates in verticle plane about a fixed horizontal axis.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-11, Page 291, Q11.15 )

13. (a) Set up the Lagrangian for a one dimensional harmonic oscillator and (b) write
Lagrange’s equations.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-11, Page 306, Q11.50 )

14. (a) Set up the Lagrangian for a particle of mass m falling freely in a uniform
gravitional field and (b) write Lagrange’s equations.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-11, Page 306, Q11.51 )

15. Use Lagrange’s equations to describe the motion of a particle of mass m down a
frictionless inclined plane of angle α.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric)

edition. Ch-11, Page 306, Q11.53 )

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 Group C (10 marks questions)
1.(a) Calculate 𝛁rn (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel, Chapter-
4,Prob No 4,Page -60)

(b)Show that 𝛁φ is a vector perpendicular to the surfaceφ(x, y, z) = с where с is a constant.(5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel, Chapter-
4,Prob No 5, Page -61)

2. ( a) Find a unit normal to the surface x2y +2xz= 4 at the point (2,-2,3). (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel, Chapter-
4,Prob No 6, Page -61)

(b) Find a unit normal to the surface x2 y +2xz= 4 at the point (2,-2,3). (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 6, Page -61)

3. (a) (i)In what direction from the point (2,1,-1) is the directional derivative of φ = x2 y z3a
maximum? (ii) What is the magnitude of this maximum? (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel,
Chapter-4,Prob No 11, Page-62)

(b) If A = x2zi - 2y3z2j + xy2zk, Find 𝛁.A (or div A) at the point (1,-1,1). (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition,Murray R Spiegel,

Chapter-4,Prob No 15, Page-64)

5. (b) A vector V is called irrotational if curlV = 0 . Find constants a,b,c so that V = (x + 2y +

az)i+ (bx -3y-z)j + (4x+cy + 2z)k is irrotational. (5)
(c) Show that V can be expressed as the gradient of a scalar function. (5)

(Theory and problems of Vector analysis ,SI (metric ) edition, Murray R Spiegel, Chapter-
4,Prob No 32, Page-72l)

6. Classify each of the following according as they are (i) scleronomic or rheonomic, (ii)
holonomic or non-holonomic, and (iii) conservative or non-conservative

(a) A sphere rolling down from the top of a fixed sphere, (b) a cylinder rolling without slipping
down a rough inclined plane of angle α, (c) a particle sliding down the inner surface, with
coefficient of friction , of a paraboloid of revolution having its axis verticle and vertex

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downward, (d) a particle moving on a very long frictionless wire which rotates with constant
angular speed about a horizontal axis.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-11, Page 287, Q11.5 )

7. Give a set of generalized coordinates needed to completely specify the motion of each of the
following: (a) a bead constrained to move on circular wire, (b) a particle constrained to move on
a sphere, (c) a compound pendulum, (d) an Atwoods machine, (e) a circular disk rolling on a
horizontal plane.

(Theory and problems of Theoretical Mechanics by Murray R. Spiegel SI (Metric) edition.

Ch-11, Page 305, Q11.39 )

Oscillations
Group A (2 marks questions)
1. A particle is acted on a restoring force proportional to displacement and a retarding force
proportional to velocity. Investigate it motion. (Advanced acoustics, Dr.
D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition, Chapter 3, page 86)
2. What is resonance? (Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall,
Ninth edition, Chapter 3, page 87)
3. Distinguish between amplitude resonance and velocity resonance? (Advanced acoustics,
Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition, Chapter 3, page 87)
4. What is the power factor at velocity resonance? (Advanced acoustics, Dr.
D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition, Chapter 3, page 87)
5. What is sharpness of resonance? (Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The
New Book Stall, Ninth edition, Chapter 3, page 87)

Group B (5 marks questions)

6. A telephone diaphragm executes damped vibration. For a displacement of 0.01 mm the
restoring force is 104 dynes. The retarding force is 4 X 103dynes for a velocity of 2.5
cm/sec. If the effective mass of the diaphragm, treated as a particle, is 1 gm, what is the
frequency? Write down the equation of motion. (3+2)
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 86)
7. A simple pendulum with a massive bob oscillates in a liquid. Investigate how the nature of
its motion will change as the mass of the bob is gradually reduced. (5)

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 (Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 86)

Group C (10 marks questions)

8. Solve the equation Mẍ + Rmẋ + sx = 0 (where the symbols have their usual significance)
when Rm=√4𝑠𝑀. Discuss the nature of the motion.
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 86)
9. Solve the equation Mẍ + Rmẋ + sx = 0 (where the symbols have their usual significance)
when Rm>√4𝑠𝑀. Discuss the nature of the motion.
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 86 and 87)
10. Write down the differential equation of damped vibration, explaining how it is obtained.
Assume the solution to be of the form exp(-αt)f(t) where f is some function of time. Deduce
the three different form f may take.
In a given case f is oscillatory. The motion starts from rest with an initial velocity v0. What
will be the equation of motion?
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 86)
11. Solve the equation Mẍ + Rmẋ + sx = F Cos ωt for forced vibration using complex form.
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 87)
12. An oscillator has a mass of 10 gm, a retarding force of 100 dyne. sec. cm-1 and a restoring
force of 106 dyne. cm-1. Find its time constant, logarithmic decrement, decay rate and Q.
(Advanced acoustics, Dr. D.P.RayChaudhuri, The New Book Stall, Ninth edition,
Chapter 3, page 87)

Module 2: Optics
Group A( 2 marks questions)

Interference
1. In Young’s double slit experiment the separation between the slits is 1.2 mm and fringe
spacing is 0.5 mm on screen kept at a distance of 1 m from the slits. Find the wavelength
of the light.
[A text book of light,Ghosh &Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter
9,Page-255,Q.1(Eg.)]

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 2. In Newton’s ring experiment,the diameter of mth dark ring is 8 mm and the diameter of
(m+5)th dark ring is 12 mm.If the radius of curvature of the lower surface of the lens is
10 m,find the wavelength of the light used.
[A text book of light, Ghosh &Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
9,Page-257,Q.7(Eg.)]
3. Newton’s rings are formed in reflected light of wavelength 600 nm with a combination of
plane plate of glass and a plano convex lens of 1 m rdius of curvature.On introducing a
liquid between the lens and the plate it is found that the diameter of the 7 th dark ring
decreases by 0.54 mm.Find the refractive index of the liquid.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter
9,Page-257,Q.8(Eg.)]
4. Explain clearly the phenomena of interference of light.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5),Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter
9,Page-261,Q.1]
5. State the conditions to be fulfilled for the production of sustained interference fringes. [A
text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-
261,Q.1]
6. Why are light waves from two different candles not seen to interfere.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-
261,Q.1]

Diffraction
7. A screen is placed 2m away from a narrow slit. Find the slit width, if the first minimum
lies 5mm on either side of the central maximum when plane waves (𝜆=500 nm) are
incident on the slit.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-376,Q.1]
8. Fraunhofer diffraction pattern is observed by a double slit having slit width a=0.16 mm
and separation between the slits b=0.8 mm . Find the missing orders.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-376,Q.4(Ex.)]
9. . How many orders would be visible, if the wavelength of incident light is 600 nm and the
number of lines in the grating is 500 per mm.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-376,Q.5(Ex.)]

Coherence and Laser

10. For sodium line wavelength 𝜆 = 5890 Å and coherence time 𝜏𝑐 = 10−10 sec. Find the
monochromaticity of the source.

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 [A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
18,Page-562,Q.2(Eg.)]
11. Mention some important application of Laser.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
18,Page-565,Q.15(Ex.)]
12. In a He-Ne laser transition from 3S to 2P level gives a laser emission of wavelength 632.8
nm. If the 2P level has energy equal to 15.2 x10−19 J. Calculate the pumpimg energy
required. Assume no loss.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter
18,Page-565,Q.5(Ex.)]
13. The energy gap between the two levels corresponds to the wavelength λ=5000 A°.
Calculate the ratio of populations of two states in thermal equilibrium at room
temperature.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
18,Page-565,Q.6(Ex.)]
14. The Boltzmann ratio or the relative population of two energy states at room temperature
T=300 K is 1/e. Determine the wavelength of radiation emitted due to transition between
these two states.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter
18,Page-566,Q.9(Ex.)]

Group B( 5 marks questions)

Interference
21. Fringes are produced with monochromatic light of wavelength 689 nm.A thin film of glass
of refractive index 1.52 is placed normally in the path of one of the interfering rays.The
central bright fringe is found to move to a position occupied by the 5 th bright band from
the center.Calculate the thickness of the glass film.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
9,Page-258,Q.9(Eg.)]
22. In Newton’s experiment with a light containing two wavelengths 𝜆1 = 589 𝑛𝑚 and 𝜆2 =
589.6 𝑛𝑚. Find the distance (from the point of contact of plano convex lens with glass
plate) at which the rings disappear.Take the radius of curvature of the curved surface as 1
m.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
9,Page-258,Q.11(Eg.)]
23. Newton’s rings are formed with the source of light containing two wavelengths λ1 and λ2 .
If mth order dark ring due to λ1 coincides with the (m+1)th order dark ring due to λ2 prove
λ λ R
that the radius of the mth dark ring of λ1 is equal to √ 1 2 , where R is the radius of
λ −λ1 2

curvature of the lower curved surface.

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 [A text book of light, Ghosh&Mazumdar (Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-
263,Q.14]

24. Suppose in a double slit experiment with a light of wavelength 600 nm separation between
the slits is 0.2 mm and the interference fringes are seen on a screen 1.2 m away. Find the
distance of the 3rd order maximum from the central zeroth order maxima. What will be the
value of this distance when the experiment is performed under water (r.i.=1.33)?
[A text book of light, Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-
263,Q.15]
25. In a Young’s experiment the distance between the slits is 0.1 mm and the perpendicular
distance of the screen from the plane of the slits is 50 cm. Find the separation on the screen
between maxima for violet light (𝜆=400 nm) and the red light (𝜆=700 nm) in the first order.
[A text book of light, Ghosh & Mazumdar (Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
9,Page-264,Q.18]

Diffraction
26. A convex lens of focal length 40 cm is employed to focus the Fraunhofer diffraction pattern
of a single slit of 0.3 mm width. Calculate the linear distance of the 1 st order dark band
from the central band. Take the wavelength of light 𝜆=589 nm.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-370,Q.1]
27. A parallel beam of light of wavelength 500 nm is incident normally on a narrow slit of
width 0.2 mm. The Fraunhofer diffraction is observed on a screen which is placed at the
focal plane of a conves lens of focal length 20 cm. Calculate the approximate distance
between first two maxima.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-370,Q.2]
28. Sodium light of wavelengths 589.0 nm and 589.6 nm are made incident normally on a
grating having 500 lines per mm. Calculate the angular dispersion of these lines in the
spectrum of first order.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Sreedhar
Publishers,Chapter 12,Page-372,Q.5]
29. Calculate the least width that a grating must have, to resolve two components of sodium
D-lines (having wavelengths, 589.0 nm and 589.6 nm) in the second order. The number of
lines per mm of the grating is 80.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-372,Q.7]
30. A diffraction grating 2 cm wide is just able to resolve sodium D-lines in second order.Find
the number of rulings per mm.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-373,Q.9]

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 31. Consider two gratings, one of width 2 cm has 2000 lines and the other of width 1cm has
1000 lines. Compare their angular dispersion and resolving powers in the second order.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
12,Page-377,Q.15]

Coherence and Laser

32. Calculate the ratio of spontaneous emission rate to the stimulated emission rate at T=103 K
for visible light of frequency 5 × 1014 Hz and microwave of frequency 109 Hz. Comment
on the result.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
18,Page-562,Q.5(Eg.)]
33. Consider an assembly of atoms with two energy states 𝐸1 and 𝐸2 . Suppose it is in
equilibrium with a radiation field of frequency 𝜈 = (𝐸2 − 𝐸1 )/ℎ. If the source of radiation
is suddenly cut off, show that the population of the upper state decreases exponentially
with a time constant 1/A, where A is the spontaneous transition probability.
[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter
18,Page-563,Q.6(Eg.)]

Group C( 10 marks questions)

Interference
45.a)Show that the dark and bright fringes produced in Young’s experiment are equally spaced.
Find also an expression for fringe width in terms of wavelength of light, separation between the
holes and distance of the screen from the holes. (5)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-

261,Q.2]

b) Explain with necessary theory how you can determine the refractive index of a liquid by means
of Newton’s rings. (5)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 9,Page-

261,Q.12]

. 46.a)Newton’s rings are formed by light reflected normally from a plano convex lens and a plane
glass plate with a liquid between them. The diameters of nth and (n+10)th bright rings are 2.18
mm and 4.51 mm respectively. Calculate the refractive index of the liquid. Radius of curvature of
the lens is 90 cm and wavelength of light employed is 589.3 nm. (5)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

9,Page-262,Q.7]

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b) Newton’s rings are formed with a source of light containing two wavelengths λ1 = 600 nmand
λ1 = 450 nm. It is founded that mth dark ring due to λ1 coincides with the (m+1)th dark fringe of
λ2 . F the radius of curvature of the curved surface is 90 cm, find the diameter of mth dark ring of
λ1 . (5)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

9,Page-263,Q.8]

c) A film of oil (r.i.=1.7) is formed between a plane glass plate and an equiconvex lens (r.i.of both
may be taken as 1.5). The focal length of the lens is 1 m. Find the radius of 10 th dark ring when
light of wavelength 600 nm falls normally on the combination. (5)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

9,Page-263,Q.10]

Diffraction
47.a) Fraunhofer double slit diffraction pattern is observed in the focal plane of a lens of focal
length 0.5 m. The wavelength of incident light is 500 nm. The distance between two maxima
adjacent to the maxima of zero order is 5 mm and the fourth order maxima missing. Find the width
of each slit and the distance between their centers.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

12,Page-371,Q.3]

b)How many orders would be visible if the wavelength of incident light is 589 nm and the number
of lines in the grating is 104 per mm?

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

12,Page-371,Q.4]

48. Write down the expression for the intensity of Fraunhofer diffraction pattern due to a single
slit. Discuss the conditions for maxima and minima. Give a graphical plot of the intensity
distribution. What happens to the intensity of central maximum when the width of the slit is
doubled? Find an expression for the width of the central maximum as obtained on a screen, placed
in the focal plane of a convex lens. (10)

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

12,Page-375,Q.1]

49. Write down the intensity expression for Fraunhofer diffraction pattern of a double slit. Deduce
the conditions for maxima and minima. What is missing order in a double slit pattern?
(10)

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 [A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 12,Page-
375,Q.2]

50.a)A slit 0.25mm wide is placed in front of a convex lens and illuminated by a parallel beam of
light of wavelength 589.6nm. In the diffraction pattern at the focal plane of the lens, the distance
between the third minimum on the left and the third minimum on the right is 3mm. What is the
focal length of the lens?

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 12,Page-

376,Q.2]

b) A parallel beam of light of wavelength 500 nm is incident normally on a narrow slit of width
0.2mm. The Fraunhofer diffraction is observed on a screen which is placed at the focal plane of a
convex lens (placed very close to the slit ) of focal length 20cm. Calculate the width of the central
maximum and also the distance between first two minima.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

12,Page-376,Q.3]

c) A certain line in the 3rd order coincides with the line of wavelength 492.2 nm in the 4 th order.
Find the wavelength of the 1st line.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter

12,Page-376,Q.7]

51. a)Consider a grating of width 5 cm with slits of width a=0.001 mm separated by a distance of
0.002 mm. How many orders would be visible at 𝜆=550 nm? Calculate the width of principal
maxima. Would there be any missing orders?

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 12,Page-

373,Q.10]

b) A diffraction grating used at normal incidence gives a line of wavelength 540 nm in certain
order superimposed on another line (405 nm) of the next higher order. If the angle of diffraction
is 30° , find the number of rulings per mm of the grating surface.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers,Chapter 12,Page-

377,Q.14]

13 | P a g e
Coherence and Laser

Group A( 2 marks questions)

59.What is Einstein’s A, B coefficients?.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter

18,Page-564,Q.8(Ex.)] (2)

Group B ( 5 marks questions)

60 a)Suppose a laser radiation of λ=693 nm is emitted due to transmission from an excited state
𝐸2 to the ground state 𝐸1 = 0. Find the energy of the excited level.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter 18,Page-

565,Q.3(Ex.)]

b)How do you interpret high monocromaticity and high directionality of laser radiation?

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter

18,Page-564,Q.3(Ex.)]

Group C (10 marks questions)

61. Describe with energy level diagrams the phenomena of spontaneous emission, stimulated
emission and stimulated absorption in a two level system.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter

18,Page-564,Q.5(Ex.)]

62. Draw a neat sketch of a ruby laser. With the help of a simple energy level diagram describe
the operation of a ruby laser.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter 18,Page-

564,Q.12(Ex.)]

63. Given the construction of a He-Ne laser. With the help of a simple energy level diagram show
how population inversion is achieved here.

[A text book of light,Ghosh&Mazumdar(Ed.5), Sreedhar Publishers, Chapter 18,Page-

564,Q.13(Ex.)]

14 | P a g e
Module 3: Introduction to Electromagnetic Theory.
Group A (2 marks questions)
1. Sea water at frequency 𝜈 = 4 × 108 Hz has permittivity 𝜖 = 81𝜖0 , permeability 𝜇 = 𝜇0 ,
and 𝜌 = 0.23 Ω. m. What is the ratio of conduction current to displacement current?

[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 7.37, Page No: 330]

2. Suppose a magnetic monopole qmpasses through a resistance loop of wire with self-
inductance L. What current is induced in the loop?

[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 7.36,

Page No: 328]

Group B (5 marks questions)

3. A fat wire, radius a, carries a constant current I, uniformly distributed over its cross
section. A narrow gap in the wire, of width w<<a, forms a parallel-plate capacitor as
shown in figure. Find the magnetic field in the gap, at a distance s<a from the axis.

[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 7.31,

Page No: 324]

4. Assuming that “Coulomb’s law” for magnetic charges (qm) reads

𝜇0 𝑞𝑚1 𝑞𝑚2
𝐹⃗ = 𝑟̂
4𝜋 𝑟 2
Work out the “Lorentz force law” for a monopole qm moving with velocity 𝑣⃗ through
electric and magnetic fields 𝐸⃗⃗ and 𝐵
⃗⃗.
[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 7.35,
Page No: 328]

5. Write down the (real) electric and magnetic fields for a monochromatic plane wave of
amplitude E0, frequency 𝜔, and phase angle zero that is
15 | P a g e
 (a) travelling in the negative x-direction and polarized in the z-direction;
(b) travelling in the direction from the origin to the point (1,1,1), with polarization
parallel to the xz plane.

[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 9.9,

Page No: 380]

Group C (10 marks questions)

6. Suppose
𝑞
𝐸 (𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = ⃗⃗ (𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = 0
𝜃 (𝑣𝑡 − |𝑟⃗|)𝑟̂ , 𝐵
𝑟2

Where 𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − |𝑟⃗|) = 1, if 𝑣𝑡 − |𝑟⃗| > 0 and 𝜃 (𝑣𝑡 − |𝑟⃗|) = 0, if 𝑣𝑡 − |𝑟⃗| ≤ 0.

Show that these fields satisfy all of Maxwell’s equations, and determine 𝜌and 𝐽⃗.
Describe the physical situation that gives rise to these fields. (10 + 5)

[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 7.34,

Page No: 327]

7. (a) Suppose you embedded some free charge in a piece of glass. About how long would it
take for the charge to flow to the surface?

(b) Silver is an excellent conductor but it’s expensive. Suppose you were designing a
microwave experiment to operate at a frequency of 1010 Hz. How thick would you make
the silver coatings?
(c) Find the wavelength and propagation speed in copper for radio waves at 1 MHz.
Compare the corresponding values in air (or vacuum).
(3 + 4 + 8)
[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 9.18,
Page No: 395]

2 𝜖
8. (a) Show that the skin depth in a poor conductor (𝜎 ≪ 𝜔𝜖) is (𝜎) √𝜇 (independent of

frequency). Find the skin depth (in meters) for pure water.
𝜆
(b) Show that the skin depth in a good conductor (𝜎 ≫ 𝜔𝜖 ) is (where 𝜆 is the
2𝜋
wavelength in the conductor). Find the skin depth (in nanometers) for a typical metal
(𝜎 ≈ 107 (Ωm)−1 ) in the visible range (𝜔 ≈ 1015 /s), assuming 𝜖 ≈ 𝜖0 and 𝜇 ≈ 𝜇0 .
Why are metals opaque?
16 | P a g e
 (c) Show that in a good conductor the magnetic field lags the electric field by 450, and find
the ratio of their amplitudes. For a numerical example, use the “typical metal” in part (b).
(5 + 5 + 5)
[Introduction to Electrodynamics-3rd Edition by D. J. Griffiths. Problem 9.19,
Page No: 396]

Module 4: Electronic Materials and Semiconductors

Group A (2 marks questions)

Electronic Materials

1) What are the main drawbacks of classical free electron theory?

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.1]

2) Explain Wiedemann-Franz law.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.10]

3) Discuss the drawbacks of Sommerfeld’s free electron theory of metals.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.28]

4) Discuss relaxation time, collision time and mean free path of free electrons in metals.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.3]

5) Discuss “Quantum free electron theory” of metals.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.22]

6) The energy of an electron in a metal is quantized. Explain.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.23]

7) What is meant by density of energy states in metals?

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.31]

17 | P a g e
Semiconductors

8) What is an intrinsic semiconductor? Give examples.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-612, Q.7]

9) What is a hole in a semiconductor and how is it formed?

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-612, Q.10]

10) State and explain the mass action law.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-612, Q.11]

11) Give the resistivity’s of germanium and silicon at room temperature.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-612, Q.12]

12) How n-type and p-type semiconductors are produced?

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-613, Q.17]

13) What is meant by potential barrier across a p-n junction?

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-613, Q.33]

Group B (5 marks questions)

Electronic Materials

14) Give the main assumptions of Sommerfeld’s quantum theory of free electrons.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-322, Q.6]

15) Explain classical free electron theory of electrical conductivity in metals.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-320, Q.4]

18 | P a g e
16) A particle of mass m is confined in a field free region between impenetrable walls at x = 0 and
x = a. Show that the stationary energy levels of the particle are given by En = n2h2/8ma2. Discuss
the physical significance of the wave function ψ.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-323, Q.20]

17) Define Fermi energy. Write down the expression for Fermi-Dirac distribution law. Derive an
expression for Fermi energy of a system of free electrons.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-323, Q.22]

Semiconductors

18) Explain the mechanism of current flow through a forward biased junction diode and draw its
V-I characteristics.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-615, Q.32]

19) Discuss the drift and diffusion phenomena in semiconductors.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-613, Q.27]

20) Mark the Fermi level for (i) an intrinsic semiconductor (ii) n-type semiconductor and (iii) p-
type semiconductor. Describe the behavior and properties of conductors, insulators and
semiconductors on the basis of band theory.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-614, Q.11]

21) What is breakdown diode? What are its uses? Describe how breakdown in a p-n junction
occurs.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-616, Q.41]

22) What is drift current and diffusion current in a semiconductor? Write an expression for the
total electron current density in a semiconductor.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-616, Q.42]

19 | P a g e
23) Explain the working of a p-n junction. Discuss forward and reverse biasing of p-n junction
diode.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-616, Q.43]

24) Explain with diagrams forward and reverse biasing of a p-n junction. What is meant by
avalanche breakdown?
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-616, Q.44]

Group C (10 marks questions)

Electronic Materials

25) The density of silver is 10.5 x 103 kg/m3. The atomic weight of silver is 107.9. Assuming that
each silver atoms provides one conduction electron, calculate the density of electrons. The
conductivity of silver at 20°C is 6.8 x 107 Ω-1 m. Calculate also the mobility of electrons in
silver. Using the data in this problem, estimate the collision time for free electrons applying
classical free electron theory. What is the corresponding mean free path? Compare this value
with the experimental one.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-326, Q.1&2]

26) The resistivity of aluminium at room temperature is 2.62 x IO-8 ohm m. Calculate (i) the drift
velocity (ii) their mobility and (iii) their relaxation times and (iv) mean free path on the basis
of classical free electron theory.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-326, Q.4]

27) (a) Calculate the probabilities for an electronic state to be occupied at 20°C, if the energy of
the states lie 0.11 eV above and 0.1 i eV below the Fermi level.
(b) Calculate the extent of the energy range between F(E) = 0.9 and F(E) = 0.1 at a
temperature of 200 K.
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-323, Q.37&38]

28) The Fermi energy for tungsten at 300 K is 4.5 eV. The electrons in tungsten follow Fermi
energy distribution function:
(a)Find the probability of an energy level with energy value 10 per cent below the Fermi
energy being occupied.

20 | P a g e
 (b) Repeat the same at 3000 K, assuming Fermi energy is relatively temperature
independent.
(c) What is the occupation probability at 2kBT units of energy above the Fermi energy?
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 6, Page-330, Q.63]

Semiconductors

29) (a) The band gap of an alloy of semiconductor gallium arsenide phosphide is 1.98 eV. Calculate
the wavelength of radiation that is emitted when electrons and holes in this material recombine
directly. Mention the color of the emitted radiation.
(b) Calculate the current produced in a small germanium plate of area 1 cm2 and of thickness
0.3 mm, a potential difference of 2 volt is applied across the faces. Given: Concentration of
free charge carried 1 (germanium is 2 x 10l9/m3 and the mobilities of electrons and holes are
0.36 m2V-1s-1 and 0.17 m2V-1s-1 respectively .
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-616, Q.5&6]

30) (a) The energy gap of Si is 1.1 eV. Its electron and hole mobilities at room temperature are
0.48 and 0.013 m2V-1 s-1 respectively. Evaluate its conductivity.
(b) A pure semiconductor has an energy gap of 1 eV. For temperature of 0 K and 300 K
respectively, calculate the probability of an electron occupying a state near the bottom of the
conduction band. Page 618 ch 10 Q. 31
[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers).
Chapter 10, Page-618, Q.23&31]

31) (a) Find the static and the dynamic resistance of a p-n junction germanium diode if the
temperature is 27°C and I0 = 1 µA for an applied forward bias of 0.2 volt.
(b) The approximate value of p-n junction current under forward bias is given by I = I s [exp(eV
1/39
/KT) −1]. Show that the incremental resistance R e, defined by (ΔV/ΔI) is equal to at
𝐼
room temperature. Given (e/KT) = 39 V-1.

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers). Chapter
10, Page-621, Q.67]

[Solid State Physics by S O Pillai (Published by New Age International Publishers). Chapter
10, Page-622, Q.75]

21 | P a g e
 Module 5: Quantum Mechanics

Group A (2 marks questions)

1. Find the expectation value < x> of the position of a particle trapped in a box L wide.
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.181]
2. An eigenfunction of the operator d2/dx2is ψ= e2x. Find the corresponding
eigenvalue.[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. ,
Chap. 5, Pg.176]

Group B (5 marks questions)

3. Verify that y = Ae-iω(t - x/v) is a solution of the wave equation. (5)
th
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6 Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.197]
4. Find the probability that a particle trapped in a box L wide can be found between 0.45L
and 0.55L for the ground and first excited states. (2+3)
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.180]
5. Find the expectation value <x > for the first two states of a harmonic oscillator
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.192].
6. Let us consider a box that extends from x = 0 to x = L. Suppose the box instead extends
from x = x0 to x = x0 + L, where x0 ≠ 0. Would the expression for the wave functions of a
particle in this box be any different from those in the box that extends from x = 0 to x =
L? Would the energy levels be different?
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198]
7. An important property of the eigen functions of a system is that they are orthogonal to one
another, which means that (5)
∝
∫ 𝜓𝑛 𝜓𝑚 𝑑𝑉 = 0 𝑛 ≠ 𝑚
−∝

Verify this relationship for the eigenfunctions of a particle in a one-dimensional box given
by

2 𝑛𝜋𝑥
𝜓𝑛 = √𝐿 sin n = 1, 2, 3, ….
𝐿

22 | P a g e
 [Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198]
8. The expectation value <x> of a particle trapped in a box L wide is L/2, which means that
its average position is the middle of the box. Find the expectation value <x2> .
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198].
9. It is known that linear combination of two wave functions for the same system is also a
valid wave function. Find the normalization constant B for the combination
𝜋𝑥 2𝜋𝑥
 = B (sin 𝐿
+ sin 𝐿
)of the wave functions for the n = 1 and n = 2 states of a particle
in a box L wide.

[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198]
10. Find the probability that a particle in a box L wide can be found between x = 0 and x =
L/n when it is in the nth state.
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198]
11. Find the probability density ψ02 dx at x = 0 and at x =± A of a harmonic oscillator in its n
= 0 state.
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.199]

Group C (10 marks questions)

12. (a)A particle limited to the x axis has the wave function ψ= ax between x = 0 and x = 1;
ψ = 0 elsewhere. (a) Find the probability that the particle can be found between x = 0.45
and x = 0.55. (b) Find the expectation value <x> of the particle’s position.
(5) [Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap.
5, Pg.171]
(b)Find the value of the normalization constant A for the wave function 𝜓 =
2
𝐴𝑥𝑒 −𝑥 /2 [Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. ,
Chap. 5, Pg.197] (5)
13. (a)Which of the following wave functions cannot be solutions of Schrödinger’s equation
for all values of x? Why not? (i) ψ = A sec x; (ii) ψ = A tan x; (iii) ψ = Aex 2 ; (iv) ψ
= Ae−x 2
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.197]

23 | P a g e
 (b)The wave function of a certain particle is y = A cos2x for –π/2 < x < π/2. (i) Find the
value of A. (ii) Find the probability that the particle be found between x = 0 and x = π/4
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.197] (5+5)
14. (a) Show that the expectation values <px> and<xp> are related by <px> - <xp> =
ħ
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
𝑖
Pg.197]

(b) An eigenfunction of the operator d2/dx2 is sin nx, where n = 1, 2, 3, . . . . Find the
corresponding eigenvalues.
[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.197] (5+5)

15.a) A particle is in a cubic box with infinitely hard walls whose edges are L long. The
wave functions of the particle are given by
𝑛𝑥 𝜋𝑥 𝑛𝑦 𝜋𝑦 𝑛𝑧 𝜋𝑧
𝜓𝑛 = 𝐴 sin sin sin
𝐿 𝐿 𝐿

Where, nx= 1, 2, 3, …. ; ny= 1, 2, 3, …. ; nz= 1, 2, 3, ….

Find the value of the normalization constant A.

[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5, Pg.198]

b) A particle in a cubic box with infinitely hard walls is in its ground state of n x= ny = nz = 1. (a)
Find the probability that the particle will be found in the volume defined by 0 ≤x≤ L/4, 0≤ y ≤L/4,
0≤ z≤ L/4. (b) Do the same for L/2 instead of L/4. (5+5)

[Concepts of Modern Physics, Beiser, Tata MaGraw-Hill edition 6th Ed. , Chap. 5,
Pg.198]

Module 6: Statistical Mechanics

Group A (2 marks questions)

1. At what temperature would one in a thousand of the atoms in a gas of atomic hydrogen
be in the n=2 energy level?
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9,
page 332)

24 | P a g e
 2𝑘𝑇
2. Verify that the most probable speed of an ideal gas molecule is √ .
𝑚
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9,
page 332)
3. Verify that the rms speed of an ideal gas molecule is about 9 percent greater than its
average speed. (Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition,
Chapter 9, page 304)
4. Find the rms speed of oxygen molecules at 00C. (Concepts of Modern Physics, A.
Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 305)

Group B (5 marks questions)

5. Show that the average kinetic energy per molecule at room temperature (20 o C) is much
less than the energy needed to raise a hydrogen atom from its ground state to its first
excited state.
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9,
page 332)
6. At what temperature will the average molecular kinetic energy in gaseous hydrogen equal
the binding energy of a hydrogen atom?
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9,
page 332)
7. Show that de Broglie wavelength of an oxygen molecule in thermal equilibrium in the
atmosphere at 200C is smaller than its diameter about 4 × 10−10 𝑚.
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9,
page 332)
8. A cubic meter of atomic hydrogen at 00C and at atmospheric pressure contains about 2.7×
1025 atoms. Find the number of these atoms in their first excited states (n=2) at 00C and at
100000C.
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, SixthEdition, Chapter 9,
page 299)

Group C (10 marks questions)

9. The frequency of vibration of the H2 molecule is 1.32 x 1014 Hz.

(a) Find the relative populations of the =0,1,2,3 and 4 vibrational states at 5000K.
(b) Can the populations of the =2 and =3 states ever be equal ? If so at what temperature
does this occur?
(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter
9, page 332)

25 | P a g e
 1 2𝑚
10.a)Verify that the average value of 𝑣 for an ideal gas molecule is √𝜋𝑘𝑇 . [Note
∞ 2 1
∫0 𝑣𝑒 −𝑎𝑣 𝑑𝑣 = 2𝑎] (5)

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 332)

b)A flux of 1012 𝑛𝑒𝑢𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑠/𝑚2emerges each second from a port in a nuclear reactor. If these
neutrons have a Maxwell-Boltzmann energy distribution corresponding to T = 300K, calculate
the density of neutrons in the beam.

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 332)

c) What is the significance of the Fermi energy in a fermion system at 0K? At T>0K?

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 332)

11.a)Find the Fermi energy in copper on the assumption that each copper atom contributes one
free electron to the electron gas. The density of copper is 8.94× 103 kg/m3 and its atomic mass
is 63.5u.

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 325)
𝜖 𝐹
b)Show that the median energy in a free electron gas at T=0 is rqual to 22/3 = 0.630𝜖𝐹.

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 333,
Q.37)

c)The Fermi energy in copper is 7.04eV. Compare the approximate average energy of the free
electrons in copper at room temperature (kT=0.025eV) with their average energy if they
followed Maxwell Boltzmann statistics.

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 333,
Q.38)

12.a)The Fermi energy in Silver is 5.51eV. (a) What is the average energy of the free electrons in
silver at 0K? (b) What temperature is necessary for the average molecular energy in an ideal gas
to have this value? (c) What is the speed of an electron with this energy?

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 333,
Q.39)

26 | P a g e
 13.a)The Fermi energy in copper is 7.04eV. (i) Approximately what percentage of free electrons
in copper are in excited states at room temperature? (ii) At the melting point of copper, 1083 0C?

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 333,
Q.40)

b)The density of aluminium is 2.70 gm/𝑐𝑚3 and its atomic mass is 26.97u. The effective mass of
an electron in aluminium is 0.97𝑚𝑐 . Calculate the Fermi energy in aluminium.

(Concepts of Modern Physics, A. Beiser, McGraw Hill, Sixth Edition, Chapter 9, page 333,
Q.44)

27 | P a g e