CLASS XII

There will be two papers in the subject.

Paper II: Practical - 3 hours ... 15 marks
Paper I: Theory - 3 hours ... 70 marks
Project Work ... 10 marks
Practical File ... 5 marks

PAPER I- THEORY: 70 Marks

There will be no overall choice in the paper. Candidates will be required to answer all questions. Internal
choice will be available in two questions of 2 marks each, two questions of 3 marks each and all the three
questions of 5 marks each.

S. NO. UNIT TOTAL WEIGHTAGE

1. Electrostatics 14 Marks

2. Current Electricity

3. Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism 16 Marks

4. Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents

5. Electromagnetic Waves

6. Optics 18 Marks

7. Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter 12 Marks

8. Atoms and Nuclei

9. Electronic Devices 8 Marks

10. Communication Systems 2 Marks

TOTAL 70 Marks
 PAPER I -THEORY- 70 Marks E = F / qo (q0 is a test charge); E for
Note: (i) Unless otherwise specified, only S. I. a group of charges (superposition
Units are to be used while teaching and learning, principle); a point charge q in an
as well as for answering questions. electric field E experiences an electric
force FE = qE . Intensity due to a
(ii) All physical quantities to be defined as and
when they are introduced along with their units and continuous distribution of charge i.e.
dimensions. linear, surface and volume.

(iii) Numerical problems are included from all (c) Electric lines of force: A convenient
topics except where they are specifically excluded way to visualize the electric field;
or where only qualitative treatment is required. properties of lines of force; examples
of the lines of force due to (i) an
1. Electrostatics isolated point charge (+ve and - ve);
(i) Electric Charges and Fields (ii) dipole, (iii) two similar charges at
a small distance;(iv) uniform field
Electric charges; conservation and
quantisation of charge, Coulomb's law; between two oppositely charged
superposition principle and continuous parallel plates.
charge distribution. (d) Electric dipole and dipole moment;
Electric field, electric field due to a point derivation of the E at a point, (1) on
charge, electric field lines, electric dipole, the axis (end on position) (2) on the
electric field due to a dipole, torque on a perpendicular bisector (equatorial i.e.
dipole in uniform electric field. broad side on position) of a dipole,
Electric flux, Gauss’s theorem in also for r>> 2l (short dipole); dipole in
Electrostatics and its applications to find a uniform electric field; net force zero,
field due to infinitely long straight wire, torque on an electric dipole:
→ →
uniformly charged infinite plane sheet and  = p  E and its derivation.
uniformly charged thin spherical shell.
(a) Coulomb's law, S.I. unit of (e) Gauss’ theorem: the flux of a v→ect→or
field; Q=vA for velocity vector v A,
charge; permittivity of free space A is area vector. Similarly, for electric
and of dielectric medium. field E , electric flux E = EA for E A
Frictional
(two electricity,
types); repulsion charges
electric and and E = E  A for uniform E . For
non-uniform field E = d = E.dA.
attraction; simple atomic structure - Special cases for  = 00, 900 and 1800.
→ , statement: E =q/0
electrons and ions; conductors Gauss’ the→orem
orE =  E dA =
and insulators; quantization and q
conservation of electric charge;  where E is for
0

Coulomb's law in vector form; a closed surface; q is the net charge

(position coordinates r1, r2 not enclosed, o is the permittivity of free
necessary). Comparison with Newton’s space. Essential properties of a
law of gravitation; Gaussian surface.
Su–→perpo–→sition–→ →– principle Applications: Obtain expression for E
( )
F1 = F12 + F13 + F14 +  . due to 1. an infinite line of charge, 2. a
uniformly charged infinite plane thin
(b) Concept of electric field and its sheet, 3. a thin hollow spherical shell
intensity; examples of different fields; (inside, on the surface and outside).
gravitational, electric and magnetic; Graphical variation of E vs r for a thin
Electric field due to a point charge spherical shell.
(ii) Electrostatic Potential, Potential Energy (b) Capacitance of a conductor C = Q/V;
and Capacitance obtain the capacitance of a parallel-
Electric potential, potential difference, plate capacitor (C = 0A/d) and
electric potential due to a point charge, a equivalent capacitance for capacitors in
dipole and system of charges; series and parallel combinations. Obtain
equipotential surfaces, electrical potential an expression for energy stored (U =
energy of a system of two point charges 1 2 1 1 Q2
CV =
and of electric dipole in an electrostatic ) and energy
2 2 2C
field. density.
Conductors and insulators, free charges (c) Dielectric constant K = C'/C; this is also
and bound charges inside a conductor. called relative permittivity K = r =
Dielectrics and electric polarisation, /o; elementary ideas of polarization of
capacitors and capacitance, combination matter in a uniform electric field
of capacitors in series and in parallel. qualitative discussion; induced surface
Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor, charges weaken the original field; results
energy stored in a capacitor.
in reduction in E and hence, in pd, (V);
(a) Concept of potential, potential for charge remaining the same Q = CV
difference and potential energy. = C' V' = K. CV'; V' = V/K;
Equipotential surface and its
and E = E K ; if the Capacitor is kept
properties. Obtain an expression for
electric potential at a point due to a connected with the source of emf, V is
point charge; graphical variation of E kept constant V = Q/C = Q'/C' ; Q'=C'V
and V vs r, VP=W/q0; hence VA -VB = = K. CV= K. Q
WBA/ q0 (taking q0 from B to A) = increases; For a parallel plate capacitor
(q/40)(1/rA - 1/rB); derive this with a dielectric in between,
equation; also VA = q/40 .1/rA ; for C' = KC = K.o . A/d = r .o .A/d.
q>0, VA>0 and for q<0, VA < 0. For a 0 A
collection of charges V = algebraic Then C = ; for a capacitor
d 
sum of the potentials due to each   
 r 
charge; potential due to a dipole on its
partially filled dielectric, capacitance,
axial line and equatorial line; also at
any point for r>>2l (short dipole). C' =oA/(d-t + t/r).
Potential energy of a point charge (q)
2. Current Electricity
in an electric field E , placed at a point
P where potential is V, is given by U Mechanism of flow of current in conductors.
=qV and U =q (VA-VB) . The Mobility, drift velocity and its relation with
electrostatic potential energy of a electric current; Ohm's law and its proof,
system of two charges = work done resistance and resistivity and their relation to
W21=W12 in assembling the system; U12 drift velocity of electrons; V-I characteristics
or U21 = (1/40 ) q1q2/r12. For a (linear and non-linear), electrical energy and
system of 3 charges U123 = U12 + U13 + power, electrical resistivity and
1 qq qq q q conductivity. Carbon resistors, colour code
U23 = for carbon resistors; series and parallel
40 ( r12 + r13 + r23 ) .
1 2 1 3 2 3
combinations of resistors; temperature
For a dipole in a uniform electric field, dependence of resistance and resistivity.
derive an expression of the electric Internal resistance of a cell, potential
potential energy UE = - p . E , special difference and emf of a cell, combination of
cases for  =00, 900 and 1800. cells in series and in parallel, Kirchhoff's laws
and simple applications, Wheatstone bridge,
metre bridge. Potentiometer - principle and its parallel and mixed grouping. Parallel
applications to measure potential difference, combination of two cells of unequal emf.
to compare emf of two cells; to measure Series combination of n cells of unequal
internal resistance of a cell. emf.
(a) Free electron theory of conduction; (d) Statement and explanation of Kirchhoff's
acceleration of free electrons, relaxation laws with simple examples. The first is a
timeτ ; electric current I = Q/t; concept of conservation law for charge and the 2nd is
drift velocity and electron mobility. Ohm's law of conservation of energy. Note change
law, current density J = I/A; experimental in potential across a resistor V=IR<0
verification, graphs and slope, ohmic when we go ‘down’ with the current
and non-ohmic conductors; obtain the (compare with flow of water down a river),
relation I=vdenA. Derive  = ne2/m and and V=IR>0 if we go up against the
 = m/ne2 τ ; effect of temperature on current across the resistor. When we go
resistivity and resistance of conductors through a cell, the -ve terminal is at a
and semiconductors and graphs. lower level and the +ve terminal at a
Resistance R= V/I; resistivity , given by R higher level, so going from -ve to +ve
= .l/A; conductivity and conductance; through the cell, we are going up and
Ohm’s law as J =  E ; colour coding of V=+ and going from +ve to -ve terminal
through the cell, we are going down, so V
resistance.
= -. Application to simple circuits.
(b) Electrical energy consumed in time Wheatstone bridge; right in the beginning
t is E=Pt= VIt; using Ohm’s law take Ig=0 as we consider a balanced

( 2
)
E = V R t = I2Rt. Potential difference
bridge, derivation of R1/R2 = R3/R4
[Kirchhoff’s law not necessary]. Metre
V = P/ I; P = V I; Electric power consumed bridge is a modified form of Wheatstone
P = VI = V2 /R = I2 R; commercial units; bridge, its use to measure unknown
electricity consumption and billing. resistance. Here R3 = l1 and R4=l2;
Derivation of equivalent resistance for R3/R4=l1/l2. Principle of Potentiometer: fall
combination of resistors in series and in potential V  l; auxiliary emf 1 is
parallel; special case of n identical balanced against the fall in potential V1
resistors; Rs = nR and Rp = R/n. across length l1. 1 = V1 =Kl1 ; 1/2 = l1/l2;
Calculation of equivalent resistance of potentiometer as a voltmeter. Potential
mixed grouping of resistors (circuits). gradient and sensitivity of potentiometer.
(c) The source of energy of a seat of emf (such Use of potentiometer: to compare emfs of
as a cell) may be electrical, mechanical, two cells, to determine internal resistance
thermal or radiant energy. The emf of a of a cell.
source is defined as the work done per unit
charge to force them to go to the higher 3. Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism
point of potential (from -ve terminal to +ve (i) Moving charges and magnetism
terminal inside the cell) so,  = dW /dq; but
Concept of magnetic field, Oersted's
dq = Idt; dW = dq = Idt . Equating total experiment. Biot - Savart law and its
work done to the work done across the application. Ampere's Circuital law and its
external resistor R plus the work done applications to infinitely long straight wire,
across the internal resistance r; Idt=I2R dt straight and toroidal solenoids (only
+ I2rdt;  =I (R + r); I=/( R + r ); also qualitative treatment). Force on a moving
IR +Ir =  or V=- Ir where Ir is called the charge in uniform magnetic and electric
back emf as it acts against the emf ; V is fields, cyclotron. Force on a current-
the terminal pd. Derivation of formulae for carrying conductor in a uniform magnetic
combination for identical cells in series, field, force between two parallel
 current-carrying conductors-definition of Lorentz force, Simple ideas about
ampere, torque experienced by a current principle, working, and limitations of a
loop in uniform magnetic field; moving coil cyclotron.
galvanometer - its sensitivity. Conversion
(c) Derive the expression for torque on a
of galvanometer into an ammeter and a
voltmeter. current carrying loop placed in a
uniform B , using F = I l  B and  =
(ii) Magnetism and Matter:
r  F ;  = NIAB sin  for N turns 
A current loop as a magnetic dipole, its
magnetic dipole moment, magnetic dipole = m × B , where the dipole moment
moment of a revolving electron, magnetic m = NI A, unit: A.m2. A current
field intensity due to a magnetic dipole carrying loop is a magnetic dipole;
(bar magnet) on the axial line and directions of current and B and m
equatorial line, torque on a magnetic dipole using right hand rule only; no other
(bar magnet) in a uniform magnetic field; rule necessary. Mention orbital
bar magnet as an equivalent solenoid, magnetic moment of an electron in
magnetic field lines; earth's magnetic field Bohr model of H atom. Concept of
and magnetic elements. radial magnetic field. Moving coil
Diamagnetic, paramagnetic, and galvanometer; construction, principle,
ferromagnetic substances, with examples. working, theory I= k , current and
Electromagnets and factors affecting their
voltage sensitivity. Shunt. Conversion
strengths, permanent magnets.
of galvanometer into ammeter and
(a) Only historical introduction through voltmeter of given range.
Oersted’s experiment. [Ampere’s
(d) Magnetic field represented by the
swimming rule not included]. Biot-
Savart law and its vector form; symbol B is now defined by the
–→
application; derive the expression for B equation F = qo (→  v ) B; B is not to be
(i) at the centre of a circular loop defined in terms of force acting on a
carrying current; (ii) at any point on unit pole, etc.; note the distinction of
its axis. Current carrying loop as a
B from E is that B forms closed
magnetic dipole. Ampere’s Circuital
loops as there are no magnetic
law: statement and brief explanation.
monopoles, whereas E lines start from
Apply it to obtain B near a long wire
+ve charge and end on -ve charge.
carrying current and for a solenoid
Magnetic field lines due to a magnetic
(straight as well as torroidal). Only
dipole (bar magnet). Magnetic field in
formula of B due to a finitely long end-on and broadside-on positions (No
conductor.
derivations). Magnetic flux  = B . A =
(b) Force on a movi→ng char→ged→particle in BA for B uniform and B A ; i.e.
( )
magnetic field FB = q v  B ; special
area held perpendicular to For  =
cases, modify this equation substituting BA( B A ), B=/A is the flux density
dl / dt for v and I for q/dt to yield F = [SI unit of flux is weber (Wb)]; but note
I dl  B for the force acting on a that this is not correct as a defining
current carrying conductor placed in a equation as B is vector and  and /A
magnetic field. Derive the expression are scalars, unit of B is tesla (T) equal
for force between two long and parallel
wires carrying current, hence, define to 10-4 gauss. For non-uniform B field,
ampere (the base SI unit of current)  = d= B . dA . Earth's magnetic
and hence, coulomb; from Q = It. field B E is uniform over a limited area
 like that of a lab; the component of this selection of magnetic material for
field in the horizontal direction BH is temporary and permanent magnets and
the one effectively acting on a magnet core of the transformer on the basis of
suspended or pivoted horizontally. retentivity and coercive force (B-H
Elements of earth’s magnetic field, i.e. loop and its significance, retentivity
BH,  and  - their definitions and and coercive force not to be evaluated).
relations.
4. Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating
(e) Properties of diamagnetic, Currents
paramagnetic and ferromagnetic
substances; their susceptibility and (i) Electromagnetic Induction
relative permeability. Faraday's laws, induced emf and current;
It is better to explain the main Lenz's Law, eddy currents. Self-induction
distinction, the cause of magnetization and mutual induction. Transformer.
(M) is due to magnetic dipole moment (ii) Alternating Current
(m) of atoms, ions or molecules being 0 Peak value, mean value and RMS value of
for dia, >0 but very small for para and alternating current/voltage; their relation
> 0 and large for ferromagnetic in sinusoidal case; reactance
materials; few examples; placed in and impedance; LC oscillations
external B , very small (induced) (qualitative treatment only), LCR series
magnetization in a direction opposite circuit, resonance; power in AC circuits,
to B in dia, small magnetization wattless current. AC generator.
parallel to B for para, and large (a) Electromagnetic induction, Magnetic
flux, change in flux, rate of change of
magnetization parallel to B for flux and induced emf; Faraday’s laws.
ferromagnetic materials; this leads to Lenz's law, conservation of energy;
lines of B becoming less dense, more motional emf  = Blv, and power P =
dense and much more dense in dia, (Blv)2/R; eddy currents (qualitative);
para and ferro, respectively; hence, a
(b) Self-Induction, coefficient o f self-
weak repulsion for dia, weak attraction = 
for para and strong attraction for ferro inductance,  = LI and L dI dt ;
magnetic material. Also, a small bar
suspended in the horizontal plane henry = volt. Second/ampere,
expression for coefficient of self-
becomes perpendicular to the B field inductance of a solenoid
for dia and parallel to B for para and
L=  2
0N A
=  n A l .
2
ferro. Defining equation H = (B/0)-M; 0
the magnetic properties, susceptibility l
m = (M/H) < 0 for dia (as M is Mutual induction and mutual
opposite H) and >0 for para, both very inductance (M), flux linked 2 = MI1;
small, but very large for ferro; hence d dI
relative permeability r =(1+ m) < 1 induced emf  2 = 2 =M 1 .
dt dt
for dia, > 1 for para and >>1 (very
large) for ferro; further, m1/T Definition of M as
(Curie’s law) for para, independent of M = 2 or M = 2 . SI unit
temperature (T) for dia and depends dI1 I1
on T in a complicated manner for dt
ferro; on heating ferro becomes para henry. Expression for coefficient of
at Curie temperature. Electromagnet: mutual inductance of two coaxial
its definition, properties and factors solenoids.
affecting the strength of electromagnet;
 0 N1 N2 A Z2 R2+(XL-Xc) 2
M = = nN A Induced = and
0 1 2
tan = (VL m -VCm)/VRm = (X L-X )c /R
l
emf opposes changes, back emf is set giving I = I m sin (wt-) where I m
up, eddy currents. =Vm/Z etc. Special cases for RL and
Transformer (ideal coupling): RC circuits. [May use Kirchoff’s law
principle, working and uses; step up and obtain the differential equation]
and step down; efficiency and Graph of Z vs f and I vs f.
applications including transmission of (f) Power P associated with LCR circuit =
power, energy losses and their 1
/2VoIo cos =VrmsIrms cos = Ims
r
2
R;
minimisation. power absorbed and power dissipated;
(c) Sinusoidal variation of V and I with electrical resonance; bandwidth of
time, for the output from an signals and Q factor (no derivation);
ac generator; time period, frequency oscillations in an LC circuit (0 =
and phase changes; obtain mean 1/ LC ). Average power consumed
values of current and voltage, obtain
relation between RMS value of V and I averaged over a full cycle P=
with peak values in sinusoidal cases (1/2) VoIo cos, Power factor
only. cos = R/Z. Special case for pure R, L
and C; choke coil (analytical only), XL
(d) Variation of voltage and current in a.c. controls current but cos = 0, hence
circuits consisting of only a resistor,
P =0, wattless current; LC circuit; at
only an inductor and only a capacitor
resonance with XL=Xc , Z=Zmin= R,
(phasor representation), phase lag and
power delivered to circuit by the
phase lead. May apply Kirchhoff’s law
source is maximum, resonant frequency
and obtain simple differential equation
1
(SHM type), V = Vo sin t, solution I = f 0= .
I0 sin t, I0sin (t + /2) and I0 sin (t 2 LC
- /2) for pure R, C and L circuits (g) Simple a.c. generators: Principle,
respectively. Draw phase (or phasor) description, theory, working and use.
diagrams showing voltage and current Variation in current and voltage with
and phase lag or lead, also showing time for a.c. and d.c. Basic differences
resistance R, inductive reactance XL; between a.c. and d.c.
(XL=L) and capacitive reactance XC,
(XC = 1/C). Graph of XL and XC vs f. 5. Electromagnetic Waves
(e) The LCR series circuit: Use phasor Basic idea of displacement current.
diagram method to obtain expression Electromagnetic waves, their characteristics,
for I and V, the pd across R, L and C; their transverse nature (qualitative ideas only).
and the net phase lag/lead; use the Complete electromagnetic spectrum starting
results of 4(e), V lags I by /2 in a from radio waves to gamma rays: elementary
capacitor, V leads I by /2 in an facts of electromagnetic waves and their uses.
inductor, V and I are in phase in a Concept of displacement current, qualitative
resistor, I is the same in all three; descriptions only of electromagnetic spectrum;
hence draw phase diagram, combine common features of all regions of em
VL and Vc (in opposite phase; spectrum including transverse nature ( E and B
phasors add like vectors) perpendicular to c ); special features of the
to give V=VR+VL+VC (phasor addition) common classification (gamma rays, X rays,
and the max. values are related by UV rays, visible light, IR, microwaves, radio
V2 =V2 +(V -V )2 when V >V and TV waves) in their production (source),
m Rm Lm Cm L C
Substituting pd=current x detection and other properties; uses;
resistance or reactance, we get approximate range of  or f or at least proper
order of increasing f or .
6. Optics (d) Refraction at a single spherical
surface; detailed discussion of one case
(i) Ray Optics and Optical Instruments only - convex towards rarer medium,
Ray Optics: Reflection of light by for spherical surface and real image.
spherical mirrors, mirror formula, Derive the relation between n1, n2, u, v
refraction of light at plane surfaces, total and R. Refraction through thin lenses:
internal reflection and its applications, derive lens maker's formula and lens
optical fibres, refraction at spherical formula; derivation of combined focal
surfaces, lenses, thin lens formula, lens length of two thin lenses in contact.
maker's formula, magnification, power Combination of lenses and mirrors
of a lens, combination of thin lenses in (silvering of lens excluded) and
contact, combination of a lens and a magnification for lens, derivation for
mirror, refraction and dispersion of light biconvex lens only; extend the results
through a prism. Scattering of light. to biconcave lens, plano convex lens
and lens immersed in a liquid; power
Optical instruments: Microscopes and
of a lens P=1/f with SI unit dioptre.
astronomical telescopes (reflecting and
For lenses in contact 1/F= 1/f1+1/f2
refracting) and their magnifying powers
and P=P1+P2. Lens formula, formation
and their resolving powers.
of image with combination of thin
(a) Reflection of light by spherical mirrors. lenses and mirrors.
Mirror formula: its derivation; R=2f
[Any one sign convention may be used
for spherical mirrors. Magnification.
in solving numericals].
(b) Refraction of light at a plane interface,
(e) Ray diagram and derivation of
Snell's law; total internal reflection
magnifying power of a simple
and critical angle; total reflecting
microscope with image at D (least
prisms and optical fibers. Total distance of distinct vision) and infinity;
reflecting prisms: application to
Ray diagram and derivation of
triangular prisms with angle of the magnifying power of a compound
prism 300, 450, 600 and 900 microscope with image at D. Only
respectively; ray diagrams for expression for magnifying power of
Refraction through a combination of compound microscope for final image
media, 1 n2  2 n3  3 n1 = 1 , real depth at infinity.
and apparent depth. Simple
applications. Ray diagrams of refracting telescope
with image at infinity as well as at D;
(c) Refraction through a prism, minimum simple explanation; derivation of
deviation and derivation of magnifying power; Ray diagram of
relation between n, A and min. Include reflecting telescope with image at
explanation of i- graph, i1 = i2 = i infinity. Advantages, disadvantages
(say) for m; from symmetry r1 = r2; and uses. Resolving power of
refracted ray inside the prism is compound microscope and telescope.
parallel to the base of the equilateral
(ii) Wave Optics
prism. Thin prism. Dispersion; Angular
dispersion; dispersive power, rainbow Wave front and Huygen's principle. Proof
- ray diagram (no derivation). Simple of laws of reflection and refraction
explanation. Rayleigh’s theory of using Huygen's principle. Interference,
scattering of light: blue colour of sky Young's double slit experiment and
and reddish appearance of the sun at
expression for fringe width(β), coherent
sunrise and sunset clouds appear
white. sources and sustained interference of light,
Fraunhofer diffraction due to a single slit,
width of central maximum; polarisation, of an electromagnetic wave as
plane polarised light, Brewster's law, uses transmission of energy by periodic
of plane polarised light and Polaroids. changes in E and B along the path;
(a) Huygen’s principle: wavefronts - transverse nature as E and B are
different types/shapes of wavefronts; perpendicular to c . These three
proof of laws of reflection and vectors form a right handed system, so
refraction using Huygen’s theory.
that E x B is along c , they are
[Refraction through a prism and lens
mutually perpendicular to each other.
on the basis of Huygen’s theory not
required]. For ordinary light, E and B are in all
directions in a plane perpendicular to
(b) Interference of light, interference of
the c vector - unpolarised waves. If
monochromatic light by double slit.
Phase of wave motion; superposition of E and (hence B also) is confined to a
identical waves at a point, path single plane only (⊥ c , we have
difference and phase difference; linearly polarized light. The plane
coherent and incoherent sources;
containing E (or B ) and c remains
interference: constructive and
destructive, conditions for sustained fixed. Hence, a linearly polarised light
interference of light waves is also called plane polarised
[mathematical deduction of light. Plane of polarisation
interference from the equations of two (contains E and c ); polarisation by
progressive waves with a phase reflection; Brewster’s law: tan ip=n;
difference is not required]. Young's refracted ray is perpendicular to
double slit experiment: set up, reflected ray for i= ip; ip+rp = 90 ;
diagram, geometrical deduction of path polaroids; use in the production and
difference x = dsin, between waves detection/analysis of polarised light,
from the two slits; using x=n for other uses. Law of Malus.
bright fringe and x= (n+½) for dark
fringe and sin  = tan  =yn /D as y 7. Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter
and  are small, obtain yn=(D/d)n Wave particle duality; photoelectric effect,
and fringe width =(D/d). Graph of Hertz and Lenard's observations; Einstein's
distribution of intensity with angular photoelectric equation - particle nature of
distance. light. Matter waves - wave nature of particles,
de-Broglie relation; conclusion from
(c) Single slit Fraunhofer diffraction
Davisson-Germer experiment. X-rays.
(elementary explanation only).
Diffraction at a single slit: (a) Photo electric effect, quantization of
experimental setup, diagram, radiation; Einstein's equation
diffraction pattern, obtain expression Emax = h - W0; threshold frequency; work
for position of minima, a sinn= n, function; experimental facts of Hertz and
where n = 1,2,3… and conditions for Lenard and their conclusions; Einstein
secondary maxima, asinn =(n+½).; used Planck’s ideas and extended it to
distribution of intensity with angular apply for radiation (light); photoelectric
distance; angular width of central effect can be explained only assuming
bright fringe. quantum (particle) nature of
radiation. Determination of Planck’s
(d) Polarisation of light, plane polarised constant (from the graph of stopping
electromagnetic wave (elementary idea potential Vs versus frequency f of the
only), methods of polarisation of light. incident light). Momentum of photon
Brewster's law; polaroids. Description
p=E/c=h/c=h/.
 (b) De Broglie hypothesis, phenomenon of including atomic number Z, Neutron
electron diffraction (qualitative only). number N and mass number A. A brief
Wave nature of radiation is exhibited in account of historical background leading
interference, diffraction and polarisation; to Bohr’s theory of hydrogen spectrum;
particle nature is exhibited in photoelectric formulae for wavelength in Lyman, Balmer,
effect. Dual nature of matter: particle Paschen, Brackett and Pfund series.
nature common in that it possesses Rydberg constant. Bohr’s model of H
momentum p and kinetic energy KE. The atom, postulates (Z=1); expressions for
wave nature of matter was orbital velocity, kinetic energy, potential
proposed by Louis de Broglie, energy, radius of orbit and total energy of
=h/p= h/mv. Davisson and Germer electron. Energy level diagram, calculation
experiment; qualitative description of the of E, frequency and wavelength of
experiment and conclusion. different lines of emission spectra;
agreement with experimentally observed
(c) A simple modern X-ray tube (Coolidge
values. [Use nm and not Å for unit of].
tube) – main parts: hot cathode, heavy
element anode (target) kept cool, all (ii) Nuclei
enclosed in a vacuum tube; elementary Composition and size of nucleus,
theory of X-ray production; effect of Radioactivity, alpha, beta and gamma
increasing filament current- temperature particles/rays and their properties;
increases rate of emission of electrons radioactive decay law. Mass-energy
(from the cathode), rate of production of X relation, mass defect; binding energy
rays and hence, intensity of X rays per nucleon and its variation with mass
increases (not its frequency); increase in number; Nuclear reactions, nuclear fission
anode potential increases energy of each and nuclear fusion.
electron, each X-ray photon and hence, X-
(a) Atomic masses and nuclear density;
ray frequency (E=h); maximum frequency
Isotopes, Isobars and Isotones –
hmax =eV; continuous spectrum of X rays definitions with examples of each.
has minimum wavelength min= Unified atomic mass unit, symbol u,
c/max=hc/eV. Moseley’s law. 1u=1/12 of the mass of 12C atom =
Characteristic and continuous X rays, their 1.66x10-27kg). Composition of nucleus;
origin.(This topic is not to be evaluated) mass defect and binding energy, BE=
(m) c2. Graph of BE/nucleon versus
8. Atoms and Nuclei mass number A, special features - less
(i) Atoms BE/nucleon for light as well as heavy
Alpha-particle scattering experiment; elements. Middle order more stable
Rutherford's atomic model; Bohr’s atomic [see fission and fusion] Einstein’s
model, energy levels, hydrogen spectrum. equation E=mc2. Calculations related
to this equation; mass defect/binding
Rutherford’s nuclear model of atom
energy, mutual annihilation and pair
(mathematical theory of scattering
production as examples.
excluded), based on Geiger - Marsden
experiment on -scattering; (b) Radioactivity: discovery; spontaneous
nuclear radius r in terms of closest disintegration of an atomic nucleus
approach of  particle to the nucleus, with the emission of  or  particles
obtained by equating K=½ mv2 of the  and  radiation, unaffected by
particle to the change in electrostatic physical and chemical changes.
potential energy U of the system Radioactive decay law; derivation of
N = Noe-t; half-life period T; graph
[ U = 2e  Ze -15
r010 m = 1 fermi; atomic
40r0 of N versus t, with T marked on
structure; only general qualitative ideas, the X axis. Relation between
 half-life (T) and disintegration (ii) Semiconductor diode: I-V characteristics in
constant ( ); mean life ( ) and its forward and reverse bias, diode as a
relation with λ. Value of T of some rectifier; Special types of junction diodes:
common radioactive elements. LED, photodiode, solar cell and Zener
Examples of a few nuclear reactions
diode and its characteristics, zener diode as
with conservation of mass number and
charge, concept of a neutrino. a voltage regulator.

Changes taking place within the (iii) Junction transistor, npn and pnp transistor,
nucleus included. [Mathematical transistor action, characteristics of a
theory of  and  decay not included]. transistor and transistor as an amplifier
(common emitter configuration).
(c) Nuclear Energy
(iv) Elementary idea of analogue and digital
Theoretical (qualitative) prediction of
exothermic (with release of energy) signals, Logic gates (OR, AND, NOT,
nuclear reaction, in fusing together two NAND and NOR). Combination of gates.
light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus (a) Energy bands in solids; energy band
and in splitting heavy nucleus to form
diagrams for distinction between
middle order (lower mass number)
nuclei, is evident from the shape of BE conductors, insulators and semi-
per nucleon versus mass number conductors - intrinsic and extrinsic;
graph. Also calculate the electrons and holes in semiconductors.
disintegration energy Q for a heavy Elementary ideas about electrical
nucleus (A=240) with BE/A  7.6 MeV conduction in metals [crystal structure
per nucleon split into two equal halves not included]. Energy levels (as for
with A=120 each and BE/A  8.5 hydrogen atom), 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, etc. of
MeV/nucleon; Q  200 MeV. Nuclear an isolated atom such as that of
fission: Any one equation of fission copper; these split, eventually forming
reaction. Chain reaction- controlled ‘bands’ of energy levels, as we
and uncontrolled; nuclear reactor and consider solid copper made up of a
nuclear bomb. Main parts of a nuclear large number of isolated atoms,
reactor including their functions - fuel brought together to form a lattice;
elements, moderator, control rods,
definition of energy bands - groups of
coolant, casing; criticality; utilization
closely spaced energy levels separated
of energy output - all qualitative only.
by band gaps called forbidden bands.
Fusion, simple example of 4 1H→4He
An idealized representation of the
and its nuclear reaction equation;
energy bands for a conductor,
requires very high temperature  106
insulator and semiconductor;
degrees; difficult to achieve; hydrogen
characteristics, differences; distinction
bomb; thermonuclear energy
between conductors, insulators and
production in the sun and stars.
[Details of chain reaction not semiconductors on the basis of energy
required]. bands, with examples; qualitative
discussion only; energy gaps (eV) in
9. Electronic Devices typical substances (carbon, Ge, Si);
(i) Semiconductor Electronics: Materials, some electrical properties of
Devices and Simple Circuits. Energy bands semiconductors. Majority and minority
in conductors, semiconductors and charge carriers - electrons and holes;
insulators (qualitative ideas only). Intrinsic intrinsic and extrinsic, doping, p-type,
and extrinsic semiconductors. n-type; donor and acceptor impurities.
(b) Junction diode and its symbol; 10. Communication Systems
depletion region and potential barrier;
forward and reverse biasing, V-I Elements of a communication system (block
characteristics and numericals; half diagram only); bandwidth of signals (speech,
wave and a full wave rectifier. Simple TV and digital data); bandwidth of
circuit diagrams and graphs, function transmission medium. Modes of propagation
of each component in the electric of electromagnetic waves in the atmosphere
circuits, qualitative only. [Bridge through sky and space waves, satellite
rectifier of 4 diodes not included]; communication. Modulation, types
elementary ideas on solar cell, (frequency and amplitude), n eed for
photodiode and light emitting diode modulation and demodulation, advantages of
(LED) as semi conducting diodes. frequency modulation over amplitude
Importance of LED’s as they save modulation. Elementary ideas about internet,
energy without causing atmospheric
mobile network and global positioning system
pollution and global warming. Zener
(GPS).
diode, V-I characteristics, circuit
diagram and working of zener diode as Self-explanatory- qualitative only.
a voltage regulator.
(c) Junction transistor; simple qualitative
PAPER II
description of construction - emitter,
base and collector; npn and pnp type; PRACTICAL WORK- 15 Marks
symbols showing direction of current in The experiments for laboratory work and practical
emitter-base region (one arrow only)- examinations are mostly from two groups:
base is narrow; current gains in a (i) experiments based on ray optics and
transistor, relation between ,  and (ii) experiments based on current electricity.
numericals related to current gain,
voltage gain, power gain and The main skill required in group (i) is to remove
transconductance; common emitter parallax between a needle and the real image of
configuration only, characteristics; IB another needle.
vs VBE and IC vs VCE with circuit In group (ii), understanding circuit diagram and
diagram and numericals; common making connections strictly following the given
emitter transistor amplifier - circuit diagram is very important. Polarity of cells and
diagram; qualitative explanation meters, their range, zero error, least count, etc.
including amplification, wave form should be taken care of.
and phase reversal.
A graph is a convenient and effective way of
(d) Elementary idea of discreet and representing results of measurement. It is an
integrated circuits, analogue and important part of the experiment.
digital signals. Logic gates as given; There will be one graph in the Practical question
symbols, input and output, Boolean paper.
equations (Y=A+B etc.), truth table,
qualitative explanation. NOT, OR, Candidates are advised to read the question paper
AND, NOR, NAND. Combination of carefully and do the work according to the
gates [Realization of gates not instructions given in the question paper. Generally
included]. Advantages of Integrated they are not expected to write the procedure of the
Circuits. experiment, formulae, precautions, or draw the
figures, circuit diagrams, etc.
 Observations should be recorded in a tabular form. Deductions
Record of observations (i) The slope ‘S’ of the best fit line must be found
• All observations recorded should be consistent taking two distant points (using more than
with the least count of the instrument used (e.g. 50% of the line drawn), which are not the
y2 − y1 y
focal length of the lens is 10.0 cm or 15.1cm plotted points, using S= = .
but 10 cm is a wrong record.) x2 − x1 x
• All observations should be recorded with Slope S must be calculated upto proper decimal
correct units. place or significant figures as specified in the
question paper.
Graph work
(ii) All calculations should be rounded off upto
Students should learn to draw graphs correctly proper decimal place or significant figures, as
noting all important steps such as: specified in the question papers.
(i) Title
NOTE:
(ii) Selection of origin (should be marked by two
coordinates, example 0,0 or 5,0, or 0,10 or 30,5; Short answer type questions may be set from each
Kink is not accepted). experiment to test understanding of theory and
logic of steps involved.
(i) The axes should be labelled according to the
question Given below is a list of required experiments.
Teachers may add to this list, keeping in mind
(ii) Uniform and convenient scale should be taken the general pattern of questions asked in the
and the units given along each axis (one small annual examinations.
division = 0.33, 0.67, 0.66, etc. should not to
be taken) Students are required to have completed all
experiments from the given list (excluding
(iii) Maximum area of graph paper (at least 60% demonstration experiments):
of the graph paper along both the axes)
should be used. 1. To find focal length of a convex lens by using
u-v method (no parallax method)
(iv) Points should be plotted with great care,
Using a convex lens, optical bench/metre scales
marking the points plotted with (should be a
and two pins, obtain the positions of the images
circle with a dot) or  . A blob ( ) is a misplot.
for various positions of the object; f<u<2f,
(v) The best fit straight line should be drawn. The u~2f, and u>2f.
best fit line does not necessarily have to pass
Draw the following set of graphs using data
through all the plotted points and the origin.
from the experiments -
While drawing the best fit line, all
experimental points must be kept on the (i)  against u. It will be a curve.
 v
line or symmetrically placed on the left and (ii) Magnification  m =  against  which is
right side of the line. The line should be  u
continuous, thin, uniform and extended a straight line and to find focal length by
beyond the extreme plots. intercept.
(vi) The intercepts must be read carefully. (iii) y = (100/v) against x = (100/u) which is a
Y intercept i.e. y0 is that value of y when x = straight line and find f by intercepts.
0. Similarly, X intercept i.e. x0 is that value of 2. To find f of a convex lens by displacement
x when y=0. When x0 and y0 are to be read, method.
origin should be at (0, 0).
3. To determine the focal length of a given Demonstration Experiments (The following
convex lens with the help of an auxiliary experiments are to be demonstrated by the
convex lens. teacher):
4. To determine the focal length of a concave 1. To convert a given galvanometer into (a) an
lens, using an auxiliary convex lens, not in ammeter of range, say 2A and (b) a voltmeter
contact and plotting appropriate graph. of range 4V.
5. To determine focal length of concave mirror by 2. To study I-V characteristics of a semi-
using two pins (by u-v method). conductor diode in forward and reverse bias.
6. To determine the refractive index of a liquid by 3. To study characteristics of a Zener diode and to
using a convex lens and a plane mirror. determine its reverse breakdown voltage.
7. To determine the focal length of a convex 4. To study the characteristics of pnp/npn
mirror using convex lens. transistor in common emitter configuration.
8. Using a metre bridge, determine the resistance 5. To determine refractive index of a glass slab
of about 100 cm of (constantan) wire. Measure using a traveling microscope.
its length and radius and hence, calculate the
6. To observe polarization of light using two
specific resistance of the material.
polaroids
9. Verify Ohm’s law for the given unknown
7. Identification of diode, LED, transistor, IC,
resistance (a 60 cm constantan wire), plotting a
resistor, capacitor from mixed collection of
graph of potential difference versus current.
such items.
Also calculate the resistance per cm of the wire
from the slope of the graph and the length of 8. Use of multimeter to (i) identify base of
the wire. transistor, (ii) distinguish between npn and pnp
type transistors, (iii) see the unidirectional flow
10. To compare emfs of two cells using a
of current in case of diode and an LED,
potentiometer.
(iv) check whether a given electronic
11. To determine the internal resistance of a cell by component (e.g. diode, transistors, IC) is in
a potentiometer. working order.
12. From a potentiometer set up, measure the fall in 9. Charging and discharging of a capacitor.
potential (i.e. pd) for increasing lengths of a
constantan wire, through which a steady current PROJECT WORK AND PRACTICAL FILE –
is flowing; plot a graph of pd (V) versus length 15 marks
(l). Calculate the potential gradient of the wire
and specific resistance of its material. Q (i) Project Work – 10 marks
Why is the current kept constant in this The Project work is to be assessed by a Visiting
experiment? Q (ii) How can you increase the Examiner appointed locally and approved by the
sensitivity of the potentiometer? Q (iii) How Council.
can you use the above results and measure the
emf of a cell? All candidates will be required to do one project
involving some physics related topic/s under the
13. To verify the laws of combination of guidance and regular supervision of the Physics
resistances (series and parallel) using metre teacher.
bridge.
Candidates should undertake any one of the Suggested Evaluation Criteria for Model Based
following types of projects: Projects:
• Theoretical project ▪ Title of the Project
• Working Model ▪ Model construction
• Investigatory project (by performing an ▪ Concise Project report
experiment under supervision of a teacher)
The Project report should be approximately 5-10
Candidates are to prepare a technical report pages
formally written including title, abstract, some
theoretical discussion, experimental setup,
observations with tables of data collected, Suggested Evaluation Criteria for Investigative
graph/chart (if any), analysis and discussion of Projects:
results, deductions, conclusion, etc. The teacher
▪ Title of the Project
should approve the draft, before it is finalised. The
report should be kept simple, but neat and elegant. ▪ Theory/principle involved
No extra credit shall be given for typewritten
▪ Experimental setup
material/decorative cover, etc. Teachers may assign
or students may choose any one project of their ▪ Observations calculations/deduction and graph
choice. work

Suggested Evaluation Criteria for Theory Based ▪ Result/ Conclusions

Projects: The Project report should be of approximately5-
▪ Title of the Project 10 pages

▪ Introduction
Practical File – 5 marks
▪ Contents
The Visiting Examiner is required to assess the
▪ Analysis/ material aid (graph, data, structure, candidates on the basis of the Physics practical file
pie charts, histograms, diagrams, etc.) maintained by them during the academic year.
▪ Originality of work (the work should be the
candidates’ original work,)
▪ Conclusion/comments
The Project report should be of approximately15-
20 pages.