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ScienceCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2026 (session 2025-26)

CBSE Class 10 Science: 2026 board paper, set 31/5/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2026, as printed: 39 questions for 80 marks, in sections, with each OR choice shown as an alternative. Try each question first, then open our solution.

Every question here has our step-by-step solution, split into the steps that earn marks. Each one was checked by an independent re-solve from the question paper.

Source: official question paper from cbse.gov.in: https://www.cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/question-paper/2026/X/Science.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 1191-1_31-5-1_Science.pdf). Questions are transcribed from that PDF; figures are described in words, so check the official paper for them.

How the paper is set

SectionQuestionsWhat it has
A1-16Biology (30 marks): MCQ 1-7, assertion-reason 8-9, VSA 10-12, SA 13-14, CBQ 15, LA 16 with internal choice
B17-29Chemistry (25 marks): MCQ 17-23, assertion-reason 24, VSA 25-26, SA 27-28, LA 29 with internal choice
C30-39Physics (25 marks): MCQ 30-31, assertion-reason 32, SA 33-37, LA 38-39 with internal choice

Instructions in brief: All 39 questions are compulsory; there is no overall choice, but an internal choice (OR / either-or) is given in a few questions and only one alternative must be attempted. Answers must be divided into Sections A (Biology), B (Chemistry) and C (Physics).

Section A

Biology (30 marks): MCQ 1-7, assertion-reason 8-9, VSA 10-12, SA 13-14, CBQ 15, LA 16 with internal choice

  1. Q1 · 1 mark · MCQLife Processes

    Identify the part that controls the closing and opening of the stomatal pore in leaves of plants. Select the correct option.

    1. (A)Stomata
    2. (B)Epidermal cells
    3. (C)Guard cells
    4. (D)Chloroplasts
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Each stomatal pore is bordered by a pair of guard cells. When they take in water they swell and the pore opens; when they lose water they shrink and the pore closes. So the correct option is (C) Guard cells.

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Guard cells

    Where the marks are

    • Chooses guard cells (1 mark)
  2. Q2 · 1 mark · MCQControl and Coordination

    Identify the endocrine gland that regulates the growth of human body.

    1. (A)Pituitary gland
    2. (B)Thyroid gland
    3. (C)Pancreas
    4. (D)Adrenal gland
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone, which regulates growth and development of the body. Too little of it in childhood causes dwarfism. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A) Pituitary gland

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies pituitary gland (1 mark)
  3. Q3 · 1 mark · MCQLife Processes

    Choose the equation of reaction that correctly represents anaerobic respiration in muscles :

    1. (A)
    2. (B)
    3. (C)
    4. (D)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Glycolysis splits glucose into pyruvate in the cytoplasm without using oxygen.

    2. When oxygen is short in muscle cells, pyruvate is converted to lactic acid with release of energy. The build-up of lactic acid causes cramps. Answer: (D).

      1 mark

    Answer: (D)

    Where the marks are

    • Selects glucose → pyruvate → lactic acid + energy under lack of oxygen (1 mark)

    Open Q3 on its own page

  4. Q4 · 1 mark · MCQHow do Organisms Reproduce?

    In human beings, the implantation of fertilised egg takes place in which part of female reproductive system ?

    1. (A)Oviduct
    2. (B)Cervix
    3. (C)Uterus
    4. (D)Vagina
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Fertilisation happens in the oviduct. The zygote then moves down and implants in the thick, blood-rich lining of the uterus. Answer: (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Uterus

    Where the marks are

    • Chooses uterus (1 mark)
  5. Q5 · 1 mark · MCQHeredity

    When a human egg is fertilized by a sperm having 'Y' chromosome, the zygote has the following combination of chromosomes :

    1. (A)
    2. (B)
    3. (C)
    4. (D)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. The egg carries 22 + X and the sperm carries 22 + Y.

    2. The zygote therefore has 44 + XY, which gives a male child. Answer: (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) 44 + XY

    Where the marks are

    • Combines 22+X and 22+Y to give 44+XY (1 mark)
  6. Q6 · 1 mark · MCQOur Environment

    Which of the following is a non-biodegradable pollutant ?

    1. (A)Paper
    2. (B)DDT
    3. (C)Wood
    4. (D)Vegetable peel
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Paper, wood and vegetable peel are broken down by microbes. DDT is a synthetic pesticide that microbes cannot decompose, so it persists in the environment. Answer: (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (B) DDT

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies DDT (1 mark)
  7. Q7 · 1 mark · MCQOur Environment

    In an ecosystem, the decomposers perform an important role. Select the option indicating the role of decomposers.

    1. (A)Convert inorganic materials to simpler forms
    2. (B)Break down complex organic substances to simple inorganic substances.
    3. (C)Break down inorganic substances into organic substances.
    4. (D)Do not act on organic compounds.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Decomposers such as bacteria and fungi break down complex organic matter of dead organisms into simple inorganic substances. These return to the soil and are reused by plants. Answer: (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (B)

    Where the marks are

    • Selects breakdown of complex organic to simple inorganic substances (1 mark)
  8. Q8 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedHeredity

    Question No. 8 & 9 consists of two statements – Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Answer these questions selecting the appropriate option from (A), (B), (C) and (D) given below: (A) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A). (B) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A). (C) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false. (D) Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

    Assertion (A): Bacteria that can withstand heat have better chances of survival in a heat wave.

    Reason (R): Accumulation of variations in a species increases the chances of its survival in changing environment.

    1. (A)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    2. (B)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    3. (C)Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
    4. (D)Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. A is true: heat-resistant variants survive a heat wave better than the others.

    2. R is true, and it explains A: the heat tolerance is itself a variation, and variations improve survival in a changing environment. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A)

    Where the marks are

    • Both true and R explains A (1 mark)

    Open Q8 on its own page

  9. Q9 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedLife Processes

    Question No. 8 & 9 consists of two statements – Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Answer these questions selecting the appropriate option from (A), (B), (C) and (D) given below.

    Assertion (A): The peristaltic movements occur all along the gut.

    Reason (R): The lining of the gut has muscles that contract rhythmically to push the food in regulated manner.

    1. (A)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    2. (B)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    3. (C)Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
    4. (D)Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. A is true: peristalsis occurs all along the gut, from the oesophagus to the intestines.

    2. R is true and is the cause of A: the rhythmic contraction of muscles in the gut lining is exactly what produces these peristaltic movements. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A)

    Where the marks are

    • Both true, R explains A (1 mark)

    Open Q9 on its own page

  10. Q10 · 2 marks · Very short answerLife Processes

    Give a diagrammatic representation of nutrition in Amoeba.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Draw a sequence of 3–4 labelled sketches of Amoeba (irregular cell with nucleus). Stage 1 – Ingestion: the Amoeba senses a food particle and pushes out finger-like pseudopodia that surround it.

      ½ mark
    2. Stage 2: the tips of the pseudopodia fuse, enclosing the food with a little water in a food vacuole.

      ½ mark
    3. Stage 3 – Digestion and absorption: digestive enzymes enter the food vacuole and break the food into simple soluble substances, which diffuse into the cytoplasm and are assimilated.

      ½ mark
    4. Stage 4 – Egestion: the vacuole carrying the undigested residue moves to the cell surface and throws it out. Label in the diagram: pseudopodia, food particle, food vacuole, nucleus.

      ½ mark

    Answer: Labelled sequence: pseudopodia surround food → food vacuole forms → digestion and absorption into cytoplasm → egestion of undigested waste.

    Where the marks are

    • Shows pseudopodia engulfing the food particle (½ mark)
    • Shows formation of the food vacuole (½ mark)
    • Shows digestion/absorption in the cytoplasm (½ mark)
    • Shows egestion of undigested food, with correct labels (½ mark)

    Open Q10 on its own page

  11. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q11(A) · 2 marks · Very short answerHow do Organisms Reproduce?

    Observe the given figure and identify the labelled parts P, Q, R and S :

    Figure in the paper: Reflex arc diagram. A hand is placed on a hot pan (labelled P, pointing at the hand touching the pan). A nerve runs from the hand up the arm (labelled Q, on the nerve fibre from the hand toward the spinal cord, with arrows showing the impulse path). Label R marks the connection/relay point in the spinal cord, where the nerve passes into the grey matter of the spinal cord. Label S marks the muscle of the arm (biceps region) where the response occurs. The figure shows the spinal cord (CNS) at the top with an arrow labelled 'Message to brain' going upward from the spinal cord. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. P – Receptor (sense organ in the skin of the hand that detects heat).

      ½ mark
    2. Q – Sensory neuron (carries the impulse from the hand to the spinal cord).

      ½ mark
    3. R – Relay neuron (in the spinal cord, passes the impulse from sensory to motor neuron).

      ½ mark
    4. S – Effector (muscles of the arm that contract to pull the hand away).

      ½ mark

    Answer: P – receptor (skin); Q – sensory neuron; R – relay neuron; S – effector (arm muscle)

    Where the marks are

    • P identified as receptor (½ mark)
    • Q identified as sensory neuron (½ mark)
    • R identified as relay neuron (½ mark)
    • S identified as effector/arm muscle (½ mark)

    Open Q11(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q11(B) · 2 marks · Very short answerControl and Coordination

    Which of the plant hormones are responsible for the following processes ?

    1. (i)

      Promote cell division

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      Inhibition of growth

      0 marks
    3. (iii)

      Detection of light

      0 marks
    4. (iv)

      Wilting of leaves

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Promoting cell division – Cytokinin.

      ½ mark
    2. (ii) Inhibition of growth – Abscisic acid (ABA).

      ½ mark
    3. (iii) Response to light (phototropism) – Auxin, which moves to the shaded side and makes cells there grow longer.

      ½ mark
    4. (iv) Wilting of leaves – Abscisic acid (ABA).

      ½ mark

    Answer: (i) Cytokinin; (ii) Abscisic acid; (iii) Auxin; (iv) Abscisic acid

    Where the marks are

    • Cytokinin for cell division (½ mark)
    • Abscisic acid for growth inhibition (½ mark)
    • Auxin for light response (½ mark)
    • Abscisic acid for wilting of leaves (½ mark)

    Open Q11(B) on its own page

  12. Q12 · 2 marks · Very short answerLife Processes

    Briefly mention the steps in double-circulation through human heart.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Oxygen-rich blood from the lungs enters the left atrium through the pulmonary veins; the left atrium contracts and sends it into the left ventricle.

      ½ mark
    2. The left ventricle contracts and pumps this blood into the aorta, which carries it to all parts of the body.

      ½ mark
    3. Deoxygenated blood from the body returns through the vena cava to the right atrium, which passes it into the right ventricle.

      ½ mark
    4. The right ventricle pumps it through the pulmonary artery to the lungs for oxygenation. Thus blood passes through the heart twice in one cycle – double circulation.

      ½ mark

    Answer: Lungs → left atrium → left ventricle → aorta → body → right atrium → right ventricle → lungs (blood passes twice through the heart).

    Where the marks are

    • Lungs to left atrium to left ventricle (½ mark)
    • Left ventricle pumps into aorta to body (½ mark)
    • Body deoxygenated blood to right atrium (½ mark)
    • Right ventricle sends blood to lungs (½ mark)

    Open Q12 on its own page

  13. Q13 · 3 marks · Short answerHeredity

    Based on Mendel's experiment show the cross between round, yellow seeds of pea plant (RRYY) with wrinkled and green seeds of pea plant (rryy) upto generation. Write the number of seeds/plants with following genetic (Genotype) makeup in generation :

    1. (i)

      RRYY

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      rryy

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Parents: Round yellow (RRYY) × Wrinkled green (rryy). Gametes: RY and ry. F₁: all RrYy – round, yellow seeds.

      1 mark
    2. F₁ × F₁ (selfing): RrYy × RrYy. Gametes of each: RY, Ry, rY, ry.

      RYRyrYry
      RYRRYYRRYyRrYYRrYy
      RyRRYyRRyyRrYyRryy
      rYRrYYRrYyrrYYrrYy
      ryRrYyRryyrrYyrryy

      Phenotypic ratio 9 round yellow : 3 round green : 3 wrinkled yellow : 1 wrinkled green.

      1 mark
    3. (i) RRYY – 1 out of 16.

      ½ mark
    4. (ii) rryy – 1 out of 16.

      ½ mark

    Answer: F₁ all RrYy (round yellow); F₂ 9:3:3:1; (i) RRYY = 1; (ii) rryy = 1 (out of 16)

    Where the marks are

    • Parental cross and F₁ RrYy shown (1 mark)
    • Correct F₂ Punnett square with four gamete types (1 mark)
    • RRYY = 1 (½ mark)
    • rryy = 1 (½ mark)

    Open Q13 on its own page

  14. Q14 · 3 marks · Short answerCompetency-basedOur Environment

    (a) Mention any one harmful effect of using plastic bags on the environment. Suggest better alternatives to the usage of plastic bags.

    (b) Paddy fields require a large amount of water. The pesticides and chemical fertilizers used are washed down into the soil or waterbodies. How do these chemicals reach our bodies ? What is this phenomenon known as ?

    1. (a)

      Mention any one harmful effect of using plastic bags on the environment. Suggest better alternatives to the usage of plastic bags.

      0 marks
    2. (b)

      Paddy fields require a large amount of water. The pesticides and chemical fertilizers used are washed down into the soil or waterbodies. How do these chemicals reach our bodies ? What is this phenomenon known as ?

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Harmful effect: plastic is non-biodegradable, so bags stay in soil and water for very long, choking drains and harming animals that swallow them.

      ½ mark
    2. Better alternatives: jute bags or cloth bags (also paper bags).

      ½ mark
    3. (b) The pesticides and fertilisers are non-biodegradable. From soil/water they are absorbed by plants and aquatic organisms, then pass along the food chain, accumulating progressively at each trophic level. Humans, at the top of food chains, get the highest concentration in their bodies.

      1 mark
    4. This phenomenon is called biological magnification.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Non-biodegradable, persists in environment; use jute/cloth bags. (b) Enter food chain and accumulate at each trophic level, maximum in humans – biological magnification.

    Where the marks are

    • One harmful effect of plastic bags (½ mark)
    • Suitable alternative such as jute/cloth bag (½ mark)
    • Explains entry through food chain and accumulation at each trophic level (1 mark)
    • Names biological magnification (1 mark)

    Open Q14 on its own page

  15. Q15 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedLife Processes

    Kidneys help to regulate the volume of fluid and various metabolites waste products in the body.

    Normally, kidney filter about 180 L of fluid daily but the volume actually excreted out is only a litre or two a day.

    Patients with kidney failures can be saved by dialysis and kidney transplant.

    1. (a)

      Write the structure and function of Bowman's capsule.

      1 mark
    2. (b)

      Although kidneys filter a large amount (about 180 L daily) of fluids, still the excretion from the body is only about a litre or two. Why ?

      1 mark
    3. (c)

      What is excretion ? Why is it necessary for any living organism ?

      2 marks
    4. OR

      (c) OR

      State two similarities between lungs and kidneys.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Structure: Bowman's capsule is the cup-shaped beginning of a nephron, enclosing a cluster of capillaries (glomerulus).

      ½ mark
    2. Function: it receives the filtrate filtered from the blood in the glomerulus.

      ½ mark
    3. (b) As the filtrate flows along the tubule of the nephron, most of the water and useful substances like glucose, amino acids and salts are selectively reabsorbed into the blood; so only a litre or two remains as urine.

      1 mark
    4. (c) Excretion is the biological process of removing harmful metabolic (nitrogenous) wastes such as urea and uric acid from the body.

      1 mark
    5. It is necessary because these wastes are toxic; if they accumulate they harm the body and the organism cannot survive.

      1 mark
    6. (c) OR – Similarity 1: both remove metabolic wastes from the blood (lungs remove CO₂, kidneys remove urea).

      1 mark
    7. Similarity 2: both contain thin-walled blood capillaries – in alveoli for gaseous exchange and in glomeruli for filtration.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Cup-shaped start of nephron; collects filtrate. (b) Selective reabsorption of water and useful substances. (c) Removal of toxic metabolic wastes, needed as they are harmful. OR: both remove wastes; both have thin-walled capillaries.

    Where the marks are

    • Structure of Bowman's capsule (½ mark)
    • Function – collects filtrate (½ mark)
    • Selective reabsorption in the tubule (1 mark)
    • Definition of excretion (1 mark)
    • Reason – wastes are toxic (1 mark)
    • OR: two similarities between lungs and kidneys (1 + 1 marks)

    Open Q15 on its own page

  16. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q16(A) · 5 marks · Long answerHow do Organisms Reproduce?

    (i) In an angiospermic flower, fertilization is said to take place when male gametes carried in the pollen tube fuse with the female gamete, present in the embryo sac. This results in lot of changes in different parts of the flower. State the changes taking place in the following structures of flower post fertilization :
    (a) Zygote
    (b) Ovule
    (c) Ovary
    (d) Sepals

    1. (i)

      State the changes taking place in the following structures of flower post fertilization: (a) Zygote (b) Ovule (c) Ovary (d) Sepals

      4 marks
    2. (ii)

      Define germination.

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i)(a) Zygote: divides repeatedly to form the embryo inside the ovule.

      1 mark
    2. (b) Ovule: develops a tough coat and gradually becomes the seed.

      1 mark
    3. (c) Ovary: grows rapidly and ripens to form the fruit.

      1 mark
    4. (d) Sepals: shrivel and fall off (along with petals and stamens).

      1 mark
    5. (ii) Germination is the process by which the embryo in a mature seed grows into a seedling under suitable conditions of water, air and temperature.

      1 mark

    Answer: Zygote → embryo; ovule → seed; ovary → fruit; sepals shrivel and fall; germination = seed developing into a seedling under suitable conditions.

    Where the marks are

    • Zygote forms embryo (1 mark)
    • Ovule forms seed (1 mark)
    • Ovary forms fruit (1 mark)
    • Sepals shrivel and fall off (1 mark)
    • Correct definition of germination (1 mark)

    Open Q16(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q16(B) · 5 marks · Long answerHow do Organisms Reproduce?

    (i) Sugarcane does not produce seeds so name the process through which it will be able to reproduce.

    1. (i)

      Sugarcane does not produce seeds so name the process through which it will be able to reproduce.

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      List any two advantages of this method.

      0 marks
    3. (iii)

      Besides sugarcane, give two more examples of plants that reproduce by this method.

      0 marks
    4. (iv)

      Why regeneration is not possible in all the types of animals ?

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Sugarcane reproduces by vegetative propagation (through stem cuttings with nodes).

      1 mark
    2. (ii) Advantage 1: plants raised this way bear flowers and fruits earlier than those grown from seeds.

      1 mark
    3. Advantage 2: the new plants are genetically similar to the parent, so desirable characters are preserved; it also lets seedless plants (e.g. banana) reproduce.

      1 mark
    4. (iii) Examples: rose and grapes (also banana, orange, jasmine).

      1 mark
    5. (iv) Regeneration needs specialised cells that can divide and differentiate into all tissues. Only simple organisms like Hydra and Planaria have such cells; complex animals lack them, so they cannot regenerate a whole body.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Vegetative propagation; (ii) early flowering/fruiting, offspring identical to parent; (iii) rose, grapes; (iv) only organisms with specialised regenerative cells can regenerate.

    Where the marks are

    • Names vegetative propagation (1 mark)
    • Two advantages (1 + 1 marks)
    • Two correct examples (½ + ½ marks)
    • Regeneration needs specialised cells present only in some organisms (1 mark)

    Open Q16(B) on its own page

Section B

Chemistry (25 marks): MCQ 17-23, assertion-reason 24, VSA 25-26, SA 27-28, LA 29 with internal choice

  1. Q17 · 1 mark · MCQChemical Reactions and Equations

    The volume ratio of hydrogen and oxygen gases liberated during electrolysis of water is :

    1. (A)1 : 2
    2. (B)2 : 1
    3. (C)1 : 3
    4. (D)4 : 1
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. The electrolysis reaction is .

    2. Two volumes of hydrogen form for every one volume of oxygen, so the ratio is 2 : 1. Answer: (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (B) 2 : 1

    Where the marks are

    • Uses the balanced equation to get 2:1 (1 mark)

    Open Q17 on its own page

  2. Q18 · 1 mark · MCQCarbon and its Compounds

    Which of the following set of compounds does not belong to same homologous series ?

    1. (A) and
    2. (B) and
    3. (C) and
    4. (D) and
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. fits , so it is an alkene. fits , so it is an alkane.

    2. Every other pair contains only alkanes. So (D) is the pair that is not from the same homologous series.

      1 mark

    Answer: (D)

    Where the marks are

    • Recognises alkene vs alkane (1 mark)

    Open Q18 on its own page

  3. Q19 · 1 mark · MCQMetals and Non-metals

    Which of the following is an amphoteric oxide ?

    1. (A)
    2. (B)
    3. (C)
    4. (D)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. reacts with acids and also with bases to form salt and water, so it is amphoteric.

      1 mark
    2. and are basic oxides, and is acidic. Answer: (D).

    Answer: (D) Al₂O₃

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies Al₂O₃ (1 mark)

    Open Q19 on its own page

  4. Q20 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedAcids, Bases and Salts

    Study the following table and select the correct option :

    SaltAcid usedBase usedNature of Salt
    (A) NaClHClNaOHBasic
    (B) NaCOHCONaOHNeutral
    (C) NaSOHSONaOHAcidic
    (D) CHCOONaCHCOOHNaOHBasic
    1. (A)NaCl, HCl, NaOH, Basic
    2. (B)NaCO, HCO, NaOH, Neutral
    3. (C)NaSO, HSO, NaOH, Acidic
    4. (D)CHCOONa, CHCOOH, NaOH, Basic
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. CH₃COONa comes from a weak acid (CH₃COOH) and a strong base (NaOH), so the salt is basic. Row (D) is correct.

      1 mark
    2. The other rows are wrong: NaCl is neutral, Na₂CO₃ is basic and Na₂SO₄ is neutral.

    Answer: (D)

    Where the marks are

    • Weak acid + strong base gives a basic salt (1 mark)

    Open Q20 on its own page

  5. Q21 · 1 mark · MCQCarbon and its Compounds

    Which of the following will not undergo addition reaction ?

    1. (A)
    2. (B)
    3. (C)
    4. (D)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (propane) is a saturated alkane with only single bonds, so it cannot undergo an addition reaction.

      1 mark
    2. The other three compounds have double or triple bonds and do undergo addition. Answer: (C).

    Answer: (C) C₃H₈

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies the saturated hydrocarbon (1 mark)

    Open Q21 on its own page

  6. Q22 · 1 mark · MCQAcids, Bases and Salts

    Four solutions, namely fructose, ethanol, hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide filled in four separate beakers are connected one by one in an electric circuit with a bulb. The solutions in which the bulb will glow when current is passed are :

    1. (A)ethanol and hydrochloric acid
    2. (B)fructose and ethanol
    3. (C)fructose and sodium hydroxide
    4. (D)hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. HCl and NaOH ionise in water, giving free ions that carry current, so the bulb glows.

      1 mark
    2. Fructose and ethanol do not ionise in water, so the bulb does not glow with them. Answer: (D).

    Answer: (D)

    Where the marks are

    • Picks the solutions that produce ions (1 mark)

    Open Q22 on its own page

  7. Q23 · 1 mark · MCQMetals and Non-metals

    Which gas is evolved when magnesium metal reacts with very dilute ?

    1. (A)Oxygen
    2. (B)Nitrogen
    3. (C)Hydrogen
    4. (D)Nitrogen Dioxide
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. HNO₃ is a strong oxidising agent, so it usually oxidises any H₂ formed to water. Very dilute HNO₃ is an exception for Mg and Mn.

    2. With very dilute HNO₃, Mg releases hydrogen gas: . Answer: (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Hydrogen

    Where the marks are

    • Hydrogen gas (1 mark)

    Open Q23 on its own page

  8. Q24 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedChemical Reactions and Equations

    In the question two statements are given – one labelled as Assertion (A) and other labelled as Reason (R). Answer this question selecting the appropriate option from (A), (B), (C) and (D) given below.

    Assertion (A): Reaction of quick lime with water is an exothermic reaction.

    Reason (R): A large amount of heat is evolved on the reaction of quick lime and water.

    1. (A)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    2. (B)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    3. (C)Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
    4. (D)Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. The reaction is + heat, so A is true.

    2. R is true, and release of a large amount of heat is what makes a reaction exothermic, so R explains A. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A)

    Where the marks are

    • Both true, R explains A (1 mark)

    Open Q24 on its own page

  9. Q25 · 2 marks · Very short answerAcids, Bases and Salts

    Define the following terms :

    1. (i)

      Olfactory indicator

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      Water of crystallization

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Olfactory indicators are substances whose odour changes in acidic or basic medium, e.g. onion, vanilla essence, clove oil.

      1 mark
    2. (ii) Water of crystallisation is the fixed number of water molecules present in one formula unit of a salt, e.g. 5 in .

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Substances whose smell changes in acid/base; (ii) fixed number of water molecules in one formula unit of a salt.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct definition of olfactory indicator (1 mark)
    • Correct definition of water of crystallisation (1 mark)

    Open Q25 on its own page

  10. Q26 · 3 marks · Very short answerChemical Reactions and Equations

    What happens when :
    (i) lead (II) nitrate is heated ?
    (ii) iron (II) sulphate is heated ?
    (iii) silver chloride is exposed to sunlight ?

    Write balanced chemical equations of the reactions involved in support of your answer.

    1. (i)

      What happens when lead (II) nitrate is heated ? Write balanced chemical equation.

      1 mark
    2. (ii)

      What happens when iron (II) sulphate is heated ? Write balanced chemical equation.

      1 mark
    3. (iii)

      What happens when silver chloride is exposed to sunlight ? Write balanced chemical equation.

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Lead nitrate decomposes on heating and brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide are given off; yellow lead oxide remains.

      1 mark
    2. (ii) Green ferrous sulphate crystals change colour, forming reddish-brown ferric oxide with a smell of burning sulphur.

      1 mark
    3. (iii) White silver chloride turns grey as silver metal forms and chlorine is released.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Brown NO₂ fumes: 2Pb(NO₃)₂ → 2PbO + 4NO₂ + O₂; (ii) burning-sulphur smell, colour change: 2FeSO₄ → Fe₂O₃ + SO₂ + SO₃; (iii) white AgCl turns grey: 2AgCl → 2Ag + Cl₂

    Where the marks are

    • Observation and balanced equation for Pb(NO₃)₂ (½ + ½ marks)
    • Observation and balanced equation for FeSO₄ (½ + ½ marks)
    • Observation and balanced equation for AgCl (½ + ½ marks)

    Open Q26 on its own page

  11. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q27(A) · 3 marks · Short answerAcids, Bases and Salts

    (a) Give the chemical name and formula of Plaster of Paris.
    (b) Write the chemical equation of its preparation.
    (c) Give any two uses of it.

    1. (a)

      Give the chemical name and formula of Plaster of Paris.

      0 marks
    2. (b)

      Write the chemical equation of its preparation.

      0 marks
    3. (c)

      Give any two uses of it.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Chemical name: calcium sulphate hemihydrate; formula .

      1 mark
    2. (b) Gypsum is heated at 373 K:

      1 mark
    3. (c) Uses: (1) supporting fractured bones in the right position by doctors; (2) making toys, decorative materials and smooth surfaces.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Calcium sulphate hemihydrate, CaSO₄·½H₂O; (b) CaSO₄·2H₂O → (373 K) CaSO₄·½H₂O + 3/2 H₂O; (c) plastering fractured bones, making toys.

    Where the marks are

    • Chemical name (½ mark)
    • Formula (½ mark)
    • Preparation equation with 373 K (1 mark)
    • Two uses (½ + ½ marks)

    Open Q27(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q27(B) · 3 marks · Short answerAcids, Bases and Salts

    (a) Name the acid present in ant's sting.
    (b) Give reason :
    (i) While diluting an acid, it is recommended that the acid should be added to water.
    (ii) Baking soda is used as an antacid.

    1. (a)

      Name the acid present in ant's sting.

      0 marks
    2. (b)(i)

      Give reason: While diluting an acid, it is recommended that the acid should be added to water.

      0 marks
    3. (b)(ii)

      Give reason: Baking soda is used as an antacid.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Ant sting contains methanoic acid (formic acid), HCOOH.

      1 mark
    2. (b)(i) Mixing acid with water is highly exothermic. Adding acid slowly to a large amount of water spreads the heat, so there is no excessive local heating, splashing or burns; adding water to acid can boil the mixture and break the container.

      1 mark
    3. (b)(ii) Baking soda (NaHCO₃) is a mild base; it neutralises the excess acid in the stomach and gives relief from acidity.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Methanoic (formic) acid; (b)(i) avoids excessive local heating and splashing; (ii) mild alkali neutralises excess stomach acid.

    Where the marks are

    • Names methanoic acid (1 mark)
    • Reason for adding acid to water – heat/splashing (1 mark)
    • Baking soda neutralises excess acid (1 mark)

    Open Q27(B) on its own page

  12. Q28 · 4 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedCarbon and its Compounds

    Alcohol forms a homologous series with general formula –OH and –OH group as functional group. Ethanol is commonly called alcohol and is used in alcoholic drinks. It is good solvent, used in medicines, cough syrups, tonics etc.

    1. (a)

      Write structural formula and name of 4th member of alcohol homologous series.

      1 mark
    2. (b)

      What happens when ethanol is heated with alkaline ? Write chemical equation involved.

      1 mark
    3. (c)

      Write the chemical equation of reaction of ethanol with ethanoic acid in the presence of concentrated . Write the name of this reaction.

      2 marks
    4. OR

      (c) OR

      What happens when ethanol is heated with excess concentrated sulphuric acid at 443 K ? Write chemical equation involved. What is the role of concentrated sulphuric acid in this reaction ?

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Fourth member (n = 4): (draw all C–H bonds with –OH on the end carbon).

      ½ mark
    2. Name: Butanol ().

      ½ mark
    3. (b) Ethanol is oxidised to ethanoic acid by alkaline KMnO₄ (oxidising agent).

      ½ mark
    4. ½ mark
    5. (c) (ethyl ethanoate, sweet-smelling ester)

      1 mark
    6. This reaction is called esterification.

      1 mark
    7. (c) OR – Ethanol is dehydrated to ethene.

      ½ mark
    8. ½ mark
    9. Role of conc. H₂SO₄: dehydrating agent – it removes water from ethanol.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂OH, butanol; (b) ethanoic acid formed; (c) CH₃COOH + C₂H₅OH → CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O, esterification. OR: ethene formed, conc. H₂SO₄ is dehydrating agent.

    Where the marks are

    • Structural formula of 4th member (½ mark)
    • Name butanol (½ mark)
    • States oxidation to ethanoic acid (½ mark)
    • Equation with alkaline KMnO₄ (½ mark)
    • Esterification equation (1 mark)
    • Names esterification (1 mark)
    • OR: ethene formed (½ mark), equation at 443 K (½ mark), dehydrating agent (1 mark)

    Open Q28 on its own page

  13. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q29(A) · 5 marks · Long answerMetals and Non-metals

    Give reasons for the following :

    1. (i)(I)

      Ionic compound have generally high melting points and boiling points.

      0 marks
    2. (i)(II)

      Solder, an alloy of lead and tin, is used for welding electrical wires.

      0 marks
    3. (i)(III)

      Carbon cannot reduce the oxides of Na or Mg.

      0 marks
    4. (ii)

      The reaction of compound 'X' with aluminium is used to join railway tracks: (I) Identify the compound 'X'. (II) Name the reaction. (III) Write the balanced chemical equation of the reaction of compound 'X' with aluminium.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i)(I) In ionic compounds oppositely charged ions are held by strong electrostatic (inter-ionic) forces; a large amount of energy is needed to break them, so melting and boiling points are high.

      1 mark
    2. (i)(II) Solder has a low melting point, so it melts easily and joins electrical wires without damaging them.

      1 mark
    3. (i)(III) Na and Mg are highly reactive and have more affinity for oxygen than carbon, so carbon cannot remove oxygen from their oxides; they are obtained by electrolytic reduction.

      1 mark
    4. (ii)(I) X is iron(III) oxide, Fe₂O₃.

      ½ mark
    5. (II) The reaction is the thermit reaction.

      ½ mark
    6. (III) – molten iron fills the gap between rails.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) strong inter-ionic forces; low melting point of solder; Na/Mg have greater affinity for oxygen than C. (ii) X = Fe₂O₃; thermit reaction; Fe₂O₃ + 2Al → 2Fe + Al₂O₃ + heat.

    Where the marks are

    • Strong inter-ionic attraction needs much energy (1 mark)
    • Solder has low melting point (1 mark)
    • Na/Mg more reactive / greater affinity for oxygen than carbon (1 mark)
    • X = Fe₂O₃ (½ mark)
    • Thermit reaction (½ mark)
    • Balanced equation (1 mark; ½ deducted if unbalanced)

    Open Q29(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q29(B) · 5 marks · Long answerMetals and Non-metals

    (i) Write the balanced chemical equations when:
    (I) A mixture of and is heated.
    (II) ZnS is heated in the presence of oxygen.
    (ii) Give reasons for the following:
    (I) The wires carrying current in homes have a coating of PVC.
    (II) To make hot water tanks, copper is used and not steel.
    (iii) Show the formation of ionic compound CaO with electron dot structure. [Atomic number: Ca = 20, O = 8]

    1. (i)

      Write the balanced chemical equations when: (I) A mixture of CuO and CuS is heated. (II) ZnS is heated in the presence of oxygen.

      2 marks
    2. (ii)

      Give reasons for the following: (I) The wires carrying current in homes have a coating of PVC. (II) To make hot water tanks, copper is used and not steel.

      2 marks
    3. (iii)

      Show the formation of ionic compound CaO with electron dot structure. [Atomic number: Ca = 20, O = 8]

      1 mark
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i)(I) Self-reduction of copper:

      1 mark
    2. (i)(II) Roasting of zinc blende:

      1 mark
    3. (ii)(I) PVC is a poor conductor of electricity; the coating insulates current-carrying wires and prevents shocks and short circuits.

      1 mark
    4. (ii)(II) Copper does not react with cold water, hot water or steam, so it does not corrode, whereas steel (iron) rusts; copper is also a better conductor of heat.

      1 mark
    5. (iii) Ca (2, 8, 8, 2) loses 2 electrons; O (2, 6) gains them:
      i.e. (CaO). Show the two electrons transferring by arrows from Ca to O.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) 2Cu₂O + Cu₂S → 6Cu + SO₂; 2ZnS + 3O₂ → 2ZnO + 2SO₂. (ii) PVC insulates; copper does not react with water/steam (steel rusts). (iii) Ca transfers 2 electrons to O → Ca²⁺[O]²⁻.

    Where the marks are

    • Balanced equation for Cu₂O + Cu₂S (1 mark)
    • Balanced roasting equation for ZnS (1 mark)
    • PVC is an insulator (1 mark)
    • Copper does not react with water/steam or better heat conductor (1 mark)
    • Electron-dot formation of Ca²⁺O²⁻ (1 mark)

    Open Q29(B) on its own page

Section C

Physics (25 marks): MCQ 30-31, assertion-reason 32, SA 33-37, LA 38-39 with internal choice

  1. Q30 · 1 mark · MCQLight – Reflection and Refraction

    Rays from the sun converge at a point 25 cm behind a convex lens. The distance at which an object be placed in front of the lens to get a virtual image, is :

    1. (A)20 cm
    2. (B)40 cm
    3. (C)50 cm
    4. (D)More than 50 cm
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. Rays from the sun meet at the principal focus, so f = 25 cm.

    2. A convex lens forms a virtual image only when the object is between the lens and F, that is, closer than 25 cm. Of the options, only 20 cm is less than 25 cm. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A) 20 cm

    Where the marks are

    • f = 25 cm; object within f (1 mark)

    Open Q30 on its own page

  2. Q31 · 1 mark · MCQThe Human Eye and the Colourful World

    To restore clear vision in persons whose size of the eye ball has reduced, he/she is suggested to use suitable

    1. (A)Converging lens
    2. (B)Diverging lens
    3. (C)Bifocal lens
    4. (D)Cylindrical lens
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. When the eyeball is too short, the image of a near object forms behind the retina. This defect is hypermetropia.

    2. It is corrected with a convex (converging) lens. Answer: (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A) Converging lens

    Where the marks are

    • Hypermetropia corrected by convex lens (1 mark)

    Open Q31 on its own page

  3. Q32 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedMagnetic Effects of Electric Current

    For question number 32, two statements are given – one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R). Select the correct answer to this question from the codes (A), (B), (C) and (D) as given below.

    Assertion (A): The needle of a magnetic compass kept in strong external magnetic field, always aligns itself in north-south direction on the earth.

    Reason (R): Behaviour of the needle of a compass is same as that of a freely suspended bar magnet.

    1. (A)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    2. (B)Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
    3. (C)Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
    4. (D)Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. A is false: in a strong external magnetic field the needle aligns along that field, not along the earth's north-south direction.

    2. R is true: a compass needle is a small magnet and behaves like a freely suspended bar magnet. Answer: (D).

      1 mark

    Answer: (D)

    Where the marks are

    • A false, R true (1 mark)

    Open Q32 on its own page

  4. Q33 · 2 marks · Very short answerCompetency-basedLight – Reflection and Refraction

    (a) Relate the speed of light in the given medium with its optical density.

    (b) Using the information given in the table below, arrange the medium A, B and C in the ascending order of their optical density.

    MediumSpeed of light (m/s)
    A
    B
    C
    1. (a)

      Relate the speed of light in the given medium with its optical density.

      0 marks
    2. (b)

      Arrange the medium A, B and C in the ascending order of their optical density, using the table.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Speed of light is more in an optically rarer medium and less in an optically denser medium, i.e. the greater the optical density, the smaller the speed of light.

      1 mark
    2. (b) Speeds: A () > C () > B ( m/s). Lower speed means higher optical density, so ascending order of optical density: A < C < B.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Higher optical density → lower speed of light; (b) A < C < B

    Where the marks are

    • Correct relation between speed and optical density (1 mark)
    • Order A < C < B (1 mark)

    Open Q33 on its own page

  5. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q34(A) · 2 marks · Very short answerThe Human Eye and the Colourful World

    (i) How does the change in curvature of the eye lens helps us in the process of seeing the nearby objects clearly ?
    (ii) State the range of the power of accommodation of a normal human eye.

    1. (i)

      How does the change in curvature of the eye lens help us in the process of seeing the nearby objects clearly ?

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      State the range of the power of accommodation of a normal human eye.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) For nearby objects the ciliary muscles contract, so the eye lens becomes thicker (curvature increases); its focal length decreases, and the image of the near object is formed sharply on the retina.

      1 mark
    2. (ii) A normal eye can see clearly from its near point 25 cm to its far point at infinity.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Curvature increases, focal length decreases, image focused on retina; (ii) 25 cm to infinity

    Where the marks are

    • Curvature increases so focal length decreases (1 mark)
    • Range 25 cm to infinity (1 mark)

    Open Q34(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q34(B) · 2 marks · Very short answerThe Human Eye and the Colourful World

    Draw a ray diagram to show the correction of eye defect of an old man who can not see an object placed closer than 1 m from his eye, clearly.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. The man's near point has receded to 1 m (hypermetropia/presbyopia), so the defect is corrected by a convex (converging) lens. (For reference: cm, cm; , cm, D.)

    2. Diagram (a) – defective eye: rays from an object N at 25 cm, after passing through the eye lens, meet at a point behind the retina; mark the near point N′ at 1 m.

      1 mark
    3. Diagram (b) – corrected eye: place a convex lens in front of the eye; rays from N (25 cm) are converged so they appear to come from N′ (1 m) and the image forms on the retina. Show arrows on all rays to indicate the direction of light.

      1 mark

    Answer: Convex lens (about +3 D) placed before the eye makes rays from 25 cm appear to come from 1 m and focus on the retina.

    Where the marks are

    • Ray diagram of defective eye with image behind retina (1 mark)
    • Ray diagram of correction with convex lens and image on retina (1 mark)
    • ½ mark deducted if direction of light is not shown

    Open Q34(B) on its own page

  6. Q35 · 3 marks · Short answerLight – Reflection and Refraction

    (a) Draw the ray diagram for refraction of light through a glass prism and mark angle of refraction and angle of deviation.

    (b) When the path of a light ray refracted through a glass prism is reversed how will the angle of deviation change ? Explain.

    1. (a)

      Draw the ray diagram for refraction of light through a glass prism and mark angle of refraction and angle of deviation.

      0 marks
    2. (b)

      When the path of a light ray refracted through a glass prism is reversed how will the angle of deviation change ? Explain.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Ray diagram: Draw a triangular glass prism . A ray strikes face at and bends towards the normal (air → glass), travelling as inside the prism. At face it emerges along , bending away from the normal (glass → air). Arrows show the direction of light. Produce the incident ray forward and the emergent ray backward (dotted) so that they meet.

      1 mark
    2. Labelling: mark angle of incidence between and , **angle of refraction ** between and the normal inside the prism, and angle of emergence at .

      ½ mark
    3. Mark the **angle of deviation ** as the angle between the produced incident ray and the emergent ray.

      ½ mark
    4. (b) The angle of deviation does not change.

      ½ mark
    5. Reason: by the principle of reversibility of light, the reversed ray follows exactly the same path backwards; the emergent ray becomes the incident ray, so and interchange and the ray retraces its original path, giving the same deviation.

      ½ mark

    Answer: (a) Labelled prism diagram with and marked; (b) angle of deviation remains the same, as the ray retraces its path.

    Where the marks are

    • Correct ray diagram through prism with directions of rays (1 mark)
    • Angle of refraction correctly marked (½ mark)
    • Angle of deviation correctly marked (½ mark)
    • States deviation does not change (½ mark)
    • Explains that the ray retraces its original path (½ mark)

    Open Q35 on its own page

  7. Q36 · 3 marks · Short answerLight – Reflection and Refraction

    (a) A ray of light after reflection from a concave mirror becomes parallel to its principal axis. Draw a labelled ray diagram to show this.

    (b) (i) Differentiate between the virtual images formed by a convex mirror and concave mirror.
    (ii) "The value of magnification 'm' for a mirror is –2." Calculate the height of object if the height of image is 20 cm.

    1. (a)

      A ray of light after reflection from a concave mirror becomes parallel to its principal axis. Draw a labelled ray diagram to show this.

      0 marks
    2. (b)(i)

      Differentiate between the virtual images formed by a convex mirror and concave mirror.

      0 marks
    3. (b)(ii)

      "The value of magnification 'm' for a mirror is –2." Calculate the height of object if the height of image is 20 cm.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) Draw a concave mirror with pole , principal focus and centre of curvature on the principal axis. Draw a ray from the object passing through (or directed from) towards the mirror; after reflection it travels parallel to the principal axis. Show arrows on both rays and label , , and the principal axis.

      1 mark
    2. (b)(i) Virtual image by a convex mirror is always diminished and is formed for all positions of the object; virtual image by a concave mirror is enlarged and is formed only when the object lies between and .

      1 mark
    3. (b)(ii) ; image is inverted (since is negative), so cm.

      ½ mark
    4. cm. Height of object = 10 cm.

      ½ mark

    Answer: (b)(i) Convex: diminished, for all positions; concave: enlarged, only when object between P and F; (b)(ii) h = 10 cm

    Where the marks are

    • Correct labelled ray diagram: ray through F reflects parallel to axis (1 mark)
    • Any one correct difference between virtual images (1 mark)
    • Uses with cm (½ mark)
    • Obtains cm (½ mark)

    Open Q36 on its own page

  8. Q37 · 3 marks · Short answerCompetency-basedElectricity

    (a) Why does an electric bulb become dim when an electric heater in parallel circuit is switched ON ?

    (b) How to connect three resistors each of resistance , so that the equivalent resistance of the combination is ? Draw diagram of the combination and justify your answer.

    1. (a)

      Why does an electric bulb become dim when an electric heater in parallel circuit is switched ON ?

      0 marks
    2. (b)

      How to connect three resistors each of resistance , so that the equivalent resistance of the combination is ? Draw diagram of the combination and justify your answer.

      0 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) A heater has low resistance and draws a large current when switched on. The total current in the supply line rises sharply, so the voltage drop across the connecting wires increases and less voltage/current is available to the bulb in parallel; hence the bulb glows dim.

      1 mark
    2. (b) Diagram: Connect two resistors in parallel, and connect this parallel pair in series with the third resistor between points A and B.

      1 mark
    3. Justification: parallel pair . In series with : .

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) Heater draws large current, reducing current/voltage for the bulb; (b) two 8 Ω in parallel (4 Ω) in series with third 8 Ω gives 12 Ω

    Where the marks are

    • Reason: heater draws large current so bulb gets less current and glows dim (1 mark)
    • Correct diagram: two resistors in parallel, in series with third (1 mark)
    • Calculation , (1 mark)

    Open Q37 on its own page

  9. Q38 · 4 marks · Long answerCompetency-basedElectricity

    Three students Shweta, Ayesha and Samridhi were performing an experiment to understand the factors on which the resistance of a conductor depends. Each one of them completed electric circuit with the help of a cell, an ammeter, a plug key and wire.

    Shweta put nichrome wire of length '' in the circuit and after plugging the key, noted current in the ammeter.

    Ayesha put nichrome wire of same thickness but twice the length i.e. '' in the circuit and after plugging the key, noted current in the ammeter.

    Samridhi took copper wire of length '' and same thickness in the circuit and after plugging the key, noted current in the ammeter.

    1. (a)

      If the ammeter reading is X ampere with nichrome wire of length '', then what will be the ammeter reading if the length of nichrome wire is doubled with same area of cross-section ?

      1 mark
    2. (b)

      What happens to the ammeter reading if the area of cross-section of nichrome wire is doubled, keeping the length of wire '' the same ?

      1 mark
    3. (c)

      Define 'resistivity'. Write its SI unit. Compare the resistivity of an alloy with its constituents metals.

      2 marks
    4. OR

      (c) OR (i)

      Give reason: Tungsten is used almost exclusively for making the filament of electric lamps.

      2 marks
    5. OR

      (c) OR (ii)

      Give reason: Conductors of bread-toasters are made of an alloy rather than a pure metal.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (a) ; doubling the length doubles resistance, so with the same cell is halved. Ammeter reading = A.

      1 mark
    2. (b) ; doubling the area halves the resistance, so current doubles. Ammeter reading = A.

      1 mark
    3. (c) Resistivity () of a material is the resistance of a conductor of that material having unit length and unit area of cross-section ().

      1 mark
    4. SI unit: ohm metre (m).

      ½ mark
    5. Resistivity of an alloy is generally higher than that of its constituent metals.

      ½ mark
    6. (c) OR (i) Tungsten has a very high melting point (about 3380 °C), so it can be heated till it glows (white hot) without melting.

      1 mark
    7. (c) OR (ii) An alloy has higher resistivity than pure metals, so it produces more heat, and it does not oxidise (burn) readily at high temperatures.

      1 mark

    Answer: (a) X/2 A; (b) 2X A; (c) resistivity = resistance of unit length and unit cross-section area, unit Ω m, alloy has higher resistivity; OR (i) high melting point; (ii) high resistivity and no oxidation at high temperature

    Where the marks are

    • Reading becomes X/2 (1 mark)
    • Reading becomes 2X (1 mark)
    • Correct definition of resistivity (1 mark)
    • SI unit Ω m (½ mark)
    • Alloy has higher resistivity than constituent metals (½ mark)
    • OR: Tungsten has high melting point (1 mark)
    • OR: Alloy has high resistivity / does not oxidise readily at high temperature (1 mark)

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  10. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q39(A) · 5 marks · Long answerMagnetic Effects of Electric Current

    (i) Draw a diagram showing the magnetic field lines around a bar magnet. Write any two characteristics of magnetic field lines.
    (ii) Write the statement of Right hand thumb rule.
    (iii) The concentric circles representing the magnetic field around a current carrying straight wire become larger and larger as we move away from the wire. How does magnetic field change on these concentric circles ?

    1. (i)

      Draw a diagram showing the magnetic field lines around a bar magnet. Write any two characteristics of magnetic field lines.

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      Write the statement of Right hand thumb rule.

      0 marks
    3. (iii)

      The concentric circles representing the magnetic field around a current carrying straight wire become larger and larger as we move away from the wire. How does magnetic field change on these concentric circles ?

      0 marks

    Figure in the paper: Diagram of a bar magnet showing magnetic field lines emerging from the North pole and entering the South pole, with lines drawn closer together near the poles. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Diagram: Draw a bar magnet with N and S marked. Draw closed curved field lines coming out of the N pole and entering the S pole outside the magnet, with arrows; lines are crowded near the poles and spread out away from them; inside the magnet arrows go from S to N.

      1 mark
    2. Characteristic 1: Field lines emerge from the north pole and merge at the south pole outside the magnet, and go from south to north inside, so they are closed curves.

      1 mark
    3. Characteristic 2: No two field lines cross each other (otherwise there would be two directions of the field at one point). [Also: closeness of lines shows relative strength of field.]

      1 mark
    4. (ii) Right-hand thumb rule: Hold the current-carrying straight conductor in the right hand with the thumb pointing along the direction of current; the direction in which the fingers curl around the conductor gives the direction of the magnetic field lines.

      1 mark
    5. (iii) The magnetic field becomes weaker (decreases) on the larger circles, i.e. it decreases as the distance from the wire increases ().

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Diagram + closed curves N→S outside, lines never cross; (ii) thumb along current, fingers give field direction; (iii) field decreases on larger circles

    Where the marks are

    • Correct diagram of field lines around bar magnet with arrows (1 mark)
    • Any two correct characteristics (1 + 1 marks)
    • Correct statement of right-hand thumb rule (1 mark)
    • Field decreases as circles get larger (1 mark)

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    OR

    Q39(B) · 5 marks · Long answerMagnetic Effects of Electric Current

    (i) Draw a diagram, showing the magnetic field lines in and around the current carrying solenoid. Write any two salient features of these lines.
    (ii) What is an electromagnet and how is it made ?

    1. (i)

      Draw a diagram, showing the magnetic field lines in and around the current carrying solenoid. Write any two salient features of these lines.

      0 marks
    2. (ii)

      What is an electromagnet and how is it made ?

      0 marks

    Figure in the paper: Diagram of a current-carrying solenoid showing magnetic field lines inside the coil running parallel and nearly uniform, and lines outside looping from one end back to the other, like a bar magnet. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
    1. (i) Diagram: Draw a solenoid (coil of many turns) connected to a battery and key. Inside the coil draw parallel straight field lines with arrows; outside, draw lines looping from one end to the other, like a bar magnet; mark the ends N and S as per the current direction.

      1 mark
    2. Feature 1: The field pattern of a current-carrying solenoid is similar to that of a bar magnet; one end behaves as north pole and the other as south pole.

      1 mark
    3. Feature 2: Inside the solenoid the field lines are parallel straight lines, showing that the magnetic field is uniform there.

      1 mark
    4. (ii) An electromagnet is a piece of magnetic material (soft iron) that behaves as a strong magnet only while electric current flows through a coil around it.

      1 mark
    5. It is made by winding insulated copper wire as a coil (solenoid) around a soft iron core and passing current through the coil; the soft iron gets magnetised.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Diagram; field like a bar magnet, parallel straight lines (uniform field) inside; (ii) electromagnet = soft iron magnetised by current in coil, made by winding insulated copper wire around soft iron core

    Where the marks are

    • Correct diagram of solenoid field lines with directions (1 mark)
    • Any two salient features (1 + 1 marks)
    • Definition of electromagnet (1 mark)
    • How it is made: insulated copper coil on soft iron core with current (1 mark)

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Source: official question paper, cbse.gov.in. Chapter tags and solutions are ours. Spotted a transcription error? Write tosupport@questionbuddy.in.