PART–4 (iii) : IIT / JEE Previous Year Questions – Set 3

This set focuses on multi-force systems, constraints, and method selection—areas where IIT frequently tests students.


PYQ–11 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

Two blocks of masses m and 2m are connected by a light string and placed on a rough horizontal surface (coefficient of friction μ). A force F pulls the system. Find the acceleration.

Method Selection:

Treat both blocks as a single system. Friction acts on both blocks.

Solution:

Total mass = 3m
Total friction = μmg + 2μmg = 3μmg

Net force = F − 3μmg

Using F = ma:

a = (F − 3μmg) / 3m

Examiner’s Intention:

To test system approach and correct summation of friction forces.

Common Mistake:

Considering friction on only one block.


PYQ–12 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block of mass m is attached to a string passing over a smooth pulley. The other end carries a mass 2m. Find the acceleration of the system.

Method Selection:

Use Newton’s Second Law separately for both masses.

Solution:

For mass m (moving up):

T − mg = ma

For mass 2m (moving down):

2mg − T = 2ma

Adding equations:

mg = 3ma

a = g / 3

Examiner’s Intention:

To check correct direction choice and equation setup.

Common Mistake:

Taking same direction for both accelerations.


PYQ–13 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A particle is moving in a straight line. Its velocity-time graph is a straight line parallel to the time axis. What is the net force acting on the particle?

Method Selection:

Graph-based conceptual question using Newton’s laws.

Solution:

Velocity constant ⇒ acceleration = 0

Net force = m × 0 = 0

Examiner’s Intention:

To test understanding of graphs and acceleration.

Common Mistake:

Assuming force exists because velocity is non-zero.


PYQ–14 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block of mass m rests on a rough inclined plane at angle θ. Find the condition for equilibrium.

Method Selection:

Use force balance along and perpendicular to the incline.

Solution:

Along incline: mg sinθ ≤ μmg cosθ

tanθ ≤ μ

Examiner’s Intention:

To test limiting friction and equilibrium conditions.

Common Mistake:

Ignoring inequality condition.


PYQ–15 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A man standing on a weighing machine inside a lift finds his weight reduced. What can you conclude about the motion of the lift?

Method Selection:

Conceptual question using apparent weight.

Solution:

Reduced apparent weight means:

N = m(g − a)

Therefore, the lift is accelerating downward.

Examiner’s Intention:

To test understanding of apparent weight.

Common Mistake:

Confusing downward acceleration with upward motion.


High-Level Directional Tips

  • Always check whether to use system approach or individual bodies.
  • For pulleys, directions must be chosen carefully.
  • Graph questions always test acceleration, not velocity.
  • Equilibrium problems require inequality conditions.

PART–4 (iii) Completed.
PYQs covered so far: 15. We will continue to reach 30+ years coverage.

📚 Physics Thinking Library – How IIT Toppers Think

Welcome to the Physics Thinking Library by Mind Grow Magazine. This library is specially designed for IIT–JEE & Intermediate students to understand how toppers think, decide, and solve Physics problems.


🎯 What You Will Learn From This Library

  • How IIT toppers approach Physics questions
  • Decision-making during problem solving
  • Common traps & how to avoid them
  • Exam-hall mindset and logic flow
  • Step-by-step thinking framework

📘 Complete Series: How IIT Toppers Think (Part 1–25)

Click on any part below to start learning. It is recommended to read in order.

  1. Part 1 – Introduction to Topper Thinking
  2. Part 2 – Understanding the Problem Statement
  3. Part 3 – Visualization & Physical Sense
  4. Part 4 – Role of Acceleration & Forces
  5. Part 5 – Free Body Diagram Thinking
  6. Part 6 – Method Selection Strategy
  7. Part 7 – Avoiding Formula Traps
  8. Part 8 – System Approach Mindset
  9. Part 9 – Friction & Constraint Thinking
  10. Part 10 – Time vs Accuracy Balance
  11. Part 11 – Common Thinking Mistakes
  12. Part 12 – Decision Flow in Tough Problems
  13. Part 13 – Eliminating Wrong Options
  14. Part 14 – Handling Multi-Concept Questions
  15. Part 15 – Pressure Handling in Exam Hall
  16. Part 16 – Speed Building Without Guessing
  17. Part 17 – Extreme Case Thinking
  18. Part 18 – Logical Shortcuts vs Blind Tricks
  19. Part 19 – Advanced Reasoning Techniques
  20. Part 20 – Rank-Deciding Thought Patterns
  21. Part 21 – Physics Intuition Development
  22. Part 22 – Eliminating Panic in Tough Questions
  23. Part 23 – Last-Minute Thinking Strategy
  24. Part 24 – Mistake-Proof Problem Solving
  25. Part 25 – Final Topper Framework

🧠 How to Use This Library Effectively

  • Read 1–2 parts daily
  • Apply thinking to real Physics problems
  • Revisit library before exams
  • Use as a mindset guide, not memorization

This library is a long-term asset for serious Physics learners.
© Mind Grow Magazine

No comments:

Post a Comment

  📘 IIT–JEE Physics Complete Master Library (Class XI & XII) Concepts • Problems • Advanced Applications • Thinking Skill...