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

This set focuses on conceptual twists, free body diagrams, and hidden examiner traps. Colors are kept soft and academic to improve long-reading comfort.


PYQ–16 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block of mass m is resting on a smooth horizontal surface. Another block of mass m is placed on it. The lower block is pulled with a constant force F. Find the acceleration of the upper block if there is no slipping.

Method Selection:

Since there is no slipping, both blocks move together. Treat them as a single system.

Solution:

Total mass = 2m
Net force = F

Using F = ma:

a = F / 2m

Examiner’s Intention:

To check whether the student identifies conditions of no relative motion.

Common Mistake:

Applying friction equations without checking slipping condition.


PYQ–17 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block is projected up a rough inclined plane with initial velocity u. Find the acceleration during its upward motion.

Method Selection:

Resolve forces along the incline. Both gravity and friction act downward.

Solution:

Forces down the plane:

mg sinθ + μmg cosθ

Using F = ma:

a = g (sinθ + μ cosθ) (down the plane)

Examiner’s Intention:

To test correct direction of friction during upward motion.

Common Mistake:

Taking friction upward instead of downward.


PYQ–18 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A body of mass m is kept inside a lift which is in free fall. What is the apparent weight of the body?

Method Selection:

Use apparent weight concept in non-inertial frames.

Solution:

In free fall, acceleration a = g downward.

Apparent weight:

N = m(g − g) = 0

Examiner’s Intention:

To test extreme case of apparent weight.

Common Mistake:

Writing N = mg even during free fall.


PYQ–19 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A horizontal force acts on a body. The velocity increases but acceleration decreases with time. Which statement is correct?

Method Selection:

Conceptual reasoning based on Newton’s Second Law.

Solution:

Since acceleration decreases, net force must be decreasing.

Thus, opposing forces like friction must be increasing.

Examiner’s Intention:

To test relation between force and acceleration, not velocity.

Common Mistake:

Linking force with velocity instead of acceleration.


PYQ–20 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A body is acted upon by two equal and opposite forces. Can the body still accelerate? Explain.

Method Selection:

Conceptual reasoning using net force.

Solution:

If forces are equal and opposite and act on the same body, net force is zero.

Therefore, acceleration is zero.

Examiner’s Intention:

To check understanding of force balance.

Common Mistake:

Confusing action–reaction pair with balanced forces.


Directional Thinking Tips

  • Acceleration depends on net force, not motion.
  • Friction direction depends on relative motion.
  • Free fall is a special case of Newton’s Second Law.
  • Always check extreme or limiting cases.

PART–4 (iv) Completed.
PYQs covered so far: 20. Next sets will complete 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.
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