PART–4 (v) : IIT / JEE Previous Year Questions – Set 5

This set strengthens understanding of free body diagrams, system approach, and non-obvious force directions, which are frequently tested in IIT–JEE.


PYQ–21 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block of mass m is placed on a smooth inclined plane. Find the normal reaction exerted by the plane on the block.

Method Selection:

Resolve forces perpendicular to the inclined plane.

Solution:

Component of weight perpendicular to plane = mg cosθ

Since there is no acceleration perpendicular to the plane:

N = mg cosθ

Examiner’s Intention:

To test correct resolution of forces and understanding of normal reaction.

Common Mistake:

Taking normal reaction as mg.


PYQ–22 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

Two blocks of masses m and 2m are connected by a light string and pulled by a force F on a smooth surface. Find the tension in the string.

Method Selection:

First find acceleration of the system, then analyze one block.

Solution:

Total mass = 3m ⇒ a = F / 3m

For block of mass m:

T = ma = m(F / 3m)

T = F / 3

Examiner’s Intention:

To check system approach followed by individual body analysis.

Common Mistake:

Trying to find tension directly without calculating acceleration.


PYQ–23 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A body is acted upon by a constant force. Which of the following quantities must change?

A) Velocity only
B) Momentum only
C) Acceleration only
D) Momentum and velocity

Method Selection:

Use Newton’s Second Law conceptually.

Solution:

Constant force ⇒ constant acceleration

Acceleration changes velocity and momentum.

Correct option: D

Examiner’s Intention:

To test conceptual understanding beyond formulas.

Common Mistake:

Choosing acceleration alone without considering velocity change.


PYQ–24 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A body is moving in a circular path with constant speed. Is Newton’s First Law violated? Explain.

Method Selection:

Analyze direction of velocity and acceleration.

Solution:

Though speed is constant, direction of velocity changes.

Hence, acceleration exists toward the center.

Therefore, a force (centripetal force) acts on the body.

Newton’s First Law is not violated.

Examiner’s Intention:

To test understanding of velocity as a vector.

Common Mistake:

Assuming no force because speed is constant.


PYQ–25 (IIT–JEE)

Question:

A block rests on a horizontal surface. Why does it not move even though gravitational force acts on it?

Method Selection:

Conceptual equilibrium analysis.

Solution:

Gravitational force mg is balanced by normal reaction N.

Net force is zero, hence no acceleration.

The block remains at rest.

Examiner’s Intention:

To test understanding of force balance.

Common Mistake:

Saying gravity is absent or ineffective.


Strategic Solving Advice

  • Always separate force balance and motion analysis.
  • Normal reaction depends on geometry, not always mg.
  • System approach reduces complexity in many problems.
  • Check whether speed or velocity is changing.

PART–4 (v) Completed.
PYQs covered so far: 25. Next set will complete the 30+ PYQ target.

📚 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

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