ICSE 2024

ANALYSIS OF PUPIL
PERFORMANCE
PHYSICS

Research Development and Consultancy Division

Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations
New Delhi
November 2024
____________________________________________________________________________________________

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Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Council for the Indian School Certificate

Examinations is committed to serving the nation's
children, through high quality educational
endeavours, empowering them to contribute towards
a humane, just and pluralistic society, promoting
introspective living, by creating exciting learning
opportunities, with a commitment to excellence.

ETHOS OF CISCE

Trust and fair play.

Minimum monitoring.
Allowing schools to evolve their own niche.
Catering to the needs of the children.
Giving freedom to experiment with new ideas
and practices.
Diversity and plurality - the basic strength for
evolution of ideas.
Schools to motivate pupils towards the
cultivation of:
Excellence - The Indian and Global
experience.
Values - Spiritual and cultural - to be the bedrock
of the educational experience.
Schools to have an 'Indian Ethos', strong roots in
the national psyche and be sensitive to national
aspirations.
 FOREWORD
The National Education Policy 2020 emphasises building 21st-century skills and competencies
through systemic reforms in pedagogy and assessments. It is an endeavour of Council for Indian
School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) to ensure that assessments are utilised as tools for
promoting learning and development in students rather than a mere end to the instruction year.

With the objective to provide feedback on the common errors made by the students in the board
examinations of both ISC and ICSE and to provide information on the question-wise performance of
students, CISCE releases the Analysis of Pupils’ Performance document every year. It is one of the
unique and best practice of the CISCE board, which supports the candidates in their preparation for
the upcoming board examinations.
We would like to extend our appreciation to the Research Development and Consultancy Division
(RDCD) of the CISCE for their efforts in creating this detailed document for the benefit of our
students. We also express our gratitude to the examiners who have provided meticulous feedback on
the candidates’ performance during the examinations and also suggested pedagogical interventions
for the teachers to mitigate the common errors made by the candidates.
We are sanguine that students, teachers, and parents would make the best use of this document by
going through the various sections in detail and implementing the learnings from the same for
successful performance in the upcoming examinations.

November 2024 Dr. Joseph Emmanuel

Chief Executive & Secretary
CISCE

i
 PREFACE
As you are aware, the Analysis of Pupil Performance document has been developed by the Council
for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) with the objective to provide feedback to
teachers on the performance of students in the ICSE and ISC examinations. These subject-wise
documents highlight the misconceptions that students might have related to certain topics that are
reflected as common errors made by them while answering questions in the examinations. The
document also contains certain suggestive teaching strategies to reduce the occurrence of similar
errors in forthcoming examinations by students. The criteria used for marking each question has also
been provided in brief so that the teachers and students can comprehend the scope of the question
and the correct approach to answer it. Topics in the question paper that were found to be difficult or
unclear by the majority of the candidates have also been highlighted so that teachers can lay more
stress on bringing clarity to them, along with recommendations for candidates to attempt the
examination of a particular subject keeping in mind subject-specific nitty-gritty and techniques of
answering.
The Analysis of Pupil Performance document for ICSE for the Examination Year 2024 covers the
following 16 subjects - English Language, Literature in English, Hindi, History and Civics,
Geography, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Commercial Studies, Economics, Computer
Applications, Economic Applications, Commercial Applications, Environmental Science and Home
Science.
The 20 subjects covered in the ISC Analysis of Pupil Performance document for the Year 2024 are -
Accounts, English Language, Literature in English, Hindi, Economics, Commerce, Business Studies,
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Elective English, History, Political Science, Geography,
Psychology, Sociology, Computer Science, Environmental Science and Home Science
I extend my appreciation and gratitude to all the ICSE and ISC examiners who have shared their
valuable comments on each question. I also acknowledge the efforts of the RDCD team of Dr. Manika
Sharma, Ms. Parul Kohli, Ms. Lyimee Saikia and Ms. Mansi Guleria, for their focused hard work
and diligence towards the preparation of this document.
We are hopeful that this document will be helpful to teachers to bring in timely interventions for the
topics required, in order to support the students in their preparation and readiness towards the
upcoming ICSE and ISC examinations. We also hope the students learn from the detailed notes on
the common errors made while answering, so as to be well-prepared with the correct answering
strategies for the upcoming ICSE and ISC examinations.

November 2024 Dr. Bhawna Taragi

Deputy Head
RDCD, CISCE

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 PHYSICS
SECTION A – 40 MARKS
(Attempt all questions from this Section.)

Question 1 [15]

Choose the correct answers to the questions from the given options.
(Do not copy the questions, write the correct answers only.)
(i) When a bell is fixed on a cycle rings, then the energy conversion that takes place is:
(a) gravitational potential energy to sound energy
(b) kinetic energy to sound energy
(c) sound energy to electrical energy
(d) sound energy to mechanical energy

(ii) A door lock is opened by turning the lever (handle) of length 0.2 m. If the moment of
force produced is 1 Nm, then the minimum force required is:
(a) 5 N
(b) 10 N
(c) 20 N
(d) 0.2 N

(iii) A force ‘F’ moves a load from A to C as shown in the figure below. For the calculation
of the work done, which of these lengths would you use as the displacement?
(a) 3m
(b) 4m
(c) 5m
(d) 7m

(iv) A radioactive nucleus containing 128 nucleons emits a β – particle. After β – emission
the number of nucleons present in the nucleus will be:
(a) 128
(b) 129
(c) 124
(d) 127

(v) Assertion (A): Ultraviolet radiations are scattered more as compared to the microwave
radiations.
Reason (R): Wavelength of ultraviolet radiation is more than the wavelength of
microwave radiation.
(a) Both A and B are true.
(b) A is true but R is false.
(c) A is false but R is true
(d) Both A and R are false.
2024 ICSE-Physics
(vi) When the stem of vibrating tuning fork is pressed on a table, the tabletop starts vibrating.
These vibrations are definitely an example of:
(a) resonance
(b) natural vibrations
(c) forced vibrations
(d) damped vibrations

(vii) Which of the following is a class III lever?

(a) Pair of scissors
(b) Wheelbarrow
(c) Crowbar
(d) Human forearm

(viii) The specific resistance of a conductor depends on its:

(a) length
(b) material
(c) area of cross section
(d) radius

(ix) Identify the option that displays the correct wiring with correct colour code:

(x) The potential difference between terminals of a cell in a closed electric circuit is:
(a) terminal voltage
(b) electro motive force
(c) voltage drop
(d) none of these

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(xi) During melting of ice at 0°C the:
(a) energy is released and temperature remains constant.
(b) energy is absorbed and temperature remains constant.
(c) energy is released and temperature decreases.
(d) energy is absorbed and temperature increases.

(xii) Linear magnification(m) produced by a concave lens is:

(a) m<1

(b) m>1

(c) m=1

(d) m = 2

(xiii) A radioactive element is placed in an evacuated chamber. Then the rate of radioactive
decay will:
(a) Decrease
(b) Increase
(c) Remain unchanged
(d) Depend on the surrounding temperature

(xiv) The graph given below shows heat energy supplied against change in temperature when
no energy is lost to the surrounding. The slope of this graph will give:
(a) Specific heat capacity
(b) Latent heat of fusion
(c) Latent heat of vaporization
(d) Heat capacity

(xv) A block of glass is pushed into the path of the light as shown below. Then the converging
point X will:
(a) Move away from the slab
(b) Move towards the slab
(c) Not shift
(d) Move towards the left side of the lens

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Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) • Most of the candidates answered it - Discourage rote learning.
correctly. - While testing students, discuss in class
• Some candidates confused gravitational different examples that lead to the same
potential energy to sound energy, energy conversions.
thinking that the bell is fixed at a height. - Explain the difference between
• Some candidates also wrote electrical gravitational potential energy, elastic
energy to sound energy, may be because potential energy and kinetic energy.
of rote learning. The doorbell
conversion is electrical to sound.

(ii) • Most candidates got this question - Encourage students to pay attention to
correct. units and sign conventions.
• Some of them lost marks because of - Insist on writing the formula and then
errors where they multiplied 1 Nm and substitution.
0.2 m instead of dividing. - Give more practice on numericals.
• Some candidates were not clear with the
concept and answered by guesswork.

(iii) • Many candidates could not perform well - While doing numericals in the class, it is
in this question as the basic concepts necessary to discuss with the students as
were not clear. to why we are selecting a particular
displacement even if it is not mentioned
• For selecting the displacement, the
in the question.
direction of force was not taken into
consideration. That is why many - Reinforce that the displacement should
candidates selected the height 3 m be in the direction of the force.
instead of length of slant surface.
• However, many students got the answer
correct.

(iv) • Many candidates who were clear with - It is important to make it clear to the
what happens inside the nucleus during students that in order to balance the
beta emission got it correct. number between protons and neutrons, a
neutron splits into a proton and an
• Many candidates who depend on rote electron, keeping the total number of
learning added 1, as atomic number nucleons the same.
increases by 1.
• Additionally, some wrote 127 as they
were confused whether to add 1 or
subtract 1.

(v) • Most of the candidates answered it - Give practise to the students to use
correctly. mnemonics to remember the order of
radiations. For e.g.:
• Common options selected by many
candidates were a) A and R are true and [Go: gamma, X; x rays, U: ultraviolet,
c) A is false but R is true. View: visible, Incredible: infra-red,
Marathon: microwaves, Run: Radio

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• Probably the topic was not discussed waves. Go X U View Incredible
with the candidates as it was not there in Marathon Run]
the syllabus for quite some time. - Give ample practise to students on
• Many candidates could not clearly show Assertion and Reason type questions.
the relation between scattering, intensity
and wavelength.
• Radiations in the ascending or
descending order was not written.

(vi) • Most of the candidates answered it Explain in detail to students that:

correctly. - when one vibrating body is brought in
• Some candidates confused it with contact with another vibrating body then
resonance or damped vibrations. it always vibrates, but it will vibrate with
maximum amplitude only in case of
• Difference between resonance and resonance.
forced vibration as well as difference
between forced vibrations and damped - during damped vibrations, amplitude
vibrations is not clear. only decreases but during forced
vibration amplitude can increase or
decrease.

(vii) • A very straightforward question and - Advise students to make rough sketches
almost all answered it correctly. to identify the position of L, F and E.
• A few candidates answered it incorrectly - Insist on identifying the lever by
due to the concept being not clear locating the position of L, F and E rather
however some of them answered than simply rote learning.
correctly but supported it with the wrong - Make students aware that to carry out the
diagram which was not asked. same purpose there can be levers
belonging to the different classes of
lever and in such cases, by supporting
the answer with a sketch of the lever.

(viii) • Most candidates answered this - Use an analogy in class to teach the
question correctly but some were not concept of resistance. E.g. density can
clear with the concept of specific be compared with specific resistance as
resistance as they confused it with the density depends only on material and
the factors affecting the resistance. not on mass or volume of substance,
same way specific resistance depends on
material and not on length or cross-
sectional area etc.

(ix) • Many candidates answered it correctly. - Make students aware that in attempting
MCQ’s, they need to verify all options
• Some candidates could not relate colour
even if they feel the initial option is
coding with L, N and E wires.
correct. Options can be deceptive, and
• Some candidates found it difficult to all may appear plausible.
apply both conditions i.e. correct - Train students in drawing circuit
position of switch and also correct wires diagram with the correct position of
used. switch, Fuse, live, neutral and earth
wire.

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2024 ICSE-Physics
- Advisable to teach this concept with
diagrams, models and videos from
authentic source.

(x) • Even though many candidates answered - Explain to the students that e.m.f.,
it correctly, it was clear that the concept terminal voltage and potential drop, all
of terminal voltage and e.m.f. was not are potential differences but across
clear to them. They missed out the different resistors.
keyword in the question ‘closed’ hence - Use the analogy that in class there are
answered incorrectly as e.m.f. many boys (potential difference) but the
name of each boy is different (e.m.f.,
terminal voltage, potential drop)
- Use practical demonstrations for
explanation of concepts.

(xi) • Candidates applied simple logic that The following concepts should be made clear
when the heat is absorbed the to the students:
temperature increases but when it is - Heat is a measure of kinetic and
released the temperature decreases. potential energy possessed by the
• Latent heat concept is not clear. Not molecules of the body.
clear whether 0 0C ice absorbs or - Heat absorbed/released during rise/fall
releases latent heat. in temperature affects average kinetic
• How ever quite a number of candidates energy of the molecules.
answered it correctly. - Heat absorbed/released during change
of phase never affects average Kinetic
Energy (k.e) of the molecules but affects
potential energy hence temperature is
not affected.

(xii) • Many candidates answered this question - Explain in detail the concept of
correctly. They found this question quite magnification.
direct. - Concept can be practically demonstrated
• However, some candidates answered it by showing the images formed by
wrongly because they were not clear concave and convex lenses. May include
with mathematical symbols greater than an assignment to calculate
and less than or could not correlate magnification during the formation of
magnification as ratio of 𝐼𝐼: 𝑂𝑂 or 𝑂𝑂: 𝐼𝐼 real images of convex lenses.

(xiii) • Concept of effect of physical and - Clearly explain the concept of

chemical changes on radioactive radioactivity to the students.
reaction was not clear to some - Emphasise that radioactivity is
candidates independent of all physical and chemical
• Candidates mistakenly associated changes.
radioactive reactions with the chemical
reactions, where there is influence of the
physical environment.

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(xiv) • Some of the candidates selected options - Revise the concept of finding the values
‘a’ and ‘c’. of physical quantities from the slope of
graph (done at length in grade IX).
• Candidates could not connect the
concept of slope to different situations. - Calculation of slope in different contexts
could be tested in class tests.
e.g. slope of latent heat against mass
gives specific latent heat, slope of
𝑣𝑣 2
kinetic energy against mass gives etc.
2

(xv) • Majority of the candidates found this - Pushing the block of glass into the path
question very confusing to understand of light is similar to placing the lens in
making it clear that the candidates are water.
not striking depth in their thinking. - Create similar types of critical thinking
• Only some candidates answered it questions for regular class tests.
correctly.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 1
(i) (b) kinetic to sound energy

(ii) (a) 5 N

(iii) (c) 5m

(iv) (a)128

(v) (b) A is true but R is false

(vi) (c) forced vibrations

(vii) (d) Human forearm

(viii) (b) material

(ix) (a)

(x) (a) terminal voltage

(xi) (b) energy is absorbed and temperature remains constant.

(xii) (a) 𝑚𝑚 < 1

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2024 ICSE-Physics

(xiii) (c) Remain unchanged

(xiv) (d) Heat capacity

(xv) (a) Move away from the slab

Question 2
(i) (a) In the following atoms, which one is a radioisotope? Give one use of this isotope. [3]
O16, C14, N14, He4
(b) Name the class of the lever shown in the picture below:

(ii) Fill in the blanks: [2]

(a) When a stone tied to a string is rotated in a horizontal plane, the tension in the
string provides __________ force necessary for circular motion.
(b) Work done by this force at any instant is __________.

(iii) A non uniform beam of weight 120 N pivoted at one end is shown in the diagram [2]
below. Calculate the value of F to keep the beam in equilibrium.

C.G.

0.80 m

(iv) Meera chose to use a block and tackle system of ‘9’ pulleys instead of a single movable [2]
pulley to lift a heavy load.
(a) What is the advantage of using a block and tackle system over a single movable
pulley?
(b) Why should she connect more number of pulleys in the upper fixed block?

(v) Sumit does 600 J of work in 10 min and Amit does 300 J of work in 20 min. [2]
Calculate the ratio of the powers delivered by them.

(vi) 5 bulbs are connected in series in a room. One bulb is fused. It is removed and [2]
remaining 4 bulbs are again connected in series to the same circuit. What will be the
effect on the following physical quantities? (Increases, Decreases, Remain Same)

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2024 ICSE-Physics
(a) Resistance
(b) Intensity of light

(vii) Rohan conducted experiments on echo in different media. He observed that a [2]
minimum distance of ‘x’ meters is required for the echo to be heard in oxygen and ‘y’
meters in benzene. Compare ‘x’ and ‘y’. Justify your answer.
Speed of sound in oxygen: 340 ms-1
Speed of sound in benzene: 200 ms-1

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) (a) • Most of the candidates answered this - Uses pertaining to the radiations
question correctly, but few wrote must be discussed in the class.
other options too like He 4, O16. - Make the students aware about the
• Several candidates wrote a dependent type questions and how
generalised answer about the use of these questions are evaluated.
radioisotope instead of being - Group discussions and case studies
specific to C14. to encourage critical thinking and
deeper understanding of the varied
uses of radioisotopes in modern
society.
(i) (b) • Most of the candidates identified it - Lay emphasis on identifying the
correctly as Class II. position of F,L and E and avoid rote
• Some of them did write it as Class I learning among students.
or Class III as they were not clear - Bring different types of levers used at
how to identify the position of the home to explain the terms load,
fulcrum. fulcrum, effort and also when
classify them as first order, second
order and third order.
- Images from various relevant
sources can be used to explain
working of levers to students.
(ii) (a) • Most of the candidates answered it - Explain the concept of centripetal
correctly. force along with the diagram and all
• Some candidates mentioned the relevant examples with the help of
rotational, tension force. The a mind map.
concept that centripetal force is - Demonstrate the concept using demo
required for a body to move in a videos.
circular path was not clear to the
candidates.
(i) (b) • Most of the candidates answered it - Explain with the examples of positive,
correctly. negative and zero work clearly
• However, some candidates did write indicating the direction of force and
constant instead of zero or wrote displacement.
formula 𝑊𝑊 = 𝐹𝐹 × 𝑠𝑠 or some left it
blank.
• The general experience was, that
even though the answer zero is
correct for many candidates, the
reason was not clear. They thought
that on a circular track the
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2024 ICSE-Physics
displacement was zero, therefore
work is zero but they need to
understand that the displacement
was zero only when the body comes
back to its initial position but at
every instant the centripetal force is
perpendicular to the displacement.
(iii) • Most of the candidates were - Give rigorous practice on non-
confused with this question. uniform distribution of mass.
Candidates erroneously considered - While solving numerical based on
the anticlockwise moment to be principle of moments, emphasis must
(Fx0.6) instead of (Fx0.8), thus be laid on the fact that the
arriving at a wrong answer for the fulcrum/pivot is not always placed at
value of ‘F’ as candidates are at the C.G. to balance a body.
times confused between the concept - When solving problems involving the
of fulcrum and C.G. principle of moments, encourage
• Majority of the candidates could not students to sketch the diagram
interpret the diagram correctly. Only themselves, clearly indicating the
few of the candidates were able to pivot, centre of gravity, and forces to
answer it correctly. prevent mistakes. Additionally,
marking the distances required for
calculations directly on the diagram
can help mitigate errors effectively.
(iv) (a) • Many of the candidates answered the - Dedicate substantial time in
first part of the question correctly. explaining how V.R. changes with the
• Candidates mentioned the increase in the number of pulleys with
advantages as convenience in convenient as well as inconvenient
changing the direction of effort or direction.
can use their weight to lift the object. - Encourage students to think of the
• Candidates were unable to larger implications of knowledge,
understand that with an increased rather than just acquiring textbook
number of pulleys, one can have information.
convenient as well as inconvenient - Actual demonstration can be used to
direction. explain the concept.
(iv) (b) • Many candidates failed to - Encourage students to grasp the
comprehend the information given formula for linking efficiency with the
in this part of the question and just number of pulleys in the block and
repeated the same answer which was tackle system. It will enhance their
given in part (a) of this question. understanding of why more pulleys
They were unable to understand that are connected to the upper block.
the comparison was not between - Emphasis to be laid on the concept
single pulley and the system with 9 that V.R is always equal to the
pulleys but it was between the number of strands supporting the load
number of pulleys in the fixed and and will be equal to the number of
movable block of the same system pulleys if the direction of effort is
with 9 pulleys. convenient. Also, it will be equal to
M.A. only in an ideal machine.
(v) • Most of the candidates were unable - Reiterate to the students that
to convert the ratio in the simplest ‘compare’ questions have to be
form. answered in ratio form i.e. as x:y.
• Many candidates did arrive at the
final answer in fractional form but
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2024 ICSE-Physics
did not express it in the ratio form i.e. - Instruct the students to be careful in
4:1. expressing the ratio in the same order
• While finding the ratio, many as given in the question.
candidates multiplied instead of
dividing.
• A number of candidates gave the
ratio in the form 1:4 instead of 4:1.
(vi) (a) • Most of the candidates answered this - Encourage students to represent
question correctly. circuits diagrammatically, when in
• Though the question categorically doubt as it helps in concept clarity.
mentioned to answer in terms of - Characteristics of series and parallel
‘increases’, ‘decreases’ or ‘remains combinations need to be stressed
same’, candidates used a variety of upon.
words to express themselves.
• Some candidates made errors by
simply assuming one of the given
answers without logically deducing
it.
(vi) (b) • Most of the candidates answered this - Encourage students to always relate
question correctly. the question to a provided equation or
• Some candidates were not clear diagram before answering. This will
about the relation between help students in minimising errors.
resistance, current and - For same P.D; resistance and current
intensity/brightness of the bulb are inversely proportional.
glowing. The correct approach is to - Emphasise that the current through
recognise that when switching from the bulb and intensity are directly
5 bulbs to 4 bulbs, the resistance proportional.
decreases, leading to an increase in
the intensity.
(vii) • Even though, many of the candidates - Reiterate to the students that
understood the question, they could ‘compare’ questions have to be
not write the steps of the solution answered in ratio form i.e. as x:y.
correctly. - Discuss with the students to approach
• Most of the candidates were able to connected questions by logically
arrive at some relation between x deriving conclusions using formulas
and y and state the reason. However, and mathematical calculations,
the final answer was not in the especially when data is provided.
expected ratio form (the question - Make sure while discussing that when
was a ‘compare’ question). calculating a ratio, it is not necessary
• Some candidates did elaborate to have every value provided initially
calculations to arrive at the answer, in the question; initiating it on both
while others answered logically. ends allows the values to cancel out.
• Many candidates did not take time to - Give rigorous practice in numericals.
hear an echo as 0.1s, but were able to
consider the same time in both the
situations. Some candidates just
divided 340 by 200 i.e. obtained
17:10 but just randomly. Some gave
the answer in the form 17x:10y

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MARKING SCHEME
Question 2
(i) (a) C14 Carbon Dating or implied/ archaeology/ tracers/any other correct use.
(b) II/Class II/Type II/ second class/ 2.

(ii) (a) Centripetal/centre seeking

(b) Zero/ 0 /no work.

(iii) By Pr. of moments

120 × 0.2 = 𝐹𝐹 × 0.8 [Substitution in any form.]
120×0.2 120
∴ 𝐹𝐹 = 0.8
= 4
= 30 𝑁𝑁
By Pr. of moments
120 × 0.2 = 𝐹𝐹 × (0.8 + 𝑥𝑥) [Substitution in any form.]
120×0.2 120×0.2
∴ 𝐹𝐹 = = ( 𝑁𝑁)
(0.8+𝑥𝑥) 0.8+𝑥𝑥

(iv) (a) (Block and tackle system) increases the M.A.or VR/reduces effort/multiplies force
or effort/ to have MA>2 or Implied.
(b) To minimise the energy loss (in lifting the movable part of the machine)/ increase
the efficiency/ change the effort to a convenient or downward direction/decrease the
weight of the lower block/ or implied.

(v) 𝑃𝑃1 : 𝑃𝑃2 =

600
:
300
/ can be explained in the words the mathematical process.
10×(60) 20×(60)

𝑃𝑃1 : 𝑃𝑃2 = 4 ∶ 1 /Explained in word./if 1:4 is written then P2:P 1 must be mentioned.

(vi) (a) Decreases/reduces/becomes less or implied.

(b) Increases/becomes brighter/becomes more or implied.

(vii) x>y
Speed of sound in oxygen> speed of sound in benzene/or implied. Or
340×0.1 200×0.1
𝑥𝑥 ∶ 𝑦𝑦 = 2
∶ 2
[time taken is 0.1 s]
𝑥𝑥 ∶ 𝑦𝑦 = 17 ∶ 10

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Question 3
(i) (a) In a reading glass what is the position of the object with respect to the convex [2]
lens used?
(b) Why can we not use concave lens for the same purpose?

(ii) A fuse is rated 5 A. Can it be used with a geyser rated 1540 W, 220 V. Write Yes or [2]
No. Give supporting calculations to justify your answer.

(iii) State two factors affecting the speed of rotation of the coil in a D.C. motor. [2]

(iv) How much heat is required to convert 500 g of ice at 0oC to water at 0oC? The [2]
latent heat of fusion of ice is 330 Jg-1.

(v) Copy and complete the nuclear reaction by filling in the blanks. [2]
235
92 U + 0 n1 56 Ba
---
+ --- Kr92 + 3 0 n1

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) (a) • Many candidates were not able to - Demonstrate the concepts in the
give the exact position of the object. class by showing it to the students.
• Some of the candidates could not - While discussing the position, nature
relate to the fact that a reading glass and size of the image formed by the
is a magnifying glass. Guesswork lens, students could be asked to
was used to arrive at the answer. observe the same in their daily life
when objects are at different
positions from the reading glass.
- Adequate practice of drawing
diagrams and independently
emphasising construction of tables to
understand the characteristics of the
image and applications will aid in
error reduction.
(i) • Many candidates answered this - Emphasise to the students in class
(b) question correctly. that both lenses form virtual images,
• Some candidates related this concept but the virtual image formed by a
to the divergent nature of the lens convex lens is magnified and by a
instead of size. concave lens it is diminished.
• Few of the candidates failed to
understand the link with the part (a)
of the question.
(ii) • Most of the candidates answered this - Explain to the students that current in
part of the question correctly. the fuse can exceed the maximum
• Even though numerical part was current but this situation does not
right, due to a lack of understanding remain for a long time due to high
of fuse function, certain candidates resistivity and low melting point of
lost marks. Certain candidates had a the fuse wire. Appliances have the
misconception that the fuse rating ability to withstand a large current
should be lower than the maximum for a very short duration.
current in order to protect the - Students can be informed that they
appliance. are not obliged to answer connected

13
2024 ICSE-Physics
• Many candidates made calculation questions in the sequence presented;
errors and missed mentioning the instead, they can opt to perform
unit ‘ampere’. calculations first and then derive the
• The explanation that ‘fuse cannot be answer.
used’ was not supported by any
calculation of safe limit of current.
Some candidates even did not give a
reason.
• Some candidates calculated R
instead of I.
(iii) • Most of the candidates got this - Insist that the students write only the
question correct. appropriate number of factors.
• Some candidates did not understand - Explain the difference between the
the difference between the turns of number of coils and number of turns
the coil and the number of coils. in the coil.
• Many candidates missed writing ‘the - Make the students understand
strength of the magnetic field’ and through discussion the relation
just mentioned magnet. between the factors affecting the
• Few of the candidates provided force and speed as well as how the
correct factors but also included couple acting is responsible for the
incorrect additional ones, resulting speed of rotation.
in loss of marks. - Make sure to be aware of the updated
• Induced current, area of cross physics syllabus and avoid incorrect
section were also among the wrong interpretation.
answers as candidates were confused
between motor and generator.
• It was also observed that in some
cases, candidates were not aware of
these topics at all.
(iv) • Most of the candidates answered it - Emphasise the use of the correct data
correctly as the question was direct from the question and mention the
and simple. However, a few errors unit in the answers.
observed were:
 Missing unit or writing incorrect
unit.
 Converting mass to kg but using
the same value of latent heat.
 Incorrect calculation.
 Using the value of latent heat of
ice as 336 Jg-1 instead of 330 Jg-
1
that was mentioned in the
question.
(v) • Most candidates got the mass - Lay emphasis on explaining how the
number of ‘Ba’ incorrect as they nuclear reactions are balanced.
answered 143 instead of 141.
• Some candidates did not take into
consideration the 3 neutrons in the
reaction. Since the charge of a
neutron is 0, they got the value of
atomic number of ‘Kr’ incorrect.

14
2024 ICSE-Physics

MARKING SCHEME
Question 3
(i) a. Within or shorter than the focal length/between F and O/ between lens and focal
plane/ accept diagram (only check for the object position) or implied.
b. (Concave lens gives upright but) diminished image/ since m<1 or implied.
(ii) 𝑃𝑃 1540
𝐼𝐼 = 𝑉𝑉 = 220 = 7𝐴𝐴 (must)
No, it cannot be used.
(iii) Directly proportional to/ Increase with the increase in)
• the current (through the coil).
• the strength of the magnetic field/magnet.
• the number of turns (of the coil)
• the area/width (of the coil). [Any two points.]
(iv) 𝐻𝐻 = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 ∴ 𝐻𝐻 = 500 × 330
∴ 𝐻𝐻 = 165000𝐽𝐽
(v)
92 U 235 + 0 n1 → 56 Ba 141 + 36 Kr 92 + 3 0 n 1

SECTION B – 40 MARKS
(Attempt any four questions from this Section.)
Question 4
(i) The image of a candle flame placed at a distance of 36 cm from a spherical lens, is [3]
formed on a screen placed at a distance of 72 cm from the lens. Calculate the focal
length of the lens and its power.

(ii) Below is an incomplete table showing the arrangement of electromagnetic spectrum [3]
in the increasing order of their wavelength. Complete the table.
Gamma UV Visible Radio
X – ray Infrared A
ray rays rays waves
(a) Identify the radiation A.
(b) Name the radiation used to detect fracture in bones.
(c) Name one property common to both A and Radio waves.

(iii) (a) Why do we use red colour as a danger signal on the top of a skyscraper? [4]
(b) The diagram below shows the path of a blue ray through the prism:
1. Calculate the critical angle of the
material of the prism for blue
colour.
2. What is the measure of the angle
of this prism (A)?
3. Which colour should replace the
blue ray, for the ray to undergo
Total Internal Reflection?

15
2024 ICSE-Physics

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) • Most of the candidates attempted - Explain sign convention clearly to
this question. the students in detail.
• The following errors were observed - Insist on applying sign convention at
in solving this question: the time of substitution and not
 Interchanged object and image before.
distance. - May be classify this kind of
 Used wrong sign convention. numerical into three types.
 Used wrong lens formula.  Real image of a convex lens.
 Left the answer as a fraction. [Magnified, diminished and
 Did not convert focal length in same size]
‘m’ while calculating power.  The virtual image of a convex
lens.
 The virtual image of a
concave lens.
Sign conventions are different only for
these cases.
- Give sufficient practice of these
numerical to the students and guide
them to write the final answer in
decimal.
- Show a live demonstration in the
class that can help the students
understand the position of the object
and the image. Teach the sign
convention with the help of it.
(ii) (a) • Most of the candidates answered this - Give practise of similar kind of
question correctly. questions regularly.
• A few candidates applied
guesswork.
(ii) (b) • Almost all candidates identified this - Give practise of similar kind of
radiation correctly. questions regularly.
(ii) (c) • A large number of candidates - Encourage students to read the
answered them correctly but some of content thoroughly and mindfully.
them due to a lack of revision could - Explain to the students common as
not state the common properties. well as distinguishing properties of
• Some of them gave vague answers all radiations in the electromagnetic
such as long or short wavelength etc. spectrum.
• Several candidates wrote ‘uses’
instead ‘of properties’.
(iii) (a) • Many candidates answered this - Provide clarity to the students in the
question correctly. concepts of scattering, deviation,
• Accuracy was lacking in the answer. refraction etc through detailed
They identified longer wavelength discussions.
of red light but instead of relating it - Check the revised syllabus from time
to the scattering, they related it to the to time.
refraction or just gave a general - Discuss repeatedly the way to
statement that it can be seen clearly differentiate the applications of
from far. refraction and scattering, particularly
emphasising the concept of

16
2024 ICSE-Physics
• Some of the candidates were not scattering in relation to wavelengths
aware that the topic is reincluded in and its conditions.
the syllabus.
(iii) (b) • Even though, many candidates - Provide rigorous practise in a variety
1. answered the question correctly, it of ray diagrams pertaining to Total
was also observed that some Internal Reflection (TIR) / critical
candidates: angle to build the confidence of the
 were confused. students.
 could not show proper - Emphasise in the discussion that the
working. angle of incidence is with the normal
 gave angle as 470 or 1330 and not with the reflecting surface.
- Teach all the topics related to the
concept ‘Light’ with relevant
diagrams and make sure to mark the
angles in the diagram.
(iii) (b) • Most candidates erroneously wrote: - Explain the geometrical concepts
2. 900, 470. This was an unexpected involved in these phenomena
question, which was inclined properly.
towards geometry. - Develop the habit of explaining
• Majority of the candidates wrote the concepts by drawing diagrams,
answer as 450 thinking that it was an wherever possible.
isosceles triangle. - Encourage the students to calculate
• Some candidates calculated all three angles each time, the ray strikes the
angles but did not mention which surface in a denser medium by using
was the angle of the prism. laws of refraction and basic
geometry.
(iii) (b) • A large number of the candidates - Explain the relation between the
3. mentioned any colour without any critical angle and the wavelength to
idea of the concept. the students.
• Many candidates were found to be - For different colours i.e. VIBGYOR,
confused by this question. the different physical quantities
• Since the question was challenging, change in the following manner.
the majority of the candidates were (V:Violet, I:indigo, B:blue, G:green,
unable to attempt. Y:yellow, O:orange, R:red)
• Most candidates answered ‘red’ as  𝜇𝜇v > 𝜇𝜇𝐼𝐼 > … … … . > 𝜇𝜇𝑅𝑅
the relation between critical angle 𝜇𝜇:Refractive index.
and wavelength which shows the  𝑓𝑓V > 𝑓𝑓𝐼𝐼 > … … . . > 𝑓𝑓𝑅𝑅
lack of clarity in the understanding f:frequency.
of the concept.  𝜆𝜆𝑉𝑉 < 𝜆𝜆I < … … … . . < 𝜆𝜆R
𝜆𝜆:Wavelength.
 𝐿𝐿V > 𝐿𝐿𝐼𝐼 > … … … . . > 𝐿𝐿𝑅𝑅
𝐿𝐿:Lateral displacement.
 𝑆𝑆𝑉𝑉 < 𝑆𝑆I < … … … . . < 𝑆𝑆R
𝑆𝑆: Speed of light.
 𝛿𝛿V > 𝛿𝛿𝐼𝐼 > … … … . . > 𝛿𝛿𝑅𝑅
𝛿𝛿:Angle of deviation.
 𝐶𝐶𝑉𝑉 < 𝐶𝐶I < … … … . . < 𝐶𝐶R
𝐶𝐶:Critical angle.
dependence of these quantities
should be
explained clearly.

17
2024 ICSE-Physics

MARKING SCHEME
Question 4
(i) 𝑈𝑈 = −36 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐, 𝑉𝑉 = 72 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐
1 1 1 1 1 1
∴ 𝑓𝑓 = 72 − −36 Or 𝑓𝑓 = 72 + 36 [with correct sign convention]
1 1+2 3
∴ 𝑓𝑓 = 72
= 72 ∴ 𝑓𝑓 = 24 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐
100 25
𝑃𝑃 = = = + 4.16 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 + 4.17 𝐷𝐷 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 4.1 𝐷𝐷 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 4.2𝐷𝐷
24 6

(ii) (a) micro-waves / television waves.

(b) X- ray
(c) Travel with speed 3 × 108 ms-1 in vacuum and air or do not require a medium to
travel or can be reflected or can be refracted/ Scatters least. (Any one correct
property.)

(iii) a. (Red colour has) longer wavelength/ (and therefore they) scatter the least/can be
seen from a longer distance/travel long distance through the fog.
b. 1. (C =133 – 90) = 43(0)
2. (𝐴𝐴 = 90 − (180 − 133) = 90 − 47 =) 43(0)
3. Violet or indigo

Question 5
(i) 9 [3]
(a) Refractive index of glass with respect to water is .
8
Find the refractive index of water with respect to glass.

(b) Name the principle used to find the value in part (a).
9
(c) If we change the temperature of water, then will the ratio remain the
8

same? Write 𝐘𝐘𝐘𝐘𝐘𝐘 or 𝐍𝐍𝐍𝐍.

(ii) Light travels a distance of ‘10x’ units in time ‘t 1 ’ in vacuum and it travels a distance [3]
of ‘x’ units in time ‘t 2 ’ in a denser medium. Using this information answer the
question that follows:
(a) ‘Light covers a distance of ‘20x’ units in time ‘t 1 ’ in diamond.’ State true or
false.
(b) Calculate the refractive index of the medium in terms of ‘t 1 ’ and ‘t 2 ’.
(iii) A monochromatic ray of light is incident on an equilateral prism placed at minimum [4]
deviation position with an angle of incidence 45° as shown in the diagram.
(a) Copy the diagram and complete the path of the
ray PQ.
(b) State two factors on which the angle of deviation
depends.

18
2024 ICSE-Physics

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) (a) • Most of the candidates answered the - Ensure frequent practise for these
question correctly as they provided the types of questions.
answer in the fractional form.
(i) (b) • Majority of the candidates attempted - Explain the principle of reversibility.
this question correctly. - Ask students to focus on the words
• The law of refraction used in the question such as the
/reflection/Snell’s law etc. was written ‘Name’ means that only the name to
instead of ‘the principle of be mentioned and ‘State’ means the
reversibility’. elongated form that is the statement
as stated in the law or principle.
(i) (c) • Many candidates answered this - Train students to answer the question
question correctly. that is being put forward in the form
of ‘Yes or No’, with a clear response.
• Some candidates wrote the answer
without a conceptual understanding.
• Few of the candidates were unable to
express their ideas correctly as ‘Yes’
and ‘No’.
(ii) (a) • Many candidates were unable to - Explain to the students that the ‘Light
comprehend this question correctly. travels fastest in a vacuum and hence
covers the maximum distance in
• A large number of candidates
vacuum than in any other medium’ in
erroneously answered this question as
detail.
they were unable to connect the fact
that light travels fastest in a vacuum.
So instead of ‘false’, the candidates
mentioned ‘true’.
(ii) (b) • Many candidates were not able to - Guide students on how to find the
solve this question correctly as it refractive index from the velocities.
reflects the lack of clarity in the - Give unfamiliar situations and show
understanding of the concepts. the way to employ the formula,
• Some candidates were able to assess the information provided in
calculate velocity separately but made the question, and attempt to
calculation errors in finding the determine the unknown by utilising
refractive index. the given data.
• Instead of calculating the velocities in - Provide rigorous practice of
both the media, candidates used 20X application-based questions by
for calculation. introducing them in the teaching-
learning process.
(iii) (a) • Many candidates answered this - Regular practice of ray diagrams
question correctly, but very few ensuring arrows are always marked
missed the arrows of the light ray. will help eliminate oversights. Also,
deal effectively in class the
• Few candidates did not draw the
conditions for minimum deviation
refracted ray parallel to the base and
and how to incorporate them in a
diagram.
19
2024 ICSE-Physics
some candidates did not mark the ∠𝑒𝑒 = - Explain to the students that during
∠𝑖𝑖. minimum deviation ∠𝑖𝑖 is always
• Some candidates showed the total equal to ∠𝑒𝑒 but refracted ray is
internal reflection of the ray and other parallel to the base only in the case of
candidates drew dotted lines instead of equilateral prism or isosceles prism.
continuous lines.
(iii) (b) • Majority of the candidates wrote more - Review and demonstrate all factors
than two factors affecting the angle of influencing each physical quantity
deviation. covered in the chapter and their
impact repeatedly. Through frequent
• Some candidates were confused with
repetition, students will better retain
the lateral displacement and wrote the
this information.
factor as thickness.
- Make students aware that it is
• The common errors found were: important to avoid using the wrong
 The colour/wavelength of terms from the beginning of the
the prism. concept in the class.
 The angle of incident ray.
 The refractive index of light.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 5
(i) (a) g𝜇𝜇 w =
1
=
1
9
8
= 9 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 0.88 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 0.8 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 0.89 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 0.9.
𝑤𝑤𝜇𝜇𝑔𝑔 8
(b) (Principle of) reversibility (of light.)
(c) No/ it will decrease/or implied.

(ii) (a) False/F/or implied.

10𝑥𝑥
𝑡𝑡1 10𝑥𝑥 𝑡𝑡2
(b) 𝜇𝜇 = 𝑥𝑥 or 𝜇𝜇 = 𝑡𝑡1
× — 1(𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣𝑣 𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐.)
𝑥𝑥
𝑡𝑡2

10𝑡𝑡2
𝜇𝜇 = 𝑡𝑡1

(iii) Showing refracted ray parallel to the base.

Completing the path of emergent ray bending away
(a)
from the normal.
Avoid missing arrows on refracted or emergent ray.

20
2024 ICSE-Physics

(iii) (b) Angle of deviation depends on:

• the angle of the prism
• the refractive index of the medium/material of the prism.
• Wavelength/colour of light,
the angle of incidence. (any two points, conditions apply.)

Question 6
(i) (a) Define Centre of Gravity. [3]
(b) A hollow ice cream cone has height 6 cm.
1. Where is the position of its centre of gravity from the broad base?
2. Will its position change when it is filled completely with honey? Write
Yes or No.
(ii) Marble [3]

Two identical marbles A and B are rolled down along Path 1 and Path 2 respectively.
Path 1 is frictionless and Path 2 is rough.
(a) Which marble will surely reach the next peak?
(b) Along which path/s the mechanical energy will be conserved?
(c) Along which path/s is the law of conservation of energy obeyed?

(iii) Given are two pulleys. [4]

(a) Copy and complete the labelled diagram connecting the two
pulleys with a tackle to obtain Velocity Ratio = 2.
(b) If Load = 48 kgf and efficiency is 80% then calculate:
1. Mechanical Advantage.
2. Effort needed to lift the load.

21
2024 ICSE-Physics

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) (a) • Many candidates were unable to - Ensure that the students understand
define the centre of gravity the concept clearly.
correctly, thus pointing towards a - Discuss in class to build
lack of understanding of the concept an understanding of the concept of
of moment produced by the weights moments produced by molecular
of the molecules. weights using the diagrammatic
• Majority of the candidates were representation of the line of action of
confused with the definition of the molecular weight and its moment
centre of gravity and provided arm.
incomplete definitions. The missing - Though definitions need to be
keywords found were ‘point’, verbatim, emphasis must be laid on
‘moment of weights’, and ‘sum of the fact that all the key terms are
moments is zero’. Many candidates present so that the meaning/essence
wrote that the sum of is not lost. Also, bring the attention of
weights/masses of particles the students to the language while
constituting the body is ‘zero’. framing the answer.
- Reinforce the correct understanding
by presenting incorrect definitions in
class and challenge students to
identify the errors.
- Discuss in a way that the students
form a mental picture while learning
definitions in the classroom.
(i) (b) 1. • Many candidates answered it - More practise is required of
erroneously as they wrote h/3 application-level questions instead of
without substituting ‘h’ due to direct questions.
oversight or lack of conceptual - Lay special emphasis to the centre of
understanding. gravity of all regular bodies.
• Some candidates erroneously - Discuss in class that in case the data
obtained answers as: / values are mentioned in the
6/4=1.5cm question, then the expected answer
6/2=3 cm must be provided in a value/number
• While identifying the centre of and not the formula. The question is
gravity of various objects, equivalent to a numerical.
candidates should prioritise using - Instruct students even if the basic
precise terminology instead of question remains the same, make
general phrases like "at the centre," changes in the answer as per the
which often led to loss of marks. given information.
• Some candidates calculated 4 cm but
were unable to mention from the top.
• Very few candidates were able to
answer this question correctly.
(i) (b) 2. • Most candidates answered this part - Discuss in class with different
of the question correctly. examples that the centre of gravity
• Some candidates were found to be depends on the distribution of mass.
unclear on the concept ‘Centre of - Make a point during the discussion
gravity depends on mass that in uniform solids such as cube,
distribution’. cuboid, cylinder, whether the solid is
hollow or filled distribution of mass
remains uniform but in the case of a
22
2024 ICSE-Physics
cone, more mass will be towards the
base so the position of the centre of
gravity will change.
(ii) (a) • Considering the question in totality, - Give more practice with application-
very few candidates could based questions so that students can
comprehend the question. apply the concept in their daily lives.
• No clarity of the concept of - Explain to students the meaning of
frictionless and rough surfaces. ideal conditions.
• Confusion was found to be in - Reinforce to the students that
comprehending the diagram. ‘Friction causes dissipation of
• Some candidates were not clear that energy’.
friction opposes motion.
(ii) (b) • Majority of the candidates answered - Discuss in the class the different
and this question correctly. forms of energy, their
(ii) (c) • Some candidates lost marks here as interconversion, and the law of
they failed to recognise that conservation of energy as a whole
mechanical energy is only and not compartmentalised.
conserved, when there is no friction. - Lay emphasis on the critical
• Some candidates could not distinction between mechanical
differentiate between the law of energy conservation, which requires
conservation of mechanical energy a frictionless environment, and total
and the law of conservation of energy conservation, which applies
energy and the condition under universally regardless of friction.
which they are true. So, for many
candidates all the answers went
wrong.
• Candidates provided the answer in
terms or right/left side, A/B instead
of path 1 and path 2.
• Many candidates attempted these
parts by guesswork indication lack
of clarity in the concepts.
(iii) (a) • Most candidates connected the - Discuss the intricacies in drawing the
‘tackle’ correctly. However, the diagram in the class.
missing pieces of the diagram were: - Give adequate practice by frequently
 The tension direction was not asking this type of question in the
properly indicated. class.
 Few candidates marked tension - Make students aware of the common
in the sections of the tackle as errors that they make while drawing
T1 , T2 , T3 . these diagrams.
 The direction of effort was not - Replicate the diagram exactly as
indicated. presented in the question, avoiding
 A bulging tackle. any unnecessary alterations.
 No rigid support was shown. - Ask students to mark the tension,
• Few candidates connected the effort, and load, regardless of
‘tackle’ in such a way that the proper whether explicitly requested in the
logic was not visible in the answer. question.
(iii) (a) • Most of the candidates attempted - Advise students to answer all
2. this numerical correctly. numerical in decimal form up to two
• Though the substitution was correct, decimal places unless it is a
many candidates kept the answer as ‘compare’ question.

23
2024 ICSE-Physics
𝟖𝟖
a fraction, 𝟓𝟓 and did not convert it to - In a compare question, tell students
to answer in the ratio form.
a decimal, 1.6.
• Some candidates write the unit for
Mechanical advantage which was
not required.
(iii) (b) • Most of the candidates answered it - Give adequate practice of numerical
2. correctly. to the students.
• Some of the errors observed were: - Emphasise correct answers with the
 carried out calculation by using unit.
ideal MA. - Tell students to recheck answers of
 Calculation error. numerical and calculations.
 Units were missing in some
cases and confusion was seen in
kgf and N.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 6
(i) (a) It is a point about which the (algebraic) sum of the moments of the molecular
weights of the body is zero or implied/ It is a point through which the weight of
the body acts (vertically downwards or towards the centre of the earth.) or
implied.
6
(b) 1. 3
= 2 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 above the broad base
2. Yes

(ii) (a) Marble A/ A or implied.

(b) Path 1/1/ marble A/A/ or Implied.
(c) Path 1 as well as Path 2/ both paths/1 and 2/A and B or implied.

(iii) (a) Correct connection of tackle. Labelling T and E

correctly with directions.
𝑀𝑀.𝐴𝐴. 80 𝑀𝑀.𝐴𝐴.
(b) 1. 𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸 = 𝑉𝑉.𝑅𝑅.
∴ 100 = 2

∴ 𝑀𝑀. 𝐴𝐴. = 1.6 [Substitution is a must]

𝐿𝐿 48
2. 𝑀𝑀. 𝐴𝐴. = 𝐸𝐸 ∴ 1.6 = 𝐸𝐸
[Substitution in any form]
480
∴ 𝐸𝐸 = 16
= 30 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 /300N/294 N

24
2024 ICSE-Physics

Question 7
(i) (a) Name the waves used in SONAR. [3]
(b)

In the above diagram Lata stands between two cliffs and claps her hands. Determine
the time taken by her to hear the first echo.
Speed of sound in air 320 ms-1.

(ii) (a) Complete the following radioactive reaction: [3]

234
−
__𝑿𝑿 → 𝒀𝒀 + 42𝑯𝑯𝑯𝑯 → 91𝒁𝒁 + −1𝑜𝑜𝒆𝒆

(b) Uranium is available in two forms U-235 and U-238. Which of the two
isotopes of Uranium is more fissionable?

(iii) In the given diagram, a vibrating tuning fork is kept near the mouth of a burette filled [4]
with water. The length of the air column is adjusted by opening the tap of the burette.
At a length of 5 cm of the air column, a loud sound is heard.

(a) Name the phenomenon illustrated by the above experiment.

(b) Why is a loud sound heard at this particular length?

(c) If the present tuning fork is replaced with a tuning fork of higher frequency,
should the length of the air column increase or decrease to produce a loud
sound? Give a reason.

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

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2024 ICSE-Physics

(i) (a) • Majority of the candidates - Discuss with the students and make
attempted this part of the question them to recall the three types of
correctly. mechanical waves (electromagnetic
spectrum): ultrasonic, infrasonic, and
• Some of the candidates had written
sonic waves.
‘ultraviolet/infrared/radio waves’
instead of ‘ultrasonic waves’. - Explain the distinctions between
electromagnetic and mechanical
waves to foster students’
understanding.

(i) (b) • Since the question was thought- - Give sufficient practice of numerical
provoking, many candidates solved involving principle of echo.
the numerical by erroneously - Discuss with the students in detail to
considering the distance to be 10 m, build a comprehensive understanding
not realising that a minimum of the concept of echo.
distance of 17 m is required to hear
an echo in the air. - Explain the conditions of echo to the
students in detail.
- Tell students to be mindful of possible
errors that may occur while measuring
the distance of an echo.

(ii) (a) • Most of the candidates were found - Explain the nuclear reaction concept
to be confused due to the in detail.
presentation of the nuclear equation. - Discuss in class that the emitted
• Many candidates were not able to particle or radiation cannot become
comprehend the equation. reactant for the next step of emission.
• Reverse calculation was difficult for - Write the radioactive reaction in two
many candidates, when more than separate steps to avoid confusion
one radioactive emission happened. among students.

(ii) (b) • Majority of the candidates answered it - Lay emphasise while explaining in the
correctly, however quite a number of class on the fact that there are two
candidates erroneously answered it as isotopes of uranium and out of the two
𝑈𝑈238 instead of 𝑈𝑈235 . 𝑈𝑈235 is more fissionable.
• Some candidates had erroneously
written both the names.

(iii) • Majority of the candidates answered it - Tell students to mention all keywords
correctly as ‘resonance’ barring few while writing definitions.
(a)&(b)
of the candidates who erroneously - Reinforce in the class that the length
wrote ‘forced vibrations’. of vibrating air column is responsible
• The terms ‘natural’, ‘matching’ and for resonance.
‘amplitude’ were missing in the - Discuss with the students to link one
explanation of resonance. point to the next and come to the
• Some of the candidates were confused conclusion covering all points. For
with frequency and length of air e.g. Forced freq. of tuning fork
column. matches natural freq. of air column

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2024 ICSE-Physics
• Many candidates answered in terms of → increases amplitude of vibration of
‘frequency of the burette’ rather than air particles → increases loudness.
the ‘air column’. - Demonstrate the concepts practically
• A large number of the candidates did in the class.
not mention that more the amplitude
louder the sound, for this part of the
question.

(iii) (c) • Most candidates answered - Explain the concept of factors

‘decreased’ correctly. However, many affecting the frequency to the students
of the candidate missed writing the and also explain how it affects.
reasoning or not correct reasoning - Give rigorous practice of application-
mentioned. This indicated that the level questions based on this concept.
relation between length of air column
and frequency was not clear to the - Provide more opportunities to the
candidates. students to demonstrate a deeper
understanding and application of
• Some candidates mentioned that concepts.
frequency of vibrating air column is
inversely proportional to length of air
column but still gave the answer as
increases which indicates the lack of
clarity of the concept.
• Few of the candidates wrote ‘length of
water column’ instead of ‘air column’.
• Instead of ‘frequency of tuning fork’,
‘frequency of burette’ was written.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 7
(i) (a) Ultrasonic (waves)/ultrasound
2𝑑𝑑 2×160 320
(b). 𝑣𝑣 = 𝑡𝑡
∴ 320 = 𝑡𝑡
∴ 𝑡𝑡 = 320 = 1 𝑠𝑠
If d=10 m is calculated and identified d<17 m and no echo is heard.

(ii) (a) 238

92𝑋𝑋
234
⟶ 𝑌𝑌90 + 42𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻 ⟶ 234
91𝑍𝑍 + −10𝑒𝑒
(b) 𝑈𝑈−235

(iii) (a) Resonance

(b) Natural frequency of the tuning fork matched with the natural frequency of the air
column and the amplitude of vibrations of air particles increased/Generalised
statement can be accepted (Natural is must at any one place, frequency matching
and increased amplitude is a must.)
(c) Decrease.
The frequency of vibrating air column is inversely proportional to the length of the
air-column/ f ∝ 1/t.

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Question 8
(i) The voltage - current readings of a certain material are shown in the table given [3]
below:

Voltage (V) 10 V 20 V 30 V
Current (I) 2A 3A 4A
Study the table.
(a) State whether the conductor used is ohmic or non-ohmic.
(b) Justify your answer.
(c) State Ohm’s law.

(ii) Below is the diagram of a transformer: [3]

Iron core

primary coil secondary coil

(a) Identify the type of transformer.

(b) In this type of transformer which of the wire is thicker, the primary or the
secondary? Give a reason.

(iii) Study the diagram: [4]

(a) Calculate the total resistance of the circuit.

(b) Calculate the current drawn from the cell.
(c) State whether the current through 10 Ω resistor is greater than, less than or
equal to the current through the 12 Ω resistor.

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) (a) • Many candidates were found to be - To decide whether it is an ohmic or
confused in this question. non-ohmic conductor, it is crucial to

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• Despite this question being consider not just the slope but also
awarded free marks, many ensure that the V - I graph passes
candidates made the error of through the origin, even if it's not
determining the answer solely by explicitly marked.
examining the slope. They - Make them experimentally verify
overlooked the crucial detail that Ohm’s law and plot a V - I graph using
the V against I graph must pass the data collected.
through the origin.

(i) (b) • Many candidates interpreted this - Ask students to verify, even if the slope
question erroneously. is constant, whether the straight line
passes through the origin.
• Those candidates who only
calculated the slope wrote it as - Reinforce the concept by providing
Ohmic conductor. more questions of this type in the class.
• Some candidates who calculated
V:I ratio wrote it as non-ohmic
conductor.
• The candidates who calculated
both were unable to provide an
explanation for their answer in (a).

(i) (c) • Most of the candidates wrote - Teach statements and laws with the
answers correctly. proper terms and conditions.
• Few candidates did not mention the - Give explanation of laws and
constant temperature in their statements to the students.
answer. - Ask students to articulate complete
• Some candidates lost marks as only statements when defining Ohm’s Law
mathematical relation based on as these concepts are prone to
Ohm’s law was given instead of a misunderstanding when only partially
proper statement. explained.
• Several candidates wrote’ I is
directly proportional to R’.
• A very few candidates wrote ‘I is
inversely proportional to V’.

(ii) (a) • Some candidates were confused - Explain the students the transformer
with the wiring in the diagram and with schematic diagram.
hence misinterpreted as step-up - Lay emphasis while teaching
transformer. emphasise the distinction between
step-up and step-down transformers.
- Stress while teaching this concept
mathematical relation relating n, E, I
can be stressed upon.
- Show video presentation on types of
transformers.

(ii) (b) • Many candidates wrote an - Highlight in class the disparity

incorrect answer for this question between step-up and step-down
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2024 ICSE-Physics
implying was a lack of transformers based on voltage, current,
understanding of the concept. number of turns, and thickness. As
power remains the same, introducing
• A large number of candidates
misinterpreted the number of turns the formula V S / V P = N S / N P = I P /
I S assists students in discerning the
in the diagram as indicative of the
correct relationship among these
thickness of the wire, leading them
parameters.
to incorrectly identify the primary
coil as thicker. Instead of directly
stating that the secondary wire
carries more current and was
therefore thicker, they attempted to
explain in terms of voltage,
resulting in the loss of marks.
• Basis conceptual things like more
current needs less the resistance
was not known to many
candidates.

(iii) (a) • Many candidates solved this - Sufficient practice of numerical

numerical correctly. involving combination of resistors to
be given.
• Few candidates were not able to
write the units correctly. - Insist on writing correct answers with
• Some candidates did the numerical unit.
correctly but lost marks due to - Give practice of solving numericals in
mathematical incorrect step. class.
e.g 1/16 +1/16 =2/16 =1/8 = 8 Ω
• Some candidates lost marks due to
incorrect formula or wrong
substitution.

(iii) (b) • Most candidates answered this - Lay emphasis on the importance of
question appropriately. including units in numerical answers,
stating clearly that marks will not be
• A few candidates missed
awarded for the numerical portion, if
mentioning the unit.
units are missing.
• Error in the first part has resulted in
- Give sufficient practice of numerical.
the loss of this mark in the case of
some candidates.

(iii) (c) • Most candidates went to tedious - Explain the concept of series and
calculations ending up with the parallel combination in solving this
erroneous answer. type of numerical.
• The candidates did not realise the - Provide adequate practice of
fact that the current splits equally numerical.
as the resistance of both the - Elucidate in class that ‘In a parallel
branches is the same. circuit the current was inversely
• How to find current in a branch of proportional to the total resistance of
combination of resistors was not that branch’.
clear to many candidates.
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2024 ICSE-Physics
• Some candidates substituted V =
4V, R = 10Ω and calculated the
answer.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 8
(i) (a) Non-ohmic
(b) Even though slope constant V:I ration is not constant. ∴ The graph line will not
pass through the origin. Graph (line) will not pass through the origin/ Resistance is
not constant/ diagram VI graph not passing through origin/ V/I not constant or
implied.
(c) Provided the physical condition/temperature of the conductor remains the same,
current through the conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference
across the ends of the conductor.

(ii) (a) Step-down transformer

(b) Secondary
As the current in the secondary coil increases/ to decrease the resistance/to
minimise the loss of energy/ to prevent overheating of coil/ copper loss or implied.

(iii) 16×16
(a) 𝑅𝑅 = 16+16 [Substitution in any form] ∴ 𝑅𝑅 = 8Ω
4 1
(b) 𝑉𝑉 = 𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼 ∴ 4 = 𝐼𝐼 × 8 ∴ 𝐼𝐼 = 8 = 2 = 0.5 𝐴𝐴
Current through both the resistors is the same.

Question 9
(i) 85 g of water at 30oC is cooled to 5oC by adding certain mass of ice. Find the mass [3]
of ice required.
[Specific heat capacity of water = 4.2 Jg-1oC-1, Specific latent heat of fusion = 336
Jg-1]

(ii) (a) Why does it become pleasantly warm when the lakes start freezing? [3]
(b) Water freezes to form ice. What change would you expect in the average kinetic
energy of the molecules?
(c) Which will contain more heat energy 1 g of ice at 0oC or 1 g water at 0oC?

(iii) (a) State one factor that affects the magnitude of induced current in an AC [4]
generator.
(b) Given below is a circuit to study the magnetic effect of electric current. ABCD
is a cardboard kept perpendicular to the conductor XY. A magnetic compass is
placed at the point P of the cardboard. P 1 and P 2 are the positions of the
magnetic compass, before and after passing a current through XY respectively.

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2024 ICSE-Physics

P1

P2

1. Name the rule that is used to predict the direction of deflection of the
magnetic compass.
2. State the direction of current in the conductor (X to Y or Y to X) when the
circuit is complete.
3. If resistance R is increased, then what will be the effect on the magnetic
lines of force around the conductor?

Comments of Examiners Suggestions for teachers

(i) • Most of the candidates did not attempt - Give more practice of numerical
this question. involving different types.
• Substitution was not done correctly in - Insist upon answers with correct unit.
the numerical. Specially for melting of - Advise to students to construct an
ice only 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 was considered and not equation of this type of numerical using
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚∆𝑡𝑡 for increase in temperature of heating curve. This will enable correct
water. analysis of the numerical.
• There were calculation errors. - Reinforce in students that in order to
• Error was made in writing the units. simplify the calculation, that 4.2 is a
factor of 336 which can be taken outside
the bracket.

(ii) (a) • In this question, candidates got - Explain that the volume of heat released
confused with release of heat energy to during change of phase and during
the atmosphere during freezing and normal cooling.
absorption of heat energy during its - Elucidate in class that heat is released
melting. during freezing and absorbed during
• Most candidates missed out melting.
mentioning ‘large’ amount of heat. - Underline keywords in reasoning
• Few candidates mentioned specific questions. This practice ensures
heat capacity. alignment between the number of
keywords identified and the
• Many candidates wrote vague and corresponding marks allotted for the
incorrect answers. question.
• Numerous candidates lost marks on
this question due to attempts to
abbreviate their responses,
consequently omitting crucial
keywords such as ‘releasing latent
heat of fusion’.

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2024 ICSE-Physics

(ii) (b) • As there was no concept clarity for - Explain in detail that what happens to
conditions during change of state, the kinetic energy and potential energy
most of the candidates answered during change of phase with examples.
increases or decreases. - Address the fact that temperature and
• Majority of the candidates did not average kinetic energy remains constant
recall that the kinetic energy of during change of state from grade VIII.
molecules remains constant during a - Lay emphasis on the energy changes
phase change. that occur at various stages of a phase-
change graph and also that heat
absorption did not always result in
increase of temperature.

(ii) (c) • Most of the candidates answered this - Clarify the misconception about the
question correctly. relationship between temperature and
heat energy. Make a point that when
• Very few candidates answered as ice
both water and ice are at the same
due to careless error or due to lack of temperature (0 0C), the heat energy
clarity of the concept.
content of water is higher than that of ice
at this temperature.
- Discuss explicitly latent heat concept in
class.

(iii) (a) • Many candidates answered this - Explain a.c generator with the diagram
question correctly. in detail.
• In this question, many of the - Lay emphasis on the difference between
candidates were confused with factors d.c motor and ac. generator.
affecting speed of rotation of a d .c - Explain the factors affecting the induced
motor. emf in detail.
• Some candidates gave more than - Ensure that students provide the exact
required factors and all were not number of points requested in the
correct, so they lost marks. question.
• Some candidates did not attempt this
question.

(iii) (b) • A large number gave incorrect answers - Emphasise the application of these rules
1. indicating lack of conceptual clarity. and clarify which physical quantity each
The errors were as follows: rule helps to identify.
 Fleming’s left-hand rule. - Give practice of these kinds of questions
by changing the orientation of the
 Fleming’s right-hand rule.
diagram.
 Ampere’s right-hand rule.
 Clock rule.

(iii) (b) • Even though question was direct and - Although one can use the right-hand
2. simple, candidates found it difficult to grip rule, it becomes simpler to
comprehend the diagram. remember that when the current flows
through the conductor, magnetic needle
• Guesswork was found to be done by
deflects in the direction of the magnetic
many candidates.
field.
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2024 ICSE-Physics
- Give more practice of these kinds of
questions to the students.

(iii) (b) • Many candidates answered it - Explain how change in resistance affects
3. correctly. the current and thereby the effect on the
strength of the magnetic field.
• Also, because of confusion in the
previous part, the candidates made - Give practical demonstration of the
errors in this. nature of the magnetic field lines on
varying the current.
• Most of the candidates were unable to
understand the concept correctly.

MARKING SCHEME
Question 9
(i) (By principle of mixtures Heat lost = heat gained
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚∆𝑡𝑡𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤 = (𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 + 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚∆𝑡𝑡)𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖𝑖 )
∴ 85 × 4.2 × (30 − 5) = 𝑚𝑚 × 336 + 𝑚𝑚 × 4.2 × 5
∴ 85 × 4.2 × 25 = 4.2 × 𝑚𝑚(80 + 5)
∴ 85 × 25 = 𝑚𝑚 × 85 ∴ 𝑚𝑚 = 25 𝑔𝑔
(ii) a. Large quantity of heat/ latent heat of fusion/ latent heat/ 336 J/g or value or value
in other units/ is given out/ liberated/ released (in the atmosphere) or implied.
b. (There is) no change (in the average kinetic energy of the molecules.) or implied.
c. 1 g of water at 0 0C (contains more heat energy than 1 g of ice at 0 0C).
(iii) a. Induced current depends on is directly proportional to
• The strength of the magnetic field
• The number of turns of the coil.
• The area of the coil.
• The speed of rotation of the coil.
• Rate of change of magnetic flux. [Any one factor.]
b. 1. Right hand thumb rule/ Amphere’s swimming rule/maxwell’s cork screw
rule/SNOW rule/Right-hand grip rule/ Right hand palm rule.
2. x to y
3. The number of lines of force will decrease/ less crowded/ spaced out/ less
dense or implied.
Note: For questions having more than one correct answer/solution, alternate correct
answers/solutions, apart from those given in the marking scheme, have also been
accepted.

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2024 ICSE-Physics

GENERAL COMMENTS
Topics found difficult by candidates

Mechanics
• Question 2 (iii): Numerical on moments based on non-uniform distribution of mass.
• Question 6 (ii)(b) & (ii)(c): Law of conservation of energy vs. conservation of
mechanical energy.
• Question 6 (i): Definition of centre of gravity.
• Question 6 (iii): Modification in the diagram of block and tackle system.
Light
• Question 4 (i): Sign convention in lenses.
• Question 4 (iii): Diagram based questions from prism.
• Question 4 (iii)(b) 1: Calculation of critical angle.
Sound
• Question 1 (iv): Resonance definition.
• Question 7 (i) (b): Numerical on principle of echo.
• Question 7 (iii): Relation of length of air column with frequency.
Electricity
• Question 1 (x): Difference between voltage drop and terminal voltage.
• Question 2 (iv): Relationship between resistance, current and brightness of a bulb.
Calorimetry
• Question 9 (ii) (a & b): Energy absorption and release during change of phase.
• Question 9 (ii) (c): Heat numerical.
Electromagnetism
• Question 9 (iii)(b) 1: Conditions under which different rules such as Right-hand
thumb. rule, Fleming’s right-hand and left-hand rule etc.
• Question 9 (iii) (a): Electric motor and AC generator.
Radioactivity
• Question 1 (iv): What happens inside nucleus during beta emission.
In general:
• Experimental questions.
• Graph-based questions.
• Units of physical quantities.

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2024 ICSE-Physics

Concepts in which candidates got confused

Mechanics
• Numerical using principle of moment for non-uniform distribution of mass.
• Displacement in calculating work when diagrammatic information is given.
• Purpose of one more pulley in the movable block of block and tackle system.
• Proper definition of the Centre of Gravity and its position in different shapes.
• Difference between principle of conservation of energy and principle of
conservation of mechanical energy.
• Modification in the diagram of block and tackle system as per the given diagram.
Light
• Magnification for different cases of lens diagrams.
• Application of combined refraction between lenses and glass block.
• Sign convention in lens formula.
• Diagram based questions from optics.
𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿ℎ𝑡𝑡 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎
• Solving numerical based on 𝜇𝜇 = involving non-numerical data.
𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿ℎ𝑡𝑡 𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
Sound
• Examples of different vibrations.
• Time to hear echo for humans remain the same in different media but the distance
changes in different media.
• Frequency is inversely proportional to length.
Electricity
• Diagrammatic questions on household wiring.
• Ohm’s law diagram and condition to identify Ohmic conductor.
• Calculation of current in parallel branches.
• Relation between resistance, current drawn and thereby energy consumed.
Calorimetry
• Energy absorption and release during melting and freezing.
• Numerical involving mixtures and change of phase of the substances mixed.
Electromagnetism
• Confusion in factors affecting the Speed of rotation in DC motor and induced
current in AC generator.
• Confusion in comprehending the diagram when orientation of the diagram is
changed.
Radioactivity
• Changes inside nucleus during beta emission.
• Completion of balancing radioactive reactions when the reactions are given
sequentially and not separate.

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2024 ICSE-Physics

Suggestions for candidates

• Use the reading time 15 minutes judiciously to make the proper choice of the questions
from the relevant sections by reading all the parts and requirements of the questions
carefully. Also, use the same data mentioned in the question.
• Focus on the key words in the answer statement.
• Make sure not to leave any topic as in certain sections, all questions come compulsory.
• Avoid changing the order of sequence of questions and numbering system.
• Make sure that the handwriting is neat and legible.
• Learn principles, laws and definitions accurately.
• Practice Ray diagrams and other diagrams periodically.
• While solving a numerical, it is advisable that the formula needs to be written in the
beginning. Show essential steps in the numerical solutions and be mindful while
substituting values, ensuring that they are in the same unit.
• Make sure to write unit with every physical quantity.
• Be regular in self-study. Complete the syllabus well in time. Thorough revision of all
topics is required.
• Solve the Competency Focused practice questions, previous board papers and specimen
paper issued by the CISCE.
• Give more emphasis on writing rather than memorising.
• Inculcate the habit of underlining the important points or keywords in the answer.
• Practice solving a variety of physics problems from textbook or other resources to
reinforce understanding of concepts and familiarise with the type of questions that may
be asked for the exams.
• Try to apply the concepts (related to physics) with the real-life examples.
• Never leave any answer in fractions and use the fractional value calculated before in the
next part of the calculation in numerical.
• Recheck all answers prior to submitting the paper.
• Avoid including any additional incorrect points as that may result in marks being
deducted.
• Watch e-videos on the concepts and try to make some projects/models that work on the
principles learnt in the class.

37