Sound waves are an important topic in the JEE Advanced Physics syllabus. Knowledge of sound waves not only constructs a good foundation in classical mechanics but it is also significant to the exam because of its application to many different physical phenomena. Sound represents a mechanical wave that propagates in a medium (solid, liquid, or gas), and is extremely important to many areas of physics, especially acoustics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. Some important topics in JEE Advanced relating to sound waves include: Doppler Effect, Resonance, Interference, Beats, and Intensity of Sound. These topics can appear in different forms on the exam, from direct usage of the formulas to a multi-step problem solving approach that combines multiple concepts.
In JEE Advanced, sound waves make up a 2-3% weightage, equaling about 1 question a year. The topic includes concepts related to wave motion, properties of sound, Doppler effect, resonance, interference, and beats. It is critical to the degree one must understand the various concepts covered to get a grade for performance in the test. Most problems require a combination of theoretical understanding and practical application of the different formulas related to the speed of sound, intensity, and frequency shifts due to motion, making this topic the most important aspect of the exam.
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JEE Advanced Previous Year Question Paper
Here are some of the JEE Advanced Previous Year Questions of Sound Waves
Question 1:
\( S_1 \) and \( S_2 \) are two identical sound sources of frequency 656 Hz. The source \( S_1 \) is located at \( O \) and \( S_2 \) moves anti-clockwise with a uniform speed \( 4 \sqrt{2} \, \text{m/s} \) on a circular path around \( O \), as shown in the figure. There are three points \( P, Q, \) and \( R \) on this path such that \( P \) and \( R \) are diametrically opposite while \( Q \) is equidistant from them. A sound detector is placed at point \( P \). The source \( S_1 \) can move along direction \( OP \). [Given: The speed of sound in air is 324 m/s]
When only \( S_2 \) is emitting sound and it is at \( Q \), the frequency of sound measured by the detector in Hz is ________.
Question 2:
A source, approaching with speed \(u\) towards the open end of a stationary pipe of length \(L\), is emitting a sound of frequency \(f_s\). The farther end of the pipe is closed. The speed of sound in air is \(v\) and \(f_0\) is the fundamental frequency of the pipe. For which of the following combination(s) of \(u\) and \(f_s\), will the sound reaching the pipe lead to a resonance?
Question 3:
A stationary tuning fork is in resonance with an air column in a pipe. If the tuning fork is moved with a speed of \(2 \, \text{ms}^{-1}\) in front of the open end of the pipe and parallel to it, the length of the pipe should be changed for the resonance to occur with the moving tuning fork. If the speed of sound in air is \(320 \, \text{ms}^{-1}\), the smallest value of the percentage change required in the length of the pipe is _______.
Question 4:
A student is performing an experiment using a resonance column and a tuning fork of frequency \(244 \, \text{s}^{-1}\). He is told that the air in the tube has been replaced by another gas (assume that the column remains filled with the gas). If the minimum height at which resonance occurs is \( (0.350 \pm 0.005) \, \text{m} \), the gas in the tube is (Useful information: \( \sqrt{167RT} = 640 \, \text{J}^{1/2} \, \text{mol}^{-1/2} \), \( \sqrt{140RT} = 590 \, \text{J}^{1/2} \, \text{mol}^{-1/2} \)). The molar masses \( M \) in grams are given in the options. Take the values of \( \sqrt{\frac{10}{M}} \) for each gas as given there.)
Question 4:
A police car with a siren of frequency \( 8 \, \text{kHz} \) is moving with uniform velocity \( 36 \, \text{km/hr} \) towards a tall building which reflects the sound waves. The speed of sound in air is \( 320 \, \text{m/s} \). The frequency of the siren heard by the car driver is.
Question 6:
A student performed the experiment to measure the speed of sound in air using resonance air-column method. Two resonances in the air-column were obtained by lowering the water level. The resonance with the shorter air-column is the first resonance and that with the longer air column is the second resonance. Then,
Question 7:
A vibrating string of certain length \(l\) under a tension \(T\) resonates with a mode corresponding to the first overtone (third harmonic) of an air column of length \(75 \, \text{cm}\) inside a tube closed at one end. The string also generates \(4 \, \text{beats/s}\) when excited along with a tuning fork of frequency \(n\). Now when the tension of the string is slightly increased the number of beats reduces to 2 per second. Assuming the velocity of sound in air to be \(340 \, \text{m/s}\), the frequency \(n\) of the tuning fork in Hz is
Question 8:
A source of sound of frequency 600 Hz is placed inside water. The speed of sound in water is 1500 m/s and in air it is 300 m/s. The frequency of sound recorded by an observer who is standing in air is
Question 9:
In the experiment for the determination of the speed of sound in air using the resonance column method, the length of the air column that resonates in the fundamental mode, with a tuning fork of k = 0.1 m. When this length is changed to 0.35 m, the same tuning fork resonates with the first overtone. Calculate the end correction.
Question 10:
A siren placed at a railway platform is emitting sound of frequency 5 kHz. A passenger sitting in a moving train A records a frequency of 5.5 kHz, while the train approaches the siren. During his return journey in a different train B he records a frequency of 6.0 kHz while approaching the same siren. The ratio of the velocity of train B to that of train A is.
Question 11:
A whistle giving out 450 Hz approaches a stationary observer at a speed of 33 m/s. The frequency heard by the observer (in Hz) is (Speed of sound = 330 m/s).
JEE Advanced Sound Waves Question Trends
The Sound Waves section in JEE Advanced typically features conceptual and application-based questions that require a deep understanding of wave phenomena. Below are the key trends observed in Sound Waves questions in recent years:
Here’s a table summarizing the JEE Advanced Sound Waves Question Trends:
| Trend | Details | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual and Formula-Based | Tests understanding of sound wave properties like frequency, wavelength, and speed in different media. | - Calculating the speed of sound at different temperatures. |
| Doppler Effect | Involves questions related to the change in frequency due to relative motion between source and observer. | - "A source of sound is moving towards a stationary observer. What is the apparent frequency?" |
| Resonance and Standing Waves | Application of resonance conditions in tubes and strings, with a focus on fundamental frequency. | - "Find the fundamental frequency of a tube closed at one end." |
| Interference and Beats | Tests the superposition of sound waves, formation of beats, and beat frequency. | - "Two sources produce waves with slightly different frequencies. What is the beat frequency?" |
| Real-World Applications | Application of sound wave concepts in real-life scenarios, such as the speed of sound in different media. | - "An ambulance is moving towards you. What is the change in the frequency of the siren?" |
| Numerical Problem-Solving | Solving numerical problems related to sound intensity, speed, and Doppler Effect. | - "If the sound intensity level is 80 dB, what is the sound intensity?" |
| Graphs and Data Interpretation | Analyzing graphs related to sound intensity or frequency and extracting information from the data. | - "Given a graph of sound intensity vs. distance, calculate intensity at a different distance." |
Summary of Key Trends:
- Frequency: Approximately 1 question per year (2-3% of total marks).
- Question Format: Typically conceptual, application-based, and numerical problems.
- Core Topics: Doppler Effect, Resonance, Intensity, Beats, and Interference.
- Difficulty Level: Varies from basic calculations to application-based and integration with other concepts in waves.
JEE Advanced Exam Pattern
The JEE Advanced exam is considered as one of the top engineering entrance examinations in India, which takes place annually for enrollment at IITs and other top institutions to undergraduate programs. JEE Advanced consists of two compulsory papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, each with three hours of duration. It challenges students’ knowledge of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. The exam consists of different question types including Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Numerical Value-based Questions and Assertion-Reasoning questions to evaluate the foundational knowledge of topics and ability to solve problems. Both papers have a total of 180 marks, with marks deducted for incorrect answers in a few question types.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Papers | 2 (Paper 1 & Paper 2) – Both mandatory |
| Duration | 3 hours per paper (with break between papers) |
| Total Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (Equal weightage) |
| Total Questions | ~54–60 (18–20 per subject, split across question types) |
| Language | English & Hindi (option to switch during exam) |
The exam is known for its challenging nature and is conducted in English and Hindi. It is essential to clear the JEE Main exam before appearing for JEE Advanced.
Marking Scheme with Question types in JEE Advanced
Here is a detailed marking scheme for different questions in JEE Advanced exam.
| Question Type | Marks per Q | Negative Marking | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Correct MCQ | +3 | -1 | Basic theory/direct formula questions |
| Multiple Correct MCQ | +4 (full) | -2 (if all wrong) / Partial marks* | "Which of the following is/are true?" |
| Numerical Value (NV) | +3 | No negative | Calculations (e.g., wavelength) |
| Paragraph-Based | Varies (2–4) | Depends on sub-type | Linked to a common scenario |
| Match the Following | +2 per match | -1 per wrong match | Column matching (e.g., graphs) |
Partial Marks: For Multiple Correct MCQs, +1 per correct option (if not all selected).
Subject-Wise Distribution
Here is the subject wise questions distribution in the JEE Advanced exam describing number of questions in each subject.
| Subject | MCQs | Numerical | Paragraph/Matching | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 6–8 | 4–5 | 2–3 | 12–16 |
| Chemistry | 6–8 | 4–5 | 2–3 | 12–16 |
| Maths | 6–8 | 4–5 | 2–3 | 12–16 |
Subject wise Syllabus: JEE Advanced 2025
Here is a quick syllabus of JEE Advanced 2025 subject wise which helps in preparation of the students. Check JEE Advanced Syllabus for a detailed Syllabus.
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Modern Physics, Optics, Thermodynamics, Error Analysis |
| Chemistry | Physical (Thermo, Kinetics), Organic (Reactions), Inorganic (Coordination, P-Block) |
| Maths | Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, Vectors |
Note:
- Physics: Focus on Modern Physics (20% weightage) & Electrodynamics.
- Chemistry: Organic reactions & Coordination compounds are high-scoring.
- Maths: Calculus (35% weightage) is most critical.
In addition to conceptual knowledge, you should practice multiple mock tests before your exam.
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JEE Advanced Physics Paper Analysis (2024 & Trends)
The JEE Advanced Physics Paper is designed to test a candidate in terms of knowledge in Physics as well as problem-solving skills and capabilities. The test consists of two papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, with each paper being 3 hours in length and comprising an approximate number of 18-20 questions. The questions in both papers, while relating to a wide range of Physics Topics such as Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Optics, Thermodynamics, Modern Physics, Waves and Oscillations, etc., have the same syllabus in all subjects within the two papers.
Overview (2024)
Here is a basic overview of JEE Advanced Physics Pattern in 2024
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 12–14 per paper (2 papers) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Hard (30% easy, 50% moderate, 20% difficult) |
| Question Types | Single/Multiple MCQs, Numerical Value, Paragraph-based, Match-the-Column |
| Key Focus Areas | Modern Physics, Electrodynamics, Mechanics, Error Analysis |
Chapter-Wise Weightage (2024)
The Physics subject in JEE Advanced incorporates a range of chapters from the Class 11 and Class 12 syllabus. The weightage from each chapter varies within each subject. Below is the subject-wise weightage of Physics subjects and possible weightage in JEE Advanced.
| Topic | Weightage | Difficulty | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Physics | 20–25% | Moderate | Nuclear physics, photoelectric effect, semiconductors |
| Electrodynamics | 18–22% | Hard | EMI, Capacitors, AC circuits, Maxwell’s laws |
| Mechanics | 15–20% | Moderate-Hard | Rotational dynamics, center of mass, collisions |
| Thermodynamics & KTG | 12–15% | Moderate | Laws of thermodynamics, kinetic theory |
| Optics | 10–12% | Easy-Moderate | Wave optics, interference, diffraction |
| Error Analysis | 8–10% | Tricky | Vernier calipers, screw gauge, least count |
| Waves & SHM | 5–8% | Easy | Standing waves, Doppler effect, spring-mass systems |
Difficulty Trends (2019–2024)
Based on previous year trends, here is an overview of the JEE Advanced Question Paper based on its difficulty level and focus points of the exam.
| Year | Difficulty Level | Key Observations |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Moderate-Hard | More numerical-based questions, fewer theory MCQs |
| 2023 | Moderate | Balanced mix of conceptual and formula-based Qs |
| 2022 | Hard | Heavy focus on electromagnetism and modern physics |
| 2021 | Very Hard | Unconventional mechanics problems, lengthy solutions |
| 2020 | Moderate | More NCERT-aligned questions |
JEE Advanced Previous Year Question Papers with Detailed Solutions
JEE Advanced 2024 Question Paper Pdf with Solutions
| Paper Name | Question Paper with Solutions |
|---|---|
| JEE Advanced 2024 Paper 1 Question Paper (English) | Check Solutions |
| JEE Advanced 2024 Paper 2 Question Paper (English) | Check Solutions |
| JEE Advanced 2024 Paper 1 Question Paper (Hindi) | Check Solutions |
| JEE Advanced 2024 Paper 1 Question Paper (Hindi) | Check Solutions |
| Architecture Aptitude Test | Check Solutions |
JEE Advanced Question Paper has 4 sections- Section 1 (Maximum marks-12), Section 2 (Maximum marks-12), Section 3 (Maximum marks- 24) and Section 4 (Maximum marks-12)
JEE Advanced 2023 Question Paper PDF Download With Solutions
| Paper | Answer Key PDF |
|---|---|
| Question Paper 1 PDF | Check Solutions |
| Question Paper 2 PDF | Check Solutions |
| Question Paper AAT PDF | Check Solutions |
JEE Advanced 2022 Question Paper
| 2022 Question Paper | PDF Download |
|---|---|
| Question Paper 1 PDF | Click here |
| Question Paper 2 PDF | Click here |
JEE Advanced 2021 Question Paper
| Question Paper | PDF Download | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Question Paper 1 PDF | Physics | Chemistry | Maths |
| Question Paper 2 PDF | Physics | Chemistry | Maths |
JEE Advanced 2020 Question Paper
| Question Paper | PDF Download |
| Question Paper 1 PDF | Click here |
| Question Paper 2 PDF | Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is sound wave important for JEE Advanced?
Answer. Indeed, sound waves are significant for JEE Advanced. They account for around 2-3% of the total marks available, but conceptually, sound waves are very rich and tap into numerous fundamental principles of wave motion that are at the core of physics. In particular, the concept of sound waves includes valuable topics such as the Doppler Effect, Resonance, Intensity of Sound, and Interference, which are all commonly featured in this exam.
Sound waves are studied within the larger topic of wave mechanics, and problems often involve combinations of numerical problems, conceptual questions, and the application of formulas. Once you properly understand the topics regarding sound waves, you may also have the ability to answer a question that directly addresses sound waves, or you may be able to solve a more advanced problem that incorporates wave scenarios. Sound waves, therefore, are a critical component of earning a strong overall score and high marks in JEE Advanced.
Q2. What is the Weightage of Sound Wave in JEE Advanced?
Answer. The weightage of Sound Waves in JEE Advanced is around 2-3% of the total marks. This typically translates to 1 question per year. Although it may seem like a small portion of the exam, the questions on sound waves are conceptually important and can involve the application of multiple concepts such as the Doppler Effect, Resonance, Interference, and Intensity of Sound. Therefore, a strong understanding of this topic is crucial for scoring well in the exam.
Q3. What are the 4 Types of Sound Waves?
- Longitudinal Waves: Particles move parallel to the wave direction. Example: Sound waves in air.
- Transverse Waves: Particles move perpendicular to the wave direction. Example: Vibrations in strings.
- Mechanical Waves: Require a medium to propagate. Example: Sound waves.
- Electromagnetic Waves: Do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum. Example: Light waves (not directly related to sound).
Sound waves are primarily longitudinal mechanical waves.
Q4. What is a Safe Score for JEE Advanced IIT?
The "safe score" for JEE Advanced is not the same every year, and is influenced by the exam difficulty, the number of candidates, and the cutoffs given by IITs. However, a rough guideline can be given below:
- For General Category: In general, a safe score for JEE Advanced for the general category to get into top IITs such as IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, and IIT Kanpur may be a score of 250-270 out of 360 or higher. For IITs that may not have as high rank preference for difficulty may have a safe score for admission of approximately 220-240 marks. However, admission may depend on the specific branch and category.
- Other Candidates: Safe scores for OBC-NCL, SC, and ST categories are lower for the admission in the top IITs rather than the General Category. However, it is subject to change every year.
- Minimum Qualifying Mark: In addition to the above safe scores, minimum qualifying marks also matter as well. Candidates must obtain marks past the given cutoff set by the exam recognition set by the exam. The minimum qualifying scores for each given year varies, which is published after the exam.
For most students of general category, a score of 250-270 is mostly considered safe for admission into reputed IITs, but the higher you score, the better your chances are of getting the branch and IIT you would like. Always check with the official cutoffs and trends from previous years for more specific information.
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