PRELIMINARY TOPICS 1

Chapter – 1
Preliminary Topics

1.1.1 Write down the Taylor Series expansion of a function f(x, y) of two variables x and y about the point
(x0, y0). [CU – 2005, 2015]
Ans. f x, y f x x0 x0 , y y0 y0

1
= f x0 , y0 x x0 f xo , y0 y y0 f x0 , y0
1! x y
2 2 2
1 2
x x0 f x0 , y0 (y y0 ) 2
f x0 , y0 2 x x0 ( y y0 ) f x0 , y0 .. …
2! x2 y2 x y
1.1.2 Are the following series convergent or divergent? (Proof not required) [CU - 2005]
1 1 1 1 1 1
(i) 1 ....... (ii) 1 .......
2 3 4 2 3 4
Ans. (i) The series is divergent
(ii) The series is conditionally convergent
x2 x3
1.1.3 Prove that the series - x ....... is convergent for x < 1 and divergent for x > 1
2 3
[Cu - 2005, 07, 12, 15]
xn
Ans. Let’s consider, U n
n
xn 1
Un 1
n 1
Un 1 n
x
Un n 1

lim U n 1 lim n
x
n Un n n 1
lim 1
x x
n 1
1
n
So, the series is absolutely convergent by the Ratio Test for x < 1

For 1 < x < 1 the series is convergent and for x > 1, the series is divergent.
1.1.4 Write down the expression for standard normal distribution function. Calculate the mean and
variance for this distribution. [CU – 2005, 07, 11, 15]
2 Mathematical Physics

2
x
1 2 2
Ans. The normal distribution function is given by PG x e ; x
2

b( x )2
Now first moment : < x> = Axe dx

1 1
Where A = , b=
2 2 2

by 2
Let, x = y + & dx = dy x A( y )e dy

by 2 by 2
Aye dy A e dy 0 A. .
b
1
= . . . 2.
2
Now Second moment :
by 2
x2 A (y )2 e dy

by 2 by 2 by 2
A y 2e dy A 2y e dy A 2
e dy

A 2
O A
2 b3 b
1 1 2 2 2
3
2 2 1 2 1
2
2a 2 2
Variance = x2 x 2 2

bx 2 bx 2 1 bx 2
Note : e dx , xe dx , xe dx 0
b 0
2b
Now you differentiate partials w.r.t b in both side, you will get the higher order integration.
bx 2 1
x 2e dx …….
2 b3

1.1.5 A particular experiment performed gives either of two results r1 and r2 occurring with probabilities P1
and P2 respectively. The experiment is performed N times. Calculate the probability that for the above
performance the result r1 will occur n times. What is the probability function called? [CU - 2006]
Ans. If P1 and P2 are the probabilities of two results r1 and r2, then P1 + P2 = 1
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 3

If the experiment is performed N times independently the probability of a particular sequence with results r 1
occurring n times (success) and r2 occurring (N – n) times (failure) is P1 P2
n M n
. Now, the probability that
the result r1 will occur n times is Pn Ncn P1n P2 N n

This probability function is called Binomial Distribution.

2
1 1 x
1.1.6 Gaussian probability distribution is given by, PG (x, , ) exp , x .
2 2
(i) Sketch the graph of PG vs x. Show that it has two points of inflection at x
(ii) What is the area under the curve? What does it signify? [CU - 2006]
PG

o x= x
2
1 x
dpG 1 2 1 2( x )
Ans. (i) e . 2
dx 2 2
(x )2
1 2 2
= 3
x e
2
(x )2 (x )2
d 2 PG 1 (x )2 2 2
2 2
e e
dx 2 3
2
2

(x )
d 2 PG 2 2
At the point of inflection, 0 Now e 0
dx 2
(x )2
Therefore : 2
1 or ( x )2 2

or, x or, x
or, x
It has two points of inflexion at x
(x )2
1 2 2
(ii) Area under the curve PG ( x) dx e dx
2
Let, x y dx = dy
y2
1 2 2 1 2
e dy . .2 1
2 2
4 Mathematical Physics

This signifies that the probability distribution is a probability density function.

1.1.7 Given a function f(x), assume that the Taylor Series for f(x) is f(x) = a0 + a1 (x a) + a2(x a)2 +a3(x
a)3 + …+ an(x a)n …., Calculate f(a), f ’a), f’’(a) ….fn(a) where fn(x) is n-th derivative of f(x) at x.
Write the Taylor Series of f(x) about x = a. Hence, define an analytic function in terms of expansion in
Taylor Series. [CU - 2006]
Ans. F(x) = a0 + a1 (x a) + a2 (x a)2 +a3(x a)3 + … + an(x a)n + … where f(a) = a0, f’(a) = a1. f’’(a) = 2a2,
f’’(a) = 3.2.a3…fn(a) = n!an, …
Taylor Series of f(x) about x = a, f(x) = f(x a + a)
( x a) ( x a) 2 ( x a) n n
= f(a) + f (a) f (a) .... f (a) ...
1! 2! n!
f(x) will be an analytic function about a point x = a if f(x) has existing derivative of all orders about x = a. In
other words f(x) will be an analytic function if we can expand f(x) in Taylor Series.
1.1.8 A random variable x has a probability function f Define variance and standard deviation of x.
[CU - 2006]
Ans. Let x be a random variable.
deviation x x [ x is average of x]

Avg. of x x = x x 0
2
Square of deviation, ( x x )2 x2 2 xx x2
2 2
Avg. value of x2 2 xx x 2

x2 2x x x 2
x2 2 x 2
x 2

x2 x 2
Variance

Standard deviation = = x2 x 2

1.1.9 A random substance decays with a fairly long half-life time. We observe such a system for an interval
of time which is very small compared to the half-life time. Show that the probability of getting a
( t)n t
counts during an interval of time t is given by, Pn (t ) e , where = probability of one
n!
particle emitted per unit time. What is the identity of the above probability distribution ? [CU – 2006]
Ans. Assume that the period of observation is much less than the half life of the substance so that the avg.
counting rate does not decrease during the experiment. Then the probability that one particle is emitted
during a small time interval t = t is short enough that the probability of emitting two particles during
t is negligible. We want to find the probability Pn(t) of observing exactly n counts during a time interval t.
The probability Pn (t + t) is the probability of observing n counts in the interval t + t for n>0, this
is the sum of the probabilities of the two mutually exclusive events, ―n particles in t, none in t‖ and
―(n 1) particles in t, one in t‖. In symbols, Pn (t + t) = Pn(t) P0 ( t) + Pn-1(t) P1 ( t) ….(1)
Now, P1 ( t) is probability of one particle in t, this by assumption is t. Then the probability of no
particle in t is P0(t) = 1 P1 t) = 1 t. Substituting this values into equation (1), we get.
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 5

Pn (t t) Pn (t) (1 t) Pn 1 (t) t … (2)

Pn (t t) Pn (t)
Or, Pn 1 (t) Pn (t) … (3)
t
dPn (t)
Putting t 0, Pn 1 (t) Pn (t) …(4)
dt
For n = 0, equation (4) simplifies since the only possible event is no particle in t, no particles in t
dP0 (t)
and eqn.(4) becomes for n = 0, P0 (t) … (5)
dt
Then since, P0(0) = probability that no particle is emitted during a zero time interval = 1, integration
of eqn. (5) gives, P0(t) = e t
. … (6)
t
Substituting, (6) into (4) with n = 1 gives a differential eqn. for P 1(t) = te . Solving eqn. (4)
( t)n
Successively for P2, P3, …… Pn, We obtain Pn (t) e t

n!
P2 ( t), P3 ( t), …….. equal to zero.
This is a Poisson Distribution.
xn
1.1.10 Examine the convergence of the series [CU - 2008]
n!
xn
Ans. Let Un =
n!
xn 1
Un 1
(n 1)!
Un 1 x
Un n 1
lim Un 1 lim 1
x 0
n Un n n 1
Series is convergent ( D Alembert ratio test)
1
1.1.11 Expand in a Taylor Series about the point x= 1. What is the radius of convergence of this series?
x 2
[CU – 2008, 10, 15]
1
Ans. Here f(x) =
x 2
Taylor Series about the point x = 1 of f(x)
(x 1)2 (x 1)3
f (x 1 1) f(1) (x 1) f (1) f (1) f (1) ...
2! 3!
Now, f(1) = 1
1
f (x) f (1) 1
(x 2) 2
6 Mathematical Physics

2
f (x) f (1) 2
(x 2)3
6
f (x)
(x 2)4 f (1) 6
2
(x 1) (x 1)3
f (x 1 1) 1 (x 1)( 1) ( 2) ( 6) ...
2! 3!
1 (x 1) (x 1)2 (x 1)3 ...

Now,
Un (x 1)n 1

Un 1 (x 1)n
lim Un 1 lim
x 1
n Un n

The series will converge when

x 1 1
0 x 2
0 2
1
2 0 x 2
0 2
1
Radius of convergence = 2
1.1.12 The weather record shows that on an average, Kolkata has 5 Norwesters in 30 days of April. What is
the binomial probability that a particular April has at least 4 norwesters? [CU - 2008]
Ans. No. of days = 30, No. of Norwesters = 5
5 1 1 5
Probability of Norwesters in April is = and Probability of not happening in April = 1
30 6 6 6
4 26 5 25
1 5 1 5
Probability of at least 4 Norwesters is 30C4 30CS 0.3768
6 6 6 6
We can do it using Poisson approximation, Required probability = p(x = 4) + p(x = 5)
4 5
e e
np
4! 5!
1 e 5 54 e 5 55
30 5 0.34 (approx.)
6 4! 5!
1 1 1
1.1.13 Prove that the series ... is convergent and deduce it‘s sum. [CU - 2009]
1.2 2.3 3.4
1 1 1 1 1 1
Ans. ...
1.2 2.3 3.4 n 1 n(n 1) n 1 n n 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 1 1
1 .... ....
2 2 3 3 4 r 1 r r r 1
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 7

1
1 1 [as r ]
r 1
The series is convergent and its sum is 1.

1.1.14 Evaluate the double integral, 1 x2 y 2 dxdy; where R is the region bounded by x2 + y2 = 1.
R

[CU - 2009]
Ans. Converting to polar co-ordinates as in polar co-ordinates :
x = rcos
y
y = rsin
x2 + y2 = r2 = 1 p
r
2 1
x
(1 r) rdrd
0 r 0

r2 1 2 r3 1 2 2 5
2 0 0 3 0 3 3 3
1.1.15 Two balls are simultaneously drawn at random from a box containing 6 red balls, 4 white balls and 5
blue balls. Determine the probability that at least one among them is red. [CU - 2009]
Ans. Total no. of balls = 15
No. of red balls = 6
6 2
Probability of finding red balls is
15 5
2 3
So, Probability of not finding red balls is = 1
5 5
1 1 1 0
2 3 2 3
Probability of finding at least one red ball is 2C1 2C1 0.64
5 5 5 5
1.1.16 What is conditionally convergent series ? Give an example. [CU - 2010]
Ans. An alternative convergent series (V1 V2 V3 V4 ...) is said to be conditionally convergent if after taking
mod in each term the series will be divergent. Hence, for a conditionally convergent series
V1 V2 V3 ...... will be divergent.
1 1 1
Example : 1 ..... is a convergent series but
2 3 4
1 1 1
1 ..... is divergent.
2 3 4
(x )2
1 2 2
1.1.17 A random variable x follows a Gaussian probability densit f(x) e , x
2
8 Mathematical Physics

Show that, the probability of the random variable x being in the interval from to is expressed by

the formula. P ( x ) [CU-2010]

x
1 t 2 /2
Where, ( x) e dt
2 0

(x )2
1 2 2
Ans. P(a x ) e dt
2 a

t2
1 2
x 1
e dt , t, dt dx
2 a

a
t2 t2
1 2
1 2
a
e dt e dt
2 0 2 0

1.1.18 Test the series 12 + 22x + 32x2 + 42x3 +………for convergence for x 1 and x 1. [CU-2011]
2
Ans. Here, U n n2 x n 1
Un 1 n 1 x
2
lim U n 1 lim n 1
x x
n Un n n

U n Converges if x 1 and diverges when x 1 , form D, Alembert ratio test.

1 3
1.1.19. Probability that a man hits a target is (obviously the probability that he will miss is ). If he fires
4 4
7 times, what is the probability that he hits the target at least twice? [CU-2011]
Ans. No. of independent trials (n) = 7
No. of success (r) = 2
1
Probability of success (P) =
4
3
Probability of missing the hit (q) =
4
The probability that he hits the target at least twice P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7
0 7 1 6
1 3 1 3
1 P0 P1 1 7C0 7C1 0.555
4 4 4 4
(x )2
2 1
1.1.20. If f ( x) Ae 2
is a probability density function then show that A ,
2x
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 9

x2
Use e dx [CU-2011]

Ans. By normalization condition, f ( x)dx 1

(x )2
2
2
Ae dx 1

x
Let , t dx 2 dt
2
2
So, form (1) we get, A 2 e t dt 1

1
A 2 1 A
2
k
e
1.1.21 Show that, for Poisson distribution function p(k ) for k = 0, 1, 2,
k!
2
Var ( x) E( ) ( E ( )) 2 Where E( ) kp(k ) [CU-2011]
k 0

k
e
Ans. Given E ( ) kp(k ) and p(k )
k 0 k!
k
2 2 e
E( ) k p(k ) E( ) k
k 0 k 0 k!
k
e
k (k 1) k
k 0 k!
k
k (k 1) k k
e e
k 0 k! k 0 k!

k k
e e
k 2 (k 2)! k 1 (k 1)!
[ ]
k 2 k 1
e e
k 0 k! k 1 k!
[ ]
k
2
e e
k!
2 2
e .e e e
10 Mathematical Physics

k
e e k
Now, E ( ) kp(k ) k [value is 0 at k = 0 ] k
k 0 k 1 k! k 1 (k 1)!
Replacing k by k + 1
k
e
e e . e
k 0 k!
2 2 2 2
var( ) E( ) E( )
1.1.22 A particle undergoes simples harmonic motion with an amplitude ‗A‘ and angular frequency w
Calculate the probability that the particle will be found at a dist. x to x + dx from the equilibrium
position. [CU-2012]
Ans. Let, p(x)dx be the probability of finding a particle between the distance x to x + dx in time t to t + dt.
dt 2dt
p( x)dx [ T is time period] …(1)
T /2 T
We know, equation of motion of S.H.M. x = A sin )
dx
A cos( t )
dt
dx
A 1 sin 2 ( t ) A2 x2
dt
dx
dt …(2)
A2 x2
2dx
Putting (2) in (1), p( x)dx
T A2 x2
dx
[ As T 2 ]
A2 x2
1.1.23. Use Maclaurin Series expansion to find an upper limit of θ (in degrees) for which we can use the
approximation sin θ = θ upto 3 decimal places. [CU-2012]
Ans. Maclaurin Series of a function f(x) is given by,

x2 x3
f ( x) f (0) xf '(0) f ''(0) f '''(0) ...
2! 3!
Here, ) )
) )

) )

) )

3 5
sin ..... [ θ is in radians]
3! 5!
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 11

3 5
sin .....
3! 5!
We must have | |

[ ]

In degrees θ = 4.83o
This is the upper limit for θ.
1.1.24. Sketch the two Gaussian probability density functions f1(x) and f2(x) with the same mean x = 0, but
with two different standard derivations [ ]

𝜎 𝜎
𝜎
𝜎

Ans. As , the curve f2(x) gets broadened because the area under the curve is fixed i.e. unity.
1
1.1.25. Expand in a Taylor Series about the point x = 1. What is the radius of convergence of this
x 3
series? [CU-2013]
Ans. Taylor Series about x = 1 is

( x 1)2 ( x 1)3
f ( x) f (1) ( x 1) f '(1) f ''(1) f '''(1) ...
2! 3!
1 1
Here, f ( x) f (1)
x 3 4
1 1
f '( x) 2
f '(1)
x 3 16

2 1
f ''( x) 3
f ''(1)
x 3 32

6 3
f '''( x) 4
f '''(1)
x 3 128

1 ( x 1) ( x 1)2 ( x 1)3
f ( x) .....
4 16 64 256
12 Mathematical Physics

1
( x 1)n 1 ( x 1)n
Now, U n ( 1)n Un 1 ( 1) n
4n 1 4n 2
lim U n 1 lim ( x 1) x 1
( 1)
n Un n 4 4

x 1
integral of convergence 1
4
x 1
or , 1 1 3 x 5
4
5 ( 3)
Hence, the radius of convergence is =4
2
1.1.26 Find the first three non-zero co-efficient in the Taylor Series expansion for 1/cosx about x = 0.
[CU-2013]
Ans. Taylor Series about x = 0,

x2 x3
f ( x) f (0) xf '(0) f ''(0) f '''(0) .....
2! 3!
1
f ( x) sec x f (0) 1
cos x
f '( x) sec x tan x f '(0) 0

f ''( x) sec3 x sec x tan 2 x f ''(0) 1

f '''( x) 3sec3 x tan x sec x tan 2 x 2 tan x sec3 x f '''(0) 0

f ''''( x) 3sec5 x 9sec3 x tan 2 x 3tan 2 x sec3 x sec x tan 4 x 6sec3 x tan 2 x
f ''''(0) 3 2 5

x2 5x4
f ( x) 1 .....
2! 4!
1.1.27 For free path of length x during which a molecule does not suffer a collision with another molecule in
dilute in dilute gas, one uses the exponential distribution.
1
PE ( x; ) e x/
for 0 x . Show that the avg. value of x is λ in the above distribution, plot

PE vs x and calculate the area under the curve. [CU-2013]

Ans. Avg. value of x is xPE ( x)dx.

0

x x/
e dx
0 𝜆 𝑃𝐸 𝑒 𝑥/𝜆
𝜆
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 13

x
ze z dz let z, dx dz (2)
0

Area under the curve,

1 x/
A PE ( x)dx e dx
0 0

1 x/ x/
e d (x / ) 1e 0
0

= -1 [0-1] = 1
1
1.1.28 Show that the infinite series is convergent if p > 1. [CU-2014]
xp
1 1 1 1 1
Ans. ........
xp 1p 21 3p np
Let p > 1, we must have 3p > 2p
1 1
or ,
3p 2p
1 1 2
or ,
3p 2p 2p
1 1 1 1 4
Similarly, and so on. Therefore, the given series is less than the comparing
4p 5p 6p 7p 4p
2 4 8 2
series 1 ....... which is a geometric series having common ratio which is less than 1,
2p 6p 8p 2p
since p > 1. Now by the comparison? The series is convergent. So, the given series is also convergent.
( x2 y2 )
11.29 Evaluate the double integral e dxdy in the region bounded by the circle x 2 y 2 1.

[CU-2014]
12
( x2 y2 ) r2
Ans. 1 e dxdy e rdrd [ In polar coordinates]
0 0

2 1 1
2 1
d re r dr 2 . e z dz [here, r 2 z.dz 2rdr ]
0 0
20
1
1 z 1 1
2 . e 1
20 0 e

1.1.30 Find the 1st four terms in the Maclaurin series expansion of (1 + x) In (1 + x). [CU-2014]
Ans. f ( x) (1 x) In(1 x), here f(0) = 0
Naclaurin Series,
14 Mathematical Physics

x2 x3
f ( x) f (0) xf ' (0) f ' ' (0) f ' ' (0) _
2! 3!
f ' ( x) 1 In(1 x) f ' (0) 1
1
f ' ' ( x) f ' ' (0) 1
1 x
1
f ' ' ' ( x) 2
f ' ' ' (0) 1
1 x
2
f ' ' ' ' ( x) 3
f ' ' ' ' (0) 2
1 x

x2 x3 2x4
f ( x) x _
2! 3! 4!
1.1.31 Six coins are tossed simultaneously. What is the probability of (i) 2 heads, (ii) at least two heads?
[CU-2014]
1 1 1
Ans. (i) Here N = 6, n = 2, p , q 1
2 2 2
2 4
n N n 1 1 6! 1
p ( n) N C1 p q 6C 2
2 2 4!2! 26
30 1 15
0.234
2 26 26
(ii) probability of at least 2 heads

P( x 2) 1 P(0) P(1) 1 6C0 q 6 6C1 p1q5

0 6 5
1 1 1 1
1 6C0 6C 1 0.891
2 2 2 2
1.1.32 In a water purification process, one nth of the impurity is removed in the first stage. In each
succeeding stage, the amount of impurity removed is one nth of that remained in the proceeding
stage. Show that if n = 2, water can be made as pure as you like, but if n = 3 at least one half of the
impurity will remain, no matter how many stages are used. [CU-2014]
Ans. Let x be the total impurity present in water
In, 1st stage impurity removed =

2nd stage impurity removed =

3rd stage impurity removed = and so on….

So, the total impurity removed considering all stages,

1
1 1 1
x .... x. n [Sum of gp series]
n n2 n3 1
1
n
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 15

1
Now, if n = 2, total impurity removed = x 2 x
1
1
2
1
x
But, if n = 3, total impurity removed x 3 .
1 2
1
3
So if n = 2, water can be made as pure as you like, but for n = 3, 50% impurity will remain. Whatever
be the no. of stages used, at least ½ of the impurity will remain for n = 3.

1.1.33 Evaluate, xydxdy where R is the quadrant of the circle within x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0. [CU-2015]
R

Ans. Let, x = r cos θ y = r sin θ

r 2 r 2
r4 1 r4
Now, xydxdy r cos r sin rdrd r 3dr sin cos d
0 0 0 0
4 2 8

1.1.34 Evaluate, xydxdy where A is the rectangle bounded by x = 0, x = 2, y = 0, y = 1. [CU-2015]

A

Ans. xydxdy
A

2 1
4 1
xdx ydy . 1
0 0
2 2
2 2
1.135 A scalar field is defined by ( x, y). show that [CU-97]
x y y x
Ans. Here ( x, y) and dφ is an exact differential

Now dx dy Mdx Ndy ….(1)

x y

Where M ....(2a)and N ....(2b)

x y
2 2
N M
As dφ is exact
x y x y y x x y y x

1.1.36 Prove that sin( z ) sin( x) , where z = x + iy [CU-2008]

Ans. sin(z) = sin(x + iy) = sinxcos(iy) + xosxsin(iy)

Now, | | | || )| | || )| | )| | )|
16 Mathematical Physics

1.1.37 One card is drawn form a well-shuffled ordinary deck of 52 cards. Then another cord is drawn form
the remaining 51 cards. Find the probability that they are both aces. [CU-2008]
4 1
Ans. Probability of drawing 1st aces
52 13
3 1
Probability of drawing 2nd aces
51 17
1 1 1
Probability of drawing both aces is
13 17 221
1
1.1.38 Which one of the following points represents the complex number = ?
1 i
(a) (b) [JAM PH-16]

(c) (d)

1
Ans. Given complex number z
1 i
1 i 1 i
z 0.5 0.5i
1 i 2
Correct answer (a)
1.1.39 For the given set of equations:
x y 1
y z 1
x z 1
Which one of the following statement is current?
(a) Equations are inconsistent.
(b) Equations are consistent and a single non-trivial solution exists.
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 17

(c) Equations are consistent and many solutions exist.

(d) Equations are consistent and only a trivial solution exists. [JAM PH-16]
Ans. Given that, x + y = 1 → (1) y + z =1 → (2)
X + z = 1 → (3)
Adding (1) & (3) we get—
2x + (y + z) = 2
Or, 2x + 1 = 2
1 1 1
Or, x y , z
2 2 2
Correct answer (b)
1.1.40 The tangent line to the curve x2 +xy + 5 = 0 at (1,1) is represent by—
(a) y = 3x – 2 (b) y = -3x + 4
(c) y = 3y – 2 (d) x = -3y + 4 [JAM PH-16]
Ans. [Home Wark]
Current answer (b)
1.1.41 Consider function f(x,y) = x3 + y3, where y represents a parabolic curve x2 + 1. The total derivative of
with respect to x, at x = 1 is—
Ans. Given, f(x,y) = x3 + y3 and, y = x2 + 1
F(x) = x3 + (x2 + 1)3
= x3 + x6 + 3x4 + 3x2 + 1
= x6 + 3x4 + x3 + 3x2 + 1
Total derivative of (x) with respect to x at x = 1 is—
dF ( x)
6 x 5 12 x 3 3x 2 6 x
dx x 1
x 1

= 6 + 12 + 3 + 6 = 27
Correct answer (27)
 
1.1.42 A rectangular area (A1) is formed by two vectors x and y as shown in figure (i). A new set of
    
vectors, representing the area (A2) as shown in figure (ii) are given as: u1 x ; u2 Kx y. , where k is
a dimensionless constant.
18 Mathematical Physics
   
The Jacobin of the frame (u1 , u2 ) with respect to x , y is— [JAM PH -16]
u1 u1
(u1 , u2 ) x y
Ans. Jacobin, j
( x, y ) u2 u2
x y
Now, u1 = x and u2 = kx + y
u1 u1 u2 u2
1, 0, K, 1
x y x y
1 K
J 1
K 1
Correct answer (1)
1.1.43 The phase of the complex number [(1 + i)i] in the polar representation is—
3 5
(a) (b) (c) (d) [JAM PH-15]
4 2 4 4
Ans. (1 + i) i = i + i2 = i – 1 = -1 + i.1

1 y
x 1, y 1and tan
x

1 1 3
Phase, tan tan 1 ( 1) tan 1 (1)
1 4 4
Correct answer (c)

1.1.44 The value of i i where i 1 is—

1
(a) 0 (b) (c) 2 (d) 2 [JAM PH-13]
2
Ans. Given, z i i
Squaring both sides—

z2 i ( i) 2 i2 2 z 2
Correct answer (c)
f df ( x, t ) dx
1.1.45 Given a function f(x,t) of both position x and time t, the value of where f ,x is—
x dt dt
2
f f f df
(a) 2
(b) (c) (d) [JAM PH-12]
x x x dx
Ans. f = f(x, t)
f f df f dx f
df dx dt or , .
x t dx x dt t
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 19

f f f f
or, f x
x t x x
Correct answer (b)
1.1.46 The work done by a force in moving a particle of mass m from any point (x, y) to a neighboring point
(x+dx, y+dy) is given by dw = 2xydx + x2dy. The work done for a complete cycle around a unit circle is—
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) 3 (d) 2π [JAM PH-08]
Ans. dw = 2xydx + x2dy = d(x2y)
Since dw is exact differential therefore, the work down done around a closed circle will be zero.
Correct answer (a)

1.1.47 The value of the integral x y dx x 2 dy , where C is the triangle with vertices (0, 0), (2, 0) and
c

(2, 4) in the anticlockwise direction is—

5 10 20 40
(a) (b) (c) (d) [JAM GP-10]
3 3 3 3
Ans. ( x y)dx x 2 dy Mdx Ndy

Using Greens theorem Mdx Ndy

c

N M
dxdy
x y
2 2x 2
(2 x 1)dxdy (4 x 2 2 x)dx
x 0y 0 0

4 3 32 20
2 4
3 3 3
Correct answer (c)
1 y 4 4 1 5 h( x)

1.1.48 If dxdy dydx dydx then the functions g(x) and h(x) are respectively.
y 0x 0 x 0y 0 x 4 y g ( x)

(a) (x – 4) and 1 (b) (x + 4) and 1

(c) 1 and (x – 4) (d) 1 and (x + 4) [JAM GP-09]
1 y 4
Ans. Domain of the integration dxdy is bounded by the curves—
y 0x 0

x = 0, x = y + 4, y = 0, y = 1
1 y 4 4 1 5 x 4
dxdy dxdy dxdy
y 0x 0 x 0y 0 x 4 y 1

So, h(x) = x – 4, g(x = 1

20 Mathematical Physics

Correct answer (c)

1.1.49 The volume of the portion of the cylinder x2 + y2 = 4 in the 1st octant between the planes z = 0 and
3x – z = 0 is—
(a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 8 (d) 16 [JAM GP-09]
3x
Ans. The volume will be, V dxdydz 3 xdxdy
z 0

In polar coordinates:
2 2
V 3 r cos .rdrd 3 xdxdy
t 0 0

2 2
2
2
r3 2
3 r dr cos d 3 . sin 0
0 0
3 0
=8
Correct answer (c)

4 1 cos 2 x
1.1.50 the value of the integral dx is—
2
1 1 1 1
(a) 1 (b) 1 (c) 3 (d) 2 [JAM GP-08]
2 2 2 2

4 1 cos 2 x 4
1
Ans. dx sin 2 x 2 dx
2
0 4
4
sin x dx sin xdx sin xdx
0

0 4
cos x cos x 0
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 21

1 1
2 1 3
2 2
Correct answer (c)
1.1.51 Volume of the solid generated by revolving the region bounded by the lines x = 0, y = √ and

(a) (b) (c) (d) [JAM GP-07]

We cut the object into rings.(see figure)

Ans. Cross-sectional area is π(1-y)2 where radius of each ring is (1-y).
Volume will be, )
1
2
1 x dx
0
1
1 x 2 2 dx
0

3 1
x2 4x 2
x
2 3 6
0

Correct answer (a)

1 x y
1.1.52 The integral f ( x, y, z ) dz dy dx is equal to—
0 0 0

1 x x 1 x z
(a) f ( x, y, z )dydzdx (b) f ( x, y, z )dydzdx
0 0 z 0 0 0

1 1 z 1 1 z
(c) f ( x, y, z )dydzdx (d) f ( x, y, z )dydzd [JAM GO-06]
0 x z 0 x 0

1 x y
Ans. f ( x, y, z )dzdydx
0 0 0

1 x x
f ( x, y, z )dydzdx
0 0 z

Correct answer (a)

x
x2
1.1.53 The value of the integral xe y
dydx is —
0 y 0

(a) 3 (b (c) 4 (d) 1 [JAM PH-05]

22 Mathematical Physics

x
x2
y
Ans. xe dydx
0 y 0

Domain of integration is bounded by—

Y = 0, y = x, x = 0, x = ∝
Changing the order
x2
y
xe dydx
0 y

x2 2 xdx
Let z dz.
y y
x2 y ye y 1 1 1
xe y
dx xe z dz dy ye y dy ye y
e y

y
2y 2 20 2 0 2
Correct answer (b)
1.1.54 If x is a continuous variable which is uniformly distributed over the real line from x = 0 to x→∝
according to the distribution: f(x) = exp (-4x) then the expectation value of cos 4x is—
(a) (b) (c) (d) 0 [JAM PH-16]

4x
Ans. Let I e cos 4 xdx.
0

4x sin 4 x 4x
I e e sin 4 xdx.
4 0

sin 4 x
4x cos 4 x
I e e 4x I
4 4
sin 4 x cos 4 x
or , 2 I e 4 x e 4x
4 4
1 4x
or , I e sin 4 x cos x
8

4x
e cos 4 xdx
0
cos 4 x
4x
e dx
0

1 4x 1
e sin 4 x cos x
8 0 8 1
1 4x
1 2
e 4
4 0

Correct answer (c)

 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 23

1.1.55. The work done for a complete cycle around a unit circle is ) ( ) where λ > 0. The ratio
〈 〉
̂

Where ̂ is the most probable value and (x) is the mean value of the variable x, is—

(a) 2 (b) (c) (d) 1 [JAM PH-14]

x
xf ( x)dx x 2e dx
0 0
Ans. x
x
f ( x)dx xe dx
0 0

x
Put z dx dz

3
z 2 e z dz 3 3
0 3 2!
x 2 2
2 2 1!
ze z dz
0

df ( x) d x x x x
Now, xe e e
dx dx
)
For most probable value ̂ |
̂

x xˆ x
x
e e 0 xˆ As, e 0

x xˆ
2
xˆ
Correct answer (a)

1.1.56. The value of the integral dxx9 exp( x 2 ) is—

0

(a) 20160 (b) 24 (c) 18 (d) 12 [TIFR-2013]

x2 1 4 1
Ans. x9 e dx x2 exp( x 2 ) d x 2
0
20 2

1 4 z 1 1
z e dz (5) 4! 12
20 2 2

dz
Put x2 z 2 xdx dz xdx
2
Correct answer (d)
24 Mathematical Physics

1.1.57. A 100 page book is known to have 200 printing errors distributed randomly throughout the pages.
The probability that one of the pages will be found to be completely free of errors is closest to—
(a) 67% (b) 50% (c) 25% (d) 13% [TIFR-10]
Ans. Here, p =

n = 200
[ ]

) [ ]

In percentage; p = e-2 × 100% = 13%

Correct answer (d)

1.1.58. The infinite series can be summed to the value—

(a) tan h x (b) ( )

(c) [ )/ )] (d) [ )/ )] [TIFR-10]

Ans. Given series

Now, In (1 + x) )

) )

) ) ( )
)
* )
+

Correct answer (c)

1.1.59. Consider a standard chess board with 8 × 8 squares. Apiece starts from the lower left corner, which
we shall call square (1, 1). A single move of this piece
corresponds to either one step right, i.e., to square (1, 2) or one
step forwards, i.e. to square (2, 1). If it continues to move
according to these rules, the number of different paths by which
the piece can reach the square (5, 5) starting from the square (1,
1) is—
(a) 120 (b) 72 (c) 70 (d) 45
[TIFR-09]
Ans. Let us take the squares as points in x – y place where we have to move to (5,5) from (1,1). In each step we
can add + 1 to x axis. Thus we shall take total 8 steps out of which 4 steps are in x axis and other 4 steps in
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 25

y – axis direction no matter what is the way. So we have the total combination as 8! But 4 steps are equal
for both directions. So total different paths:

1.1.60. What is the value of the following series?

( ) ( )

(a) 0 (b) e (c) e2 (d) 1 [JEST-13]

Ans. ( ) ( )

= cos21 + sin21 = 1

Correct answer (d)

1.1.61. The length and radius of a perfect cylinder are each measured with an RMS error of 1% The RMS
error on the inferred volume of the cylinder is roughly—

(a) 1.7% (b) 3.3% (c) 0.5% (d) 1% [JEST-12]

Ans.

( ) ( ) ( )

Correct answer (b)

1.1.62. An unbiased die is cast twice. The probability that the positive difference (bigger smaller) between
the two numbers is 2 is—
(a) (b) (c) (d) [JEST-12]

Ans. Total number of events = 62 = 36.

Total number of favourable events are = 4 i.e. {(3,1), (4,2), (5,3), (6,4)}

Correct answer (a)

1.1.63. If [x] denotes the greatest integer not exceeding x, then x e xdx is—
0

(a) (b) 1 (c) (d) [JEST-12]

Ans. [x] denote the greatest integer not exceeding x.

[x] = 0 for 0 ≤ x < 1
= 1 for 1 ≤ x < 2
26 Mathematical Physics

= 2 for 2 ≤ x < 3

x e x dx
0

2 3 4 5
0 e x dx 2 e x dx 3 e x dx 4 e x dx .......
1 2 3 4

) ) ) )

( )

Correct answer (a)

1.1.64. As x→1, the infinite series

(a) diverges (b) converges to unity

(c) converges to (d) none of the above [JEST-12]

Ans. Let,

As x = 1,

Correct answer (c)

1.1.65. Which of the following graphs given the best representation of the real valued function
)

(a) (b)
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 27

(c)

Ans. (c)
1.1.66. Which of the following graphs give the best representation of the real valued function y = x In x in the
domain x > 0?
(a) (b)

(c) (d) [JNU-10]

Ans. y = x Inx.

Therefore, y has minimum at

Correct answer (b)

1
1.1.67. What is the value of the definite integral ( x ln x) 2 dx
0

(a) (b) (c) (d) [JNU-10]

1 1
Ans. I ( x ln x)2 x 2 ( x ln x) 2 dx
0 0
28 Mathematical Physics

1 1
x3 2 d x3
ln x (ln x) 2 dx
3 0 0
dx 3
1
1 x3
0 2 Inx. . dx
0
x 3
1
2 2
x . Inx dx
30
1 1
2 x3 2 d x3
Inx dx Inx dx
30 3 3 0 dx 3
1
2 2 2 1 2
x dx
90 9 3 27

Correct answer (b)

1.1.68. Three dices with faces narked 1, 2, 3, …..6 are thrown together. Assuming that they are unbiased,
that is the probability that the sum of the numbers that turn up is 15?

(a) (b) (c) (d) [JNU-10]

Ans. Number of ways in which sum of three dices are 15 is given by—
{(5,5,5), (4,5,6), (4,6,5), (5,4,6), (6,4,5), (5,6,4), (6,5,4), (3,6,6), (6,3,6), (6,6,3)}
i.e. 10 ways.
Now, dices can be thrown in 6 × 6 × 6 ways = 216 ways.

Correct answer (c)

1.1.69 The sum of the infinite series is—

(a) convergent and equals to zero (b) convergent and equals

√

(c) convergent and equals √ (d) divergent [JNU-09]

Ans. Given series is—

( ) ( ) ( )
√

Correct answer (b)

1.1.70. The value of the integral dzz 2 e z where c is on open contour in the complex z plane as shown in the
c

figure, is— [CSIR NET-11(June)]

 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 29

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Ans. By Cauchy’s theorem, [NET-11(June)]

∮ ) ∮

B C D A B C D A A
0 I
A B C D A B C D D

1 1
2 z
z e dz z 2e z dz
1 1

1
1
I z 2e z 2 ze z dz
1
1

1 1 1
e e 2 ze z 2e z
1 1

1 1 1 1 5
e e 2 e e 2 e e 5e e e
e
Correct answer (c)
1.1.71. An unbiased dice is thrown three times successively. The probability that the number of dots on the
uppermost add up to 16 is—
(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-11(December)]

Ans. The possible outcomes which add up to 16 is given by—

{(4,6,6), (6,6,4), (6,4,6), (5,5,6), (5,6,5), (6,5,5)} i.e. 6 outcomes.
When a dice is thrown once then total no. of outcome is 6.
When the dice is thrown thrice then, the total no. of outcomes will be 6 3 = 216.

The required probability

Correct answer (b)

3
dx
1.1.72. Find the value of the real integral I
2
3 x 3x 2
3
dx
Ans. I 2
3 x 3x 2
3 3
dx dx
2 2
3 3 9 3 3 1
x 2 x
2 4 2 4
30 Mathematical Physics

3
1 1
dx
3 1 3 1
3 x x
2 2 2 2
3
In( x 1) In( x 2) 3

3
x 1 4 2
In In In
x 2 3
5 1

4 2
In In2 In
5 5
Correct answer (b)
1.1.73. The first few terms in the Taylor series expansion of the function f(x) = sin x around are—

(a) * ( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ ) +
√

(b) * ( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ ) +
√

(c) *( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ ) +

(d) * + [CSIR NET-11(Dec.)]

√

Ans. f(x) = sin x

Let ⁄ ⁄
( ⁄ ) ⁄ ⁄

)
√

( )
√

( )
√

( ⁄ ) ( ⁄ )
[ ( ⁄ ) ]
√

Correct answer (b)

1.1.74. The radioactive decay of a certain material satisfies Poisson statistics with a mean rate of λ per
second. What should be the minimum duration of counting (in seconds) so that the relative error is
less than 1%?

(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET -12 (June)]

Ans. Here,

n=λ
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 31

Therefore,

Correct answer (a)

1.1.75. Let ) ( ) be the real part of an analytic function f(z) of the complex variable

. The imaginary part of f(z) is—

(a) y + xy (b) xy (c) y (d) y2 – x2 [CSIR NET -12 (June)]
Ans. f(z) u + iv
Here given, )

For analytic function

Correct answer (b)

1.1.76. A ball is picked at random from one of two boxes that contain 2 black and 3 white and 3 black and 4
white balls respectively. What is the probability that it is white?
(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-12 (June)]

Ans. Clearly the required probability is—

* + * +

Correct answer (b)

1.1.77. Which of the following limits exists?
lim N
1 lim N
1
(a) InN (b) InN
N m 12 N m 1m

lim N
1 lim N
1
(c) InN (d) [CSIR NET-12 (June)]
N m 1 m N m 1m

lim N
1
Ans. Since only remains finite as N→∝, hence only it exists.
N m 1m

Correct answer (d)

1.1.78. A has contains many balls, each with a number painted on it. There are exactly n balls which have the
number n (namely one ball with 1, two balls with 2 and soon until N balls with N of them). An
experiment consists of choosing a ball at random, noting the number on it and returning it to the bag.
If the experiment is repeated a large number of times, the average value of the number will tend to—
)
(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-12 (June)]

Ans. Since all numbers are integer and ≥ 0 and probability of getting any ball is equal, hence average of the
)
number for a large measurement is

Correct answer (d)

32 Mathematical Physics

1 t
1.1.79. The value of the integral 2 2
cos dt is
t R 2R
2 2
(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-12
R R R R
(June)]
Ans. Home Work
1.1.80. In a series of five cricket matches, one of the captains calls ―Heads‖ every time when the toss is taken.
The probability that he will win 3 times and lose 2 times is—

(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-12 (Dec.)]

Ans. The required probability is—

5!
5c3 3! 2! 10 5
P
(2)5 32 32 16
Correct answer (d)
1.1.81. The Taylor expansion of the function In (coshx); where x is real, about the point x = 0 starts with the
following terms.
(a) (b)

(c) (d) [CSIR NET-12 (Dec.)]

Ans. f(x) = In (cosh x)

) ) )
)

) )
) )[ )]
) )
) )] )[ )]
[
) )
Expanding the fn. In Taylor series about x = 0 we get—

) ) ) ) ) )

) [ ) ]

Correct answer (b)

 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 33

1.1.82 Consider three particles A,B and C, each with an attributes that can take two values ±1. Let S A=1,
SB=1and SC=-1at a given instant. In the next instant , each S value can change to (-) S with probability
, The probability that SA+SB+Sc remains unchanged is-

(a) ) ) ) [CSIR NET-13 (June)]

Ans. at a given instant SA=1, SB= 1 and SC=-1.

SA+SB+SC=1
Now, if in the next instant SA be changed to -1, then for the sum to remain unchanged S B must not
change and SC must be changed to +1. Again this is so for S B also.
Now, there is another possibility, the sum remain unchanged if neither S A, SB & SC change.
Now, probability of changing the value is

Probability of not changing the value is

The required probability is—

Correct answer (d)

1.1.83. A loaded dice has the probabilities and of turning up 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

respectively.
If it is thrown twice, what is the probability that the sum of the number that turn up is even?
(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-13 (Dec.)]

Ans. The required probability is—

( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) ( )

[ ]

Correct answer (b)

1.1.84. In one dimension, a random walker takes a step with equal probability to the left or right. What is the
probability that the walker returns to the starting point after 4 steps?

(a) (b) (c) (d) [CSIR NET-14 (June)]

Ans. Now, clearly the distribution is binomial distribution and probability of each step to right or left is

Therefore, the required probability is—

2 2
1 1 1 1 3
P 4c2 . 6
2 2 4 4 8
Correct answer (a)
34 Mathematical Physics

1.1.85. A random walker takes a step of unit length in the positive direction with probability and a step of

unit length in the negative direction with probability . The mean displacement of the walker after n

steps is—
(a) (b) (c) (d) 0 [CSIR NET-14 (Dec.)]

Ans. Here,

Correct answer (a)

1.1.86. A particle moves in two dimensions on the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 8. At a particular instant it is at the point
(x,y) = (2,1) and the x-component of its velocity is 6 (in suitable units). Then the y-component of its
velocity is—
Ans. x2 + 4y2 = 8

Correct answer →(a)

1.1.87 The value of the integral ∫

(a) (b) (c) √ (d) 2π [CSIR NET-13 (June)]

√

Ans.

1 1 x2 1 x2 1
1 x4 2 x4 1

1 x2 1 x2 1
2 x4 1 x4 1
x2 1 x2 1
1 x2 x2
4 4
2 x 1 x 1
x2 x2
1 1
1 2 1 2
1 x x
2 x2 1 x2 1
x2 x2
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 35

dx dx
I 2
1 x4 0
1 x4
1 1
1 1
x 2 dx x 2 dx
1 1
0 x2 0 x2
x2 x2
( )

( )

Now,

du dv
I 2 2
0
u 2 u 2

[ ]

|
√ √

[ )]
√

[ ⁄ ⁄ ]
√ √

Correct answer (a)

1.1.88. The Laplace transform of 6t3 + 3sin 4t is-
(a) (b)

(c) (d) [CSIR NET-15(June)

Ans. The Laplace transform of 6t3 + 3sin 4t is-

)
) )

Correct answer (a)

1.1.89 Let x and y be two independent random variables, each of which follow a normal distribution with
the same standard deviant σ, but with means respectively. Then the sum x + y follows as-
(a) distribution with two peaks at and mean 0 and standard deviation √
(b) normal distribution with mean 0 and standard deviation 2σ
(c) distribution with two peaks at and mean 0 and standard deviation
(d) normal distribution with mean 0 and standard deviation √ [CSIR NET-16(June)]
Ans. z=x+y
36 Mathematical Physics

√
Correct answer (d)

1.1.90 The radius of convergence of the Taylor series expansion of the function )
around x = 0 is –

(a) (b) π (c) π/2 (d) 1 [CSIR NET-16(June)]

Ans. )
= sec h(x)

Taylor series expansion of sec h (x) about x = 0 is given by-

The co-efficient are | | | |

Ratios of these co-efficient are-

⁄

⁄
⁄

So the series is converging.

Radius of convergence ⁄
Correct answer (c)
1.1.91 A box of volume v containing N molecules of an ideal gas, is divided by a wall with a hole into two
compartments. If the volume of the smaller compartment is ⁄ the variance of the number of
particles in it, is-

(a) ⁄ (b) ⁄ (c) √ (d) √ ⁄ [CSIR NET-16(June)]

Ans. ⁄ ⁄ are the two compartments after dividing the box with by a wall with a hole in it.
⁄ ⁄

Correct answer (b)

1.1.92 If the probability in a total number of N steps making n1 steps to the right and n2 steps to the left is
described by a binomial distribution, the mean number (n) in proportional to-
⁄
(a) N (b) N-1 (c) (d) None of these [BHU-154]
Ans. The mean number (n) is proportional to N.
Correct answer (a)
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 37

1.1.93 In a random walk problem, if the probability that a particle is found between x to x + dx is given as
) the mean value of x is-
(a) 0 (b) 1 (c) π (d) None of these [BHU-13]

Ans. The mean of x in P( x)dx

x2
xe dx 0 [oddfunction]

Correct answer (a)

1.1.94 A card is drawn from a pack containing 52 cards with 4 aces and another card is drawn form a pack
of 48 cards with 8 aces. What is the probability that both are aces?

(a) (b) (c) (d) [BHU-12]

Ans. The required probability is-

Correct answer (c) , (d)

1.1.95 In a coded telegram, the letters are arranged in groups of 5 letters called ‗words‘. How many
different such words are there which contains each letter at most once?
(a) )
(b) (c) )
(d) (26-5)! [BHU-12]

Ans. Clearly the number of arrangements will be

Correct answer (c)

1.1.96 Which of the following equations is best represented by the graph below?
(a) xy = a, where a is a constant
(b) y = mx + c, where m and c are constant
(c) y = exp (x) + a, where a is a constant
(d) y = axm, where a and m are constants [BHU-12]
Ans. Clearly the equation is-
In y = mlnx + c
[ m ane c are contents]
Or, In y = mlnx + In a
[c = In (a), a is a contents]
Or, In y = In axm or, y = axm
Correct answer (d)
1.1.97 Which of the following straight lines passes through the point (1, 1)?
38 Mathematical Physics

(a) y = 2x + 3 (b) 2y = x – 6 (c) x = 1 (d) x = y + 1 [HCU-14]

Ans. Correct answer (c)
1 1
1.1.98 The value of the integral dx xydy is
x 0 y 0

(a) 1 (b) (c) (d) [HCU-14]

1 x
Ans. dx xydy
0 0

1 x 1 1
y2 x 1 3 1
xdx ydy xdx. x dx
0 0 0
2 0 20 8

Correct answer (c)

1.1.99 If x = at2 and y = 3bt, is-

(a) (b) (c) (d) [HCU-14]

Ans. x = at2 y = 3bt

Correct answer (b)

1.1.100 The series

(a) ex (b) sin (x) (c) log (1 + x) (d) (1 + x)2

Expanding in Taylor Series about x = 0 [HCU -14]

Ans. )

Correct answer (c)

1.1.101 The integral is-

(a) (b)

(c) (d) [HCU-14]

Ans.

* ) +

Correct answer (b)

1.1.102 The function y = f(x) satisfying the condition ( )

(a) (b) (c) (d) [HCU-13]

 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 39

Ans. If )

Then, ( ) ( )

Correct answer (b)

1.1.103 A number is chosen at random from the set of integers { 1, 2 ………, 1000}. What is the probability
that it is divisible by 3 or 5?
(a) 0.333 (b) 0.2 (c) 0.1 (d) 0.467 [HCU-13]
Ans. If the event divisible by 3 be represented by A and that divisible by 5 be represented by B then-
) )

And )

) ) ) )

Correct answer (d)

1.1.104 the co-efficient of x4 in the expansion of √ is-

(a) ⁄ (b) ⁄ (c) ⁄ (d) ⁄ [HCU-13]

Ans. )
( )
Expanding binomially: )

⁄
Correct answer (a)
1.1.105 The value of the line integral |( ) ( ) | taken along the straight line joining
(0,0) to (2,1) is-
(a) ⁄ (b) ⁄ (c) ⁄ (d) ⁄ [HCU-13]
Ans. The equation of the straight line is-

[ ) ) ]
40 Mathematical Physics

2 1
x2 x2
dx 4 y 2 2 y 2 dy [ x 2 y]
0
4 2 0
2 1
3 2
x dx 2 y 2 dy
40 0

3 8 1 2 8
2 2
4 3 3 3 3
Correct answer (d)

1.1.106 The derivative of the composite function ( ) is given by-

(a) ( ) * ( ) + (b) ( )

(c) ( ) ( ) (d) ( ) [HCU-13]

Ans. ( ) ( )

Now differentiating both sides wrtx

( )

( )

( )

* ( ) +

( ) * ( ) +

Correct answer (a)

1.1.107 Given the function ) ) √ the compositions and of are given by-

) ) ⁄ ) ⁄ ) ⁄
(a) (b)
(c) ) ) | | (d) ) ) [HCU-13]

Ans. ) (√ ) (√ )

) ) √ | |
Correct answer (c)
1.1.108 The area of the shaded region between the straight line and parabola as shown in the figure is given
by-
1 x 1 x
(a) dy dx (b) dx dy
0 x2 0 x2

1 x 1 x2
(c) dx dy (d) dy dx [HCU-12]
0 0 0 0
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 41

1 x
Ans. Clearly the area is- dx dy
0 x2

Correct answer (b)

1.1.109 Give ( ) the values of and b are-

(a) a = 2, b = -1 (b) a = 0, b = 0
(c) a = 1, b = 0 (d) a = -1, b = 2 [HCU-12]

Ans. ( )

)
* )
+ ( )

) { ) }

Correct answer (c)

1.1.110 If one person speaks the truth in 70% of the cases and another in 80% of the cases, then the
probability that they will contradict each other in describing a single event is-
(a) 0.36 (b) 0.38 (c) 0.40 (d) 0.42 [HCU-12]
st nd
Ans. Let, A be the event of truth speaking of 1 person and B be the event of truth speaking of 2 person.
P(A) = 0.7 & P (B) = 0.8
P(Ac) = 0.3 & P(Bc) = 0.2
Therefore, the probability that they will contradict each other is-
) )
) ) ) ) [ ]
= 0.3 × 0.8 + 0.7 × 0.2
= 0.24 + 0.14 = 0.38
Correct answer (b)

1.1.111 The inverse of the function is-

(a) ) (b)

(c) ) (d) [HCU-12]

Ans.

) ( )
42 Mathematical Physics

Inverse function is

Correct answer (b)

⁄
1.1.112 The function ) —
√

(a) (b)

(c) (d) [HCU-11]

⁄
Ans.
√

⁄ ⁄ ⁄
⁄
* ⁄ ⁄
+ )
√

⁄ ⁄
Now, ( ) ⁄
√

⁄ ⁄
⁄
( ) ⁄

⁄
* ⁄ ⁄
+

[ )]

Correct answer (b)

1.1.113 Let m and n be positive integers with m > n. When 8m + 7n is divided by 5, we get remainder I.
When 7m + 8n is divided by 5, we get remainder 2. If m – n is divided by 5, the remainder has to
be necessarily equal to—
(a) 2 (b 3 (c) 4 (d) 1 [HCU-11]
Ans. Let, 8m + 7n = 5x1 + 1…..(1)
And 7m + 8n = 5x2 + 2…..(2)
(1) – (2) m – n = 5 (x1 – x2) –1
Or, m – n = 5 (x1 – x2–1) –1 + 5
Or, m – n = 5 (x1 – x2–1) + 4
The remainder has to be necessarily equals to 4.
Correct answer (c)
1.1.114 | | where z = x + iy, represents a—
(a) straight line (b) circle (c) eclipse (d) parabola [HCU-11]
Ans. z = x + iy
| | √

This is an equation of a circle.

 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 43

Correct answer (b)

1.1.115 Find the radius of convergence of the power series ∑

Ans. )

Radius of convergence,

| |

⁄
| ) |
⁄ )
)

)
| )
|

( )

Radius of convergence is e.
)
1.1.116 Find the region of convergence for the series ∑ )

Ans. Radius of convergence,

| |

) ( )
| )
|
( )

The region of convergence is— | |

1.1.117 Expand ) )
Ans. We have,
z) z) π) π)
’ z) z) ’ π) π)
’’ z) z) ’’ π ) π)
’’’ z) z) ’’’ π ) π)
Now, by Taylor series—
) ) )
) ) ) ) )
) )
) ) ) ) ) )

1.1.118 Expand in the region.

(a) | | (b) | |
Ans. Here, )
) )

(a) If | |
Taking common the bigger term out of | | and 2. Here 2 is bigger than | | So we take 2 as common.
44 Mathematical Physics

) ( ⁄ ) )
( ⁄ )

( ) )

(b) If | |
We have, )

Taking common the bigger term out of | | and 2, hare z is bigger than 2. So we take | | common.

) ( ) ( )
( ) ( )

( ) ( )

Which is the required expansion.

1.1.119 Expand ) and z = 1.

Ans. Let u = z – 1
)

( )
( )

( )
) ) )
) ( )

1.1.120 A biased coin is tossed till a head appears for the first time. What is the probability that the
number of required tosses is odd.
Ans. Let p be the probability of getting a head and q be the probability of getting a tail in a single toss. So that
p + q = 1.
Then the probability of getting head on an odd toss
= probability of getting head in the 1 st toss + probability of getting head in 3 rd toss + probability of getting
head in 5th toss + …..
= p + qqp + qqqqp + ……∝
)

) ) )

1.1.121 The mean and variance of a binomial distribution are 4 and respectively.

Then, what is the value of )

Ans. Mean = np = 4
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 45

Variance

Now, np = 4

n=6
) )

( ) ( )

1.1.122 In sampling a large number of parts manufactured by a machine, the mean number of defectives in
a sample of 20 is 2. Out of 1000 such samples, how many would be expected to contain at least 3
defective parts.
Ans. Mean no. of defectives = 2 = np = 20p
The probability of defective part is , and the probability of non defective part = 0.9.

The probability of at least three defectives in a sample of 20 = 1 – (prob. That either none, or one, or
two are non-defective parts).
[ ) ) ) ) ) ]
)
Thus the number of sampler of samples having at least three defective parts out of 1000 sample

1.1.123 Let a book of 600 pages contain 40 printing mistakes. Let these errors be randomly distributed
throughout the book and r, the number of errors per page has a Poisson distribution. Then, find
the probability that 10 pages selected at random will be free from error.
Ans.

n = 10

⁄ ( ⁄ )
)
⁄ ( ⁄ )
) ⁄

1.1.124 If the probability of a bad reaction from a certain injection is 0.001, determine the chance that out
of 2000 individuals more than two will get a bad reaction.
Ans. If follows Poisson distribution as the probability of occurrence is very small.
Mean λ = np = 2000 × 0.001 = 2
Probability that more than 2 will get a bad reaction
46 Mathematical Physics

= I [ prob. that no one gets a bad reaction + prob. that one gets a bad reaction + prob. that two get bad
reaction].

* +

* +

1.1.125 Three dice are thrown. The probability that the same number will appear on each of them is—
(a) (b) (c) (d) None of these

Ans. Total number of events = (6)3 = 216

Total number of favourable events = 6 i.e
{(1,1,1), (2,2,2), (3,3,3), (4,4,4), (5,5,5), (6,6,6)}
The required probability is—

Correct answer (c)

1.1.126 The odds against a certain event are 5:2 and adds in favour of another independent event are 6:5.
The probability that at least one of the event will happen is—
(a) (b) (c) (d)

Ans. The required probability is—

( ) ( )

( )( )

Correct answer (b)

1.1.127 If probability density function of a random variable X is—

) { ( )}

Ans. ) { }

1
3
1 1
P x f ( x)dx f ( x)dx
3 3 1
3

1
1
x3 3 x3 1
3 1 3 1
27
3

So the probability in percentage,

1.1.128 Evaluate xy y 2 dydx where ‗s‘ is a triangle with vertices (0,0), (10,1) and (1,1).
S
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 47

Ans. Equation of
OA is x = y OB is x = 10y

xy y 2 dydx
S

1 10 y 1 10 y
2 2 1 3
dy xy y dx dy . ( xy y 2 ) 2
0 y 0
3 y y

1 1
2 1 3
. (9 y 2 ) 2 dy 18 y 2 dy 18 6
3 y 3
0 0

2 a
1.1.129 Evaluate r 2 drd
0 a (1 cos )

2 a
Ans. d r 2 dr
0 a (1 cos )

a
2
r3 a3 2
d 1 (1 cos )3
0
3 a (1 cos )
3 0

a3 2
1 (1 3cos 3cos 2 cos3 ) d
3 0

a3 2
(3cos 3cos 2 cos3 )d
3 0

a3 1 2 a3 3 2 a3
3 1 3 3 (44 9 )
3 2 2 3 1 3 4 3 3
2 2 x x2

1.1.130 Evaluate ( x2 y 2 )dydx.

0 0

Ans. Upper limits of y is—

√

Eqn (1) represents a circle whose centre is (1,0) and radius = 1. Lower limit of y is 0 i.e., x axis. Region
of integration is upper half of circle.
Let us convert (1) into polar co-ordinate by putting—
x = r cosθ, y = sinθ
𝜃 𝜋⁄
Limits of r are from 0 to 2 cosθ
48 Mathematical Physics

Limits of θ are from 0 to ⁄

2 2 x x2 2 2cos
2 2
(x y )dydx r 2 .(rd dr )
0 0 0 0

2cos 2cos
2
3
2
r4 2
d r dr d 4 cos 4 d
0 0 0
4 0 0

4 1 0 1 5 1
2 2 2 2
4 2
4 1 0 1 3
2

3 1 1
2 2 2 3 3
2
2! 4 4

31 1 1
4. .
22 2 2 3 3
23 2!2 4

1.1.131 Find the area bounded by the parabola y2 = 4ax and its lotus rectum.
Ans. Required area,
a 2 ax
A 2 dydx
0 0

a
2 2 axdx
0

2 32 a
8a 2
4 a x
3 0 3
log 2 x x y
1.1.132 Evaluate ex y z
dxdydz.
0 0 0

log 2 x
x y
Ans. I ex y
ez dxdy
0
0 0

log 2 x
e x y (e x y
1)dxdy
0 0
log 2 x
e 2( x y)
ex y
dxdy
0 0
log 2 N
e2 y
2N x y
e . e .e dx
0
2 0
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 49

log 2
e4 x e2 N
e2 x e N dx
0
2 2
log 2
e4 x 3e 2 N
e N dx
0
2 2
log 2
e4 x 3e 2 x x
e
8 4 0

e4log 2 3e2log 2 1 3
elog 2 1
8 4 8 4

elog16 3elog 4 3
elog 2
8 4 8

16 12 3 3 5
2 1
8 4 8 8 8
1.1.133 Using cylindrical co-ordinates evaluate : x2 y 2 dxdydz where v is the region bounded by
v

( )
Ans. We have, x2 y 2 dxdydz
v

)
Now, )

In cylindrical co-ordinate system—

r 2 dv r.rdrd dz
v v

2 8 2
2 r3 64
r dr d dz .( ).8
0 0 0
3 0
3

1.1.134 Evaluate xyz x 2 y2 z 2 dxdydz over the 1st octant of the sphere x2 + y2 + z2 = a2.

Ans. I xyz x 2 y2 z 2 dxdydz

Now, x = r sinθ cosФ, y = r sinθ sinФ

And z = r cosθ, dxdydz = r2 sin θ dr dθ dФ

& xyz = r3 sin2θ cosθ sin Ф cos Ф

50 Mathematical Physics

a 2 2
I r 3 sin 2 cos sin cos r 2
r 0 0 0

r2 sin θ dr dθdФ

* +

a 2 2
I r 7 dr sin 3 cos d sin cos
r 0 0 0

a8 1 1 a8
( Ans)
8 4 2 64
1.1.135 Calculate the volume of the solid bounded by the following surfaces :
Ans.

Now, required volume is— dxdydz

3 x y
dxdy z 0
(3 x y)dxdy

Now, x = r cos θ & y = r sin θ and dxdy = r drd θ

And x2 + y2 = r2 = I
Volume = ∫∫ (3 – r cos θ – r sin θ) rd rd θ
2 1
d (3r r 2 cos r 2 sin )dr
0 0

2 1
3r 2 r3 r3
d cos sin
0
2 3 3 0

2 2
3 1 1 3 1 1
cos sin d sin cos
0
2 3 3 2 3 3 0

3 1 1 1 1
2 sin 2 cos 2 0 sin 0 cos 0 3 ( Ans)
2 3 3 3 3

1.1.136 If u = xy, show that

Ans. u = xy

[ )] )

Again, )
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 51

And [ ]

[ )] )

From (1) & (2) it is clear that—

1.1.137 Show that )

( ⁄ )
Ans. Let ) ( ⁄ )

z is a homogeneous function of degree 2 in x and y.

By Euler’s theorem we ger—

Now,

as,

1.1.138

Ans. )
⁄

Now, u = u (x, y)

1 x x2 y
log xy x. . 2
x y y x
x x2 y
1 log xy
y y2 x

1.1.139 In a plane triangle, find the maximum value of cosA cosB cosC.
Ans. We know, A + B + C = π
)

= cos A cos B cos C [π – (A + B)]

= – cos A cos B cos (2A + B)
52 Mathematical Physics

Now, ⁄

Also, )

) )

= cos (2A + 2B)

When A = B = ⁄

2 2
2 3 f 2f 2
f 3
rt s or 2 . 2
4 A B AB 4
These show that f (A, B) is maximum for A = B = ⁄
Then C = π – (A + B) = ⁄
Hence cos A cos B cos C is maximum when each of the angles is ⁄ i.e., triangle is equilateral and its

maximum value = ⁄
1.1.140 Find the minimum value of x2 + y2 + z3 subject to the condition xyz = a3.
Ans. Let, f (x, y, z) = x2 + y2 + z2 …(1)
And Ф (x, y, z) = xyz = a 3
…(2)
By Lagrange’s method—
f
0 2x ( yz ) 0 ...(3)
x x
f
0 2y ( xz ) 0 ...(4)
y y
f
0 2z ( xy ) 0 ...(5)
z z
On multiplying (3) by x, (4) by y and (5) by z, we get—

2 x2 ( xyz ) 0 ...(6)
2
2y ( xyz ) 0 ...(7)
2z2 ( xyz ) 0 ...(8)
On subtracting (7) form (6), we get—
2x2 + 2y2 = 0 x=y
On subtracting (8) form (7), we get—
2y2 + 2z2 = 0 y=z
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 53

Putting the value of y and z in terms of x in equation (2) we get—

(x) (x) (x) = a3 x3 = a3 x=a

Putting the value of x y & z in equation (1) we get—

)
The minimum value of f (x, y, z) is 3a 2.
1.1.141 Find the maximum and minimum distances of the point (3, 4, 12) from the sphere
Ans. Let the co-ordinates of a given point on the sphere be (x, y, z) then its distance (D) from (3, 4, 12)
√ ) ) )
) ) ) )
Now, x2 + y2 + z2 = 1
Let, Ф (x, y, z) = x2 + y2 + z2 = 1
) )

) )

) )

Multiplying (1) by x, (2) by y and (3) by z and adding we get—

) )
)
From (1), )

From (2), )

From (3), )

Putting these values of x, y & z in equation (4) we get—

9 16 144
1 0 (1 )3 169 1 13
1 1 1
Putting the value of (1+λ) in equation (5), (6) & (7) we have the points—

( ) ( )

The minimum distance,

√( ) ( ) ( )

And the maximum distance,

√( ) ( ) ( )

1.1.142 Solve the differential equation )

54 Mathematical Physics

Ans. We have, ) )

The auxiliary equations of (1) are—

)
)

Now, (2) can be written as—

) )

Integrating:
or, log x + log y – log z = log c

This is the requited solution.

1.1.143 Examine the following sequence for convergence )

Ans. [ ) ]
∝
= 3 – 1 = 2 when n is odd.
i.e. the sequence does not have a unique limit. Hence it oscillates.
1 1 1 1
1.1.144 Show that the p series p
........
n 1 n 1p 2p 3p
(i) converges for p > 1 (ii) diverges for p ≤ 1.
Ans. The series will conversely or diverge accordingly

dx
as p
is finite or infinite.
1
x
m
dx lim dx
If p 1,
1
xp m 1
xp

lim m1 p 1
m 1 p

dx
For, p 1, log x 1
1
x
Therefore, the series converges for p > 1 and diverges for p ≤ 1.
1.1.145 Determine the nature of the series ∑

Ans.
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 55

* +

* +

Taking we have,

* +
∝ ∝
Since Ʃ vn is convergent, therefore Ʃ un is also convergent.

n!
1.1.146 Discuss the convergence of the series
n 1 (n n )2
Ans. We have, )

(n 1)!
And un 1
n 1 2
n 1

) )

∝ ∝ )

)
( ) )
∝ ∝

( ) )
∝

*( ) + )
∝
Lt
e2 (n 1)
n
Hence the given series is divergent.

1.1.147 Examine the convergence of the series: ∝

Ans.

Lt un Lt xn 1 xn 1
.
n un 1 n xn 1 1 x n

Lt 1 xn 1
n x xn 1

1 1
, ifx 1 [ xn 0 if x 0]
x
n 1
1
1
Lt un Lt x
Also, 1, if x 1
n un 1 n x n 1
1
x
56 Mathematical Physics

By ratio test Ʃun converges for x < 1 and fails for x > 1.
1 1 1
When x 1, un .............. which is divergent.
2 2 2
Hence the given series converges for x < 1 and diverges for x ≥ 1.
1.1.148 Prove that u = 2x (1 – y) is harmonic. Also fine v such that u + iv is analytic.
Ans. ux = 2(1 – y) and uy = – 2x

Hence u is harmonic.
Using Milne’s method ux (x, 0) = 2
and uy (x, 0) = -2
So, f(x) = ∫{u1(z, 0) – iu2 (z, 0)} dz
= ∫ (2 + 2iz) dz = 2z + iz2
It may be verified—
f(z) = 2z + iz2
= 2 (x + iy) + i (x + iy)2
= 2 (x + iy) + i (x2 + y2 + 2ixy)
= (2x – 2xy) + i (2y + x2 – y2)
Hence, v = 2y + x2 – y2
1.1.149 Prove that the function u = x3 – 3xy2 + 3x2 – 3y2 + 1 satisfies Laplace‘s equation and determine the
corresponding analytic function.
Ans. u = x3 – 3xy2 + 3x2 – 3y2 + 1

Again,

Hence u satisfies Laplace’s equation.

Now, )
)
So, f(z) = ∫{u1(z, 0) – u2 (z, 0)} dz
= ∫ (3z2+ 6z) dz = z2 + 3z2
eiz
1.1.150 Evaluate dz , where c is the circle z 2.
c
z3
Ans.
2
1
1.1.151 Evaluate sin 2 2ei d .
2 0
6
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 57

Ans. Let f(z) = sin2z

By Gauss Mean Value Theorem we get—
2
1
f ( z0 ) f z0 Rei d .
2 0

2 2
𝜋⁄
1 1 2 i
f( ) f z d sin 2e d .
6 2 2 6
0 0

2 1
we get, sin
6 4
e z dz
1.1.152 Using residue there, evaluate around z 2.
c
z ( z 1) 2

Ans. z 2. encloses poles

ez
f ( z)
z ( z 1)2
Lim
Res ( z 0) zf ( z ) 1
z 0
Lim d
Res ( z 1) ( z 1)2 . f ( z ) 1
z 1 dz

Lim d e z ez ez
Res ( z 1) 0
z 1 dz z z z2 z 1

So, by the residue theorem—

e2 dz
f ( z )dz 2 i(1 0) 2 i
c c
z ( z 1)2

2 i Re s( z 0) Re s( z 1)

dx
1.1.153 Prove
0
(1 x 2 )2 4

1
Ans. Consider, f ( z )
(1 z 2 )2
f(z) has poles at z = ± i each of order 2. Only z = i lies in the upper half semi circular plane.
zf (z) → 0 as z → ∝

So, f ( z )dz asR

r
58 Mathematical Physics

dx
f ( z )dz
c
(1 x 2 )2

By Residue Theorem:

f ( z )dz 2 i Re s( z i)
c

lim d 1
2 i ( z i)2 2
z i dz ( z 1)2

lim d 1 1
2 i 2 i.
z i dz ( z 1)2 4i 2

dx dx
(1 x 2 )2 2 0
(1 x 2 )2 4

1
1.1.154 Prove that, cos x 2 dx sin x 2 dx by integrating over a quadrant of a circle.
0 0
2 2

Ans. Let )
Make a contour as shown, f (z) is analytic.
So, ∮ )
R 0
f ( z )dz f (Rei ) Riei d f ( z) dz 0
4
0 r R

2 eiu
f ( z )dz eiz dz de
r r r 2 u

eiu
By Jordan’s Lemma, du 0 as R
2 u
0 i xe
i
4 0
2i
ix 2 2 ix 2
So, e dx e i dx 0 or , e dx eix 1 i
dx 0
4 2
0 0

On taking real and imaginary parts

1 x2 1 1
cos x 2 dx e dx
0 20 2 2 𝑅 𝑖𝑅
√ √
2 1 x2 1
sin x dx e dx (Pr oved )
0 20 2 2

𝜋⁄
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 59

Multiple Choice Type Questions

1.2.1 Two In a Poisson‘s distribution if P (a=D)=P(a=D+1) then mean of the above distribution is—
(a) D + 1 (b) D – 1 (c) 2D (d) D
Ans. (a)

1.2.2 Find out the mean of the given Poisson’s distribution )

(a) a (b) n/a (c) n/a! (d) n

Ans. (b)
1.2.3 In a Poisson‘s distribution the moment generating function is given by—
) ) ( )
(a) (b)
(c) ) ) (d) )
Ans. (c)
1.2.4 Which one of the below is a normal probability function—
/ /
(a) (b)
√ √
/ /
(c) (d)
√ √

Ans. (c)
1.2.5 What is the recurrence relation for a Poisson‘s distribution—
(a) ) ) (b) ) )
)

(c) ) ) (d) ) )
)

Ans. (a)

1.2.6 If 2 is the standard deviation for Poisson‘s distribution then find out the probability for r = 3
8 2 1
(a) (b) (c) (d) e
e4 e2 e2
Ans . (b)
1.2.7 Find out the mean and standard deviation for the given Binomial distribution.
m
(X y)m mCr X r y m r

r 0

X y
(a) mX and mXy (b) mXy and mXy (c) mX and mXy (d) and mXy
2
Ans. (a)
1.2.8 Poisson‘s distribution function is given by
60 Mathematical Physics

na en na e n nae n na en
(a) P(a) = (b) P(a) = (c) P(a) = (d) P(a) =
a! a! a 1! (a 1!)
Ans. (b)
1.2.9 If X and Y are two events then P (neither X nor Y) equals
(a) none of these (b) P( X ) P (Y) (c) 1 P( X ) P(Y ) (d) 1 P( X Y)
Ans. (d)
1.2.10 If n is the variance in the Poisson‘s distribution then what is the sum of the terms in odd places in the
distribution.
(a) e n sinhn (b) e n coshn (c) e n cothn (d) e n

Ans. (a)
1 4X 1 X 1 2
1.2.11 The probability of three mutually exclusive events are , ,
X 4 4
1 1 1 2 1 1
(a) X (b) X (c) X (d) none of the above
3 2 8 8 4 2
Ans. (d)
1.2.12 Which one of the given option is the recurrence relation for binomial distribution.
n z p n z p
(a) P( Z 1) P( z ) (b) P( Z 1) P( z )
z q z 1q
n z p n z p
(c) P( Z 1) P( z ) (d) P( Z 1) P( z )
z 1q z q
Ans. (c)
1.2.13 If Z and Y are independent events such that 1 > P(X)> 0, P (Y) > 0, then

X X
(a) P 1 (b) X and Y are independent
Y Y

(c) X and Y are independent (d) X and Y are mutually exclusive.

Ans. (c), (a)
1.2.14 Three dices are thrown. Find out the probability of getting the same number on each dice.
1 1
(a) none of these (b) (c) 0.166 (d)
36 19
Ans. (b)
1.2.15 The probability that X and Y will die within a year are p and q. Then what is the probability that one
of them will be alive at the end of the year –
(a) p + 1 2pq (b) p + q + pq (c) p q pq (d) p + q
Ans. (a)
1.2.16 The probability function of a random variable Y that takes values 0, 1, 2, 3, 4. The value of C for
which P (z = A) = CA2 serves as the probability function for the above values –
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 61

1 1
(a) (b) 0.033 (c) 0.33 (d)
18 5
Ans. (b)
1.2.17 Y is a random Poisson variance defined such that r = P (Y = 1) = P (Y = 2) then find P(Y=4)
r r r
(a) (b) (c) (d) 3r
3 e2 e2
Ans. (a)
1.2.18 In a random variable Y has a Poisson distribution such that P(Y = 1) = P(Y= 2) its variance and mean
are –
(a) 2, 1.73 (b) 2, 2 (c) 1, 1 (d) 2, 4
Ans. (b)
1.2.19 In a row let m 3 persons be sitting. Two of them are selected randomly find the probability that
they are not together.
1 1 2
(a) 1 2m (b) 1 m (c) (d) none of them
m 1
Ans. (a)
1.2.20 Find the probability that atleast one of the events will happen where the odds against a certain event
are 5 : 2 and odds in favour of another independent event are 6 : 5 –
(a) 25 /77 (b) 65 / 77 (c) 12 / 77 (d) 52 / 77
Ans. (d)
1.2.21 If a variable Y follows a binomial distribution with parameter m = 6 and p and if P(X = 3) = P(X=2)
then p =
1
(a) 0.5 (b) 0.25 (c) 0.16 (d)
3
Ans. (d)
1.2.22 The number of distinct ways of placing four indistinguishable balls into five distinguishable boxes is-
(GATE 2013)
Ans. (70)
1.2.23 An unbiased dice is cast twice. The probability that the positive difference (bigger-smaller) between the two
numbers is 2 is – (JEST 2012)
1 2 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
9 9 6 3
Ans. (b)
1.2.24 A box contains 100 coins of which 99 are fair coins and 1 is a double – headed coin. Suppose you
choose a coin at random and toss it 3 times. It turns out that the results of all 3 tosses are heads. What
is the probability that coin you have drawn in the double-headed one? (JEST 2013)
(a) 0.99 (b) 0.925 (c) 0.075 (d) 0.01
Ans. (c)
62 Mathematical Physics

1.2.25 A random number generator outputs +1 or -1 with equal probability every time it is run. After it is
run 6 times, what is the probability that the sum of the answers generated is zero? Assume that the
individual runs are independent of each other. (TIFR 2015)
15 5 5 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
32 10 6 2
Ans. (b)
1.2.26 Consider a standard class board with 8 8 squares. A piece starts from the lower left corner, which we
shall call square (1, 1). A single move of this piece corresponds to either one step right, i.e. to square (1,
2) or one step forward, i.e. to square (2, 1). If it continues to move according to these rules, the number
of different paths by which the piece can reach the square (5,5) starting from the square (1, 1) is –
(TIFR 2010)
(a) 120 (b) 72 (c) 70 (d) 45
Ans. (c)
1.2.27 A gas contains particles of type A with fraction 0.8, and particles of type B with fraction 0.2. The
probability that among 3 randomly chosen particles at least one is of type A is – (JEST 2016)
(a) 0.8 (b) 0.25 (c) 0.33 (d) 0.992
Ans. (d)
1.2.28 If two ideal dices are rolled once, what is the probability of getting at least one ‗6‘ ? (JEST 2015)
1 5 5
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2 36 36 56
Ans. (a)
x
1.2.29 If the distribution function of x is f(x) = xe over the interval 0 < x < , the mean value of x is –
(JEST 2013)

(a) (b) 2 (c) (d) 0

2
Ans. (b)
1.2.30 Two drunks start out together at the origin, each having equal probability of making a step
simultaneously to the left or right along the x axis. The probability that they meet after n steps is –
(JEST 2013)
1 2n ! 1 1 1
(a) (b) 2n ! (c) n! (d) n!
2n n !2 2n 4n 4n
Ans. (a)
1.2.31 Let a random walker on a square lattice. At each step the random walker moves to a nearest neighbor
site with equal probability for each of the four sites, now the walker starts at the origin and takes 3
steps. Calculate the probability that during this walk no site is visited more than once.
Ans. (9/16)
1.2.32 In a triangular lattice a particle moves from a lattice point to any of its 6 neighboring points with
equal probability, as shown in the figure below. (TIFR 2016 and NET 2016)
The probability that the particle is back at its starting point after 3 moves is –
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 63

5 1
(a) (b)
18 6
1 1
(c) (d)
18 36
Ans. (c)
(There are 6 6 6 ways of travel. Among them there
are 6 2 ways to back to the origin)
1.2.33 An unbiased dice is thrown three times successively. The probability that the number of dots on the
uppermost furfact add up to 16 is – (NET 11)
5 1 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
16 36 108 216
Ans. (b)
1.2.34 A ball is picked at random from one of two boxes that contain 2 black and 3 white and 3 black and 4
white balls respectively. What is the probability that it is white? (NET 12)
41 36 29 29
(a) (b) (c) (d)
70 70 70 70
Ans. (b)
1.2.35 In a series of five cricket matches, one of the captains calls ‗Heads‘ every time when the toss taken.
The probability that he will win 3 times and loss 2 times is – (NET 12)
1 5 3 5
(a) (b) (c) (d)
8 8 16 16
Ans. (d)
(Sample space has 25 = 32 points. Amont 5 tosses 3 heads and 2 tails can be chosen by 5C3 ways)
1.2.36 A child makes a random walk on a square lattice of constant a taking a step in the north, east, south
or west directions with probabilities 0.255, 0.255, 0.245 and 0.245, respectively. After a large number
of steps, N, the expected position of the child with respect to the starting point is at a distance –
(NET 13)
(a) 2 10 2 Na in the north-east direction (b) 2 N 10 2
in the north-east direction
2
(c) 2 2 10 Na in the south-east direction (d) 0
Ans. (a)
1 2 3 4 5 144
1.2.37 A loaded dice has the probabilities , , , , and of turning up1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
21 21 21 21 21 441
respectively. If it is thrown twice, what is the probability that the sum of the numbers that turn up is
even? (NET 13)
144 225 221 220
(a) (b) (c) (d)
441 441 441 441
Ans. (b)
64 Mathematical Physics

(x 2 x)
1 2 2
1.2.38 The mean value of a random variable x with probability density p(x) = e (JEST 2016)
2

(a) 0 (b) (c) (d)

2 2
Ans. (Integrate to find the answer)
2
1.2.39 A random walker takes a step of unit length in the positive direction with probability and a step of
3
1
unit length in the negative direction with probability . The mean displacement of the walker after n
3
steps is – (NET – 14)
n n 3n
(a) (b) (c) (d) 0
3 8 3
Ans. (a)
1.2.40 In one dimension, a random walker takes a step with equal probability to the left or right. What is the
probability that the walker returns to the starting point after 4 steps? (NET 14)
3 5 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
8 16 4 16
Ans. (a)
1.2.41 Let u be a random variable uniformly distributed in the interval (0, 1) and V = C ln(u), where c is a
real constant. If V is to be exponentially distributed in the interval (0, ) with unit standard
deviation, then the value of c should be – (NET 13)
1
(a) ln(2) (b) (c) 1 (d) 1
2
Ans. (Home work)
1.2.42 Consider three particles A, B and C, each with an attribute S that can take two values : 1. Lest SA=1,
SB=1 and SC = 1 at a given instant. In the next instant, each S value can change to S with
1
probability . The probability that SA + SB + SC reains constant is – (NET 13)
3
2 1 2 4
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 3 9 9
Ans. (d)
1.2.43 If x is a continuous variable which is uniformly distributed over the real line from x = 0 to x
according to the distribution f(x) = exp( 4x), then the expectation value of cos 4x is – (TIFR 2016)
1 1 1
(a) 0 (b) (c) (d)
2 4 16
Ans. (b)
1.2.44 A bag contains many balls, each with a number painted on it. There are exactly n balls which have the
number n (namely one ball with 1, 2 balls with 2, and so on until N on them). An experiment consists
of choosing a ball at random, nothing the number on it and returning it to the bag. If the experiment is
repeated a large number of times, the average value the number will tend to – (NET 12)
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 65

2N 1 N N 1 N ( N 1)
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 2 2 2
Ans. (a)
x
1.2.45 The probability function for a variable x which assumes only positive values is : f(x) = x exp

x
where 0 . The ratio , where x̂ is the most probable value and (x) is the mean value of the
xˆ
variable x, is – (TIFR 2014)
1 1
(a) 2 (b) (c) (d) d
1
Ans. (a)

1.2.46 There are on average 20 buses per hour at a point, but at random times. The probability that there are
no buses in five minutes is closest to – (JEST 2013)
(a) 0.07 (b) 0.60 (c) 0.36 (d) 0.19
Ans. (d)
1.2.47 Two independent variables m and n which can take the integer values 0, 1, 2 ….. , follow the Poisson
distribution, with distinct mean values and respectively. Then – (NET 14)
(a) The probability distribution of the random variable l m + n is a binomial distribution.
(b) The probability distribution of the random variable r = m n is also a Poisson distribution.
(c) The variance of the random variable l = m + n is equal to + .
(d) The mean value of the random variable r = m n is equal to zero.
Ans. (Home Work)
1.2.48 Let X and Y be two independent random variables, each of which follow a normal distribution with
the same standard deviation , but with means + and respectively. Then the sum X + Y follows
a- (NET 16)
(a) distribution with two peaks at 2 and mean 0 and standard deviation 2.
(b) normal distribution with mean 0 and standard deviation 2 .
(c) distribution with two peaks at 2 and mean 0 and standard deviation 2 .
(d) normal distribution with mean 0 and standard deviation 2.
Ans. (c)
1.2.49 Consider a random walker on a square lattice. At each step the walker moves to a nearest neighbor
site with equal probability for each of the four sites. The walker starts at the origin and takes three
steps. The probability that during this walk no site is visited more than once is – (NET 15)
3 27 3 9
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4 64 8 16
Ans. (d)
1
1.2.50 Let y = (x1 x 2 ) where x1 and x2 are independent and identically distributed Gaussian random
2
variables of mean and standard deviation . Then (y4 ) / 4
is – (NET 14)
3 1 1
(a) 1 (b) (c) (d)
4 2 4
66 Mathematical Physics

Ans. (Home Work)

1.2.51 Three real variables a, b and c are each randomly chosen from a uniform probability distribution in
the interval [0, 1]. The probability that a + b > 2c is – (NET 15)
3 2 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4 3 2 4
Ans. (Home Work)

1.2.52 The value of r n sin(n ) for r = 0.5 and = is – (JAM 2014)

n 0 3
1 2 3
(a) (b) (c) (d) 3
3 3 2
Ans. (Home Work)
1.2.53 Suppose that we toss two fair coins hundred times each. The probability that the same number heads
occur for both coins at the end of the experiment is – (JEST 17)
100 100 100 100 2 100 100 2 100 100 2
1 n 1 n 1 1 n 1 n
(a) (b) 2 (c) (d)
4 n 0 k 4 n 0 k 2 4 n 0 k 4 n 0 k
Ans. (d)
1
1.2.54 The random variable x( <x ) is distributed according to the normal distribution P(x) =
2
2
exp x2 / 2 2
. The probability density of the random waviable y = x2 is – (NET 17)
1 2 1 2
(a) exp y/2 ,0 y< (b) exp y/2 ,0 y<
2 2
2 y 2 2 y
1 2 1 2
(c) exp y/2 ,0 y< (d) exp y/2 ,0 y<
2 2
2 2 y
Ans. (a)
1.2.55 Consider two radioactive atoms, each of which has a decay rate of 1 per year. The probability that at
least one of them decays in the first two years is – (NET 16)
1 3 4 2 2
(a) (b) (c) 1 e (d) 1 e
4 4
Ans. (c)
1.2.56 You receive on average 5 emails per day during a 365 days year. The number of days on average on
which you do not receive any emails in that year are – (JEST 2016)
(a) more than 5 (b) more than 2 (c) 1 (d) none of the above
Ans. (a)
1.2.57 What is the value of following series? (JEST 2012)
2 2
1 1 1 1
1 ... 1 ...
2! 4! 3! 5!
(a) 0 (b) e (c) e2 (d) 1
Ans. (d)
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 67

x3 x5 x7
1.2.58 The infinite series x where 1< x < 1 can be summed to the value – (TIFR 2011)
3 5 7
4
(a) tan hx (b) ln 1 tan 1 x

1 1
(c) ln [(1 + x) / (1 x)] (d) ln [(1 x) / (1 + x)]
2 2
Ans. (c)
(n 1)(n 2) n
1.2.59 Give the infinite series y(x) = 1 + 3x + 6x2 + 10x3 + … + x + … find the value of y(x) for
2
6
x= - (TIFR 2016)
7
Ans. (343)
x2
1.2.60 The integral e dx is equal to – (two decimal) (GATE 2017)
0

Ans. (0.43 to 0.45)

99
1
1.2.61 The sum is equal to – (JEST 2015)
m 1 m 1 m
1
(a) 9 (b) 99 1 (c) (d) 11
99 1
Ans. (a)
(n 1)(n 2) n
1.2.62 Given the infinite series : y(x) = 1 + 3x + 6x2 + 10x3 + … + x + … find the value of y(x)
2
6
for x = . (TIFR 2016)
7
Ans. (343)
1.2.63 Which of the following limits exists? (NET 12)
N 1 N 1
(a) lim N m 1
ln N (b) lim N m 1
ln N
m m
N 1 N 1
(c) lim N m 1
ln N (d) lim N m 1
m m
Ans. (Home work)
1.2.64 A student is asked to find a series approximation for the function f(x) in the domain 1 x 1 , as
indicated by the thick line in the figure below. (TIFR 2014)
The student represents the function by a sum of three terms f(x) a0
f(x)
x +1
+ a1 cos + a2 ?
2 1
+3
1
(a) a0 1, a1 , a2 0
3
x
1 O +1
68 Mathematical Physics

2 2
(b) a0 , a1 , a2 0
3 3
2 2
(c) a0 , a1 0, a2
3 3
1
(d) a0 , a1 0, a2 1
3
Ans. (b)
1.2.65 The coefficient of x3 in the Taylor expansion of sin(sin x) around x = 0 is? (Specify your answer upto
two digits after the decimal point.) (JAM 2018)
Ans ( 0.35 to 0.30)
1
1.2.66 The integral xdx is to be evaluated up to 3 decimal places using Simpson‘s 3-point rule. If the
0

interval [0, 1] is divided into 4 equal parts, the correct result is – (NET 14)
(a) 0.683 (b) 0.667 (c) 0.657 (d) 0.638
Ans. (d)
1.2.67 Given the following xy data.
X 1.02 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0
Y 0.002 0.601 0.948 1.21 1.42
Which of the following would be the best curve, with constant positive parameters a and b, to fit this
data ? (TIFR 2018)
(a) y = ax b (b) y = a + ebx (c) y = a log10bx (d) y = a e( bx)
Ans. (c)
dy 2
1.2.68 Consider the differential equation x y with the initial condition y = 2 at x = 0. Let y(1) and y(1/2)
dx
1
be the solutions at x = 1 obtained using Euler‘s forward algorithm with step size 1 and
2
y(1) y 1

is –
2
respectively. The value of (NET 15)
y 1
2

1 1
(a) (b) 1 (c) (d) 1
2 2
Ans. (b)
8 dx
1.2.69 The value of the integral 2
evaluated using Simpson‘s 1/3rd rule with h = 2 is –
0 x 5
(a) 0.565 (b) 0.620 (c) 0.698 (d) 0.736
Ans. (a)
1.2.70 In finding the roots of the polynomial f(x) = 3x3 4x 5 using the iterative Newton-raphson method,
the initial guess is taken to be x = 2. In the next iteration, its value is nearest to – (NET 16)
(a) 1.671 (b) 1.656 (c) 1.959 (d) 1.551
Ans. (b)
1.2.71 Given the value sin 450 = 0.7071, sin 500 = 0.7660, sin 550 = 0.8192 and sin 600 = 0.8660, the
approximate value of sin 520, computed by Newton‘s forward difference method, is – (NET 16)
 PRELIMINARY TOPICS 69

(a) 0.804 (b) 0.776 (c) 0.788 (d) 0.798

Ans. (c)
1
1.2.72 The interval [0, 1] is divided into 2n parts of equal length to calculate the integral ei 2 x dx using
0

Simpson‘s 1/3 rule. What is the minimum value of n for result to be exact? (NET 17)
(a) (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
Ans. (c)
2.2
1.2.73 The value of xe x dx by using the one – segment trapezoidal rule is close to –
0.2

(a) 11.672 (b) 11.807 (c) 20.099 (d) 24.119

Ans. (c)
1.2.74 The approximation cos 1 is valid up to 3 decimal places as long as is less than (take
0
180 / 57.29 ) (NET 13)
0 0 0 0
(a) 1.28 (b) 1.81 (c) 3.28 (d) 4.01
Ans. (Home work)
dy (x)
1.2.75 The differential equation with the initial condition y(0) = 0, is solved using Euler‘s method. If
dx
yE(x) is the exact solution and yN(x) the numerical solution obtained using n steps of equal length,
then the relative error is proportional to – (NET 17)
1 1 1 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
n2 n3 n4 n
Ans. (d)
1.2.76 The interval [0, 1] is divided into n parts of equal to calculate the integral exp (i2 x) dx using the
trapezoidal rule. The minimum value of n for which the result is exact is – (NET 17)
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d)
Ans. (a)