NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments

NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments

Vishal kumarUpdated on 23 Sep 2025, 01:49 AM IST

Have you ever wondered how you can see your image in a mirror or how a pair of eyeglasses can make you see things clearly? They are applications in our daily life of the concepts of Ray Optics, which are well detailed in Chapter 9 of Physics Class 12 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments. The chapter concerns the law of reflection and refraction and the operation of optical instruments such as the human eye, microscope, telescope and camera.

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  1. Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Download PDF
  2. Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Exercise Questions
  3. Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments: Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions
  4. Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Topics
  5. Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solution: Important Formulas
  6. Approach to Solve Questions of Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments
  7. What Extra Should Students Study Beyond NCERT for JEE/NEET?
  8. NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics: Chapter-Wise
NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments
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The NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments are prepared by subject experts as per the current CBSE syllabus. They offer a step-by-step and correct answer to every exercise problem, which guarantees conceptual clarity to students. These NCERT solutions not only reinforce the preparation of fundamentals for CBSE Class 12 board exams, but also for competitive exams like JEE and NEET. To enhance the convenience, students even have a free PDF of NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments, which they could download, and hence revising and practising any time and anywhere becomes easy. These solutions are a great tool in studying to do well in exams with descriptive explanations and solved examples, alongside specific techniques of solving problems.

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Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Download PDF

The Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments question answers explain reflection, refraction, and the work or mechanism of lenses and mirrors in a simple way. These step-by-step solutions are very beneficial in board exams and competitive exams such as JEE and NEET. Students may also download the free PDF to revise and rehearse it anywhere, improving the preparation.

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Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Exercise Questions

Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments exercise questions assist students in training fundamental concepts such as image formation, lens, and mirror equations and the functioning of optical instruments. The Ray Optics and Optical Instruments class 12 question answers offer clear and step-wise solutions that enhance conceptual clarity and exam preparation.

Q 9.1 A small candle, 2.5 cm in size is placed at 27 cm in front of a concave mirror of radius of curvature 36 cm. At what distance from the mirror should a screen be placed in order to obtain a sharp image? Describe the nature and size of the image. If the candle is moved closer to the mirror, how would the screen have to be moved?

Answer:

Given, size of the candle, h = 2.5 cm

Object distance, u = 27 cm

The radius of curvature of the concave mirror, R = -36 cm

focal length of a concave mirror = R/2 = -18 cm

let image distance = v

Now, as we know

1u+1v=1f

127+1v=118

1v=118+127

v=54cm

Now, let the height of the image be h

Magnification of the image is given by

m=hh=vu

from here

h=54272.5=5cm

Hence, the size of the image will be -5cm. The negative sign implies that the image is inverted and real

If the candle is moved closer to the mirror, we have to move the screen away from the mirror in order to obtain the image on the screen. If the image distance is less than the focal length image cannot be obtained on the screen, and the image will be virtual.

Q 9.2 A 4.5 cm needle is placed 12 cm away from a convex mirror of focal length 15 cm. Give the location of the image and the magnification. Describe what happens as the needle is moved farther from the mirror.

Answer:

Given the height of the needle, h = 4.5 cm

distance of object = 12 cm

focal length of convex mirror = 15 cm.

Let the distance of the image be v

Now, as we know

1u+1v=1f

1v=1f1u

1v=115112

1v=115+112

v = 6.7 cm

Hence, the distance of the image is 6.7 cm from the mirror, and it is on the other side of the mirror.

Now, let the size of the image be h'

so.

m=vu=hh

h=vuh

h=6.7124.5

h=2.5cm

Hence, the size of the image is 2.5 cm. The positive sign implies the image is erect, virtual and diminished.

Magnification of the image = hh = 2.54.5 = 0.56

m = 0.56

The image will also move away from the mirror if we move the needle away from the mirror, and the size of the image will decrease gradually.

Q 9.3 A tank is filled with water to a height of 12.5 cm. The apparent depth of a needle lying at the bottom of the tank is measured by a microscope to be 9.4 cm. What is the refractive index of water? If water is replaced by a liquid of refractive index 1.63 up to the same height, by what distance would the microscope have to be moved to focus on the needle again?

Answer:

Given:

Actual height of the tank,h = 12.5 cm

Apparent height of tank,h' = 9.4 cm

let refrective index of the water be μ

μ=hh=12.59.4=1.33(approx)

So the refractive index of water is approximately 1.33.

Now, when water is replaced with a liquid having μ=1.63

μ=hh=12.5hnew=1.63

hnew=12.51.63=7.67cm

Hence, the new apparent height of the needle is 7.67 cm.

Total distance we have to move in a microscope = 9.4 - 7.67 = 1.73 cm.

Since the new apparent height is less than the previous apparent height, we have to move UP the microscope in order to focus the needle.

Q 9.4 Figures of (a) and (b) show refraction of a ray in air incident at 60 with the normal to a glass-air and water-air interface, respectively. Predict the angle of refraction in glass when the angle of incidence in water is 45 with the normal to a water-glass interface [Fig.(c)].

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Answer:

As we know, by Snell's law

μ1sinθ1=μ2sinθ2 where,

μ1 = refractive index of medium 1

θ1 = incident angle in medium 1

μ2 = refractive index of medium 2

θ2 = refraction angle in medium 2

Now, applying it to fig (a)

1sin60=μglasssin35

μglass=sin60sin35=0.8660250.573576=1.509

Now applying for fig (b)

1sin60=μwatersin47

μwater=sin60sin47=.8660.7313=1.184

Now in fig (c) let the refraction angle be θ so,

μwatersin45=μglasssinθ

sinθ=μwatersin45μglass

sinθ=1.1840.7071.509=0.5546

θ=sin1(0.5546)=38.68

Therefore, the angle of refraction when the ray goes from water to glass in Figure (c) is 38.68.

Q 9.5 A small bulb is placed at the bottom of a tank containing water to a depth of 80cm. What is the area of the surface of water through which light from the bulb can emerge out? Refractive index of water is 1.33. (Consider the bulb to be a point source.)

Answer:

Rays of light will emerge in all directions and up to the angle when total internal reflection starts, i.e. when the angle of refraction is 90 degrees.

Let the incident angle be i when the refraction angle is 90 degrees.

So, by Snell's law

μwatersini=1sin90

from here, we get

sini=11.33

i=sin1(11.33)=48.750

Now let R be the Radius of the circle of the area from which the rays are emerging. and d be the depth of water, which is = 80 cm.

From the figure:

tani=Rd

R=tanid=tan48.75080cm

R = 91 cm

So the area of the water surface through which the rays will be emerging is

ΠR2=3.14(91)2cm2

=2.61m2

therefore required area =2.61m2 .

Q 9.6 A prism is made of glass of unknown refractive index. A parallel beam of light is incident on a face of the prism. The angle of minimum deviation is measured to be 40 . What is the refractive index of the material of the prism? The refracting angle of the prism is 60 . If the prism is placed in water, predict the new angle of minimum deviation of a parallel beam of light.

Answer:

In Prism :

Prism angle ( A ) = First Refraction Angle ( r1 ) + Second refraction angle ( r2 )

also, Deviation angle ( δ ) = incident angle( i ) + emerging angle( e ) - Prism angle ( A ) ..............(1)

The deviation angle is minimum when the incident angle( i ) and the emerging angle( e ) are the same. In other words

i=e ...........(2)

from (1) and (2)

δmin=2iA

i=δmin+A2 ..........................(3)

We also have

r1=r2=r=A2 .................(4)

Now applying Snell's law using equations (3) and (4)

μ1sini=μ2sinr

1sin(δmin+A2)=μ2sinA2

μ2=sin(δmin+A2)sinA2 ...................(5)

Given

δmin=40A=60

Putting those values in (5), we get

μ2=sin(40+602)sin602=sin50sin30=1.532

Hence, the refractive index of the prism is 1.532.

Now, when the prism is in the water.

Applying Snell's law:

μ1sin(δmin+A2)=μ2sinA2

1.33sin(δmin+602)=1.532sin602

sin(δmin+602)=1.5320.51.33

δmin+602=sin11.5320.51.33

δmin=2sin10.575960

δmin=235.1660=10.320

Hence minimum angle of deviation inside water is 10.32 degrees.

Q 9.7 Double-convex lenses are to be manufactured from a glass of refractive index 1.55, with both faces of the same radius of curvature. What is the radius of curvature required if the focal length is to be 20cm?

Answer:

As we know, the lens maker's formula

1f=(μ211)(1R11R2)

[ This is derived by considering the case when the object is at infinity and the image is at the focus]

Where f = focal length of the lens

μ21 = refractive index of the glass of the lens with the medium(here, air)

R1 and R2 are the Radius of curvature of the faces of the lens.

Here,

Given, f = 20cm,

R1 = R and R2 = R

μ21 = 1.55

Putting these values in the equation,

120=(1.551)(1R1R)

2R=12010.55

R=400.55

R=22cm

Hence Radius of curvature of the lens will be 22 cm.

Q 9.8 A beam of light converges at a point P. Now a lens is placed in the path of the convergent beam 12cm from P. At what point does the beam converge if the lens is (a) a convex lens of focal length 20cm, and (b) a concave lens of focal length 16cm?

Answer:

In any Lens :

1v1u=1f

v= the distance of the image from the optical centre

u= the distance of the object from the optical centre

f= the focal length of the lens

a)

Here, the beam converges from the convex lens to point P. This image P will now act as an object for the new lens, which is placed 12 cm from it and focal length being 20 cm.

So,

1v112=120

1v=120+112

1v=860

v=7.5cm

Hence distance of the image is 7.5 cm, and it will form towards the right as the positive sign suggests.

b)

Here, Focal length f = -16cm

so,

1v112=116

1v=116+112=148

v=48cm

Hence image distance will be 48 cm in this case, and it will be in the right direction(as the positive sign suggests)

Q 9.9 An object of size 3.0cm is placed 14cm in front of a concave lens of focal length 21cm. Describe the image produced by the lens. What happens if the object is moved further away from the lens?

Answer:

In any Lens;

1v1u=1f

v= the distance of the image from the optical centre

u= the distance of the object from the optical centre

f= the focal length of the lens

Here given,

u= -14 cm

f= -21 cm

1v114=121

1v=121114=542

v=425=8.4cm

Hence image distance is -8.4 cm. The negative sign indicates the image is erect and virtual.

Also, as we know,

m=vu=hh

From Here

h=vuh

h=8.4123=1.8cm

Hence, the height of the image is 1.8 cm.

As we move the object further away from the lens, the image will shift toward the focus of the lens, but will never go beyond that. The size of the object will decrease as we move away from the lens.

Q 9.10 What is the focal length of a convex lens of focal length 30cm in contact with a concave lens of focal length 20cm? Is the system a converging or a diverging lens? Ignore the thickness of the lenses.

Answer:

When two lenses are in contact, the equivalent is given by

1f=1f1+1f2

where f1 and f2 are the focal lengths of two individual lenses.

So, Given,

f1= 30 cm and f2=20cm (as the focal length of the convex lens is positive and of the concave lens is negative by convention)

Putting these values we get,

1f=130+120

1f=160

f=60cm

Hence equivalent focal length will be -60 cm, and since it is negative, the equivalent is behaving as a concave lens, which is also called a diverging lens.

Q 9.11 A compound microscope consists of an objective lens of focal length 2.0 cm and an eyepiece of focal length 6.25 cm separated by a distance of 15cm. How far from the objective should an object be placed in order to obtain the final image at (a) the least distance of distinct vision (25cm), and (b) at infinity? What is the magnifying power of the microscope in each case?

Answer:

In a compound microscope, first, the image of an object is made by the objective lens, and then this image acts as an object for the eyepiece lens.

Given

the focal length of objective lens = fobjective = 2 cm

focal length of eyepiece lense = feyepiece = 6.25cm

Distance between the objective lens and eyepiece lens = 15 cm

a)

Now in the Eyepiece lens

Image distance = vfinal = -25 cm (least distance of vision with sign convention)

focal length = feyepiece = 6.25 cm

1feyepiece=1vfinal1u

1u=1vfinal1feyepiece

1u=12516.25=15

u=5cm.

Now, this object distance u is from the eyepiece lens; since the distance between lenses is given, we can calculate this distance from the objective lens.

The distance of u from the objective lens = d+u= 155=10cm . This length will serve as the image distance for the objective lens.

v=10cm

So in the objective lens

1fobjective=1v1uinitial

1uinitial=1v1fobjective

1uinitial=11012=410=25

uinitial = -2.5 cm

Hence, the object distance required is -2.5 cm.

Now, the magnifying power of a microscope is given by

m=v|uinitial|(1+dfeyepiece) where d is the least distance of vision

So putting these values

m=102.5(1+256.25)=20

Hence, the lens can magnify the object 20 times.

b) When the image is formed at infinity

in the eyepiece lens,

1feyepiece=1vfinal1u

16.25=1infinity1u

from here u= - 6.25., this distance from objective lens = d+u = 15 - 6.25 = 8.75 = v

in the optical lens:

1fobjective=1v1uinitial

12=16.251uinitial

1uinitial=6.7517.5

uinitial=2.59cm

Now,

m=v|uinitial|(1+dfeyepiece) where d is the least distance of vision

Putting the values, we get,

m=8.752.59(1+256.25)=13.51

Hence magnifying power, in this case, is 13.51.

Q 9.12 A person with a normal near point (25 cm) using a compound microscope with objective of focal length 8.0 mm and an eyepiece of focal length 2.5cm can bring an object placed at 9.0mm from the objective in sharp focus. What is the separation between the two lenses? Calculate the magnifying power of the microscope

Answer:

Inside a microscope,

For the eyepiece lens,

1feyepiece=1veyepiece1ueyepiece

We are given

veyepiece=25cm

feyepiece=2.5cm

12.5=1251ueyepiece

1ueyepiece=12512.5=1125

ueyepiece=2511=2.27cm

We can also find this value by finding the image distance in the objective lens.

So, in the objective lens

1fobjective=1vobjective1uobjective

We are given

fobjective=0.8

uobjective=0.9

10.8=1vobjective10.9

1vobjective=0.10.72

vobjective=7.2cm

Distance between object lens and eyepiece = |ueyepiece|+vobjective = 2.27 + 7.2 = 9.47 cm.

Now,

Magnifying power :

m=vobejective|uobjective|(1+dfeyepiece)

m=7.20.9(1+252.5)=88

Hence magnifying power for this case will be 88.

Q 9.13 A small telescope has an objective lens of focal length 144cm and an eyepiece of focal length 6.0cm. What is the magnifying power of the telescope? What is the separation between the objective and the eyepiece?

Answer:

The magnifying power of the telescope is given by

m=fobjectivefeyepiece

Here, given,

focal length of objective lens = fobjective= 144 cm

focal length of eyepiece lens = feyepiece= 6 cm

m=fobjectivefeyepiece=1446=24

Hence magnifying power of the telescope is 24.

In the telescope distance between the objective and eyepiece, the lens is given by

d=fobjective+feyepiece

d=144+6=150

Therefore, the distance between the two lenses is 250 cm.

Q 9.14 (a) A giant refracting telescope at an observatory has an objective lens of focal length 15m. If an eyepiece of focal length 1.0cm is used, what is the angular magnification of the telescope?

Answer:

Angular magnification in the telescope is given by :

angular magnification = α= fobjectivefeyepiece

Here given,

focal length of objective length = 15m = 1500cm

The focal length of the eyepiece = 1 cm

So, angular magnification, α= 15001

α=1500

Q 9.14 (b) If this telescope is used to view the moon, what is the diameter of the image of the moon formed by the objective lens? The diameter of the moon is 3.48×106m , and the radius of the lunar orbit is 3.8×108m .

Answer:

Given,

The radius of the lunar orbit,r = 3.8×108m.

The diameter of the moon,d = 3.48×106m

focal length f=15m

Let d1 be the diameter of the image of the moon which is formed by the objective lens.

Now,

The angle subtended by the diameter of the moon will be equal to the angle subtended by the image,

dr=d1f

3.481063.8108=d115

d1=13.74cm

Hence, the required diameter is 13.74cm.

Q 9.15 (a) Use the mirror equation to deduce that an object placed between f and 2f of a concave mirror produces a real image beyond 2f.

Answer:

The equation we have for a mirror is:

1f=1v+1u

1u=1f1v

Given condition f<u<2f and v>2f

12f<1u<1f and 1v<12f

12f>1u>1f

1f12f>1f1u>1f1f

12f>1v>0

2f<v<0

Here, f has to be negative in order to satisfy the equation, and hence we conclude that our mirror is a concave Mirror. It also satisfies that v>2f (image lies beyond 2f)

Q. 9.15 (b) Use the mirror equation to deduce that a convex mirror always produces a virtual image independent of the location of the object.

Answer:

In a convex mirror focal length is positive conventionally.

So we have the mirror equation

1f=1u+1v

1v=1f1u

Here, since object distance is always negative whenever we put our object on the left side of the convex mirror(which we always do, generally). So 1v is always the sum of two positive quantities (negative sign in the equation and negative sign of the u will always make positive), and hence we conclude that v is always greater than zero, which means the image is always on the right side of the mirror, which means it is a virtual image. Therefore, a convex lens will always produce a virtual image regardless of anything.

Q 9.15 (c) Use the mirror equation to deduce that the virtual image produced by a convex mirror is always diminished in size and is located between the focus and the pole.

Answer:

In a convex mirror focal length is positive conventionally.

So we have the mirror equation

1f=1u+1v

1v=1f1u

Here since f is positive and u is negative (conventionally), so we have,

1v>1f, that is

v<f

which means the image will always lie between the pole and the focus.

Now,

1v=1f1u=ufuf

magnification(m)=vu=ffu

Here, since u is always negative conventionally, it can be seen that magnification of the image will always be less than 1, and hence we conclude that the image will always be diminished.

Q 9.15 (d) Use the mirror equation to deduce that an object placed between the pole and focus of a concave mirror produces a virtual and enlarged image.

Answer:

The focal length f of a concave mirror is always negative.

Also, conventionally, the object distance u is always negative.

So we have the mirror equation:

1f=1v+1u

1v=1f1u

Now in this equation, whenever u<f, 1v will always be positive, which means v is always positive, which means it lies on the right side of the mirror, which means the image is always virtual.

Now,

m=vu=fuf

Since the denominator is always less than the numerator, the magnitude magnification will always be greater than 1

Hence, we conclude that the image is always gonna be enlarged.

Henc,e an object placed between the pole and the focus of a concave mirror produces a virtual and enlarged image.

Q 9.16 A small pin fixed on a table top is viewed from above from a distance of 50cm. By what distance would the pin appear to be raised if it is viewed from the same point through a 15cm thick glass slab held parallel to the table? Refractive index of glass = 1.5. Does the answer depend on the location of the slab?

Answer:

As we know,

Refractive index = actual depthapparent depth

Here actual depth = 15cm

let apparent depth be d'

And the refractive index of the glass = 1.5

Now putting these values, we get,

1.5=15d

d=10

the change in the apparent depth = 15 - 10 = 5 cm.

As long as we are not taking the slab away from the line of sight of the pin, the apparent depth does not depend on the location of the slab.

Q 9.17 (a) In the following f igure shows a cross-section of a ‘light pipe’ made of a glass fibre of refractive index 1.68. The outer covering of the pipe is made of a material of refractive index 1.44. What is the range of the angles of the incident rays with the axis of the pipe for which total reflections inside the pipe take place, as shown in the figure.

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Answer:

We are given,

Refractive index of glass( μglass ) and outer covering( μouterlayer ) is 1.68 and 1.44, respectively.

Now applying Snell's law on the upper glass - outer layer,

μglasssini=μouterlayersin90

i= the angle from where total Internal reflection starts

sini=μouterlayerμglass=1.441.68=0.8571

i=590

At this angle, in the air-glass interface

Refraction angle r = 90 - 59 = 31 degree

Let Incident Angle be i.

Applying Snell's law

1sini=μglasssinr

sini=1.68sin31=0.8652

i=60 (approx)

Hence total range of incident angles for which total internal reflection happens is 0<i<60

Q 9.17 (b) What is the answer if there is no outer covering of the pipe?

Answer:

In the case when there is no outer layer,

Snell's law at the glass-air interface(when the ray is emerging from the pipe)

μglasssini=1sin90

sini=1μglass=11.68=0.595

i= 36.5

refractive angle r corresponding to this = 90 - 36.5 = 53.5.

The angle r is greater than the critical angle

So for all of the incident angles, the rays will get totally internally reflected. In other words, rays won't bend in air-glass interference; they would rather hit the glass-air interference and get reflected

Q 9.18 The image of a small electric bulb fixed on the wall of a room is to be obtained on the opposite wall 3m away by means of a large convex lens. What is the maximum possible focal length of the lens required for the purpose?

Answer:

As we know, for a real image, the maximum focal length is given by

fmax=d4

where d is the distance between the object and the lens.

So putting values we get,

fmax=34=0.75

Hence maximum focal length required is 0.75.

Q 9.19 A screen is placed 90cm from an object. The image of the object on the screen is formed by a convex lens at two different locations separated by 20cm. Determine the focal length of the lens.

Answer:

As we know that the relation between focal length f, the distance between the screen D and the distance between the two locations of the object d is :

f=D2d24D

Given: D = 90 cm., d = 20 cm ,

so

f=902202490

f=902202490=77036=21.39cm

Hence, the focal length of the convex lens is 21.39 cm.

Q 9.20 (a) Determine the ‘effective focal length’ of the combination of the two lenses in Exercise 9.10, if they are placed 8.0cm apart with their principal axes coincident. Does the answer depend on which side of the combination a beam of parallel light is incident? Is the notion of effective focal length of this system useful at all?

Answer:

Here, there are two cases, the first one is the one when we see it from the convex side, i.e. Light is coming from infinity and going into the convex lens first and then goes to the concave lens afterwards. The second case is just the reverse of the first case, i.e. light rays are going into the concave mirror first.

1)When light is incident on a convex lens first

1f=1v1u

1v=1f+1u

1v=130+1infinite

v=30cm

Now this will act as an object for the concave lens.

1fconcave=1vfromconcave1ufromconcave

ufromconcave=308=22cm

120=1vfromconcave122

1v=1220

v=220cm

Hence parallel beam of rays will diverge from this point, which is (220 - 4 = 216) cm away from the centre of the two lenses.

2) When rays fall on the concave lens first

1f=1v1u

1v=1f+1u

1v=120+1infinite

v=20cm

Now this will act as an object for a convex lens.

1fconvex=1vfromconvex1ufromconvex

ufromconvex=208=28cm

130=1vfromconvex128

1vfromconvex=130128=1420

vfromconvex=420cm

Hence parallel beam will diverge from this point, which is (420 - 4 = 146 cm ) away from the centre of the two lenses.

As we have seen for both cases, we have different answers, so yes, answers depend on the side of incidence when we talk about combining lenses. i.e.. We can not use the effective focal length concept here.

Q 9.20 (b) An object 1.5 cm in size is placed on the side of the convex lens in the arrangement (a) above. The distance between the object and the convex lens is 40cm. Determine the magnification produced by the two-lens system, and the size of the image.

Answer:

Given

Object height = 1.5 cm

Object distance from convex lens = -40cm

According to the lens formula

1vfromconvex=1fconvex+1ufromconvex

1vfromconvex=130+140=1120

vfromconvex=120

Magnification due to a convex lens:

mconvex=vu=12040=3

The image of the convex lens will act as an object for the concave lens,

so,

1vfromconcave=1fconcave+1ufromconcave

uconcave=1208=112

1vfromconcave=120+1112

1vfromconcave=922240

vfromconcave=224092

Magnification due to a concave lens :

mconcave=2240921112=2092

The combined magnification:

mcombined=mconvexmconcave

mcombined=32092=0.652

Hence, height of the image = mcombinedh

= 0.652 * 1.5 = 0.98cm

Hence height ofthe image is 0.98cm.

Q 9.21 At what angle should a ray of light be incident on the face of a prism of refracting angle 60 so that it just suffers total internal reflection at the other face? The refractive index of the material of the prism is 1.524 .

Answer:

Let the prism be ABC,

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as emergent angle e=900 ,

μglasssinr2=1sin90

sinr2=11.524=0.6562

r2=410 (approx)

Now, as we know in the prism

r1+r2=A

Hence, r1+=Ar2=6041=190

Now applying Snell's law at surface AB

1sini=μglasssinr1

sini=1.524sin19

sini=0.496

i=29.750

Hence, the angle of incidence is 29.75 degrees.

Q 9.22 A card sheet divided into squares each of size 1 mm2 is being viewed at a distance of 9 cm through a magnifying glass (a converging lens of focal length 10 cm) held close to the eye.

(a) What is the magnification produced by the lens? How much is the area of each square in the virtual image?

(b) What is the angular magnification (magnifying power) of the lens?

(c) Is the magnification in (a) equal to the magnifying power in (b)? Explain.

Answer:

Given,

Object distance u = -9cm

Focal length of convex lens = 10cm

According to the lens formula

1f=1v1u

110=1v19

1v=11019v=90 cm

a) Magnification

m=vu=909=10 cm

The area of each square in the virtual image

=10×10×1=100mm2=1cm2

b) Magnifying power

=d|u|=259=2.8

c) No,

magnification=vu

magnifying power=d|u| .

Both the quantities will be equal only when the image is located at the near point |v| = 25 cm

Q 9.23 (a) At what distance should the lens be held from the figure in Exercise 9.22 in order to view the squares distinctly with the maximum possible magnifying power?

(b) What is the magnification in this case?

(c) Is the magnification equal to the magnifying power in this case?

Answer:

a)maximum magnification is possible when our image distance is equal to the minimum vision point, that is,

v=25

f=10cm (Given)

Now, according to the lens formula

1f=1v1u

1u=1v1f

1u=125110

1u=750

u=507=7.14cm

Hence required object distance for viewing squares distinctly is 7.14 cm away from the lens.

b)

Magnification of the lens:

m=|vu|=25507=3.5

c)

Magnifying power

M=du=25507=3.5

Since the image is forming at the near point ( d = 25 cm ), both magnifying power and magnification are the same.

Q 9.24 What should be the distance between the object in figure 9.23 and the magnifying glass if the virtual image of each square in the figure is to have an area of 6.25 mm². Would you be able to see the squares distinctly with your eyes very close to the magnifier?

Answer:

Given

Virtual image area = 6.25 mm2

Actual ara = 1 mm2

We can calculate linear magnification as

m=6.251=2.5

We also know

m=vu

v=mu

Now, according to the lens formula

1f=1v1u

110=1mu1u

1u(12.51)=110

u=6cm and

v=mu=2.5(6)=15cm

Since the image is forming at a distance which is less than 25 cm, it can not be seen by eye distinctly.

Q 9.25 (a) The angle subtended at the eye by an object is equal to the angle subtended at the eye by the virtual image produced by a magnifying glass. In what sense then does a magnifying glass provide angular magnification?

Answer:

Angular magnification is the ratio of tangents of the angle formed by the object and image from the centre point of the lens. In this question angle formed by the object and a virtual image is the same, but it provides magnification in a way that, whenever we have an object placed before 25cm, the lens magnifies it and makes it in the vision range. By using magnification, we can put the object closer to the eye and still see it, which we couldn't have done without magnification.

Q 9.25. (b) In viewing through a magnifying glass, one usually positions one’s eyes very close to the lens. Does angular magnification change if the eye is moved back?

Answer:

Yes, angular magnification will change if we move our eye away from the lens. This is because the angle subtended by the lens would be different from the angle subtended by the eye. When we move our eye from the lens, angular magnification decreases. Also, one more important point here is that object distance does not have any effect on angular magnification.

Q 9.25 (c) Magnifying power of a simple microscope is inversely proportional to the focal length of the lens. What then stops us from using a convex lens of smaller and smaller focal length and achieving greater and greater magnifying power?

Answer:

Firstly, grinding a lens with a very small focal length is not easy, and secondly and more importantly, when we reduce the focal length of a lens, spherical and chromatic aberration become more noticeable. They both are defects of the image, resulting from the way of the rays of light.

Q 9.25 (d) Why must both the objective and the eyepiece of a compound microscope have short focal lengths?

Answer:

We need more magnifying power and angular magnifying power in a microscope in order to use it effectively. Keeping both objective focal length and eyepiece focal length small makes the magnifying power greater and more effective.

Q 9.25 (e) When viewing through a compound microscope, our eyes should be positioned not on the eyepiece but a short distance away from it for best viewing. Why? How much should be that short distance between the eye and eyepiece?

Answer:

When we view through a compound microscope, our eyes should be positioned a short distance away from the eyepiece lens for seeing a clearer image. The image of the objective lens in the eyepiece lens is the position for best viewing. It is also called "eye-ring" and all reflected rays from the lens pass through it, which makes it the ideal position for the eye for the best view.

When we put our eyes too close to the eyepiece lens, then we catch the lesser refracted rays from the eyes, i.e. we reduce our field of view because of which affects the clarity of the image gets affected.

Q9.26 An angular magnification (magnifying power) of 30X is desired using an objective of focal length 1.25cm and an eyepiece of focal length 5cm. How will you set up the compound microscope?

Answer:

Given,

magnifying power = 30

objective lens focal length

fobjeective = 1.25cm

eyepiece lens focal length

feyepiece = 5 cm

Normally, the image is formed at a distance d = 25cm

Now, by the formula;

Angular magnification by eyepiece:

meyepiece=1+dfeyepiece=1+255=6

From here, magnification by the objective lens :

mobjective=306=5 since ( mobjectivemeyepiece=mtotal )

mobjective=vu=5

v=5u

According to the lens formula:

1f=1v1u

11.25=15u1u

from here,

u=1.5cm

Hence object must be 1.5 cm away from the objective lens.

v=mu=(1.5)(5)=7.5

Now for the eyepiece lens:

1f=1v1u

15=1251u

1u=625

u=4.17cm

Hence, the object is 4.17 cm away from the eyepiece lens.

The separation betweenthe objective and eyepiece lens

ueyepiece+vobjectivve=4.17+5.7=11.67cm

Q 9.27 (a) A small telescope has an objective lens of focal length 140cm and an eyepiece of focal length 5.0cm. What is the magnifying power of the telescope for viewing distant objects when the telescope is in normal adjustment (i.e., when the final image is at infinity)?

Answer:

Given,

The focal length of the objective lens fobjective=140cm

The focal length of the eyepiece lens feyepiece=5cm

Normally, the least distance of vision = 25cm

Now,

As we know, magnifying power:

m=fobjectivefeyepiece=1405=28

Hence magnifying power is 28.

Q 9.27 (b) A small telescope has an objective lens of focal length 140cm and an eyepiece of focal length 5.0cm. What is the magnifying power of the telescope for viewing distant objects when the final image is formed at the least distance of distinct vision (25cm)?

Answer:

Given,

The focal length of the objective lens fobjective=140cm

The focal length of the eyepiece lens feyepiece=5cm

Normally, the least distance of vision = 25cm

Now,

As we know magnifying power when the image is at d = 25 cm is

m=fobjectivefeyepiece(1+feyepieced)=1405(1+525)=33.6

Hence, magnification, in this case, is 33.6.

Q 9.28 (a) For the telescope described in Exercise 9.27 (a), what is the separation between the objective lens and the eyepiece?

Answer:

a) Given,

focal length of the objective lens = fobjective = 140cm

focal length of the eyepiece lens = feyepiece = 5 cm

The separation between the objective lens and eyepiece lens is given by:

feyepiece+fobjective=140+5=145cm

Hence, under normal adjustment separation between the two lenses of the telescope is 145 cm.

Q 9.28 (b) If this telescope is used to view a 100 m tall tower 3 km away, what is the height of the image of the tower formed by the objective lens?

Answer:

Given,

focal length of the objectove lens = fobjective = 140cm

focal length of the eyepiece lens = feyepiece = 5 cm

Height of tower htower = 100m

Distance of object which is acting like an object u = 3km = 3000m.

The angle subtended by the tower at the telescope

tanθ=htoweru=1003000=130

Now, let the height of the image of the tower by the objective lens is himage .

angle made by the image of the objective lens :

tanθ=himagefobjective=himage140

Since both the angles are the same, we have

tanθ=tanθ

130=himage140

himage=14030=4.7cm

Hence, the height of the image of the tower formed by the objective lens is 4.7 cm.

Q 9.28 (c) What is the height of the final image of the tower if it is formed at 25cm

Answer:

Given, the image is formed at a distance d = 25cm

As we know, the magnification of the eyepiece lens is given by :

m=1+dfeyepiece

m=1+255=6

Now,

Height of the final image is given by :

himage=mhobject=64.7=28.2cm

Therefore, the height of the final image will be 28.2 cm

Q9.29 A Cassegrain telescope uses two mirrors as shown in Fig. 9.26. Such a telescope is built with the mirrors 20mm apart. If the radius of curvature of the large mirror is 220mm and the small mirror is 140mm, where will the final image of an object at infinity be?

Answer:

Given,

Distance between the objective mirror and secondary mirror d=20mm

The radius of curvature of the Objective Mirror

Robjective=220mm

So the focal length of the objective mirror

fobjective=2202=110mm

The radius of curvature of the secondary mirror

Rsecondary=140mm

So, the focal length of the secondary mirror

fsecondary=1402=70mm

The image of an object which is placed at infinity, in the objective mirror, will behave like a virtual object for the secondary mirror.

So, the virtual object distance for the secondary mirror

usecondary=fobjectived=11020=90mm

Now, applying the mirror formula in the secondary mirror:

1f=1v+1u

1v=1f1u

1v=170190

v=315mm

Q 9.30 Light incident normally on a plane mirror attached to a galvanometer coil retraces backwards as shown in Fig. 9.29. A current in the coil produces a deflection of 3.5 o of the mirror. What is the displacement of the reflected spot of light on a screen placed 1.5 m away?

Answer:

Given

Angle of deflection δ=3.50

The distance of the screen from the mirror D=1.5m

The reflected rays will be deflected by twice the angle of deviation, that is

2δ=3.52=70

Now, from the figure, it can be seen that

tan2δ=d1.5

d=1.5tan2δ=2tan7=0.184m=18.4cm

Hence displacement of the reflected spot of the light is 18.4cm .

Q 9.31 Figure 9.30 shows an equiconvex lens (of refractive index 1.50) in contact with a liquid layer on top of a plane mirror. A small needle with its tip on the principal axis is moved along the axis until its inverted image is found at the position of the needle. The distance of the needle from the lens is measured to be 45.0cm. The liquid is removed and the experiment is repeated. The new distance is measured to be 30.0cm. What is the refractive index of the liquid?

Answer:

Given

The focal length of the convex lens fconvex=30cm

Here liquid is acting like a mirror, so,

The focal length of the liquid =fliquid

the focal length of the system(convex + liquid) fsystem=45cm

The equivalent focal length when two optical systems are in contact

1fsystem=1fconvex+1fliquid

1fliquid=1fsystem1fconvex

1fliquid=145130=190

fliquid=90cm

Now, let us assume the refractive index of the lens to be μlens

The radius of curvature is R and R.

As we know,

1fconvex=(μlens1)(1R1R)

1fconvex=(μlens1)2R

R=2(μlens1)fconvex=2(1.51)30=30cm

Now, let the refractive index of the liquid be μliquid

The radius of curvature of the liquid in the plane mirror side = infinite

Radius of curvature of liquid in lens side R = -30cm

As we know,

1fliquid=(μliquid1)(1R1infinite)

190=(μliquid1)(130)

μliquid=1+13

μliquid=1.33

Therefore, the refractive index of the liquid is 1.33.

Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments: Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions

Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments HOTS questions are designed to test a deep understanding of concepts like refraction, total internal reflection, and optical instruments. These advanced problems sharpen problem-solving skills and are highly useful for board exams as well as JEE and NEET preparation.

Q.1 A convex lens made of glass (refractive index = 1.5) has a focal length of 24 cm in air. When it is totally immersed in water (refractive index =1.33 ), its focal length changes to
Answer:
18=(μμs1)[1R11R2]124=(1.51)[2R](i)1f=(1.51.331)(2R)1f=(1.5×341)2R(ii)
(i) divided by (ii)
f24=4f=96 cm

Q.2 An Ice cube has a bubble inside. When viewed from one side, the apparent distance of the bubble is 24 cm. When viewed from the opposite side, the apparent distance of the bubble is observed as 2 cm. If the side of the ice cube is 48 cm. The refractive index of the cube is (answer should be the nearest integer)
Answer:

let side of the cube is x

refractive index =n
n= true depth App depth

When viewing the bubble from one side, the depth is x and the apparent depth is 24 cm.

n=x24......(i)

When viewing the bubble from the opposite side, the true depth is 48x

(since the side of the cube is 48cm). and the apparent depth in 2 cm.

n=48x2.....(ii)

from i and ii

x24=48x2x12=48xx=57612x13x=576x=57613x=44.344

So,
n=4412=113=3.67

The nearest integer is 4

so n=4

Q.3 A point object is moving with a speed of v before an arrangement of two mirrors as shown in the figure.

Find the velocity of image in mirror M1 with respect to image in mirror M2

Answer:

Velocity of image, vr=v2+v22vvcosθ=2vsin(θ/2)

Q.4 A metal plate is lying at the bottom of a tank full of a transparent liquid. The height of the tank is 100cm, but the plate appears to be at 45 cm abovethe bottom. The refractive index of the liquid is:
Answer:
Real depth of plate, H=100 cm
The apparent depth of the plate, h=10045=55 cm
The refractive index of the fluid =Hh=10055=1.81

Q. 5 Two lenses are placed in contact with each other, and the focal length of the combination is 80cm. If the focal length of one is 20cm, then the power of the other will be:

Answer:

The focal length of the combination,

1f=1f1+1f2180=120+1f2f2=803 cm

Power of second lens P=100f2=100(80/3)=3.75D

Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solutions: Topics

Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments deals with reflection, refraction, total internal reflection, prism, formulae of lens and mirror, the working of microscopes and telescopes. These concepts act as the basis of the comprehension of image formation and optical devices in the board exams, as well as in the competitive exams.
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Reflection of light by spherical mirrors
9.2.1 Sign convention
9.2.2 Focal length of spherical mirrors
9.2.3 The mirror equation
9.3 Refraction
9.4 Total internal reflection
9.4.1 Total internal reflection in nature and its technological applications
9.5 Refraction at spherical surfaces and by lenses
9.5.1 Refraction at a spherical surface
9.5.2 Refraction by a lens
9.5.3 Power of a lens
9.5.4 Combination of thin lenses in contact
9.6 Refraction through a prism
9.7 Optical instruments
9.7.1 The microscope
9.7.2 Telescope

Ray Optics and Optical Instruments NCERT Solution: Important Formulas

The significant equations of Class 12 Physics Chapter 9: Ray optics and optical instruments will serve as a quick reference guide to solve numerical problems on reflection and refraction as well as the functioning of optical instruments. These formulas play an important role in both board exams and in competitive exams such as JEE and NEET, in helping students revise faster and be able to apply the concepts learned correctly in solving problems.

1. Mirror Formula

1f=1v+1u


Where f= focal length, u= object distance, v= image distance.

2. Magnification by Mirror

M=hiho=vu

3. Lens Formula

1f=1v1u

4. Magnification by Lens

M=hiho=vu

5. Lens Maker's Formula

1f=(n1)(1R11R2)


Where n= refractive index, R1,R2= radii of curvature.

6. Refraction at Spherical Surface

n2vn1u=n2n1R

7. Lateral Shift in a Slab

Δx=tsin(ir)cosr


Where t= thickness of slab, i= angle of incidence, r= angle of refraction.

8. Prism Formula (Deviation)

δ=(i1+i2)A


At minimum deviation:

μ=sin(A+Dm2)sin(A2)

9. Magnifying Power of Simple Microscope

M=1+Df


Where D= least distance of distinct vision ( 25 cm ), f= focal length of lens.

10. Magnifying Power of Compound Microscope

M=vouo×(1+Dfe)


Where vo,uo= image & object distance for objective, fe= focal length of eyepiece.

11. Magnifying Power of Telescope (Normal Adjustment)

M=fofe


Where fo= focal length of objective, fe= focal length of eyepiece.

12. Resolving Power of Microscope

d=1.22λ2μsinθ

13. Resolving Power of Telescope

dθ=1.22λD


Where D= diameter of objective lens.

Approach to Solve Questions of Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 - Ray Optics and Optical Instruments

It is essential to have a good understanding of reflection, refraction, lens formula, mirror equation, and optical instruments to solve questions on Chapter 12 Physics Class 9 Ray Optics and Optical Instruments. Students will have to use sign conventions, lights ray geometry and formulae with care and caution to ensure that problems are solved accurately and precisely, both theoretically and numerically. The step-by-step approach is systematic and makes everything clear and precise.

  • Get a Firm Idea of the Concept:
  1. Determine what problem is on reflection, refraction, or total internal reflection (TIR) and optical instruments.

  2. Learn the corresponding laws e.g. Snell law, laws of reflection, or lens/mirror formula.

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  • Draw a Proper Ray Diagram

  1. Image formation can be visualized using neat ray diagrams.

  2. Make sure to mark incident rays and refracted rays as well as normals so that they are not confused.

  • Use Sign Convention (New Cartesian Convention):

  1. In the case of mirrors and lenses, obey strictly the sign conventions, i.e. distances which are measured against the direction of incident light are negative, and those in the direction of incident rays are positive.

  • Use Standard Formulas Accurately:

Mirror formula: $\frac{1}{f}=\frac{1}{v}+\frac{1}{u}$
Lens formula: $\frac{1}{f}=\frac{1}{v}-\frac{1}{u}$
Magnification in lens: $M=\frac{h^{\prime}}{h}=\frac{v}{u}$

  • Break Down Complex Problems:

  1. In the case of many refractions (such as a lens-system or prism) solve step-by-step.

  2. Treat air-glass (glass-air) interfaces individually and acquire the results and combine.

  • Check Units and Consistency:

  1. Before proceeding to substitution, all measurements should be converted to one common unit (cm, m etc.).

  2. Check your calculation again with regards to sign errors.

  • Relate to Real-Life Applications:

Connect numerical results with practical understanding (e.g., why convex lenses form real images, how prisms disperse light, etc.).

What Extra Should Students Study Beyond NCERT for JEE/NEET?

Beyond NCERT, students preparing for JEE/NEET should focus on advanced concepts of Ray Optics like derivations of lens-maker’s formula, optical path, dispersion and achromatic combination of lenses, resolving power of optical instruments, and advanced problems on prism and total internal reflection. These additional concepts strengthen problem-solving skills and help tackle tricky application-based questions in competitive exams.

NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics: Chapter-Wise

NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics provide chapter-wise detailed answers to all textbook exercises, making it easier for students to grasp tough concepts. These step-by-step solutions are designed as per the latest CBSE syllabus and are highly useful for both board exams and competitive exams like JEE & NEET. With chapter-wise links, students can directly access the solutions and download the PDFs for quick and effective revision.

Also, check NCERT Books and NCERT Syllabus here:

NCERT solutions subject-wise

Also, check NCERT Exemplar Class 12 Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 PDF include?
A:

The NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 9 PDF includes step-by-step answers to textbook questions, explanations of key concepts, and diagrams to help you understand Ray Optics and Optical Instruments better.

Q: How useful is the Ray Optics Class 12 NCERT PDF for board exam preparation?
A:

The Ray Optics Class 12 NCERT PDF is very helpful for board exams as it is based on the CBSE syllabus and includes solved exercises, conceptual clarity, and practice problems aligned with exam patterns.

Q: Can I find Wave Optics Class 12 NCERT Solutions in PDF format?
A:

Yes, Wave Optics Class 12 NCERT Solutions are available in PDF format for free download. These solutions cover important topics like interference, diffraction, and polarization, which are essential for CBSE and competitive exams.

Q: Where can I find the class 12 physics chapter 9 ncert solutions exercise-by-exercise answers?
A:

The right study materials should be chosen by Class 12 students in order to encourage efficient textbook problem-solving. Finding the best reference book from the many available on the market demands for a lot of patience. In Careers360 the answers to the chapter- and exercise-specific issues are given in PDF format. Students can use it to quickly dispel their doubts while working through challenges.

Q: What is the weightage of the ray optics for CBSE board exam
A:

From the NCERT chapter ray optics, 6 to 9 marks questions are asked for CBSE board exam

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Taking a drop year to reappear for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is a well-defined process. As a repeater, you are fully eligible to take the exam again to improve your score and secure a better rank for admissions.

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For the 12th CBSE Hindi Medium board exam, important questions usually come from core chapters like “Madhushala”, “Jhansi ki Rani”, and “Bharat ki Khoj”.
Questions often include essay writing, letter writing, and comprehension passages. Grammar topics like Tenses, Voice Change, and Direct-Indirect Speech are frequently asked.
Students should practice poetry questions on themes and meanings. Important questions also cover summary writing and translation from Hindi to English or vice versa.
Previous years’ question papers help identify commonly asked questions.
Focus on writing practice to improve handwriting and presentation. Time management during exams is key to answering all questions effectively.