NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 Light: Shadows and Reflections

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 Light: Shadows and Reflections

Vishal kumarUpdated on 14 Sep 2025, 09:38 PM IST

The best example of how light works is taking a look at a still pond and seeing your reflection. Chapter 11 of Class 7 Science - Light: Shadows and Reflections assists students to learn about the marvellous world of light, its nature, and how it contributes to the creation of images. The science behind shadow, formation of images, and the operation of simple devices such as the pinhole camera and periscope are some of the key areas that are discussed in this chapter in a simple and captivating way.

This Story also Contains

  1. Download Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections Question Answers PDF
  2. Light: Shadows and Reflections NCERT Solutions: Exercise Questions
  3. Approach to Solve Questions of Class 7 Science Chapter 11: Light: Shadows and Reflections
  4. NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11: Topics
  5. Benefits of NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11
  6. NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science: Chapter-wise links
NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 Light: Shadows and Reflections
NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 Light: Shadows and Reflections

The NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections give step-by-step responses to all questions in the textbook, such that a good conceptual learning is facilitated. Laws of reflection, formation of shadows and their practical uses in life will be taught by way of simple explanations and by systematic solutions to the students. These NCERT solutions are designed according to the new NCERT syllabus (2025-26), thus making the process of preparing exams less demanding, enabling students to revise within a comparatively short time, and enabling students to become confident in their ability to handle both theory-based and application-based questions. Practising with NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections, students will be able to enhance the conceptual knowledge of light, get to know how to structure answers in a format, write in brief and quick revision before exams and become confident in solving theoretical and application-based questions.

Download Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections Question Answers PDF

Light: Shadows and Reflections Class 7 question answers are in an easy-to-download PDF format that enables students to study well before taking the exams. These solutions offer step-by-step solutions to every question of the textbook, and it is based on the key aspects of reflection, like laws of reflection, image formation, shadow formation, pinhole camera, and periscope. Through this free PDF, students are able to update at any time and from anywhere on a mobile, laptop, or tablet device and do not necessarily need to be connected to the internet. The Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections question answers that are developed by subject experts in accordance with the current NCERT syllabus (2025-26) help the students to have a clear understanding of the concepts, to save time when revising and to achieve higher marks when taking examinations. These are the solutions that will be the best companions in exam preparation, homework support, and revision exercises.

Light: Shadows and Reflections NCERT Solutions: Exercise Questions

The Light: Shadows and Reflections Class 7 question answers offer solutions in easy and a step by step manner to all the questions in the exercises, to equip the students to comprehend concepts such as, formation of shadow, making of images and reflection. They facilitate revision and enhance conceptual understanding and equip students well to sail through exams.

Q1. Which of the following are luminous objects? Mars, Moon, Pole Star, Sun, Venus, Mirror

Answer: The luminous objects are the Sun and the Pole Star. Mars, Moon, Venus, and Mirror are non-luminous objects because they do not emit their own light; they reflect light from other sources.

Q2. Match the items in Column A with those in Column B.

Answer:

Column AColumn B
Pinhole cameraForms an inverted image
Opaque objectBlocks light completely
Transparent objectLight passes almost completely through it
ShadowThe dark region formed behind the object

Q3. Sahil, Rekha, Patrick, and Qasima are trying to observe the candle fl ame through the pipe as shown in Fig. 11.16. Who can see the flame?

Answer:

Rekha can see the candle flame because she is looking through a straight pipe, and light travels in a straight line. Sahil, Patrick, and Qasima cannot see the flame because their pipes are bent.

Q4. Look at the images shown in Fig. 11.17 and select the correct image showing the shadow formation of the boy.

Answer: The correct image is (b). The shadow of the boy should be a dark silhouette with the same shape as the boy, formed on the screen behind him when light is blocked.

Q5. The shadow of a ball is formed on a wall by placing the ball in front of a fixed torch as shown in Fig. 11.18. In scenario (i), the ball is closer to the torch, while in scenario (ii) the ball is closer to the wall. Choose the most accurate representation of the shadows formed in both scenarios from the options provided (a and b).


Answer: The correct option is (a). In scenario (i), when the ball is closer to the torch, the shadow is larger. In scenario (ii), when the ball is closer to the wall, the shadow is smaller.

Q6. Based on Fig. 11.18, match the position of the torch in Column A with the characteristics of the ball’s shadow in Column B.

Answer:

Column AColumn B
If the torch is close to the ballThe shadow would be larger
If the torch is far awayThe shadow would be smaller
If the ball is removed from the set-upA bright spot would appear on the screen
If two torches are present in the set-up on the left side of the ballTwo shadows would appear on the screen

Q7. Suppose you view the tree shown in Fig. 11.19 through a pinhole camera. Sketch the outline of the image of the tree formed in the pinhole camera

Answer:

The image of the tree in a pinhole camera will be upside down (inverted). The outline will show the tree with its top pointing downward and the trunk pointing upward, maintaining the same shape and colours but flipped vertically.

Q8. Write your name on a piece of paper and hold it in front of a plane mirror such that the paper is parallel to the mirror. Sketch the image. What difference do you notice? Explain the reason for the difference.

Answer:

The image of your name in the mirror will appear reversed from left to right (laterally inverted). For example, if your name is “RAJ,” it will look like “JAR” in the mirror. This happens because a plane mirror causes lateral inversion, where the left side of the object appears as the right side in the image.

Q9. Measure the length of your shadow at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 4 PM with the help of your friend. Write down your observations: (i) At which of the given times is your shadow the shortest? (ii) Why do you think this happens?

Answer:

(i) The shadow is the shortest at 12 PM.
(ii) This happens because, at 12 PM, the Sun is directly overhead, so the light rays are almost vertical, making the shadow shorter. At 9 AM and 4 PM, the Sun is lower in the sky, so the light rays are slanted, causing longer shadows.

Q10. On the basis of following statements, choose the correct option. Statement A: Image formed by a plane mirror is laterally inverted. Statement B: Images of alphabets T and O appear identical to themselves in a plane mirror.
(i) Both statements are true
(ii) Both statements are false
(iii) Statement A is true, but Statement B is false
(iv) Statement A is false, but Statement B is true

Answer:

(i) Both statements are true. Statement A is true because a plane mirror causes lateral inversion. Statement B is true because the alphabets T and O are symmetrical, so their images in a plane mirror look identical to the original letters.

Q11. Suppose you are given a tube of the shape shown in Fig. 11.20 and two plane mirrors smaller than the diameter of the tube. Can this tube be used to make a periscope? If yes, mark where you will fix the plane mirrors.

Answer :

Yes, the tube can be used to make a periscope by placing two plane mirrors at 45° angles, one at the top to reflect light downward, and one at the bottom to direct it to the eye.

Q12. We do not see the shadow on the ground of a bird fl ying high in the sky. However, the shadow is seen on the ground when the bird swoops near the ground. Think and explain why it is so.

Answer:

A bird flying high casts a large, faint shadow that's hard to see. When it flies close to the ground, the shadow becomes smaller, sharper, and clearer.

Approach to Solve Questions of Class 7 Science Chapter 11: Light: Shadows and Reflections

Light: Shadows and Reflections can be described as the chapter that makes students acquainted with the interesting nature of light actions and illumination, the formation of shadows, and reflection principles. Students are advised to pay attention to conceptual clarity and real-life examples to answer questions related to this chapter. Here's a smart approach:

  • Understand Core Concepts: Understand the principles of light, reflection and how images are made and shadows produced. Know the distinction between clear, semi-opaque and opaque things.
  • Relate with Daily Life: Relate concepts to examples such as the shadows during the sun, mirrors in the house and the periscopes or pinhole camera used in making simple observations.
  • Focus on Laws of Reflection: Learn the two laws of reflection and use them when answering questions based on the mirrors.
  • Use Diagrams for Clarity: Learn to draw neat ray diagrams to understand how images are formed, reflected and how a pinhole camera works. Diagrams reinforce responses and enhance presentation of exams.
  • Revise Key Definitions: Frequently revise terms such as reflection, angle of incidence, angle of reflection, lateral inversion and virtual image in order to give exact answers.
  • Experiment and Observe: Simple things like making shadows using a torch or seeing image inversion using a mirror can be attempted. This renders learning interactive and easier to memorize.
  • Solve Formula-Free Questions: This chapter is more about reasoning and diagrams as opposed to the numerical chapters. Be descriptive in answers and be logical.
  • Practice NCERT Solutions Thoroughly: Solve all exercises in the textbook and other questions to become perfect on all topics and not to make typical mistakes on exams.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11: Topics

The NCERT Solutions of Class 7th Science Chapter 11, Light: Shadows and Reflections help to understand the key aspects, such as the properties of light, shadow formation, principle of reflection, and how simple optical instruments work. These are solutions that enable the students to learn fast and implement the knowledge in real-life.

11.1 Sources of Light

Luminous sources emit light independently (such as the Sun, bulbs, candles), whereas non-luminous instead reflect the light emitted by luminous sources (such as the Moon, books, walls). These concepts can be used to understand why we can perceive various objects.

11.2 Does Light Travel in a Straight Line?

Light always propagates in straight lines and this is referred to as the rectilinear propagation of light. This concept illustrates why and how shadows are formed and it can be discussed by conducting experiments such as placing light through holes in stacked cardboard paper.

11.3 Light through Transparent, Translucent, and Opaque Materials

Transparent: Allow light to pass completely (glass, clean water).

Translucent: Allow partial light (frosted glass, oiled paper).

Opaque: Do not allow light to pass (wood, metal).
This property affects how clearly we can see through different materials.

11.4 Shadow Formation

Shadow is cast by obstructing light with an opaque object. The shadow will be determined by the shape of the object and the direction of light. The shadows would always appear on the opposite side of the light source and the shadows are dark since light cannot penetrate the object.

11.4 Reflection of Light

Reflection occurs when light bounces off a smooth surface like a mirror. The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. Reflection enables us to see ourselves in mirrors and also plays a role in devices like periscopes.

11.5. Images Formed in a Plane Mirror

Plane mirrors create virtual, erect and laterally inverted images of the same size as the object. This is the reason why things are inverted in mirrors and why we are able to see ourselves clearly in it.

11.6 Pinhole Camera

A simple device that shows how light travels in straight lines. It forms an inverted image of an object on the screen inside the camera. Pinhole cameras have no lens and are often used in experiments to understand image formation.

11.7 Periscope

An optical instrument that allows viewing above or around an obstacle, based on two plane mirrors at angles of 45 degrees. The light principle of periscopes works with numerous reflections of the light and is usually implemented in submarines.

11.8 Kaleidoscope

An instrument with mirrors and coloured slivers of glass or paper which reflect one another several times and produce exquisite geometrical patterns. It proves that light and reflection may form various complex designs.

Benefits of NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science Chapter 11

Class 7 Science Chapter 11 - Light: Shadows and Reflections question answers prepare the students with an ordered and clear approach to the understanding of simple concepts of light. The solutions have been used to explain significant concepts like shadow formation, light ray behavior, mirror reflection, and how simple machines such as the pinhole camera and the periscope work in a simple followable manner. They can be of great help in preparing exams, practicing homework and putting science into practice in real life. Through these Light: Shadows and Reflections NCERT Solutions, the students are able to develop a solid foundation in the study of light and its uses.

  1. Clear Concept Understanding: Describes difficult concepts such as rectilinear propagation of light, reflection, and formation of shadows with simple and step-wise language. Assists in developing a solid science base with real-life illustration examples.
  2. Well-Structured Answers: Gives correct, sharp and exam-oriented solutions to exercises as per CBSE/NCERT marking scheme.
  3. Boosts Exam Performance: Covers some of the significant keywords, definitions, and diagrams that have been found in test papers. Provides an understanding of the procedures for writing answers to achieve more marks.
  4. Supports Self-Study: Without any external assistance, the students can revise easily since the explanations are straightforward and can be understood easily. Serves as an immediate guide in the last-minute preparation.
  5. Improves Application Skills: Provides practical examples and hands-on activities that relate theory to practice, such as a pinhole camera, periscope, and kaleidoscope.
  6. Aligned with Updated Syllabus: According to the current Class 7 NCERT Science syllabus only, without any outdated or irrelevant items.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Science: Chapter-wise links

The NCERT Solutions Class 7 Science is a step-by-step solution to all textbook exercises and questions. This makes it easy to solve problems and, most of all, to prepare well in time to pass the examination. These chapter-wise links make quick navigation and targeted revision beneficial, and in-depth coverage of the new syllabus.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Subject Wise

Also Check NCERT Books and NCERT Syllabus here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the major concepts covered in Class 7 Science Chapter 11?
A:

The chapter predominantly describes how light travels, makes shadows, shadows and generates reflections and how a pinhole camera and a periscope works.

Q: Why can we see our image in a mirror and not on a wall?
A:

The surface of a mirror is smooth and shiny and it gives a straight reflection of light whereas a wall surface is uneven and causes light to spread across directions.

Q: Which are the three categories of materials that are described in the chapter?
A:

Opaque, transparent and translucent, depending on the quantity of light that will get through them.

Q: How do you distinguish between a reflection and a shadow?
A:

Shadow forms when a light source is blocked by an opaque object, and a reflection forms when the light does a bounce-back on the surface.

Q: On what principle does the pinhole camera work?
A:

It operates based on the understanding that light moves in a straight path.

Articles
Upcoming School Exams
Ongoing Dates
Assam HSLC Application Date

1 Sep'25 - 4 Oct'25 (Online)

Ongoing Dates
TOSS Intermediate Late Fee Application Date

8 Sep'25 - 20 Sep'25 (Online)