HSC Physics Question Bank: Structure of Atoms and Nuclei 2026
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Success in the Maharashtra HSC Board exams requires more than just reading the textbook; it demands a strategic approach to the most high-yielding chapters. One such pillar of the Class 12 syllabus is Structure of Atoms and Nuclei. As we approach the 2026 board exams, the competition and the standard of conceptual questions are rising.
This guide provides a comprehensive HSC Physics Question Bank specifically tailored for this chapter, integrating official data and expert analysis to help you secure a perfect score.
Understanding the Weightage for 2026
In the current Maharashtra State Board (MSBSHSE) evaluation scheme, Chapter 15: Structure of Atoms and Nuclei carries a significant weightage of 6 marks with options (4 marks without options). This makes it a "scoring" chapter because the concepts are distinct and the numerical problems are often direct applications of established laws.
For students aiming for medical entrance exams like NEET, this chapter acts as a bridge between Physics and Chemistry, making it doubly important.
Official HSC Physics Question Bank: Important Questions
Based on the analysis of previous years' papers and the official SCERT Maharashtra "Prashnapedhi," we have categorized the most likely questions for the 2026 session.
Very Short Answer (VSA) - 1 Mark
Define the term Decay Constant of a radioactive substance.
What is the significance of the Mass Defect?
Identify the series of the hydrogen spectrum that lies in the visible region.
State the relation between Half-life and Mean life.
Short Answer I (SA-I) - 2 Marks
Bohr’s Postulates: State any two postulates of Bohr’s atomic model.
Nuclear Forces: List two characteristic properties of nuclear forces.
Radioactivity: Define activity of a radioactive sample and state its SI unit.
Isotopes vs. Isobars: Distinguish between isotopes and isobars with an example of each.
Distance of Closest Approach: Explain the concept of the distance of closest approach in alpha-particle scattering.
Short Answer II (SA-II) - 3 Marks
Hydrogen Spectrum: Derive an expression for the Wavenumber of a spectral line in the hydrogen spectrum.
Radioactive Decay Law: State the law of radioactive decay and derive the exponential decay equation.
Binding Energy Curve: Draw a neat labeled diagram of the Binding Energy per nucleon vs. Mass Number and explain its features.
Nuclear Fission vs. Fusion: Compare nuclear fission and fusion processes with relevant examples.
Long Answer (LA) - 4 Marks
Bohr’s Theory: Derive an expression for the total energy of an electron in the $n^{th}$ Bohr orbit of a hydrogen atom.
Radioactivity Analysis: Define Half-life. Derive the relationship between half-life and the decay constant. A sample has a half-life of 10 days; calculate the time required for it to decay to 1/8th of its original amount.
Core Concepts and Formula
To master this chapter, you must be fluent with specific mathematical relationships. While we focus on the logic, ensure you practice the following formulas:
Bohr’s Quantization Condition
Radius of n^{th} Bohr Orbit
Velocity of Electron in Orbit
Total Energy of Electron
Rydberg Formula (Wavenumber)
Radius of Nucleus (Empirical Formula)
Mass Defect and Binding Energy
Radioactive Decay Law (Exponential Form)
Half-life and Mean-life Relationship
Medical Applications of Nuclear Physics
A unique trend in the 2026 HSC Physics Question Bank is the increased emphasis on real-world applications, particularly in the medical field. Questions are frequently appearing on:
Radiotherapy: The use of Cobalt-60 or Iodine-131 in treating localized cancers.
Diagnostic Imaging: How radioactive tracers (isotopes) are used in PET scans and thyroid imaging.
Sterilization: The use of gamma radiation from nuclear sources to sterilize medical equipment.
Understanding these applications not only helps in the Board exams but provides a solid foundation for the "Modern Physics" section of medical entrance tests.
Tips to Rank High in HSC Physics 2026
Follow the Textbook Structure: The Maharashtra State Board textbook is the ultimate "Bible." Ensure you solve every "Exercise" and "Solved Example" provided at the end of Chapter 15.
Focus on Diagrams: In the HSC Physics Question Bank, diagrams like the Bohr Model, Hydrogen Spectrum, and the Binding Energy Curve carry 1 to 1.5 marks even if the theory is brief.
Units and Conversions: Pay close attention to units like Electron-Volts (eV) and Atomic Mass Units (u). One minor conversion error in a 4-mark numerical can cost you dearly.
Solve Official Question Banks: Use the SCERT "Prashnapedhi" as your primary practice tool. It often mirrors the difficulty level and question style of the final board paper.
Official Links and Resources
Official Question Papers: MSBSHSE Question Paper Portal
SCERT Question Bank (Prashnapedhi): SCERT Maharashtra Official Site
Conclusion
Preparing for the Structure of Atoms and Nuclei section of your HSC Physics Question Bank requires a blend of conceptual clarity and rigorous practice of derivations. By focusing on the high-weightage areas like Bohr’s theory and Radioactivity, and understanding their medical implications, you are well-positioned to excel in the 2026 exams. Stay consistent, use the official resources, and practice writing your answers in the prescribed board format.
FAQ Section
Q1: Where can I download the official HSC Physics Question Bank for 2026?
Ans: You can access the official question banks and previous papers via the MSBSHSE and SCERT Maharashtra portals. Links are provided in the official resources section below.
Q2: Is the "Structure of Atoms and Nuclei" chapter difficult for average students?
Ans: Not at all. It is highly structured. If you memorize Bohr's postulates and the radioactive decay law, you can easily secure at least 4 marks.
Q3: Which is the most repeated question in this chapter?
Ans: The derivation for the Total Energy of an electron in Bohr’s orbit and the Law of Radioactive Decay are the most frequently repeated questions in the last 10 years of HSC exams.
Q4: Will the 2026 paper include more numericals or theory?
Ans: Typically, the Maharashtra Board maintains a 60:40 ratio between theory/derivations and numericals. For this chapter, expect at least one 2-mark or 3-mark numerical.
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