HSC Physics Question Bank with Important Questions – Oscillations 2026
- Swarangi Nawge
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
Preparing for the HSC Physics Question Bank for the 2026 Maharashtra Board exams requires a strategic approach, especially for high-weightage chapters like Oscillations. This chapter is a cornerstone of classical mechanics, bridging the gap between linear motion and wave phenomena. For students aiming for top scores or those preparing for medical entrance exams like NEET, mastering the "to-and-fro" logic of simple harmonic motion is non-negotiable.
In this guide, we provide a structured breakdown of the most likely questions to appear in 2026, based on an analysis of the official SCERT "Prashnapedhi" and the last five years of board papers.
Analysis of Previous Years' Trends (2021–2025)
Based on our review of recent Maharashtra Board papers, the Oscillations chapter consistently contributes 5 to 7 marks (with options). The board has shifted from asking purely theoretical definitions to more application-based numericals and multi-step derivations.
Section A (MCQs & VSA): Frequently tests the relationship between displacement and velocity, or the period of a "Seconds Pendulum."
Section B & C: Usually reserved for derivations such as the differential equation of S.H.M. or energy conservation.
Section D: Long-form questions often combine a derivation with a small numerical sub-part.
Important Questions for HSC Physics 2026: Oscillations
To excel in your 2026 exams, focus on these curated questions categorized by the expected marks they carry in the HSC exam pattern.
Very Short Answer Questions (1 Mark)
Define Linear Simple Harmonic Motion (S.H.M.).
What is the amplitude of S.H.M.?
State the formula for the period of a simple pendulum.
Define a "Seconds Pendulum."
What happens to the period of a simple pendulum if it is taken to the moon?
State the differential equation of linear S.H.M.
Define the phase of S.H.M.
Short Answer Questions – Type I (2 Marks)
Distinguish between a simple pendulum and a conical pendulum.
State the laws of a simple pendulum.
Define Angular S.H.M. and state its differential equation.
Show that for a particle performing S.H.M., the acceleration is directly proportional to its displacement.
Define an "Ideal Simple Pendulum." Why is it called "ideal"?
Short Answer Questions – Type II (3 Marks)
Derive an expression for the total energy of a particle performing linear S.H.M.
Obtain an expression for the period of a simple pendulum.
Discuss the composition of two S.H.M.s having the same period and traveling along the same path.
Explain the graphical representation of S.H.M. when the particle starts from the mean position.
Show that S.H.M. is the projection of a Uniform Circular Motion (U.C.M.) on any diameter.
Long Answer Questions (4 Marks)
From the differential equation of linear S.H.M., obtain expressions for the acceleration, velocity, and displacement of a particle.
Derive the expression for the period of a magnet vibrating in a uniform magnetic field.
Define total energy in S.H.M. and show that it remains constant in the absence of friction. Also, represent the variation of potential and kinetic energy graphically.
Core Formulas and Concepts to Master
While we won't list the complex mathematical symbols here, you must be comfortable using the following formula types for your numerical preparation. Ensure you can identify and apply these by name:
Restoring Force and Force Constant Equation
Differential Equation of Linear S.H.M.
Velocity as a function of Displacement
Maximum Velocity and Maximum Acceleration
Period and Frequency of S.H.M.
Kinetic Energy, Potential Energy, and Total Energy of S.H.M.
Period of a Simple Pendulum
Resultant Amplitude of Two S.H.M.s
Period of Angular S.H.M.
Medical Entrance Exam Relevance
For students targeting 2026 medical entrance tests, the HSC Physics Question Bank serves as the primary conceptual foundation. In medical physics, oscillatory concepts are applied in understanding the mechanics of the human heart (biological rhythms), the functioning of medical imaging devices, and even the vibration of eardrums. A clear understanding of "Damping" and "Resonance" is vital for future biomedical engineering and diagnostic studies.
Important Resources and Official Links
For the most authentic and updated materials, always refer to these official portals:
Maharashtra State Board Question Paper Archive: Visit Official Site
SCERT Maharashtra (Maa.ac.in) Question Banks: Access Prashnapedhi
Conclusion
The Oscillations chapter is a high-scoring section of the Maharashtra Board syllabus if approached with clarity. By focusing on the HSC Physics Question Bank and practicing the key derivations and numericals highlighted above, you can confidently aim for a perfect score. Remember, the key to Physics is not just memorization but understanding the logic behind the motion.
FAQs on HSC Physics Question Bank 2026
Q1: How can I download the official HSC Physics Question Bank for 2026?
Answer: The official HSC Physics Question Bank is typically released by SCERT Maharashtra on their official website (maa.ac.in). You should check the "Prashnapedhi" section for the latest 2026 updates.
Q2: Are questions repeated from previous years in the HSC Physics exam?
Answer: Yes, derivations like the "Differential Equation of S.H.M." and the "Total Energy of S.H.M." are highly recurring. Reviewing papers from 2021–2025 is essential for identifying these trends.
Q3: Is the Oscillations chapter important for medical entrance exams?
Answer: Absolutely. Oscillations and Waves form a significant portion of the Physics syllabus for medical entrance. Mastering the HSC-level concepts ensures you have the basics ready for more complex competitive problems.