How to prepare for Thermodynamics for CUET-UG ?
Expected Weightage
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for Thermodynamics (typically under the Physics domain) has shown certain trends in its marking pattern and chapter-wise weightage over the last three years (2021-2023). Below is a detailed analysis based on past papers and expert reviews:
1. Overall Weightage of Thermodynamics in CUET (Physics)
- Average Marks Allocated: 8-12 marks (out of 50 in Physics section).
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to High (conceptual and numerical-based questions).
2. Chapter-wise Weightage (Last 3 Years)
Thermodynamics in CUET generally covers the following topics, with varying weightage:
| Chapter/Topic | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | Average Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Concepts Definitions | 1-2 Q | 1-2 Q | 1-2 Q | 10-15% |
| Laws of Thermodynamics | 2-3 Q | 2-3 Q | 3-4 Q | 30-40% (Highest) |
| Thermodynamic Processes | 1-2 Q | 1-2 Q | 1-2 Q | 15-20% |
| Heat Engines Refrigerators | 1 Q | 1-2 Q | 1 Q | 10-15% |
| Entropy Carnot Cycle | 1 Q | 1 Q | 1-2 Q | 10-15% |
| Kinetic Theory of Gases | 1 Q | 1 Q | 1 Q | 5-10% |
Key Observations:
- Laws of Thermodynamics (1st 2nd Law) dominate (~40% weightage).
- Numerical problems on work done, heat transfer, and efficiency are frequent.
- Conceptual questions on entropy, reversible/irreversible processes, and Carnot cycle appear regularly.
- Kinetic Theory of Gases is sometimes included but has lower weightage.
3. Marking Pattern (2021-2023)
- Total Questions: 4-6 MCQs from Thermodynamics (varies yearly).
- Marks per Question: +5 for correct, -1 for incorrect (as per CUET’s standard marking scheme).
- Question Types:
- 60% Numerical-Based (Calculations on work, heat, efficiency).
- 40% Conceptual (Definitions, graph interpretations, cyclic processes).
4. Trends Expected Focus Areas (2024)
- High Probability Topics:
- First Law of Thermodynamics (ΔU = Q - W).
- Second Law Entropy (Conceptual understanding).
- Carnot Engine Efficiency (Numericals).
- PV Diagrams Work Calculation (Isothermal/Adiabatic processes).
- Low Priority:
- Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics.
- Specific Heat Capacity derivations.
5. Preparation Tips
✔ Focus on NCERT Class 11 12 Physics (Thermodynamics chapters). ✔ Practice numericals on heat engines, cyclic processes, and efficiency. ✔ Revise key definitions (e.g., adiabatic, isothermal, entropy). ✔ Solve previous years’ CUET papers (available on NTA website).
Conclusion
Thermodynamics in CUET is a moderate-weightage topic with higher focus on numericals and conceptual clarity. Laws of Thermodynamics and processes are the most recurring themes. A balanced preparation with emphasis on problem-solving will help secure full marks in this section.
Would you like a topic-wise breakdown of expected questions for 2024?
BETA
