Physics is one of the essential subjects in the JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) UTME exam for students pursuing science-related courses in Nigerian universities. Scoring well in Physics requires familiarity with the common question types, understanding fundamental concepts, and practicing past questions. In this article, we’ll cover frequently asked JAMB Physics questions and answers, provide a few sample questions, and answer FAQs to help you prepare effectively.
JAMB Physics Exam Structure
The JAMB Physics section typically contains 40 questions, covering different topics from secondary school physics syllabuses. Questions focus on areas such as mechanics, electricity, optics, waves, atomic physics, thermodynamics, and modern physics.
Key Topics to Focus on:
- Mechanics – Motion, forces, work, energy, and power.
- Waves and Optics – Reflection, refraction, diffraction, lenses, mirrors, and wave properties.
- Electricity and Magnetism – Electric circuits, Ohm’s Law, electromagnetism, magnetic fields, etc.
- Thermodynamics – Temperature, heat transfer, and laws of thermodynamics.
- Modern Physics – Atomic structure, radioactivity, photoelectric effect.
Sample JAMB Physics Questions and Answers
Here are some sample questions with explanations to aid understanding:
Question 1
If two forces 3 N and 4 N act perpendicular to each other on an object, what is the magnitude of their resultant force?
Solution: To find the resultant of two perpendicular forces, use the Pythagorean theorem:
R=(32+42)=(9+16)=25=5 NR = \sqrt{(3^2 + 4^2)} = \sqrt{(9 + 16)} = \sqrt{25} = 5 \, \text{N}
Answer: 5 N
Question 2
A stone is thrown vertically upwards with a velocity of 20 m/s. Calculate the maximum height it will reach. (Take g=10 m/s2g = 10 \, \text{m/s}^2)
Solution: At maximum height, the final velocity v=0v = 0. Using the formula:
v2=u2−2ghv^2 = u^2 – 2gh 0=(20)2−2×10×h0 = (20)^2 – 2 \times 10 \times h
Solving for hh:
h=40020=20 mh = \frac{400}{20} = 20 \, \text{m}
Answer: 20 m
Question 3
What is the frequency of a wave with a speed of 300 m/s and a wavelength of 0.5 m?
Solution: Using the wave equation, v=fλv = f \lambda:
f=vλ=3000.5=600 Hzf = \frac{v}{\lambda} = \frac{300}{0.5} = 600 \, \text{Hz}
Answer: 600 Hz
Question 4
Which of the following materials is a good conductor of electricity?
Options: A) Rubber
B) Glass
C) Copper
D) Plastic
Solution: Copper is a known conductor of electricity, whereas rubber, glass, and plastic are insulators. Answer: C) Copper
Question 5
An object is placed 10 cm from a convex lens of focal length 5 cm. Determine the image distance.
Solution: Using the lens formula:
1f=1v+1u\frac{1}{f} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{u} 15=1v+1−10\frac{1}{5} = \frac{1}{v} + \frac{1}{-10}
Solving for vv:
1v=15+110=2+110=310⇒v=103≈3.33 cm\frac{1}{v} = \frac{1}{5} + \frac{1}{10} = \frac{2 + 1}{10} = \frac{3}{10} \Rightarrow v = \frac{10}{3} \approx 3.33 \, \text{cm}
Answer: 3.33 cm
Tips for Answering JAMB Physics Questions
- Understand the Concepts: Familiarize yourself with the theory behind each topic. This understanding will allow you to approach each question logically.
- Use Formulas Correctly: Physics is formula-intensive, so memorize key formulas and understand their derivations.
- Practice Time Management: Since JAMB is timed, practice solving questions within a set period to improve your speed.
- Take Practice Tests: Use past JAMB questions to practice, as they give insights into question patterns.
Additional Resources
- JAMB Official Website: Offers updated syllabi, sample questions, and other official resources.
- WAEC & NECO Past Questions for Physics: Covers similar topics and helps reinforce understanding.
- Online Physics Tutorials: Khan Academy offers free tutorials on a wide range of physics topics relevant to the JAMB syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many questions are in the JAMB Physics exam?
The JAMB Physics section has 40 multiple-choice questions, covering a range of topics like mechanics, electricity, optics, and thermodynamics.
Are JAMB past questions useful for Physics preparation?
Yes, JAMB past questions are highly useful, as they give insight into the question pattern, types, and difficulty levels. Practicing past questions also builds confidence and improves problem-solving speed.
What is the pass mark for Physics in JAMB?
JAMB doesn’t have a fixed pass mark for individual subjects. However, scoring well in Physics is crucial for science courses, with a general UTME score of 180-200 as a benchmark for many universities.
Can I use a calculator in the JAMB Physics exam?
No, JAMB does not allow calculators in the exam. However, the questions are designed to be solvable without one, with simple arithmetic or estimations.
What topics should I focus on for high-yield Physics questions?
Prioritize mechanics, electricity, waves, optics, and modern physics. These areas often have questions that require both understanding and computation.
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Conclusion
This comprehensive guide should set a solid foundation for your JAMB Physics preparation. Focus on understanding each concept, memorize essential formulas, and practice diligently with past questions to increase your chances of scoring high. Best of luck!