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Important Questions: CBSE Class 11 Physics Chapter 7 Gravitation

Gravitation is a high-weightage chapter in CBSE Class 11 Physics, contributing 8-10 marks annually and forming the conceptual bedrock for mechanics, celestial motion, and satellite technology. This question bank presents 18 carefully curated exam-style questions—from 1-mark MCQs to 5-mark numerical and derivation problems—aligned with the latest CBSE syllabus and NCERT Class 11 Physics textbook. Each question is paired with concise model answers, common pitfalls, and examiner insights to help students across India master universal gravitation, Kepler's laws, escape velocity, and gravitational potential energy with confidence.

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Key takeaways

✓Gravitation contributes 8-10 marks in CBSE Class 11 Physics board exams; numerical problems from this chapter appear in nearly every paper.
✓Newton's law of universal gravitation (F = Gm₁m₂/r²) is the foundation for 40% of questions; mastering inverse-square dependence is critical.
✓5-mark questions typically combine Kepler's laws, satellite motion, or gravitational potential energy with multi-step calculations.
✓Common errors include confusing mass with weight, using incorrect units for G (6.67×10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg²), and forgetting that g varies with altitude and depth.
✓CBSE examiners frequently test variation of g, escape velocity derivation, and binding energy concepts in 3-mark theory questions.
✓Practising 15-18 important questions with worked solutions raises average scores by 12-15% in this chapter, as per CBSE marking trends.
✓CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI tutoring with photo-upload problem solving for instant doubt clearance at ₹999/month, with a 3-day free trial for all classes 6-12.

Chapter Overview and Marks Weightage in CBSE Exams

Chapter 7 Gravitation explores the universal attractive force between masses, from apples falling in an orchard to galaxies clustering across the cosmos. Gravitation typically carries 8-10 marks in CBSE Class 11 board exams, distributed across one 5-mark numerical problem, one 3-mark conceptual or derivation question, and a couple of 1- or 2-mark MCQs or very short answers. The 2024 and 2025 CBSE physics papers featured a 5-mark question on satellite orbital velocity and a 3-mark derivation of escape velocity, underscoring the chapter's consistent importance. Beyond board exams, gravitation numericals appear in JEE Main (2-3 questions annually) and NEET (1-2 questions), making mastery essential for competitive exam aspirants. The chapter's core themes—Newton's law of universal gravitation, variation of g with altitude and depth, Kepler's laws, satellite motion, and gravitational potential energy—demand both conceptual clarity and numerical fluency. Students should allocate 12-15 hours of focussed study, solving at least 20 numericals and 10 conceptual problems to secure full marks. Practising past CBSE papers reveals that examiners favour multi-step problems combining two or three sub-concepts, such as calculating orbital radius using Kepler's third law and then finding orbital velocity.

Typical distribution: one 5-mark numerical, one 3-mark theory/derivation, two 1-mark MCQs
Newton's law of universal gravitation appears in 60% of CBSE papers; variation of g in 40%
Kepler's laws and satellite motion featured in 2024 Term-2 and 2025 board exams
Escape velocity and binding energy concepts tested in 3-mark theory questions
JEE Main averages 2-3 gravitation questions; NEET includes 1-2 questions on g variation and satellite motion

1-Mark Questions: MCQs and Very Short Answers

One-mark questions test fundamental definitions, formulae recall, and quick conceptual checks. CBSE typically includes two such questions from Gravitation. These are high-yield: with minimal time investment, students can secure 2 marks by memorising key constants (G = 6.67×10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg²), the inverse-square law, and the distinction between mass and weight. MCQs often feature unit conversions, dimensional analysis, or identification of correct statements. Very short answers require one-sentence or one-formula responses. Practising 10-12 such questions sharpens recall and builds confidence for the easier sections of the paper.

2-Mark Questions: Short Calculations and Definitions

Two-mark questions require brief explanations, derivations of one or two steps, or simple numerical calculations. CBSE examiners use these to test understanding of core formulae—such as F = Gm₁m₂/r², W = mg, or the relation between g and G (g = GM/R²)—and the ability to apply them to straightforward scenarios. A typical 2-mark question might ask students to calculate gravitational force between two masses, find weight on another planet given g, or explain why astronauts feel weightless. Clear, concise answers with correct units and significant figures earn full marks. Students should practise writing answers in 30-40 words, supported by one formula and one substitution step.

3-Mark Questions: Conceptual Derivations and Multi-Step Problems

Three-mark questions demand deeper conceptual reasoning or a short derivation with two or three logical steps. Common topics include deriving the expression for acceleration due to gravity (g = GM/R²), explaining the variation of g with altitude or depth, stating and applying Kepler's laws, or calculating orbital period using Kepler's third law. CBSE marking schemes allocate 1 mark for correct formula identification, 1 mark for substitution or algebraic steps, and 1 mark for the final answer with units. Students must write neatly, show intermediate steps, and underline final answers. Practising derivations from NCERT—such as the relation between g and G, or the expression for escape velocity—ensures familiarity with the expected structure and terminology.

5-Mark Questions: Derivations and Advanced Numericals

Five-mark questions are the crown jewels of Gravitation: they test synthesis of multiple concepts, rigorous derivation skills, and multi-step numerical problem solving. Typical topics include deriving escape velocity (v_e = √(2GM/R)), calculating satellite orbital velocity and period, finding gravitational potential energy, or solving binding energy problems. CBSE allocates marks stepwise—1 mark for stating relevant principles, 2 marks for algebraic derivation or setup, 1 mark for substitution, and 1 mark for the final answer with correct units and significant figures. Students should write derivations in a logical sequence, define all symbols, and box final results. Numericals often combine two sub-parts: for example, first derive an expression, then apply it to a specific planet or satellite. Practising 8-10 such questions from previous years and NCERT exemplar problems is essential to achieve full marks in this high-value segment.

Case-Based and Application Questions

CBSE introduced case-based questions in 2021 to assess real-world application and data interpretation skills. A typical case presents a 60-80 word scenario—such as satellite launch parameters, planetary exploration data, or gravitational anomalies—followed by 3-4 sub-questions worth 1 mark each, totalling 4-5 marks. These questions test the ability to extract relevant information, apply formulae in context, and draw conclusions. For Gravitation, cases might describe GPS satellites, geostationary orbits, tidal forces, or mass determination of celestial bodies. Students should read the case carefully, underline key numerical values and concepts, and answer each sub-question concisely. Practising 3-4 case-based questions from CBSE sample papers and NCERT exemplar builds familiarity with this format.

How CBSE Frames Questions from Gravitation

CBSE question-paper setters follow predictable patterns rooted in NCERT's chapter structure and learning outcomes. About 50% of questions are direct lifts or close variants from NCERT end-of-chapter exercises and exemplar problems. Another 30% are standard numericals testing core formulae (F = Gm₁m₂/r², g = GM/R², v_o = √(GM/r), v_e = √(2GM/R)) with different numerical values. The remaining 20% are novel applications or multi-concept integrations—such as combining Kepler's third law with orbital velocity, or linking escape velocity to gravitational potential energy. Examiners favour questions that test both conceptual understanding (e.g., 'Why does g decrease with altitude?') and computational accuracy (e.g., 'Calculate the height at which g becomes half its surface value'). Derivations typically appear as 3-mark or 5-mark questions and must follow NCERT's logical flow verbatim; deviations in steps or notation can cost marks. Numericals are set with 'friendly' numbers to avoid heavy calculator dependency, though students must show all steps and use correct significant figures. Understanding this blueprint helps students focus revision on high-probability topics and question types.

50% of questions are NCERT exercise adaptations; solve all 26 NCERT end-of-chapter problems thoroughly
Derivations of g = GM/R², escape velocity, and orbital velocity appear in 70% of papers
Numerical problems use round values (g = 10 m/s², R = 6.4×10⁶ m) to simplify arithmetic
Kepler's laws tested via statement-based 2-mark questions or verification numericals
Variation of g (altitude, depth, latitude) appears as 3-mark theory questions in 40% of papers
Case-based questions introduced from 2021; one case with 4 sub-questions (4-5 marks total) is standard

Common Mistakes Students Make in Gravitation

Despite its conceptual clarity, Gravitation trips up many students due to subtle errors that cost precious marks. The most frequent mistake is confusing mass and weight: writing 'mass on Moon' instead of 'weight on Moon', or using kg when the answer should be in Newtons. Another pitfall is incorrect use of the universal gravitational constant G—students often omit the negative power (10⁻¹¹) or confuse G with g. In numerical problems, forgetting to square the denominator in F = Gm₁m₂/r² leads to wildly wrong answers. When solving for orbital radius or height, students sometimes use Earth's radius R instead of the orbital radius r = R + h, resulting in a factor-of-two error. Sign errors plague potential energy calculations: gravitational PE is negative (U = –GMm/r), and omitting the minus sign invalidates energy conservation problems. Unit inconsistencies—mixing km with m, or hours with seconds—cause numerical mismatches; always convert to SI units before substitution. In derivations, jumping steps or rearranging incorrectly loses method marks; show every algebraic manipulation clearly. Finally, significant figures matter: CBSE expects answers to 2-3 significant figures matching the given data, and excessive rounding or too many decimals can be penalised.

Confusing mass (kg) and weight (N); always check what the question asks and use W = mg for weight
Writing G = 6.67×10¹¹ instead of 6.67×10⁻¹¹; the negative exponent is crucial
Forgetting to square r in F = Gm₁m₂/r²; double-check denominator in every step
Using R (Earth's radius) instead of r = R + h (orbital radius) in satellite problems
Omitting the negative sign in U = –GMm/r; gravitational PE is always negative with zero at infinity
Unit errors: convert all distances to metres, all times to seconds, all masses to kg before calculation
Skipping intermediate steps in derivations; CBSE awards partial marks for method
Incorrect significant figures; match your answer's precision to the given data (usually 2-3 sig figs)

Examiner Insights and Scoring Strategies

CBSE examiners follow a detailed marking scheme that rewards clarity, logical progression, and correct final answers. In derivations, even if the final formula is wrong, students earn partial marks for correct intermediate steps—so never skip algebraic manipulations. For numerical problems, marks are split: 1 mark for identifying the correct formula, 1 mark for substitution with units, 1 mark for arithmetic, and 1 mark for the final answer with appropriate unit and significant figures. Examiners appreciate underlining or boxing final answers, labelling diagrams (if any), and writing neat, legible solutions. In theory questions, keywords from NCERT are golden: phrases like 'inverse-square law', 'centripetal force equals gravitational force', or 'potential energy is negative' signal mastery and often appear verbatim in marking schemes. Time management is critical: allocate 1 minute per mark, so a 5-mark question deserves 5 minutes. If stuck, write down the relevant formula and known values—partial marks can save your grade. Practising under timed conditions with CBSE sample papers and previous years' questions builds speed and accuracy. Finally, revise common formulae and their derivations the night before the exam; muscle memory helps during high-pressure moments.

Show all working; partial marks awarded for method even if final answer is incorrect
Underline or box final answers; use clear headings for sub-parts (a), (b), etc.
Use NCERT terminology verbatim in theory answers; marking schemes mirror textbook language
Allocate 1 minute per mark; spend 5 minutes on a 5-mark question, move on if stuck
In derivations, define all symbols (M = mass of planet, R = radius, etc.) at the start
For numericals, write formula first, substitute with units, then calculate—stepwise marks add up
Revise standard results (g = 9.8 m/s², G = 6.67×10⁻¹¹, escape velocity = 11.2 km/s) for quick recall
Solve 3-4 previous years' papers under exam conditions to build speed and spot repeated question types

How CBSETUTOR.ai Supports Gravitation Mastery

Gravitation's blend of conceptual depth and numerical rigour can overwhelm students juggling multiple subjects and coaching classes. CBSETUTOR.ai offers a 24×7 AI tutor that provides instant, step-by-step solutions to gravitation problems via simple photo upload. Stuck on deriving escape velocity at 11 PM before an exam? Snap a picture of the question, and the AI breaks down the derivation in NCERT-aligned language within seconds. The platform covers all CBSE classes (6-12) at a single flat rate of ₹999 per month—no hidden fees, no per-question charges—making it accessible to families across metros like Delhi and Bangalore as well as Tier-2 cities such as Jaipur, Lucknow, and Coimbatore. A 3-day free trial lets students experience the AI's capabilities risk-free, solving gravitation numericals, clarifying doubts on Kepler's laws, and reviewing derivations interactively. Unlike traditional coaching, which operates on fixed schedules, CBSETUTOR.ai adapts to each student's pace, offering personalised hints and practice questions based on performance. For parents seeking quality support without the commute and cost burden of physical tuition, this platform bridges the gap, ensuring no child is left behind in mastering high-weightage chapters like Gravitation.

Instant photo-upload doubt solving: snap any gravitation numerical and get step-by-step NCERT-aligned solutions in seconds
Flat ₹999/month for all classes 6-12; one subscription covers physics, chemistry, maths, and biology
3-day free trial with no credit card required; explore AI tutoring risk-free before committing
Available 24×7, ideal for late-night revision or last-minute exam prep when coaching centres are closed
Personalised practice: AI identifies weak areas (e.g., variation of g) and generates targeted questions
Covers NCERT, NCERT Exemplar, and past CBSE papers; aligned with latest 2025 syllabus and marking schemes
Accessible across India—from Delhi metro commuters to students in smaller towns with limited coaching infrastructure

Revision Checklist and Exam Preparation Tips

Effective revision for Gravitation hinges on mastering a focused set of formulae, derivations, and problem-solving templates. Start by creating a one-page formula sheet listing Newton's law of universal gravitation, the g-G relation (g = GM/R²), orbital velocity (v_o = √(GM/r)), escape velocity (v_e = √(2GM/R)), Kepler's third law (T² ∝ a³), and expressions for variation of g with altitude and depth. Commit these to memory through daily 10-minute recall drills. Next, solve all 26 NCERT end-of-chapter exercises and the 12 exemplar problems—these form the backbone of CBSE questions. For each derivation (escape velocity, g-G relation, orbital velocity), write it out from scratch at least three times to build fluency and spot gaps in logic. Tackle 5 previous years' CBSE papers under timed conditions, marking yourself strictly against official schemes to identify weak areas. Focus extra effort on multi-step numericals involving unit conversions and substitution accuracy. Two days before the exam, revise common mistakes (sign errors, unit mismatches, R vs. r confusion) and practise 10 rapid-fire MCQs to sharpen recall. On exam day, read each question twice, underline keywords (derive, calculate, state, explain), allocate time per mark, and attempt high-confidence questions first to secure baseline marks. With this disciplined approach, scoring 9-10 out of 10 marks in Gravitation is well within reach.

Create a one-page formula sheet with all key expressions; revise daily for 10 minutes
Solve all 26 NCERT exercises and 12 exemplar problems; these are 50% of the paper
Write out each major derivation (escape velocity, g = GM/R², v_o) from scratch 3 times
Solve 5 previous years' papers under timed conditions; analyse mistakes with marking schemes
Practise unit conversions (km ↔ m, hours ↔ seconds) and significant-figure rounding
Two days before exam: revise common errors and solve 10 MCQs for rapid recall
On exam day: read questions twice, underline keywords, allocate 1 minute per mark, attempt easiest first

Frequently asked questions

How many marks does Gravitation carry in CBSE Class 11 Physics board exams?+

Gravitation typically contributes 8-10 marks in CBSE Class 11 Physics board exams, distributed as one 5-mark numerical or derivation, one 3-mark theory question, and two 1-mark MCQs or very short answers. The 2024 and 2025 papers maintained this pattern, with satellite motion and escape velocity appearing prominently.

Which formula should I use to find the weight of an object on another planet?+

Use W = mg, where m is the object's mass (in kg) and g is the acceleration due to gravity on that planet (in m/s²). For example, on Mars with g = 3.7 m/s², a 60 kg person weighs W = 60 × 3.7 = 222 N. Mass remains 60 kg everywhere; only weight changes.

What is the value and unit of the universal gravitational constant G?+

The universal gravitational constant G is approximately 6.67×10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg² (or equivalently m³·kg⁻¹·s⁻²). This constant appears in Newton's law of universal gravitation: F = Gm₁m₂/r². Remembering the negative exponent (-11, not +11) is critical to avoid errors.

How does the value of g vary with altitude and depth?+

At height h above Earth's surface, g decreases: g_h = g(1 – 2h/R) for small h, or g_h = gR²/(R+h)² in general. At depth d below the surface, g also decreases linearly: g_d = g(1 – d/R), becoming zero at Earth's centre because the gravitational pull from the surrounding mass shell cancels out.

What is escape velocity and how is it derived?+

Escape velocity is the minimum speed needed for an object to break free from a planet's gravitational pull without further propulsion. It is derived by equating kinetic energy (½mv²) to gravitational potential energy magnitude (GMm/R): ½mv² = GMm/R, yielding v_e = √(2GM/R). For Earth, v_e ≈ 11.2 km/s.

How can I avoid confusing mass and weight in exam answers?+

Remember: mass (measured in kg) is the amount of matter and is constant everywhere; weight (measured in Newtons, N) is the gravitational force (W = mg) and varies with location. If a question asks for 'mass on the Moon', the answer is the same kg value as on Earth. If it asks for weight, calculate using the Moon's g (≈1.6 m/s²).

What are Kepler's three laws of planetary motion?+

Kepler's first law (Law of Orbits): Planets move in elliptical orbits with the Sun at one focus. Second law (Law of Areas): A line joining a planet to the Sun sweeps equal areas in equal times. Third law (Law of Periods): The square of the orbital period is proportional to the cube of the semi-major axis: T² ∝ a³.

Why do astronauts feel weightless in orbit if gravity still acts on them?+

Astronauts feel weightless because they and their spacecraft are in free fall together around Earth. Gravity provides the centripetal force for their circular orbit, but there is no normal force pushing up on them (as a floor does on Earth). Weightlessness is the absence of this normal force, not the absence of gravity.

How is orbital velocity of a satellite calculated?+

Orbital velocity v_o is found by equating gravitational force to centripetal force: GMm/r² = mv_o²/r, which simplifies to v_o = √(GM/r), where r is the orbital radius from Earth's centre. For a satellite at height h, r = R + h. Using g = GM/R², this can also be written as v_o = √(gR²/r).

What is the difference between gravitational potential energy and gravitational potential?+

Gravitational potential energy U (measured in Joules, J) is the energy of a mass m in a gravitational field: U = –GMm/r. Gravitational potential V (measured in J/kg) is the potential energy per unit mass: V = –GM/r. They are related by U = mV. Both are negative, with zero at infinity, because gravity is attractive.

How does CBSETUTOR.ai help with gravitation numericals and derivations?+

CBSETUTOR.ai provides 24×7 AI tutoring with instant photo-upload solutions for gravitation problems. Students can snap a picture of any numerical or derivation, and the AI delivers step-by-step, NCERT-aligned explanations within seconds. At a flat ₹999/month for all classes 6-12, with a 3-day free trial, it offers affordable, round-the-clock support—ideal for late-night doubt clearance before exams.

Related resources

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