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CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 Physics Syllabus: A Comprehensive Comparison

By MayukaNovember 02, 2023
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Physics is a vast and fascinating subject that encompasses a wide range of concepts, from the fundamental laws of motion to the complex nature of matter and energy. The CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 Physics Syllabus is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in this subject, covering a broad spectrum of topics in a systematic and progressive manner. The Class 11 Physics Syllabus focuses on building a strong foundation for students, emphasizing the fundamentals of motion, energy, and simple concepts of kinematics. This is essential for a more profound understanding of the subject in Class 12 and beyond. The syllabus also places a significant emphasis on developing theoretical knowledge and basic mathematical skills.


Analyzing the CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 Physics Syllabus


The comparison between the CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 Physics syllabus is an important consideration for students, as it helps them understand the progression in depth and complexity as they advance in their studies. 


Here’s a comprehensive comparison of the two:


CBSE Class 11 Physics Syllabus:

  • Foundation Building: Class 11 Physics serves as a foundation for the more advanced concepts in Class 12. It covers fundamental topics like motion, laws of motion, and work-energy-theorem, laying groundwork for the higher-level concepts. 

  • Theory and Basics: The Class 11 syllabus places a significant emphasis on building a strong theoretical foundation. The concepts are generally less complex, making it relatively easier to grasp.

  • Mathematical Rigor: While mathematics is integral to Class 11 Physics, the mathematical complexity is not as high as in Class 12. The focus is more on the application of basic mathematical concepts. 

  • Key Differences: Class 11 primarily focuses on understanding motion, energy, and simple concepts of kinematics, which are important for further studies.


Challenges in Class 11 Physics:

  • Students transitioning from Class 10 to Class 11 may find it challenging to adapt to the increased depth of concepts.

  • Building a strong foundation is crucial, as concepts in Class 12 build upon those from Class 11.

  • Mathematical rigor can be challenging for some students, so a good grasp of basic math is essential.


CBSE Class 12 Physics Syllabus:

  • Advanced Concepts: Class 12 Physics delves into more advanced and complex concepts such as electromagnetic, optics, modern physics, and nuclear physics. This depth requires a solid understanding of Class 11 topics.

  • Mathematical Complexities: The mathematical components become significantly more challenging, with the application of calculus, differential equations, and vector algebra to solve complex problems.

  • Experimental Skills: In Class 12, students are expected to perform advanced experiments and develop analytical skills. Practical knowledge and laboratory work play a more significant role.

  • Competitive Exam Preparation: Class 12 Physics syllabus often overlaps with competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and others. This adds to the depth and complexity of the syllabus.

  • Higher Exam Preparation: In the board exams, Class 12 Physics carries a higher weightage than Class 11, which means that students often focus more on Class 12 content.



Challenges in Class 12 Physics: 

  • The depth and complexity of the concepts can be overwhelming, especially if the foundation from Class 11 is not strong.

  • The increased mathematical rigor and application of advanced math concepts can pose challenges. 

  • Balancing board exam preparation with competitive exams may require effective time management.


CBSE Class 11 Physics Important Topics

We understand that the Syllabus can be challenging and overwhelming for students. However, by focusing on the key concepts and chapters, students can gain a solid foundation in physics and be well-prepared for future studies.


Here is a brief overview of the most important topics in the CBSE Class 11 Physics syllabus:


Chapter 1: Physical World

This chapter introduces students to the basic concepts of physics, such as measurement, units, and dimensions. Students also learn about the fundamental forces of nature and the different branches of physics.


Chapter 2: Motion in a Straight Line

This chapter covers the kinematics of motion in a straight line. Students learn about concepts such as displacement, velocity, acceleration, and free fall. They also learn how to solve problems involving these concepts.


Chapter 3: Motion in a Plane

This chapter builds on the concepts of kinematics learned in Chapter 2 and extends them to motion in two dimensions. Students learn about concepts such as vectors, projectiles, and circular motion.


Chapter 4: Laws of Motion

This chapter introduces Newton's three laws of motion, which are the fundamental laws of classical mechanics. Students learn how to apply these laws to solve problems involving motion.


Chapter 5: Work, Energy, and Power

This chapter introduces the concepts of work, energy, and power. Students learn about the different types of energy and how they can be converted from one form to another. They also learn how to solve problems involving work, energy, and power.


Chapter 6: System of Particles and Rotational Motion

This chapter covers the dynamics of systems of particles and rotational motion. Students learn about concepts such as momentum, conservation of momentum, and torque. They also learn how to solve problems involving these concepts.


Chapter 7: Gravitation

This chapter introduces Newton's universal law of gravitation and its applications. Students learn about concepts such as gravitational force, acceleration due to gravity, and Kepler's laws of planetary motion. They also learn how to solve problems involving gravitation.


How Vedantu can help Class 11 students

Vedantu is a leading online education platform that offers live online classes and recorded video lectures for CBSE Class 11 Physics. Vedantu's classes are taught by experienced and qualified teachers who use engaging and effective teaching methods.


Students can use Vedantu to learn all of the important topics in the CBSE Class 11 Physics syllabus. Vedantu also offers practice problems and mock exams to help students prepare for the exam.


We encourage all CBSE Class 11 Physics students to use Vedantu to learn the important topics in the syllabus and to prepare for the exam.


Here’s the Syllabus for Class 11 CBSE Physics

Marks

No. of Periods


Units

23

08

Physical World and Measurement

Unit I

Chapter–2: Units and Measurements

24

Kinematics

Unit-II

Chapter–3: Motion in a Straight Line

Chapter–4: Motion in a Plane

14

Laws of Motion

Unit–III

Chapter–5: Laws of Motion

17

14

Work, Energy and Power

Unit–IV

Chapter–6: Work, Energy and Power

18

Motion of System of Particles and Rigid Body

Unit–V

Chapter–7: System of Particles and Rotational Motion

12

Gravitation

Unit-VI

Chapter–8: Gravitation 

20

24

Properties of Bulk Matter

Unit–VII

Chapter–9: Mechanical Properties of Solids

Chapter–10: Mechanical Properties of Fluids

Chapter–11: Thermal Properties of Matter

12

Thermodynamics 

Unit–VIII

Chapter–12: Thermodynamics 

08

Behaviour of Perfect Gases and Kinetic Theory of Gases

Unit–IX

Chapter–13: Kinetic Theory


10

26

Oscillations and Waves

Unit–X

Chapter–14: Oscillations

Chapter–15: Waves

70

160

Total 



To download the PDF format of the Class 11 Physics CBSE Syllabus Click here


Preparation Tips

Here are some tips for students to prepare for the CBSE Class 11 Physics:


  • Attend All Classes and Participate Actively: This will help you stay on track with the material and get help from your teacher when you need it.

  • Do Your Homework Regularly: This is the best way to practice what you learn in class and to identify any areas where you need more help.

  • Solve Practice Problems: The more practice problems you solve, the better prepared you will be for the exam.

  • Study with Friends or Classmates: This can be a great way to review the material and to help each other understand difficult concepts.

  • Use Vedantu: Vedantu is a leading online education platform that offers live online classes and recorded video lectures for CBSE Class 11 Physics. Vedantu's classes are taught by experienced and qualified teachers who use engaging and effective teaching methods. 

Vedantu also offers CBSE NCERT Solutions, Important Questions and Revision Notes for all subjects and chapters, they are also available in a PDF format and are free to download.


Conclusion

Class 11 Physics is the foundation for Class 12 Physics, so it is important to have a strong understanding of Class 11 material. Vedantu's comprehensive resources and expert guidance can help students gain a solid foundation in physics and be well-prepared for both classes, setting them up for academic success and a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject.


Class 10 and 12 CBSE Exam Preparation: Essential Links for Success!

Accessing important study resources is integral to effective exam preparation for both Class 10 and Class 12 students. To streamline your study process, we have compiled a comprehensive table featuring essential pages for both classes. From study materials to previous year question papers, this table provides quick access to all the resources you need to excel in your academic journey. Click on the links to unlock the path to academic excellence and confidently ace your CBSE Class 10 and 12 exams!


FAQs on CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 Physics Syllabus: A Comprehensive Comparison

1. Is Class 11 science tougher than Class 12?

Whether Class 11 science is tougher than Class 12 science depends on the individual student, but in general, Class 12 science is more challenging as it builds on the fundamental concepts introduced in Class 11 and explores more advanced topics.

2. Which chapter is toughest in class 11 physics?

The toughest chapter in Class 11 physics is a matter of opinion, but some of the most commonly cited difficult chapters include:


  • Rotational Motion

  • Waves

  • Thermodynamics

  • System of Particles and Rotational Motion

  • Gravitation

3. Can I study 12th physics without 11th physics?

Yes, you can study 12th physics without 11th physics, but it will be more difficult. Some of the concepts in 12th physics are based on concepts that are introduced in 11th physics. If you do not have a strong foundation in 11th physics, you may find it difficult to understand the concepts in 12th physics.

4. Can I attend neet without physics?

No, you cannot attend NEET without Physics. Physics is one of the three mandatory subjects for the NEET exam, along with Chemistry and Biology.

5. How many marks do Numericals come in physics class 11?

The number of marks that numericals come in for Physics Class 11 is generally around 20-30 marks. This means that numericals can make up a significant portion of the overall marks for the Physics exam.

6. Is class 11 physics difficult without math?

It is difficult but not impossible. Some of the concepts in Class 11 physics, such as mechanics and waves, require a basic understanding of math. However, there are many resources available like Vedantu to help students learn these concepts, even if they are not strong in math.