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Optics Important Questions with Answers – JEE, NEET & Board Practice

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JEE Test Series 2026

Must-Study Ray & Wave Optics Topics for Exams with Solutions

Vedantu presents a valuable asset for JEE Main 2026 aspirants with its Strategically selected JEE Main Optics Important Questions by Vedantu's Master Teachers. They are consistently updated on current trends to ensure the questions perfectly align with the JEE Main Exam Syllabus. Optics important questions for JEE Main PDF encompass multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Integer Questions, allowing students to enhance their proficiency at various levels.

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With comprehensive solutions and explanations, the JEE Main Physics Important Questions PDF aids students in understanding the correct approaches and techniques. The Optics Important Questions PDF includes the Previous Year's Questions from JEE Main Exams, providing students with all the major questions to solve and study. Most importantly, all these resources are freely available in PDF format for easy, direct download from our website.


Students must consider Optics Important Questions JEE Main PDF as a crucial resource because this chapter entails comprehending the behaviour of light, including reflection, refraction, and the interplay of lenses and mirrors, which explore how light waves interact and create effects like interference and diffraction. Understanding these principles helps in solving problems related to light paths, image formation, and optical instruments. By studying optics, students can build a strong foundation for both practical and theoretical questions in the JEE Mains exam.

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Year wise Weightage of Optics Questions in JEE Main

Below are some important topics students must consider while practicing the Optics important questions. These topics are picked from the previous year’s JEE Main exams. Hence, before downloading the Optics important questions for JEE Main, you can go through the list of important topics in this chapter:

Check out how many questions were asked from the Optics chapter in the last five years of JEE Main exams. You can understand the significance of Optics in JEE Main by checking the information in the table provided below.


S. No

Year

Average No. of Questions Asked

Marks per Question

Total Marks

1

2024

2

4

8

2

2023

2

4

8

3

2022

4

8

24

4

2021

2

4

8

5

2020

2

4

8

6

2019

2

4

8


Take advantage of the opportunity to boost your preparation with our Optics important questions for JEE Main. These Important Questions cover the entire JEE Main Physics Syllabus; you can download them for FREE.


Important Topics from Optics JEE Main 2026

Below are some important topics students must consider while practising the Optics important questions. These topics are picked from the previous year’s JEE Main exams. Hence, before downloading the Optics important questions for JEE Main, you can go through the list of important topics in this chapter:


  • Laws of Reflection

  • Laws of Refraction

  • Total Internal Reflection

  • Lens and Mirror Formulae

  • Lens-Maker's Formula

  • Magnification

  • Thin Lens and Lens Combinations

  • Dispersion and Prism

  • Optical Instruments (Microscope, Telescope)

  • Polarisation of Light

  • Huygens Principle and Interference

  • Young's Double Slit Experiment

  • Diffraction of Light

  • Polarisation by Scattering


These topics cover the fundamental concepts within the Optics chapter that are commonly asked in the JEE Main exam.


Important Optics Formulas in JEE Mains

JEE Main Formulas are like the building blocks of success in the exam, and when combined with well-structured Optics Important Questions for JEE Main, they become an indispensable tool for comprehensive understanding. As you practise your Optics JEE Main Important Questions, incorporate the associated formulas. Understand how the formula can be used while solving the JEE Main Optics Important Questions.


This integration sharpens your understanding, reinforces memory, and develops problem-solving skills—critical aspects of excelling in JEE Main 2026. Below are a few formulas related to Optics to solve JEE Mains. Download the Important JEE Main Physics Formula PDF for free from Vedantu’s website and score more in your JEE Main 2026 Examinations.


1. Mirror Formula: $\dfrac{1}{f} = \dfrac{1}{v} + \dfrac{1}{u}$

Where f is the focal length, v is the image distance, and u is the object distance.


2. Lens Formula: $\dfrac{1}{f} = \dfrac{1}{v} - \dfrac{1}{u}$

Similar to the mirror formula, used to find distances in lenses.


3. Magnification:  

For mirrors: m = -$\dfrac{v}{u}$

For lenses: m = $\dfrac{v}{u}$


4. Snell's Law (Refraction): $n_1 \sin \theta_1 = n_2 \sin \theta_2$

Relates the angles and refractive indices of two different media.


5. Critical Angle: $\sin C = \dfrac{1}{n}$

Where C is the critical angle, and n is the refractive index.


6. Lens Maker’s Formula: $\dfrac{1}{f} = (n - 1) \left(\dfrac{1}{R_1} - \dfrac{1}{R_2}\right)$

Used for calculating the focal length of a lens based on radii of curvature $R_1$ and $R_2$.


7. Young’s Double-Slit Experiment:  

Fringe width: $\beta = \dfrac{\lambda D}{d}$

Where $\beta$ is the fringe width, $\lambda$ is the wavelength, D is the distance to the screen, and d is the slit separation.


8. Power of a Lens: P =$ \dfrac{1}{f}$

Where P is in diopters, and f is the focal length in metres.


Learn With Optics Important Questions and Score High in JEE Main 2026

For JEE Main students, Optics serve as a gateway to solving those critical Important Questions. This chapter unravels the secrets behind fundamental concepts such as reflection, refraction, dispersion, interference, and diffraction. Here, we will discuss why this chapter is indispensable for your JEE Main preparation, highlighting how it can lead you to success in tackling even the most challenging questions.


Optics is the field of studying how light behaves and interacts with various materials and objects. It explores phenomena like reflection, refraction, diffraction, and polarisation to understand how light forms images, travels, and interacts with lenses, mirrors, and other optical devices.


The weightage of Optics in JEE Main is around 10%, and students can also expect direct questions from this section which makes it one of the scoring topics. Here are the few points that make the chapter of high weightage.


Section 1: Fundamentals of Optics

Light and Its Properties:

Light exhibits a dual nature, acting as both a particle and a wave. The electromagnetic spectrum includes different types of light such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Understanding concepts like wavelength, frequency, and velocity of light is crucial.


Reflection and Refraction:

Reflection occurs when light bounces back from a surface, following the laws of reflection. Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another, governed by Snell's law. These principles find practical applications in our daily lives.


Laws of Reflection and Refraction:

The laws of reflection state that the incident ray, reflected ray, and the normal to the surface at the point of incidence lie on the same plane. The laws of refraction define the behaviour of light when it passes through different mediums. Total internal reflection occurs when the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle.


Section 2: Geometrical Optics

Mirrors:

Different types of mirrors, such as plane, convex, and concave mirrors, have distinct characteristics. Understanding the formation of images in mirrors using ray diagrams is crucial for JEE Main. Reviewing past questions will help consolidate your understanding.


Lenses:

Lenses, including convex and concave lenses, have their own properties. Mastering the formation of images by lenses using ray diagrams is essential. Additionally, understanding the lens formula and its applications will strengthen your optics knowledge.


Section 3: Wave Optics

Young's Double Slit Experiment:

Interference is a key concept in wave optics. Young's double slit experiment demonstrates interference patterns and the conditions for constructive and destructive interference. Appreciating the significance of interference is important in understanding the wave nature of light.


Diffraction and Polarisation:

Diffraction refers to the bending of waves around obstacles or through small openings. Polarisation is the restriction of light vibrations to a specific plane. Questions related to diffraction and polarisation have been asked in past JEE Main exams.


Section 4: Advanced Topics in Optics

Scattering and Interference:

Scattering occurs when light interacts with small particles, leading to phenomena like Rayleigh scattering and Mie scattering. Interference principles manifest in various natural phenomena. The applications of scattering and interference are extensive across different fields.


Fermat's Principle:

Fermat's principle states that light follows the path that takes the least time. The principle of least time is applied to light propagation, leading to the formation of images. Understanding Fermat's principle is crucial for a comprehensive knowledge of optics.


Benefits of Learning Optics JEE Main Questions by Vedantu

  • Vedantu’s questions cover key optics topics like reflection, refraction, mirrors, lenses, and wave optics, helping you focus on what matters most for JEE Mains.

  • Each question includes detailed explanations, guiding you through concepts such as Snell's Law, lens formulas, and interference, making tough topics easier to understand.

  • Vedantu provides visual aids and diagrams that illustrate light paths and image formation, making concepts like focal length and magnification more memorable.

  • Regular practice with optics questions sharpens your skills in calculations and logical reasoning, essential for handling JEE’s tricky problems.

  • By practising a variety of question types, from mirrors and lenses to wave optics, you gain confidence to tackle optics questions in the actual exam.

  • Vedantu’s free PDFs let you study optics questions whenever you need, allowing a flexible practice that fits around your other studies.


Tips to Learn Optics JEE Mains Important Questions

  • Begin by understanding core ideas like light reflection, refraction, and basic mirror/lens formulas. This foundation makes tougher questions easier to approach.

  • Draw simple diagrams for each question, showing light paths and image positions. This helps you visualise concepts and avoid mistakes.

  • Memorise important optics formulas (like the mirror and lens formulas) and practice applying them, as they are central to solving most questions.

  • Break down each question into steps, especially for multi-step problems like Young’s double-slit or critical angle calculations. This reduces confusion and improves accuracy.

  • If you get a question wrong, review it carefully. Understanding where you went wrong helps prevent similar mistakes in future problems.

  • Optics covers various concepts, so practise a mix of question types (mirrors, lenses, wave optics) to be well-prepared for any question format in JEE Mains.


JEE Mains PYQ Chapterwise: Understanding Optics with Past Papers

Conquering JEE Mains requires unwavering dedication and strategic preparation. One invaluable tool in your arsenal is the treasure trove of previous year's question papers (PYQs). But navigating those years of questions can be overwhelming, especially for a crucial chapter like Optics. Enter JEE Mains PYQ Chapterwise: your key to targeted practice and exam mastery in this foundational subject.


By delving into JEE Main Chapter-wise PYQs for Optics, you gain laser-sharp focus on specific topics within this crucial domain. Imagine tackling your weakest areas, with a targeted set of past questions, building confidence and competence one problem at a time.


Whether you prefer the convenience of a JEE Mains Previous Year Questions Chapter Wise for Optics with PDF download or prefer working directly from online resources, the benefits are undeniable. You'll hone your problem-solving skills, learn to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios involving Optics and develop the exam temperament needed to excel under pressure, especially when faced with Optics questions. Remember, these questions are like blueprints for future JEE Mains papers – studying them is like peeking into the exam itself!


So, unleash the power of JEE Main PYQ Chapterwise for Optics. Download your chosen resources, pick your weakest topic within this chapter, and start practising. Each solved question is a step closer to your JEE Mains dream. Remember, consistency is key! Make chapterwise PYQs for Optics a daily ritual, and watch your confidence and competence soar as you approach the exam with a laser-sharp focus and a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips, ready to conquer even the most challenging topics in Optics.


Other Important Links for JEE Main 2026 Optics

S. No

Other Important Links for JEE Main Optics 2026

1

JEE Main Optics Practice Papers 2026

2

JEE Main Optics Revision Notes 2026


JEE Physics Important Questions: Explore Chapters with 2026 Links

Explore structured JEE 2026 Physics Important Questions through easily accessible chapter-wise links. Delve into crucial subjects, comprehend fundamental ideas, and enhance exam readiness. Equip yourself with an advantage using these targeted Important Questions.      



Download Subject-wise Important Questions for JEE Main 

Get the links to download the subject-wise JEE Main Important Questions with Solutions PDF for FREE from the table below.


S. No

Subject

Important Questions PDF

1

Chemistry

JEE Main Chemistry Important Questions

2

Maths

JEE Main Maths Important Questions


Important Study Materials Links for JEE Exams


  • Practice Papers: Enhance your abilities through focused practice.

  • Mock Tests: Replicate exam scenarios for increased confidence.

  • Sample Papers: Get acquainted with question formats.

  • Previous Year Question Papers (PYQPs): Understand exam patterns.

  • Revision Notes:  Serve as a quick reference during exams, helping you recall key concepts and strategies


Use these tools to improve comprehension and test-taking skills, boosting your JEE Main 2026 performance!

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FAQs on Optics Important Questions with Answers – JEE, NEET & Board Practice

1. What are the important topics in optics for JEE Main and Boards?

Key topics in optics for JEE Main and board exams include both ray and wave optics concepts and their applications. Important areas to focus on are:

  • Laws of Reflection and Refraction
  • Mirror and Lens Formulae (including sign conventions)
  • Image Formation by spherical mirrors and lenses
  • Total Internal Reflection and its applications
  • Huygens’ Principle in wave optics
  • Interference and Diffraction of light
  • Polarization and Optical Instruments (such as microscopes and telescopes)
Mastering these topics with practice on conceptual and numerical questions is essential for exam success.

2. What are the four fundamental laws of optics?

The four fundamental laws of optics form the basis for understanding light behavior:

  1. Law of Reflection: The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
  2. Law of Refraction (Snell’s Law): The ratio of sines of the angles of incidence and refraction is constant for a given pair of media.
  3. Principle of Reversibility: The path of light is reversible; light retraces its path if the direction is reversed.
  4. Superposition Principle (Wave Optics): When two or more waves meet, the resultant displacement is the vector sum of individual displacements.
These laws are fundamental for solving ray and wave optics questions in exams.

3. Which ray diagram is most commonly asked in exams?

The most commonly asked ray diagrams in exams involve image formation by mirrors and lenses. Typical exam questions focus on:

  • Convex lens showing object, image, and principal focus positions
  • Concave and convex mirror ray diagrams
  • Diagram for total internal reflection in a prism
  • Ray diagram for simple microscope or telescope
Correctly drawing and interpreting these diagrams is essential for scoring high marks in physics optics sections.

4. Where can I find optics important questions with answers in PDF?

Optics important questions with detailed answers in PDF format are available on most educational portals and exam prep sites. Usually, you can access:

  • Downloadable or printable question banks for practice
  • PDFs with solved examples, numericals, and ray diagram exercises
  • Stepwise solutions and answer keys for JEE Main, NEET, or CBSE Board exams
Look for resources aligned with the latest syllabus for best results.

5. What is the difference between ray optics and wave optics?

Ray optics (geometrical optics) and wave optics differ in how they explain the behavior of light:

  • Ray Optics: Treats light as straight-line rays; explains reflection, refraction, and image formation with mirrors and lenses. Useful for solving most exam numericals.
  • Wave Optics: Treats light as a wave; explains phenomena like interference, diffraction, and polarization. Key for conceptual and board-level questions.
Both are essential parts of the optics syllabus for physics.

6. Why is optics important in daily life?

Optics is important because it explains many everyday light phenomena and underpins modern technology:

  • Vision and corrective lenses (glasses, microscopes, telescopes)
  • Camera and optical instrument operation
  • Fiber optic communications using total internal reflection
  • Laser applications in surgery, industry, and entertainment
Understanding optics connects physics concepts with real-world use and innovation.

7. How do I avoid common calculation errors in optics questions?

To avoid calculation errors in optics questions, follow a systematic problem-solving approach:

  • Write down all given values with correct units
  • Apply the right sign convention for mirrors and lenses
  • Use formulae as per the specific question type (e.g., mirror equation, lens formula)
  • Show all calculation steps clearly
  • Double-check unit conversions and final answers
Practicing with stepwise solutions helps prevent common mistakes and boosts exam confidence.

8. How can I quickly identify if a question is based on ray or wave optics?

You can identify if a question is about ray or wave optics by checking the phenomena or keywords involved:

  • If the question mentions reflection, refraction, lens/mirror, image formation, or optical instruments, it's ray optics.
  • If the question discusses interference, diffraction, Huygens’ principle, or polarization, it's wave optics.
Recognizing these patterns helps in applying the correct concepts and formulae.

9. Are all board-level optics questions useful for JEE preparation?

Most board-level optics questions are useful for JEE preparation, especially for building strong fundamentals:

  • Conceptual and derivation-based board questions are common in JEE Main
  • Numerical practice aligns well between boards and competitive exams
  • However, JEE also includes more complex problem-solving and multi-step numericals
Practicing both board and higher-order JEE questions ensures complete coverage of the optics syllabus.

10. Should I memorize ray diagrams or understand their derivation?

Understanding the derivation and construction of ray diagrams is more effective than pure memorization:

  • Learn basic rules and principal rays used in formation
  • Practice drawing step by step for different cases (object positions, mirror/lens types)
  • Memorize standard cases only after practicing drawing them
This approach improves accuracy and scoring in both board and JEE Main optics sections.