Prelims Syllabus of NPCIL Exam 2024
1. Physics
1.1 Mechanics
- Kinematics: Motion in one, two, and three dimensions, uniform and non-uniform motion, projectile motion, circular motion, work, energy, power, conservation laws, rotational motion, angular momentum, moment of inertia, simple harmonic motion, damped and forced oscillations, resonance.
- Newton’s Laws of Motion: Newton’s laws of motion, applications, friction, centripetal force, gravitation, Kepler’s laws of planetary motion, escape velocity, satellite motion.
- Fluid Mechanics: Fluid pressure, Archimedes’ principle, buoyancy, Pascal’s law, surface tension, viscosity, Bernoulli’s theorem, applications.
- Waves: Transverse and longitudinal waves, superposition of waves, interference, diffraction, Doppler effect, sound waves, light waves, electromagnetic spectrum.
1.2 Heat and Thermodynamics
- Heat: Temperature, heat capacity, specific heat, latent heat, thermal expansion, heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation).
- Thermodynamics: First law of thermodynamics, internal energy, work, heat, second law of thermodynamics, entropy, third law of thermodynamics, thermodynamic processes, applications.
1.3 Electricity and Magnetism
- Electrostatics: Electric charge, Coulomb’s law, electric field, electric potential, capacitance, dielectrics, electric energy.
- Current Electricity: Electric current, Ohm’s law, resistance, resistivity, Kirchhoff’s laws, power, heating effect of current, chemical effect of current, magnetic effect of current.
- Magnetism: Magnetic field, magnetic force, magnetic flux, Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, Lenz’s law, motional EMF, self-inductance, mutual inductance, AC circuits, transformers.
1.4 Modern Physics
- Atomic Structure: Bohr’s model of the atom, quantum numbers, atomic spectra, X-rays, photoelectric effect, Compton effect, de Broglie hypothesis, wave-particle duality.
- Nuclear Physics: Nuclear structure, radioactivity, alpha, beta, and gamma decay, half-life, nuclear reactions, nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, applications of nuclear physics.
- Solid State Physics: Crystalline and amorphous solids, band theory of solids, conductors, insulators, semiconductors, p-n junction, transistors, diodes, integrated circuits.
2. Chemistry
2.1 General Chemistry
- Atomic Structure: Bohr’s model, quantum numbers, electronic configuration, periodic table, periodic trends, chemical bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic), hybridization, molecular orbital theory.
- Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry: Chemical equations, balancing chemical equations, stoichiometry, limiting reagent, yield, concentration, solutions, colligative properties.
- Thermochemistry: Enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy, spontaneity, equilibrium constant, Le Chatelier’s principle.
2.2 Inorganic Chemistry
- Periodic Table and Periodic Properties: Groups and periods, periodic trends (electronegativity, ionization energy, electron affinity), classification of elements, s, p, d, and f block elements.
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure: Ionic, covalent, metallic bonding, VSEPR theory, hybridization, molecular orbital theory, intermolecular forces.
- Coordination Chemistry: Coordination compounds, ligands, coordination number, isomerism, Werner’s theory, crystal field theory, applications of coordination compounds.
2.3 Organic Chemistry
- Nomenclature and Structure: IUPAC nomenclature, functional groups, isomerism (structural, geometrical, optical), stereochemistry, chirality, enantiomers, diastereomers.
- Reactions of Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds: Addition, substitution, elimination reactions, electrophilic aromatic substitution, Grignard, Wittig, Diels-Alder reactions.
- Functional Group Chemistry: Alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, amines, amides, esters, ethers, halides, nitro compounds, spectroscopy (IR, NMR, Mass spectrometry).
2.4 Nuclear Chemistry
- Radioactivity: Alpha, beta, and gamma decay, half-life, nuclear reactions, nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, applications of nuclear chemistry.
3. Mathematics
3.1 Algebra
- Sets, Relations, and Functions: Sets, operations on sets, relations, functions, types of functions, inverse functions, composite functions.
- Algebraic Equations and Inequalities: Linear equations, quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, inequalities, absolute value inequalities.
- Matrices and Determinants: Matrix operations, determinants, inverse of a matrix, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, applications of matrices.
- Sequences and Series: Arithmetic and geometric progressions, summation of series, infinite geometric series, binomial theorem.
3.2 Trigonometry
- Trigonometric Ratios and Identities: Trigonometric ratios, trigonometric identities, inverse trigonometric functions, solutions of trigonometric equations.
- Trigonometric Functions: Graphs of trigonometric functions, periodicity, amplitude, phase shift, applications of trigonometric functions.
3.3 Calculus
- Differential Calculus: Limits, continuity, differentiation, rules of differentiation, applications of derivatives (rate of change, optimization, curve sketching).
- Integral Calculus: Indefinite integrals, definite integrals, applications of integrals (area under a curve, volume of solids of revolution).
3.4 Coordinate Geometry
- Straight Lines: Slope, intercept, equation of a line, distance between two points, angle between two lines.
- Circles: Equation of a circle, tangent and normal to a circle, properties of circles.
- Conic Sections: Parabola, ellipse, hyperbola, their equations and properties.
3.5 Vectors
- Vector Algebra: Addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, dot product, cross product, applications of vectors.
4. General Aptitude
4.1 Verbal Ability
- Reading Comprehension: Ability to understand and interpret written passages.
- Vocabulary: Knowledge of English vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms, idioms, phrases.
- Grammar and Usage: Knowledge of English grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, spelling.
- Verbal Reasoning: Logical reasoning based on verbal information.
4.2 Quantitative Aptitude
- Arithmetic: Number systems, fractions, decimals, percentages, profit and loss, simple and compound interest, time and work, speed, distance, and time.
- Algebra: Linear equations, quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, inequalities.
- Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, area, perimeter, volume.
- Data Interpretation: Ability to interpret and analyze data presented in tables, graphs, and charts.
4.3 Logical Reasoning
- Deductive Reasoning: Ability to draw logical conclusions from given information.
- Inductive Reasoning: Ability to identify patterns and make generalizations.
- Analytical Reasoning: Ability to analyze and solve problems using logical reasoning.
- Spatial Reasoning: Ability to visualize and manipulate objects in space.
4.4 General Awareness
- Current Affairs: Knowledge of current events, national and international.
- Science and Technology: Basic knowledge of science and technology.
- History and Culture: Basic knowledge of Indian history and culture.
- Geography: Basic knowledge of Indian geography.
- Economy: Basic knowledge of Indian economy.
5. Nuclear Engineering
5.1 Nuclear Physics
- Nuclear Structure: Nucleus, nucleons, nuclear forces, binding energy, nuclear models, radioactivity, alpha, beta, and gamma decay, half-life, decay chains, nuclear reactions, Q-value, cross-section.
- Nuclear Fission and Fusion: Fission process, fission products, energy release, chain reaction, criticality, fission reactors, breeder reactors, fusion process, fusion reactions, plasma physics, magnetic confinement, inertial confinement.
- Radiation Detection and Measurement: Ionization chambers, proportional counters, Geiger-Muller counters, scintillation detectors, semiconductor detectors, neutron detectors, radiation dosimetry, radiation shielding.
5.2 Reactor Physics
- Neutron Transport Theory: Neutron diffusion, neutron slowing down, neutron multiplication, neutron flux, neutron cross-sections, neutron scattering, neutron absorption.
- Reactor Kinetics: Reactor power, reactor period, reactivity, control rods, moderator, reflector, reactor safety, accident analysis.
- Reactor Design and Operation: PWR, BWR, CANDU, pressurized water reactors, boiling water reactors, CANDU reactors, reactor core design, fuel cycle, waste management.
5.3 Nuclear Materials
- Nuclear Fuels: Uranium, plutonium, thorium, enrichment, fuel fabrication, fuel reprocessing.
- Structural Materials: Zirconium alloys, stainless steel, concrete, graphite, properties of materials under irradiation.
- Coolants and Moderators: Water, heavy water, liquid metal, gas, properties of coolants and moderators.
5.4 Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection
- Radiation Hazards: Biological effects of radiation, radiation exposure limits, radiation protection principles, shielding, containment.
- Reactor Safety: Reactor accidents, safety systems, emergency procedures, regulatory requirements.
- Waste Management: Radioactive waste, waste classification, waste disposal, reprocessing, decommissioning.
6. Engineering
6.1 Mechanical Engineering
- Strength of Materials: Stress, strain, elasticity, plasticity, yield strength, ultimate strength, fatigue, creep, bending, torsion, buckling.
- Fluid Mechanics: Fluid properties, fluid statics, fluid dynamics, Bernoulli’s equation, flow through pipes, pumps, turbines.
- Heat Transfer: Conduction, convection, radiation, heat exchangers, boilers, condensers.
- Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic cycles, power plants, refrigeration, air conditioning.
6.2 Electrical Engineering
- Basic Electrical Concepts: Voltage, current, resistance, power, energy, Kirchhoff’s laws, Ohm’s law.
- AC Circuits: Alternating current, phase, frequency, impedance, power factor, transformers.
- DC Machines: Generators, motors, types of DC machines, characteristics.
- AC Machines: Synchronous machines, induction machines, types of AC machines, characteristics.
6.3 Civil Engineering
- Structural Engineering: Beams, columns, trusses, foundations, concrete structures, steel structures.
- Geotechnical Engineering: Soil mechanics, foundation design, earthworks.
- Water Resources Engineering: Hydrology, water supply, irrigation, drainage.
6.4 Instrumentation and Control
- Instrumentation: Sensors, transducers, measurement systems, data acquisition.
- Control Systems: Feedback control, PID control, process control, automation.
7. Computer Science
- Computer Fundamentals: Computer architecture, operating systems, data structures, algorithms.
- Programming Languages: C, C++, Java, Python, basic programming concepts.
- Databases: SQL, database design, database management systems.
- Networking: TCP/IP, LAN, WAN, network security.
8. English
- Reading Comprehension: Ability to understand and interpret written passages.
- Vocabulary: Knowledge of English vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms, idioms, phrases.
- Grammar and Usage: Knowledge of English grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, spelling.
- Writing: Ability to write clear, concise, and grammatically correct sentences and paragraphs.
9. General Knowledge
- Current Affairs: Knowledge of current events, national and international.
- Science and Technology: Basic knowledge of science and technology.
- History and Culture: Basic knowledge of Indian history and culture.
- Geography: Basic knowledge of Indian geography.
- Economy: Basic knowledge of Indian economy.
10. Aptitude Test
- Logical Reasoning: Ability to draw logical conclusions from given information.
- Analytical Reasoning: Ability to analyze and solve problems using logical reasoning.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Basic mathematical skills, arithmetic, algebra, geometry.
- Verbal Ability: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar.
11. Interview
- Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of the candidate’s chosen field of study.
- Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and solve problems.
- Personality and Leadership Qualities: Candidate’s personality, leadership potential, and ability to work in a team.
Table 1: Subject-wise Weightage for NPCIL Prelims Exam 2024
| Subject | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Physics | 25% |
| Chemistry | 25% |
| Mathematics | 25% |
| General Aptitude | 25% |
Table 2: Exam Pattern for NPCIL Prelims Exam 2024
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 50 | 1 hour |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 hour |
| Mathematics | 50 | 1 hour |
| General Aptitude | 50 | 1 hour |
| Total | 200 | 4 hours |
Note: The syllabus and exam pattern are subject to change. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers for NPCIL Prelims Exam 2024
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the NPCIL Exam?
- You must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science with a minimum of 60% marks.
2. What is the exam pattern for the NPCIL Prelims Exam?
- The exam is an objective-type, computer-based test consisting of four sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and General Aptitude. Each section has 50 questions, and the total time allotted is 4 hours.
3. What is the syllabus for the NPCIL Prelims Exam?
- The syllabus covers topics from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Nuclear Engineering. You can find a detailed syllabus on the official NPCIL website.
4. How can I prepare for the NPCIL Prelims Exam?
- Start your preparation early and focus on understanding the concepts. Refer to standard textbooks and practice previous years’ question papers.
5. Are there any negative markings in the NPCIL Prelims Exam?
- Yes, there is a negative marking of 1/4th mark for each incorrect answer.
6. What is the selection process for the NPCIL Exam?
- The selection process involves two stages: Prelims Exam and Mains Exam. Candidates who clear the Prelims Exam will be eligible to appear for the Mains Exam.
7. What are the important topics to focus on for the General Aptitude section?
- Focus on topics like Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation.
8. What are some good books for preparing for the NPCIL Prelims Exam?
- Refer to standard textbooks for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. For General Aptitude, you can refer to books by R.S. Aggarwal and Arun Sharma.
9. How can I improve my time management skills for the exam?
- Practice mock tests and time yourself for each section. This will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses and improve your time management skills.
10. What are some tips for staying motivated during exam preparation?
- Set realistic goals, take breaks, and reward yourself for your progress. Surround yourself with positive people and stay focused on your goal.
Note: These are just a few frequently asked questions. For more detailed information, please refer to the official NPCIL website.