(SEM III) THEORY EXAMINATION 2023-24 ENERGY SCIENCE & ENGINEERING

This question paper evaluates a student’s understanding of fundamental and applied concepts of Energy Science & Engineering, covering topics from heat energy, nuclear processes, solar energy, geothermal systems, energy storage, climate science, and renewable energy technologies. The paper is designed to measure conceptual clarity, analytical ability, and problem-solving skills related to modern energy systems.

The paper is divided into three structured sections, ensuring a balanced assessment of definitions, short theoretical explanations, and long, analytical answers requiring in-depth understanding.

SECTION A – Conceptual Understanding (14 Marks)

In this section, students must answer seven short questions, each testing fundamental definitions and basic concepts.
Topics include:

Heat energy and its significance

Nuclear fission vs nuclear fusion

Advantages of nuclear energy

Solar radiation and solar cell types

Applications of geothermal energy

Meaning and importance of energy storage

These questions check the student’s grasp of essential terms that form the foundation of the subject.

SECTION B – Analytical & Descriptive Questions (21 Marks)

Students must attempt any three out of five detailed questions.
This section requires deeper explanation, diagrams where needed, and proper reasoning.
Topics covered include:

Quantum theory and energy quantization

Nuclear binding energy and its reactions

Semiconductor materials and PN-junction V-I characteristics

Different geothermal systems (dry steam, wet steam, hot water) with diagrams

Climate change and energy conservation explained in detail

This section tests the ability to apply concepts, explain processes, and connect theory to practical applications in energy systems.

SECTION C – Application-Based Long Questions (21 Marks)

Students must attempt one question from each of the three parts (3 questions total).
This section demands greater depth and structured answers.

Key areas include:

Steam and gas power cycle principles

Entropy, phase change energy, and electromagnetic energy concepts

Nuclear fission reactor design and energy scales

Solar PV system limitations, building-integrated photovoltaics, and P–V characteristics

Different generations of solar cell technology

Closed-cycle OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion) principles and limitations

Wind energy conversion methods and strategies to control power fluctuation

Energy audit, energy optimization, LEED ratings, and green building concepts

This part of the exam assesses a student’s real-world understanding, engineering reasoning, and ability to present technical content logically.

Overall Purpose of the Paper

The question paper is structured to ensure that by the end of the course, students can:

Understand and explain major energy conversion systems

Compare renewable and non-renewable energy technologies

Analyze performance characteristics of nuclear, solar, geothermal, wind, and OTEC systems

Apply scientific principles to energy storage, optimization, and sustainability

Explain modern energy engineering practices such as green buildings, energy audits, and climate impact

Additional Questions Added (As Requested)

You may include any of the following additional questions in suitable sections for extended evaluation:

SECTION A (Short Questions)

h. Define Solar Thermal Collector.
i. What is Geothermal Gradient?

SECTION B (Descriptive)

f. Explain the construction and working of a Nuclear Fusion Reactor with neat diagrams.

SECTION C (Long Questions)

c. Discuss the environmental impacts of large-scale solar and wind energy projects. Provide methods to minimize these impacts.