860 Mathematics SQP Ak 1
860 Mathematics SQP Ak 1
Maximum Marks: 80
Time Allotted: Three Hours
Reading Time: Additional Fifteen Minutes
Instructions to Candidates
1. You are allowed an additional fifteen minutes for only reading the paper.
2. You must NOT start writing during reading time.
3. The question paper has 11 printed pages.
4. It consists of 20 questions and four sections: A, B, C and D. All questions
are compulsory.
5. Section A comprises very short answer questions of 1 mark each.
6. Section B consists of short answer questions of 2 marks each.
7. Section C consists of moderately long answer questions of 3 marks each.
8. Section D consists of long answer questions of 5 marks each.
9. Internal choices have been provided in three questions, each in Sections B, C
and D.
10. While attempting Multiple Choice Questions in Section A, you are required
to write only ONE option as the answer.
11. The intended marks for questions or parts of questions are given in the
brackets [].
12. All workings, including rough work, should be done on the same page as, and
adjacent to, the rest of the answer.
13. Mathematical tables and graph papers are provided.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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Note: The Specimen Question Paper in the subject provides a realistic format of the
Board Examination Question Paper and should be used as a practice tool. The questions for the
Board Examination can be set from any part of the syllabus, though the format of the Board
Examination Question Paper will remain the same as that of the Specimen Question Paper.
The weightage allocated to various topics, as given in the syllabus, will be strictly adhered to.
SECTION A – 20 MARKS
Question 1
In subparts (i) to (xvii) choose the correct options and in subparts (xviii) to (xx), answer the
questions as instructed.
(i) Additive inverse of 𝑖 is expressed as 𝑎 + 𝑖 𝑏 , then 𝑏 = (Recall) [1]
(a) 0
(b) 1
(c) −1
(d) −𝑖
(ii) The centre of the circle 2𝑥 2 + 2𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 − 8𝑦 − 45 = 0 is: (Recall) [1]
(a) (2, 4)
(b) (−2, −4)
(c) (−1, −2)
(d) (1,2)
10
(iii) The number of terms in the expansion of (a2 − 2 𝑎−1 + b2) is:
𝑏 [1]
(Understanding)
(a) 20
(b) 15
(c) 21
(d) 11
(iv) The equation of line intersecting the 𝑥-axis at a distance of 3 units to the left of [1]
origin with slope −2 is: (Understanding)
(a) 2𝑥 + 𝑦 + 6 = 0
(b) 2𝑥 − 𝑦 + 6 = 0
(c) −2𝑥 + 𝑦 + 6 = 0
(d) 2𝑥 − 𝑦 − 6 = 0
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(v) The Cartesian product A × A has 16 elements among which are (0,2) and (1,3). [1]
Which of the following statements is correct? (Understanding)
Statement I: It is possible to determine the set A.
Statement II: A × A contains the element (3,2).
(a) Both the statements are true.
(b) Both the statements are false.
(c) Statement I is true and Statement II is false.
(d) Statements I is false and Statement II is true.
(vi) Which one of the following is NOT true in the IIIrd. quadrant? (Recall) [1]
(a) tan 𝜃 increases from 0 to ∞
(b) sin 𝜃 increases from 0 to − 1
(c) cot 𝜃 decreases from ∞ to 0
(d) cos 𝜃 decreases from − 1 to 1
(vii) Variance of the data 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 17 is 23∙33. Then variance of 4, 8, 10, 12, 16, 34 [1]
will be: (Understanding)
(a) 93∙32
(b) 25∙33
(c) 46∙66
(d) 48∙66
(viii) 36 [1]
The eccentricity of the ellipse with foci at (± 5, 0) and 𝑥 = as one of the
5
directrices is: (Recall)
(a) 5
6
(b) 3
5
(c) 6
5
(d) 5
9
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(ix) Shown below is a solved differentiation problem: [1]
3 3
𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝑥. 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝑥
1
(Step 1) = 8 𝑠𝑖𝑛3 2𝑥
Differentiating w.r.t ‘𝑥’ we get
𝑑𝑦 3 𝑑
(Step 2) ⇒𝑑𝑥 = 8
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥 × 𝑑𝑥 (sin 2𝑥)
𝑑𝑦 3 𝑑
(Step 3) ⇒ = 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥. cos 2𝑥 × (𝑥)
𝑑𝑥 8 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦 3
(Step 4) ⇒𝑑𝑥 = 4
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥. cos 2𝑥
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(xiii) What is the number of selections of at most 3 things from 6 different things? [1]
(Application)
(a) 20
(b) 22
(c) 41
(d) 42
(xiv) −2 [1]
If 𝑥−3 > 0 , then 𝑥 belongs to: (Understanding)
(a) (3, ∞)
(c) (−∞, 3)
(d) (−∞, 3]
(xv) Consider the following in respect of the circle 4𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 − 4𝑎𝑥 − 4𝑎𝑦 + 𝑎2 = 0 [1]
(P) The circle touches both the axes.
(Q) The diameter of the circle is 2𝑎.
(R) The centre of the circle lies on the line 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑎.
How many of the statements given above are correct? (Understanding)
(a) Only (P)
(b) Only (P) and (Q)
(c) Only (P) and (R)
(d) Only (Q) and (R)
(xvi) Assertion (A): Cardinal number of the power set of {{0, {1}, 3}}= 8 [1]
Reason (R): If A is a set with n(A) = 𝑚, the n (P(A)) = 2𝑚
Which one of the following is correct? (Recall)
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation
of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true and Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false and Reason is true.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(xvii) Coordinate of the point P is (2, 4, 5). [1]
(xix) Find number of words that can be formed with the letters of the word 'LAHORE', [1]
if 𝐿 and 𝐴 are always together. (Understanding)
(xx) A function is defined by 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝜋 + sin2 𝑥. Find the range of the function. [1]
(Recall)
SECTION B – 14 MARKS
Question 2 [2]
Imagine you are designing a straight ramp that needs to connect two points at different
elevations. Point P is at a horizontal distance of 10 meters and a vertical height of 2 meters
from the starting point Q.
Write the equation of the line representing the ramp, considering the starting point Q as the
origin. What is the angle of inclination of the ramp? (Application)
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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Question 3 [2]
If 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 (𝑎 > 0, 𝑐 > 0) are in G.P, justify the following with respect to the equation
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0: (Application)
(i) The equation has imaginary roots.
(ii) The product of the roots of the equation 𝑎2
𝑏2
Question 4 [2]
𝑥𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 𝜋
If 𝑓(𝑥) = 1+𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥, then find 𝑓′ ( 2 ). (Evaluate)
Question 5 [2]
If the sum of binomial coefficients in the expansion of (𝑥 + 𝑦)𝑛 is 256, then in which
(i) term of the expansion does the greatest binomial coefficient occurs?
(Understanding)
OR
(ii) If the coefficient of (𝑟 − 5)th and (2𝑟 − 1)th terms in the expansion of (1 + 𝑥)34
are equal, then find the value of 𝑟. (Understanding)
Question 6 [2]
|𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥|
(i) Does lim exist? Give justification. (Understanding)
𝑥→0 𝑥
OR
(ii) 𝑙𝑡 1−𝑆𝑖𝑛
𝑥
Evaluate: ( 𝑥 𝑥2 𝑥) (Understanding)
𝑥 → 𝜋 𝐶𝑜𝑠2[𝐶𝑜𝑠4−𝑆𝑖𝑛4]
Question 7 [2]
Two finite sets have 'm' and 'n' elements. The number of subsets of the first set is 112
(i)
more than that of second set. Find the values of 'm' and 'n'. (Recall)
OR
(ii) If A and B are two sets and U is the universal set such that n(U) = 700, n(A) = 290,
n(B) = 240 and n (𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)= 110, then find n (𝐴′ ∩ 𝐵′). (Understanding)
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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Question 8 [2]
Two cards are drawn at random without replacement from a deck of 52 cards. What is the
probability that both the cards drawn are kings? (Understanding)
SECTION C – 21 MARKS
Question 9 [3]
𝐴 (1,2,3), 𝐵 (0,4,1), 𝐶(−1, −1, −3) are the vertices of a triangle ABC. Find the following:
(Understanding)
(i) Length of AB and AC. [1]
(ii) Coordinates of the point in which the bisector of the ∠BAC meets BC. [2]
Question 10 [3]
Given that 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of 𝑞𝑥 2 − 𝑝𝑥 + 𝑟 = 0, form an equation whose roots are
1 1
𝛼 + 𝛽 and 𝛽 + 𝛼. (Understanding)
Question 11 [3]
Find the points of intersection of the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 1 and the circle 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 5. Hence or
otherwise, find the length of the chord. (Evaluate)
Question 12 [3]
A plot of land is in the shape of a sector of a circle of radius 55m. The length of fencing that
is erected along the edge of the plot to enclose the land is 176m. Calculate the area of the
plot of land. (Evaluate)
Question 13 [3]
(i) If 2 − 𝑖√3 where 𝑖 = √−1 is a root of the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 0, then find the
value of 𝑎 + 𝑏. (Analysis)
OR
𝑧−1
(ii) If z is a complex number such that 𝑧+1 is purely imaginary, then what is |z| equal to?
(Analysis)
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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Question 14 [3]
(i) The curve G has equation 𝑦 = 1 − 𝑥 3 − 6𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 and part of the graph of G is shown
below:
(Analysis)
(a) Find the derivative of 𝑦 with respect to 𝑥.
(b) If the tangents drawn to the curve at the points B and C are parallel to x-axis,
then find the coordinates of B and C respectively.
OR
(ii) Find the derivative of √3𝑥 + 4 by using first principle. (Application)
Question 15 [3]
(i) The alternative voltage 𝑉, in a domestic electrical circuit ′𝑡′ seconds after it is
switched on is modelled by the function, 𝑉 = 115 𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 + 115√3𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡.
Express 115 𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 + 115√3𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡 in the form 𝑅𝑆𝑖𝑛(𝜔𝑡 + ), where R and are
the constants to be found, R> 0 and is acute. (Understanding)
OR
𝜋
(ii) If A and B are two acute angles having its sum equal to 4 , then answer the following:
(Understanding)
(a) Find the value of (𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 − 1)(𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐵 − 1).
𝜋
(b) Hence, find the value of cot 8 .
SECTION D – 25 MARKS
Question 16 [5]
(i) A focal chord of the parabola 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥 makes an angle of 60° with the 𝑥 − axis.
Find the length of this focal chord. (Evaluate)
OR
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(ii) A satellite moves in an Elliptical orbit around the earth as shown in the figure below.
It moves so that the sum of its distances from the points f2 (-2,0) and f1 (2,0) is
8 units. (Evaluate)
Question 17 [5]
(i) For the word 'DEVASTATION', determine the number of 4-letter combinations and
4-letter permutations. (Analysis)
OR
(ii) The letters of the word ‘CRICKET’ are written in all possible orders. (Analysis)
(a) Find the total number words with or without meaning. [1]
(b) If these words are written out as in a dictionary, find the rank of the word [4]
‘CRICKET’.
Question 18
(i) Evaluate: cos 𝛼 + cos (𝛼 +
2𝜋
) + cos (𝛼 +
4𝜋
). (Application) [2]
3 3
(a) Hence prove that: [1]
2𝜋 4𝜋 2𝜋 4𝜋
𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝛼 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 (𝛼 + 3
)+𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 (𝛼 + 3
) = 3 cos 𝛼 cos (𝛼 + 3
) cos (𝛼 + 3
)
(b) If 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝛼 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 (𝛼 + 2𝜋) + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 (𝛼 + 4𝜋) = 𝑘 cos 𝑘𝛼, find 𝑘. [2]
3 3 𝑘+1
OR
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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(ii) The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 17. [2]
Sketch the graph of the function.
Hence or otherwise: (Application)
(a) Find the maximum / minimum value of the function. [1]
Question 19 [5]
Find the mean and standard deviation using the deviation method for the following:
Age 20-25 25-30 30-35 35-40 40-45 45-50 50-55
No of employees 170 110 80 45 40 30 25
Find the percentage of the employees in an organisation whose age lies between
𝑥̅ − 𝜎 and 𝑥̅ + 𝜎. (Evaluate)
Question 20 [5]
𝑆1,𝑆2 ,𝑆3 ,...,𝑆𝑛 are the sums of 𝑛 infinite geometric progressions. The first terms of these
1 1 1 1
progressions are 1, 22 − 1 , 23 − 1 , ..., 2𝑛 − 1 and the common ratios 2 , 22 , 23 , … , 2𝑛.
Find 𝑆1+𝑆2 +𝑆3 +...+𝑆𝑛 . (Evaluate)
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN QUESTION PAPER 2026
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MATHEMATICS
ANSWER KEY
SECTION A – 20 MARKS
Question 1
In answering Multiple Choice Questions, candidates have to write either the correct
option number or the explanation against it. Please note that only ONE correct
answer should be written.
(i) (c) or −1 [1]
Additive inverse of 𝑖= −𝑖 = 0 + (−1)𝑖.
∴ 𝑏 = −1
(ii) (d) or (1,2) [1]
Given equation of circle 2𝑥 2 + 2𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 − 8𝑦 − 45 = 0
45
⇒𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 +2(−1) 𝑥+2 (− 2) 𝑦 − = 0.
2
∴ The centre of the circle is: (1,2)
(iii) (c) or 21 [1]
10
(a2 − 2 𝑎−1 + b2) = (a2 − 2𝑎𝑏 + b2 )10 = (𝑎 − 𝑏)20
𝑏
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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(viii) (a) or 6
5
[1]
36
Given, the eccentricity of the ellipse with foci at (± 5, 0) and 𝑥 = as one of the
5
directrices.
𝑎 36
⇒𝑎𝑒 = 5 and =
𝑒 5
2
⇒𝑎 = 36 ⇒ 𝑎 = 6
5
∴𝑒=
6
(ix) (c) or step-3 [1]
𝑦 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛3 𝑥. 𝑐𝑜𝑠 3 𝑥
1
= 8 𝑠𝑖𝑛3 2𝑥
Differentiating w.r.t ‘𝑥’ we get
𝑑𝑦 3 𝑑
⇒ = 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥 × (sin 2𝑥)
𝑑𝑥 8 𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝑦 3 𝑑
⇒𝑑𝑥 = 8 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥. cos 2𝑥 × 𝑑𝑥 (2𝑥) (step-3)
𝑑𝑦 3
⇒𝑑𝑥 = 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 2𝑥. cos 2𝑥.
4
(x) (c) or Null set(𝜑) [1]
(𝐴 − 𝐵) ∩ B = (𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ′ ) ∩ B
= A∩ (𝐵 ′ ∩ B)[Associative law]
=A∩𝜑 [Laws of complementation]
=𝜑 [Boundedness law]
(xi) (b) or 𝑥 − 2 = 0 [1]
Given, equation of parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑝𝑥, where 𝑝 < 0
and 𝑝2 + 𝑝 − 2 = 0
⇒(𝑝 + 2)(𝑝 − 1) = 0
⇒𝑝 = −2 , (∵𝑝 < 0)
Required equation of directrix is:𝑥 = −(−2)⇒𝑥 − 2 = 0
(xii) (d) or The terms of S form an arithmetic progression with common difference 6. [1]
𝑆𝑛 = 3𝑛2 + 5𝑛
Using, 𝑇𝑛 = 𝑆𝑛 − 𝑆𝑛−1 = 3𝑛2 + 5𝑛 − [3(𝑛 − 1)2 + 5(𝑛 − 1)] = 6𝑛 + 2
∴ 𝑇1 = 8, 𝑇2 = 14, 𝑇3 = 20, … ..
Above is an A.P., having 1st term = 8 and common difference = 6
(xiii) (d) or 42 [1]
Total number of selections = 𝐶(6,0) + 𝐶(6,1) + 𝐶(6,2) + 𝐶(6,3) = 42.
(xiv) (c) or (−∞, 3) [1]
−2 (𝑥−3)
> 0 ⇒ (𝑥−3)2 < 0 ⇒ 𝑥 − 3 < 0 ⇒ 𝑥 < 3 i.e. 𝑥 ∈ (−∞, 3)
𝑥−3
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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(xv) (b) or Only (P) and (R) [1]
Given, circle 4𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 − 4𝑎𝑥 − 4𝑎𝑦 + 𝑎2 = 0
𝑎2
⇒𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 𝑎𝑥 − 𝑎𝑦 + 4
=0
−𝑎 −𝑎 𝑎2
⇒ 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 2 ( )𝑥 + 2( )𝑦 + = 0
2 2 4
2 −𝑎 𝑎2 2 −𝑎 𝑎2 𝑎2
⇒ [𝑥 + 2 ( 2 ) 𝑥 + 4 ] + [𝑦 + 2 ( 2 ) 𝑦 + 4 ] = 4
𝑎 2 𝑎 2 𝑎 2
⇒(𝑥 − 2 ) + (𝑦 − 2 ) = (2 )
𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
∴Centre( , ) , Radius: 2⇒ The circle touches both the axes.
2 2
Diameter = 𝑎.
𝑎 𝑎
(2 , 2) satisfies 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑎.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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(xx) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝜋 + sin2 𝑥 [1]
We know, −1 ≤ sin 𝑥 ≤ 1
⇒0 ≤ 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑥 ≤ 1
⇒ 𝜋 ≤ 𝜋 + sin2 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋 + 1
∴ Range of the function: [𝜋, 𝜋 + 1]
SECTION B – 14 MARKS
Question 2 [2]
Question 3 [2]
Given, 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 ⇒ 𝑏 2 = 𝑎𝑐
Given, quadratic equation: 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0
(i) Discriminant (D) = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 𝑎𝑐 − 4𝑎𝑐 = −3𝑎𝑐 < 0, since 𝑎, 𝑐 > 0.
Hence equation has imaginary roots.
𝑐 𝑎𝑐 𝑏2
(ii) Product of the roots = 𝑎 = = 𝑎2
𝑎2
Question 4 [2]
𝑥 𝑥
𝑥𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥 2 sin cos 𝑥
𝑓(𝑥) = 1+𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑥= 𝑥 × 2
𝑥
2
= 𝑥 tan 2
2𝑐𝑜𝑠2
2
Differentiating w.r.t. ‘𝑥’ we get
𝑑 𝑥
𝑓 / (𝑥) = (𝑥 tan )
𝑑𝑥 2
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥
= tan + 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2
2 2 2
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
∴ 𝑓′ (2)= tan + 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2
4 4 4
𝜋
=1+ 2
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Question 5 [2]
(i) Given, the sum of binomial coefficients in the expansion in the expansion of
(𝑥 + 𝑦)𝑛 is 256.
⇒2𝑛 = 256
⇒2𝑛 = 28 ⇒𝑛 = 8.
∴ Total number of terms = 8 + 1 = 9
We know that the coefficient of middle most term is the greatest.
9+1 th
Hence ( ) . i.e. 5th. term coefficient is the greatest.
2
OR
(ii) Given, binomial expansion is (1 + 𝑥)𝑛
𝑇𝑟−5 = 𝑇1+(𝑟−6) = 𝐶(34, 𝑟 − 6)𝑥 𝑟−6
𝑇2𝑟−1 = 𝑇1+(2𝑟−2) = 𝐶(34,2𝑟 − 2)𝑥 2𝑟−2
As per question, 𝐶(34, 𝑟 − 6) = 𝐶(34,2𝑟 − 2)
⇒34 = 𝑟 − 6 + 2𝑟 − 2 [ since, C(𝑛, 𝑎) = 𝑐(𝑛, 𝑏) ⇒ 𝑎 + 𝑏 = 𝑛]
⇒3𝑟 = 42
⇒ 𝑟 = 14
∴ Value of 𝑟 = 14.
Question 6 [2]
(i) L.H.L. = 𝑙𝑡 𝑙𝑡 |𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥|
𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥 → 0− 𝑥 → 0− 𝑥
𝑙𝑡 (𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥)
= = −1
𝑥 → 0− 𝑥
𝑙𝑡 |𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥| 𝑙𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑥
R.H.L. = = =1
𝑥 → 0+ 𝑥 𝑥 → 0+ 𝑥
𝐿. 𝐻. 𝐿. ≠ 𝑅. 𝐻. 𝐿.
limit does not exist
OR
𝑥
(ii) 𝑙𝑡 1 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛 2
=
𝑥 → 𝜋 𝐶𝑜𝑠 𝑥 [𝐶𝑜𝑠 𝑥 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛 𝑥]
2 4 4
𝑥 𝑥 2 𝑥 𝑥
𝑙𝑡 (𝐶𝑜𝑠 4 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛 4)
𝑙𝑡 𝐶𝑜𝑠 4 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛 4
= =
𝑥 → 𝜋 (𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝑥) (𝐶𝑜𝑠 𝑥 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛 𝑥) 𝑥 → 𝜋 𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥 − 𝑆𝑖𝑛2 𝑥
4 4 4 4 4 4
𝑙𝑡 1
=
𝑥 → 𝜋 (𝐶𝑜𝑠 + 𝑆𝑖𝑛 𝑥)
𝑥
4 4
By applying limit, we get
1 1 1
= 𝜋 𝜋 = 1 1 = 2
𝐶𝑜𝑠 4 + 𝑆𝑖𝑛 4 +
√2 √2 √2
√2 𝟏
= = Ans.
2 √𝟐
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Question 7 [2]
(i) The number of subsets of a given set having m elements=2𝑚
As per question 2𝑚 − 2𝑛 = 112
2n (2𝑚−𝑛 − 1) = 112 2n (2𝑚−𝑛 − 1) = 24 × 7
On comparing we get
𝑛=4 and 2𝑚−𝑛 − 1=7
2𝑚−𝑛 = 8 = 23
m−n=3
m−4=3
m=7
Ans. m=7, n=4
OR
Question 8 [2]
There are 4 kings in a deck of 52 cards,
4 1
⇒ The probability 1st card drawn was a king= 52 = 13 .
If the first card drawn was a king, there are now 3 kings left in the remaining 51 cards.
3 1
⇒ The probability 2nd. card drawn was a king =51 = 17
1 1 1
∴Probability of Both Cards being Kings = = 13 × 17 = 221
SECTION C – 21 MARKS
Question 9 [4]
(i) Distance between two points:√(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2 + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1 )2 + (𝑧2 − 𝑧1 )2
Given 𝐴 (1,2,3), 𝐵 (0,4,1), 𝐶(−1, −1, −3)
Length 𝐴𝐵 = 3 and 𝐴𝐶 = 7
(ii) Coordinates of the point where the bisector of ∠BAC meets BC:
In triangle ABC, the bisector of ∠BAC meets BC at a point, say D. According to
the Angle Bisector Theorem, D divides BC in the ratio of 𝐴𝐵 ∶ 𝐴𝐶.
So, the point D divides the line segment BC internally in the ratio 3 ∶ 7.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
6
𝑚𝑥2 +𝑛𝑥1 𝑚𝑦2 +𝑛𝑦1 𝑚𝑧2 +𝑛𝑧1
Applying section formula:( , , )
𝑚+𝑛 𝑚+𝑛 𝑚+𝑛
𝐵 (0,4,1), 𝐶(−1, −1, −3)The Point D divides BC internally in the ratio 3 ∶ 7
Therefore, the coordinates of the point where the bisector of ∠BAC meets BC
−3 5 −1
are ( 10 , 2 , 5 ).
Question 10 [3]
Given that 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of 𝑞𝑥 2 − 𝑝𝑥 + 𝑟 = 0
𝑝 𝑟
∴ 𝛼 + 𝛽 = 𝑞 , 𝛼. 𝛽 = 𝑞
1 1
New roots are 𝛼 + 𝛽 and 𝛽 + 𝛼
1 1 1 1 𝛼+𝛽 𝑝 𝑝 𝑞+𝑟
S = 𝛼 + 𝛽+𝛽 + 𝛼 = 𝛼 + 𝛽 + 𝛼 + 𝛽= 𝛼 + 𝛽 + =𝑞+ = 𝑝 ( 𝑞𝑟 )
𝛼𝛽 𝑟
1 1 1 𝑟 𝑞 (𝑞+𝑟)2
P = (𝛼 + 𝛽) (𝛽 + 𝛼) = 𝛼𝛽 + 𝛼𝛽 + 2 = 𝑞 + 𝑟 + 2 = 𝑞𝑟
2
Requires quadratic equation: 𝑥 − 𝑆𝑥 + 𝑃 = 0
𝑞+𝑟 (𝑞+𝑟)2
⇒𝑥 2 − 𝑝 ( 𝑞𝑟 ) 𝑥 + =0
𝑞𝑟
Question 11 [3]
Method I:
Substitute the equation of the line into the equation of the circle:
𝑦 = 𝑥 + 1 in the equation of circle𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 5
𝑥 2 + (𝑥 + 1)2 = 5
𝑥 2 + (𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1) = 5
2𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 4 = 0 ⟹ 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 2 = 0
Factor the quadratic equation: (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 1) = 0
⟹ 𝑥 = −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 1.
Substitute these 𝑥 values back into the equation of the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 1:
If 𝑥 = −2, then 𝑦 = −2 + 1 = −1. The point is (−2, −1).
If 𝑥 = 1, then 𝑦 = 1 + 1 = 2. The point is (1,2).
The line intersects the circle at the points (−2, −1) and (1,2).
Length of the chord = √(1 + 2)2 + (2 + 1)2 = √18 = 3√2 Units
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Method II
Perpendicular distance from centre of a circle (0, 0) to
1
the chord:𝑥 − 𝑦 + 1 = 0 is
√2
Radius of circle is √5 units
Based on the theorem a perpendicular drawn from
centre of a circle to chord divides it into two equal
halves.
1 9
∴ Half of the length of the chord = √5 − =√
2 2
3
=
√2
3
Length of the chord: 2 × = 3√2 Units
√2
Question 12 [3]
𝐿𝑒𝑡 𝐴𝑟𝑐 𝐴𝐵 = 𝑙𝑚
55 + 55 + 𝑙 = 176
𝑙 = 176 − 110
𝑙 = 66 𝑚
𝐿𝑒𝑡 𝐴𝑂𝐵 = 𝜃 𝑐
𝑙 = 𝑟𝜃 𝑐
66 = 55𝜃
66 6
𝜃 𝑐 = 55 = 5
1 1 6
Area of the sector = 2 𝑟 2 𝜃 𝑐 = 2 × 552 × 5 =55 × 33 = 1815𝑚2
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Question 13 [3]
(ii) Let, z = 𝑥 + 𝑖𝑦 , 𝑥 , 𝑦 ∈ R.
𝑧−1 (𝑥−1)+𝑖𝑦 (𝑥−1)+𝑖𝑦 (𝑥+1)−𝑖𝑦 (𝑥 2 −1+𝑦 2 ) +𝑖 (𝑦(𝑥+1)−𝑦(𝑥−1))
∴ 𝑧+1 = (𝑥+1)+𝑖𝑦 = (𝑥+1)+𝑖𝑦 × (𝑥+1)−𝑖𝑦 = (𝑥+1)2 +𝑦 2
𝑧−1 𝑧−1
Since, 𝑧 + 1 is purely imaginary ⇒ 𝑅𝑒 (𝑧+1) = 0
(𝑥 2 − 1 + 𝑦 2 )
⇒ =0
(𝑥 + 1)2 + 𝑦 2
⇒ 𝑥2 − 1 + 𝑦2 = 0
⇒𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 1 ⇒ |𝑧|2 = 1 ⇒ |𝑧| = 1
Question 14 [3]
(i) (a) 𝑑𝑦 𝑑
= (1 − 𝑥 3 − 6𝑥 2 − 9𝑥)
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
= 0 − 3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 − 9
𝑑𝑦
= −3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 − 9 𝐴𝑛𝑠
𝑑𝑥
(b) Since the tangents to the curve at points B and C are parallel to the x-axis:
𝑑𝑦
⇒ =0
𝑑𝑥
⇒ −3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 − 9 = 0
⇒ 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 3 = 0
⇒ (𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 + 1) = 0
⇒ 𝑥 = −3, −1
𝑦 = 1 − 𝑥 3 − 6𝑥 2 − 9𝑥
When, 𝑥 = −3⇒𝑦 = 1 − (−3)3 − 6(−3)2 − 9(−3) = 1 + 27 − 54 + 27=1
When, 𝑥 = −1⇒𝑦 = 1 − (−1)3 − 6(−1)2 − 9(−1) =5.
Hence, coordinates of B(−3,1), C (−1,5).
OR
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
9
(ii) 𝐿𝑒𝑡𝑓(𝑥) = √3𝑥 + 4
𝑓(𝑥 + ℎ) = √3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4
𝑑𝑦 𝑙𝑡 𝑓(𝑥 + ℎ) − 𝑓(𝑥)
=
𝑑𝑥 ℎ → 0 ℎ
𝑙𝑡 √3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4 − √3𝑥 + 4
=
ℎ→0 ℎ
𝑙𝑡 √3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4 − √3𝑥 + 4 √3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4 + √3𝑥 + 4
= ×
ℎ→0 −ℎ √3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4 + √3𝑥 + 4
𝑙𝑡 3(𝑥 + ℎ) + 4 − 3𝑥 − 4
=
ℎ → 0 ℎ[√3𝑥 + 3ℎ + 4 + √3𝑥 + 4]
𝑙𝑡 3
=
ℎ → 0 [√3𝑥 + 3ℎ + 4 + √3𝑥 + 4]
3
=
√3𝑥 + 4 + √3𝑥 + 4
𝑑𝑦 3
= 2√3𝑥+4 Ans.
𝑑𝑥
Question 15 [3]
(i) Let 𝑅c𝑜𝑠𝛼 = 115 𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑅𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼 = 115√3
𝑅 2 = (115)2+ (115√3)2
𝑅 2 = 52900
𝑅 = 230
𝑅𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 = 115, 𝑅𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼 = 115√3
115√3
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛼 = = √3
115
𝜋
𝛼 = 3
𝑉= 𝑅𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 + 𝑅𝑆𝑖𝑛𝛼𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡
= 𝑅(𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡. 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼)
𝑉= 𝑅𝑆𝑖𝑛(𝜔𝑡+ 𝛼)
𝜋
𝑉= 230 𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝜔t + 3 ) Ans.
Method -II
𝑉 = 115 𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 + 115√3𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡
115 115√3 2
= 115× 2 [𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 × 𝟏𝟏𝟓×𝟐 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡 × 𝟏𝟏𝟓×𝟐] ,∵√(115)2 + (115√3) = 115× 2
1 √3
= 230 [𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 × 𝟐 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡 × ]
𝟐
𝜋 𝜋
= 230 [𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜔𝑡 × cos 3 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜔𝑡 × sin 3 ]
𝜋
= 230 𝐬𝐢𝐧 (𝜔𝑡 + 3 ) Ans.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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OR
𝜋
(ii) (a) Given, 𝐴 + 𝐵 =
4
⇒cot(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1
cot 𝐴.cot 𝐵−1
⇒ cot 𝐵+cot 𝐴 =1
⇒ cot 𝐴 . cot 𝐵 − 1 = cot 𝐵 + cot 𝐴
⇒cot 𝐴 . cot 𝐵 − cot 𝐵 − cot 𝐴 + 1 = 1 + 1
⇒cot 𝐴 (cot 𝐵 − 1) − (cot 𝐵 − 1) = 2
⇒ (𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 − 1)(𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐵 − 1) = 2
(b) ∵ 𝜋 + 𝜋 = 𝜋
8 8 4
𝜋 𝜋
(𝑐𝑜𝑡 − 1) (𝑐𝑜𝑡 − 1) = 2
8 8
𝜋 2
(𝐶𝑜𝑡 8 − 1) = 2
𝜋
𝑐𝑜𝑡 − 1 = ±√2
8
𝜋
𝑐𝑜𝑡 − 1 = ±√2 + 1
8
𝜋 𝝅 𝝅
⇒𝑐𝑜𝑡 8 = √2 + 1 (𝒂𝒔 𝟖 = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒕 𝟖 = +𝒗𝒆) 𝑨𝒏𝒔.
SECTION D – 25 MARKS
Question 16 [5]
(i) For the parabola: 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥, 4𝑎 = 8, so 𝑎 = 2. The focus is 𝑆(2,0).
The equation of a line passing through the focus 𝑆(2,0) with a slope
𝑚 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛(600 ) = √3
𝑦 − 0 = √3(𝑥 − 2) ⇒ 𝑦 = √3𝑥 − 2√3.
To find the points of intersection with the parabola, substitute 𝑦 in the equation of
2
the parabola: (√3𝑥 − 2√3) = 8𝑥
3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 12 = 8𝑥
3𝑥 2 − 20𝑥 + 12 = 0
Let the roots of this quadratic be 𝑥1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑥2 .
The corresponding 𝑦 − coordinates are 𝑦1 = √3𝑥1 − 2√3 and 𝑦2 = √3𝑥2 − 2√3.
The endpoints of the focal chord are (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ).
The length of the focal chord = √(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2 + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1 )2
= √(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2 + 3(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2
= 2(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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From the quadratic equation 3𝑥 2 − 20𝑥 + 12 = 0
20 12
Sum of roots 𝑥1 + 𝑥2 = and Product of roots 𝑥1 ∙ 𝑥2 = =4
3 3
(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 )2 = (𝑥1 + 𝑥2 )2 − 4𝑥1 ∙ 𝑥2
400 256
= − 16 =
9 9
16
(𝑥2 − 𝑥1 ) =
3
16 32
The length of the focal chord is 2 × = units.
3 3
Method -II
Give parabola: 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥, 4𝑎 = 8, so 𝑎 = 2. The focus
is 𝑆(2,0).
End points of focal chord are 𝑃(2𝑡 2 , 4𝑡) and
2 4
𝑄 (𝑡 2 , − 𝑡 ), where t is the parameter.
∵ the focal chord making angle 60° with 𝑥- axis, slope
of SP = tan 60° = √3 .
4𝑡
⇒√3 = 2𝑡 2 −2 ⇒ √3𝑡 2 − 2𝑡 − √3 = 0 ⇒ 𝑡 = √3
1
or− (Neglected, since P lies in 1st quadrant)
√3
2 4
∴ P(6, 4√3) and Q(3 , − )
√3
2 2 4 2 162 16 162 1 16 2 32
∴ PQ = √(6 − 3) + (4√3 + ) = √ 33 + 16 × = √ 33 (1 + 3) = ×3=
√3 3 3 3
OR
(ii) Satellite(S) moves so that the sum of its distances from the points 𝑓2 (−2, 0) and
𝑓1 (2, 0) is 8 units. i.e. 𝑆𝑓1 + 𝑆𝑓2 = 8.
Using focal property of ellipse, we get 2𝑎 = 8.
∴ Length of major axis is 8.
(a) ∴Length of semi-major axis 𝑎 is 4 units.
Since, foci 𝑓2 (−2,0) and 𝑓1 (2,0) ⇒ Major axis is along 𝑥 − axis.
Also centre is (0,0).
𝑥2 𝑦2
Hence required equation of ellipse is : 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 = 1
∴𝑎𝑒 = 2
2 1
(b) ⇒ 𝑒 = 4 = 2.
Using, 𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 (1 − 𝑒 2 ) , we get 𝑏 2 = 12.
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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(c) 𝑥2 𝑦2
∴ Required equation of elliptical orbit is 16 + 12 = 1
Using, distance between focus and corresponding vertex = 𝑎 − 𝑎𝑒 ,
(d) ∴ 𝑓1 𝑃 = 4 − 2 = 2 units.
Question 17 [5]
(i) (a) Given word: DEVASTATION
AATT D E V S I O N
There are all together 9 distinct letters of which 2 pair of alike and 7 distinct
objects.
Resultant word is a 4-letter word.
Case-1 Selection of 4 distinct letters from 9 distinct letters namely: A T D E V
SION
9×8×7×6×5
Number of selections = C (9,4) = = 126.
4!
Case – II Selection of any one pair of alike from [AA, TT], 2 distinct letters
from 8 distinct letters.
8×7
Number of selections = C (2,1) × C (8,2) = 2 × = 56
2!
Case – III Selection of two pair of alike from [AA, TT]
Number of selections = C (2,2) =1
∴ Total number of selections = 126 + 56 + 1 = 183
(b) Total number of permutations (words) = 126 × 4! + 56 × 4! + 1 × 4!
2! 2!×2!
= 126× 24 + 56 × 12 + 1 × 6 =702.
OR
(ii) Given word is CRICKET, which is 7 letters word having 5 distinct letters
EIKR T and 2 are alike CC.
(a) Total number of words = 7! = 7 ×720 = 7 × 360 = 2520. [1]
2! 2
Method -I
(i) From graph 𝑦 −coordinate of the vertex is 8. ⇒ Minimum value of 𝑓(𝑥) =8.
(ii) Since the minimum value of 𝑓(𝑥) is 8 and the parabola opens upwards,
𝑓(𝑥)> 0 ∀𝑥 ∈ R. Hence function is always positive.
(iii) Since the minimum value is 8 and it goes up to +∞, the range is: [8, +∞).
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Method -II
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 17
𝐷 = 36 − 4 × 1 × 17 = −32 < 0 , 𝑎 = 1 > 0 ⇒ 𝑓(𝑥) has minimum value.
𝐷 (−32)
(i) Minimum value = − 4𝑎 = − = 8.
4
(ii) ∵ 𝐷< 0 ⇒ 𝑓(𝑥) has same sign that of a. Here 𝑎 = 1 > 0𝑓(𝑥) > 0 ∀𝑥 ∈ R.
Hence function is always positive.
(iii) (𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 17 = 8 + (𝑥 − 3)2 ⇒ the range is: [8, +∞).
Question 19 [5]
CI x f 𝐝= 𝐱−𝐀 fd fd2
𝑥̅ − 𝜎 = 31 ∙ 15 − 9 ∙ 02 =22∙13
𝑥̅ + 𝜎 = 31 ∙ 15 + 9 ∙ 02 = 40 ∙ 17.
the number of employees whose age is between 22∙13 and 40∙17
From the table, we can see that this age range includes the intervals:
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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Total employees in this range = 170 + 110 + 80 + 45 = 405
𝐸𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑦𝑒𝑒𝑠 𝑖𝑛 𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 405
Percentage of employees = ( 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑦𝑒𝑒𝑠 ) 100 = 500 × 100 = 81%
Answers:
• Mean = 31∙15
• Standard Deviation = 9∙02
• Percentage of employees whose age lies between 𝑥̅ − 𝜎 and 𝑥̅ + 𝜎 = 81%
Question 20 [5]
2(2𝑛 −1)
= = 2(2𝑛 − 1)
2−1
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ISC (CLASS XI) SPECIMEN ANSWER KEY 2026
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