MP Board Class 10 Science Previous Year Paper 2024 — Solved
MP Board Class 10 Science Previous Year Paper 2024 — Solved — The MP Board Class 10 Science exam 2024 tested students on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology chapters from the NCERT syllabus. This post provides the complete solved paper with detailed answers, marking scheme breakdown, and exam tips. Understanding 2024’s question pattern is crucial for MP Board Class 10 Science 2027 preparation, as the exam pattern remains consistent across years.
📑 Table of Contents
📋 1. Paper Overview & Exam Pattern
The MP Board Class 10 Science paper 2024 was conducted for a total of 75 marks with a duration of 3 hours. The question paper was divided into four sections — A, B, C, and D. Below is the complete exam pattern and marking scheme.
The paper covered all three branches of Science equally. The chapter-wise weightage distribution was:
✅ 2. Section A — Objective Questions (1 Mark Each)
Q1. Which of the following is a chemical change?
(a) Melting of ice
(b) Cutting of wood
(c) Rusting of iron
(d) Boiling of water
Explanation: Rusting of iron is a chemical change because a new substance (iron oxide) is formed. Melting ice, cutting wood, and boiling water are physical changes — no new substances are created.
Q2. The pH scale ranges from:
(a) 0 to 7
(b) 0 to 14
(c) 1 to 10
(d) 7 to 14
Explanation: The pH scale measures hydrogen ion concentration from 0 (strongly acidic) to 14 (strongly basic), with 7 being neutral. pH 7 = pure water, pH < 7 = acidic, pH > 7 = basic.
Q3.
(a) Iron
(b) Mercury
(c) Copper
(d) Aluminium
Explanation: Mercury (Hg) is the only metal that remains in liquid state at room temperature (melting point −38.83°C). Gallium (Ga) and Caesium (Cs) also have low melting points but are solid at room temperature.
Q4. The SI unit of electric current is:
(a) Volt
(b) Ohm
(c) Ampere
(d) Coulomb
Explanation: Electric current is measured in Amperes (A). 1 Ampere = 1 Coulomb of charge flowing per second. Volt is the unit of potential difference, Ohm is for resistance, and Coulomb is for electric charge.
Q5. The human eye forms an image on the:
(a) Cornea
(b) Iris
(c) Lens
(d) Retina
Explanation: The eye lens focuses light onto the retina, which contains photoreceptor cells (rods and cones). The cornea provides initial refraction, the iris controls light entry, and the lens adjusts focus.
Q6. Which plant hormone is responsible for fruit ripening?
(a) Auxin
(b) Gibberellin
(c) Cytokinin
(d) Ethylene
Explanation: Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that promotes fruit ripening, leaf abscission, and senescence. Auxin promotes cell growth, gibberellin promotes stem elongation, and cytokinin promotes cell division.
📝 3. Section B — Very Short Answer (2 Marks Each)
Q7. What is a balanced chemical equation? Why should chemical equations be balanced?
Q8. State Ohm’s Law. Write its mathematical expression.
Q9. What are the two main functions of the human kidneys?
Q10. Define a food chain with an example.
Grass (Producer) → Grasshopper (Primary Consumer) → Frog (Secondary Consumer) → Snake (Tertiary Consumer) → Eagle (Quaternary Consumer)
At each step, only about 10% of energy is transferred to the next trophic level (10% Law of Energy Transfer).
📖 4. Section C — Short Answer (3 Marks Each)
Q11. Explain the process of electrolytic refining of copper with a labelled diagram.
Process: (1) A thick block of impure copper is made the anode. (2) A thin strip of pure copper is made the cathode. (3) Copper sulphate solution (CuSO₄ + H₂SO₄) is used as the electrolyte. (4) On passing electric current, pure copper from the anode dissolves and gets deposited on the cathode. (5) Impurities settle below the anode as anode mud. Pure copper is 99.98% pure after this process.
Reaction at Anode: Cu → Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻
Reaction at Cathode: Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu
Q12. Draw a ray diagram showing the path of light through a prism. What is dispersion of light?
Key points: (1) The seven colours in order are VIBGYOR — Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red. (2) Violet light bends the most (shortest wavelength), Red light bends the least (longest wavelength). (3) This occurs because different colours have different wavelengths and the refractive index of glass varies with wavelength.
Example in nature: Rainbow formation is a natural example of dispersion — water droplets act as tiny prisms.
Q13. Describe the mechanism of breathing in human beings.
Inhalation: (1) The diaphragm contracts and flattens downward. (2) The intercostal muscles (between ribs) contract, pulling the ribs upward and outward. (3) Chest cavity volume increases. (4) Air pressure inside the lungs becomes lower than outside. (5) Air rushes into the lungs.
Exhalation: (1) The diaphragm relaxes and moves upward. (2) Rib muscles relax, ribs move downward and inward. (3) Chest cavity volume decreases. (4) Air pressure inside the lungs increases. (5) Air is pushed out of the lungs.
An adult human breathes about 12–16 times per minute at rest.
Q14. What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration? Give one example of each.
Chemical equations:
Aerobic: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + 36 ATP
Anaerobic: C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ + 2 ATP (in yeast)
📚 5. Section D — Long Answer (5 Marks Each)
Q15. (a) Define the term ‘equivalent resistance’. Derive the formula for equivalent resistance when three resistors R₁, R₂, and R₃ are connected in series.
(b) Three resistors of 2Ω, 3Ω, and 5Ω are connected in series across a 10V battery. Calculate the total current flowing through the circuit.
(a) Equivalent Resistance in Series: When resistors are connected end-to-end, the total or equivalent resistance (Rₛ) is the sum of all individual resistances. The same current flows through each resistor, but the voltage across each is different.
Derivation: V = V₁ + V₂ + V₃ (Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law)
V₁ = IR₁, V₂ = IR₂, V₃ = IR₃
V = I(R₁ + R₂ + R₃)
IRₛ = I(R₁ + R₂ + R₃)
Rₛ = R₁ + R₂ + R₃
(b) Calculation:
Rₛ = R₁ + R₂ + R₃ = 2Ω + 3Ω + 5Ω = 10Ω
V = 10V
I = V / Rₛ = 10V / 10Ω = 1 Ampere
Q16. (a) Draw a labelled diagram of the human digestive system. (b) Explain the functions of each part in the digestion process.
Parts and their functions:
1. Mouth (Buccal Cavity): Teeth grind food, saliva contains amylase that breaks down starch into maltose. Bolus is formed.
2. Oesophagus: Peristaltic movements push the food bolus from mouth to stomach. No digestion occurs here.
3. Stomach: Gastric glands secrete HCl (kills bacteria, activates pepsinogen), pepsin (digests proteins into peptides), and mucus (protects stomach lining). Food becomes chyme.
4. Small Intestine (Duodenum + Jejunum + Ileum): Bile from liver emulsifies fats, pancreatic lipase digests fats, trypsin digests proteins. Villi absorb nutrients into bloodstream.
5. Large Intestine (Colon): Absorbs water and minerals from undigested food. Forms faeces.
6. Rectum: Stores faeces before egestion.
7. Associated Glands: Liver (largest gland, produces bile), Pancreas (produces pancreatic juice with multiple enzymes).
💡 6. Preparation Tips for 2027 Exam
Based on the 2024 paper pattern, here are key preparation strategies for the MP Board Class 10 Science 2027 exam:
- Master NCERT thoroughly: 90% of questions in the 2024 paper came directly from NCERT textbook — including in-text questions, exercises, and examples. Read each line carefully.
- Focus on diagrams: Ray diagrams for Physics (lens, mirror, prism), labelled diagrams for Biology (digestive system, nephron, neuron, heart), and experimental setups for Chemistry are frequently asked.
- Practice chemical equations: At least 15-20 important chemical equations must be memorized — balancing, types of reactions, and their conditions.
- Solve numerical problems: Electricity (Ohm’s Law, series/parallel), Light (mirror formula, lens formula), and Lens formula are common in Section C and D.
- Write point-wise answers: For 3 and 5 mark questions, bullet-style answers with key terms underlined fetch full marks. Avoid writing paragraphs.
- Solve previous year papers: Solve at least 5 previous year papers (2020–2024) to understand question trends and improve time management.
- Revision schedule: Allocate equal time to Chemistry (equations + reactions), Physics (formulas + numericals), and Biology (diagrams + definitions). Use separate notebooks for each.
❓ 7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is MP Board Class 10 Science paper difficult?
The difficulty level of MP Board Science paper is moderate. In 2024, approximately 70% of questions were easy to moderate (direct NCERT-based), 20% required analytical thinking (application-based), and only 10% were challenging (HOTS questions). With thorough NCERT study, scoring 65+ marks out of 75 is achievable.
Q2: How many questions should I attempt from Section A (Objective)?
Section A in 2024 had 30 objective questions of 1 mark each. All 30 questions are compulsory — there is no choice. Since these are the easiest marks, do not leave any question unanswered. Even if you’re unsure, mark your best guess as there is no negative marking.
Q3: Which chapters have the highest weightage in the Class 10 Science exam?
Based on the 2024 paper: Chemical Reactions (Ch 1), Light (Ch 9), Electricity (Ch 11), and Life Processes (Ch 5) each carried 6-8 marks. Carbon Compounds (Ch 4) and Control & Coordination (Ch 6) carried 5-6 marks each. Our Environment (Ch 13) and Heredity (Ch 8) had 3-4 marks each. Focus more on these high-weightage chapters.
Q4: Are diagrams mandatory in the MP Board Class 10 Science answer sheet?
Yes, diagrams are essential for full marks in Biology and Physics questions. In the 2024 paper, Q12 (ray diagram through prism), Q15 (circuit diagram), and Q16 (digestive system) explicitly required labelled diagrams. Always use a pencil for diagrams and label all parts clearly. Drawings need not be artistic — neat and well-labelled diagrams fetch full marks.
Q5: How much time should I allocate to each section in the exam?
For the 3-hour (180 minutes) exam: Section A (30 MCQ) — 40 minutes (80 seconds per question). Section B (6 questions × 2 marks) — 30 minutes (5 minutes each). Section C (6 questions × 3 marks) — 50 minutes (8-9 minutes each). Section D (3 questions × 5 marks) — 45 minutes (15 minutes each). Keep 15 minutes for revision at the end.
Q6: Can I use a calculator in the MP Board Science exam?
No, calculators are not allowed in the MP Board Class 10 Science exam. All numerical calculations must be done manually. Practice mental math and basic arithmetic (division, multiplication, square roots) to solve numericals quickly in Electricity and Light chapters.
Q7: What is the passing marks for MP Board Class 10 Science?
The minimum passing marks for MP Board Class 10 Science is 33% of the total 75 marks, which is approximately 25 marks. However, students should aim for 60+ marks to secure a first division. In the 2024 exam, the average score was around 48-52 marks.
Q8: How many sets of question papers are there in MP Board Science?
MP Board typically issues 3-4 sets of question papers (Set A, B, C, D) for the same exam to prevent cheating. The difficulty level is consistent across all sets — only the order of questions or numbers in numerical problems differ. Practice solving questions from all sets when practicing previous year papers.
Q9: What is the best book for MP Board Class 10 Science besides NCERT?
NCERT should be your primary book. For additional practice, use MP Board’s own textbook (if different from NCERT), Lakhmir Singh & Manjit Kaur (S. Chand) for concept clarity, and Xam Idea or Together With MP Board Science for previous year question papers. Avoid too many reference books — mastering NCERT alone can help you score 65+.
Q10: Will the 2027 exam pattern be the same as 2024?
MP Board generally keeps the exam pattern consistent for 4-5 years. The 2024 paper followed the same structure as the 2022-23 papers. It is highly likely that the 2027 exam will follow the same pattern: 75 marks, 4 sections, 30 MCQs, with the same marks distribution. However, always check MP Board’s official website (mpbse.nic.in) for the latest sample paper released in December 2026.
Q11: How should I study Biology for the MP Board exam?
For Biology: (1) Draw and label all diagrams at least 3 times each — digestive system, nephron, neuron, heart, brain, flower, reflex arc. (2) Make flow charts for processes — digestion, respiration, circulation, excretion. (3) Memorize definitions verbatim from NCERT. (4) Practice the difference-between type questions (aerobic vs anaerobic, arteries vs veins, reflex action vs voluntary action). (5) Use flashcards for scientific names and important terms.
Q12: What are HOTS questions and how to prepare for them?
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) questions test application of concepts rather than rote memory. In 2024, about 5-6 questions (7-8 marks) were HOTS type. Example: “A person cannot see objects clearly beyond 2m. What defect does he have? What corrective lens should he use?” To prepare: (1) Understand the ‘why’ behind every concept, not just ‘what’. (2) Practice NCERT Exemplar problems. (3) Solve case-based questions from sample papers. (4) Try to connect concepts across chapters — for instance, how pH relates to our digestive system or how photosynthesis relates to the environment.
Q13: How should I manage time during the Class 10 Science exam?
Time management is critical for the 3-hour MP Board Science paper. Here is a proven strategy: First 40 minutes — complete all 30 objective questions (Section A). These are the easiest marks and build confidence. Next 30 minutes — tackle the 6 very short answer questions (Section B), writing concise point-wise answers. Then 50 minutes — solve the 6 short answer questions (Section C) with proper explanations and diagrams where required. Next 45 minutes — answer the 3 long answer questions (Section D) with complete structure, labelled diagrams, and step-by-step numerical solutions. Keep the last 15 minutes for revision — check for unanswered questions, verify numerical calculations, and ensure all diagrams are properly labelled. This structured approach helps you attempt all questions within the time limit.
Q14: Which topics from Class 10 Science are most frequently repeated in MP Board exams?
Analysis of MP Board Class 10 Science papers from 2018 to 2024 reveals these frequently repeated topics: (1) Chemical Reactions — balancing equations, types of reactions (especially displacement and redox), and corrosion. (2) Acids, Bases and Salts — pH scale, reactions of acids with metals, carbonates, and the chlor-alkali process. (3) Metals and Non-metals — reactivity series, extraction methods, and electrolytic refining. (4) Carbon and its Compounds — functional groups, homologous series, and soaps vs detergents. (5) Life Processes — digestive system diagram, human respiratory system, double circulation of blood, and excretion in human beings. (6) Control and Coordination — neuron structure, reflex arc, hormones in animals and plants. (7) Light — mirror and lens formulae, ray diagrams, refractive index numericals, and the human eye defects. (8) Electricity — Ohm’s Law, series and parallel circuits, and heating effect of electric current. Focus extra attention on these recurring topics — they consistently appear across multiple years with minor variations in numerical values or question framing.
📘 Key Takeaways from MP Board Class 10 Science 2024 Paper:
• 30 marks Section A — all compulsory, NCERT-based MCQs
• Balanced coverage across Chemistry, Physics, and Biology
• Diagrams and numericals are scoring if practiced well
• 10% HOTS questions require conceptual understanding
• Consistent pattern expected for 2027 exams