GATE Physics (PH) is a science subject in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, designed for post-graduate students pursuing careers in physics research, teaching, applied physics, and related fields. This branch tests your understanding of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and modern physics. Practicing GATE PH previous question papers is crucial for understanding the exam format and improving your performance.
Physics is a fundamental science that explores the nature of matter, energy, space, and time. GATE PH aspirants typically include graduates from Physics, Applied Physics, and related backgrounds who wish to pursue higher studies or careers in research institutions, universities, government organizations, and industries requiring physics expertise. The field encompasses areas such as classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, and particle physics.
Key Subjects in GATE Physics
Core Physics Subjects
- Classical Mechanics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
Applied Physics Subjects
- Modern Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nuclear Physics
- Optics
- Mathematical Methods
GATE Physics Previous Question Papers (2007-2025)
Download GATE PH previous year question papers with answer keys from 2007 to 2025. These GATE Physics previous question papers help you understand the exam pattern, question types, difficulty level, and time management strategies. Solve these previous papers regularly to identify important topics and improve your problem-solving speed. These solved previous year papers are essential for effective GATE PH preparation. Regular practice with these previous question papers will help you score better in the actual exam.
| Year | Download |
|---|---|
| GATE 2025 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2024 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2023 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2022 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2021 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2020 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2019 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2018 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2017 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2016 | Question Paper|Answer Key |
| GATE 2015 | Question Paper with Key |
| GATE 2014 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2013 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2012 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2011 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2010 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2009 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2008 | Question Paper |
| GATE 2007 | Question Paper |
GATE PH Paper Pattern & Trends
Exam Pattern: GATE PH consists of 65 questions (55 technical + 10 General Aptitude) worth 100 marks. The paper duration is 3 hours. Topics like Classical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, and Statistical Mechanics are frequently tested. Studying the previous question papers helps you understand how these topics are distributed in the actual exam. Analyzing these previous question papers reveals the weightage of each topic.
Recent Trends (2020-2025)
Recent GATE PH previous question papers have shown consistent emphasis on Quantum Mechanics with questions on wave functions, operators, and quantum systems, typically accounting for 15-18 marks. Classical Mechanics topics focus on Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, central forces, and oscillations, maintaining 12-15 marks. Electromagnetism covers Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves, and radiation, typically 10-12 marks. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics together account for 8-10 marks. Modern Physics and Optics typically account for 5-8 marks. Reviewing these recent previous question papers helps understand the current exam trends. These previous question papers are essential for identifying important topics.
Historical Analysis (2007-2019)
Earlier GATE PH previous question papers (2007-2013) were conducted offline and had slightly different patterns. From 2014 onwards, GATE became completely online. The transition period (2014-2016) saw some variations in question distribution, but core subjects remained consistent. Previous papers from 2017-2019 show the modern pattern that continues today, with balanced coverage of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics. Analyzing these previous year papers helps identify recurring topics and question patterns. These previous question papers provide valuable insights into the evolution of the exam over nearly two decades.
GATE PH Cutoff Marks
- GATE 2025: General - 26.8, OBC/EWS - 24.1, SC/ST/PwD - 17.8
- GATE 2024: General - 32.0, OBC/EWS - 28.8, SC/ST/PwD - 21.3
- GATE 2023: General - 31.1, OBC/EWS - 27.9, SC/ST/PwD - 20.7
Related Resources
GATE PH Cutoff Marks
GATE Physics cutoff marks for all years
GATE Exam Pattern
GATE exam structure, marking scheme, and question types
Note: All GATE PH previous question papers are provided for educational purposes. Regular practice with these previous year papers, combined with a strong understanding of core concepts, is essential for success in GATE Physics. Make sure to download and save these previous papers for offline practice. Solving these previous question papers under timed conditions will help you prepare effectively for the actual GATE PH exam. These previous question papers serve as valuable study materials for your preparation.