Heat Conduction question from MHT CET 2026 (20 Apr, Shift 1)

Answer: (c)

1. Let each rod have resistance $R$. Fig (1) is parallel: $R_1 = \frac{R}{2}$. Fig (2) is series: $R_2 = 2R$.
2. For the same heat and $\Delta T$, time $t \propto$ thermal resistance.
3. $t_2 = \frac{2R}{R/2}\,t = 4t$, so the answer is (c).