AP Physics 1 Exam Review
Overview
This review covers all the topics on the AP Physics 1 exam, including kinematic formulas, dynamics, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, and fluid mechanics.
Kinematic Formulas
- Variables: Time, Initial/Final Position, Initial/Final Velocity, Acceleration
- Kinematic Equations:
- Equations relate displacement, initial and final velocities, acceleration, and time.
- You can choose the final position and velocity for convenience in solving problems.
- Acceleration:
- Constant in free fall (use -10 m/s² for AP exams)
- Determines whether displacement, velocity, and acceleration are positive or negative.
- Special Cases:
- Use specific equations when variables like acceleration or time are missing.
- Symmetry in motion: time to rise = time to fall.
2D Kinematics
- Independence: Motion in x and y directions is independent.
- Vertical Motion: Acceleration is -10 m/s².
- Horizontal Motion: Acceleration is 0; velocity remains constant.
Dynamics (Newton's Laws)
- Newton's Second Law: F=ma; net force causes acceleration.
- Types of Forces:
- Gravity: F=mg
- Normal Force: Balances other forces, calculated based on net force.
- Tension: Force exerted by ropes.
- Friction: Dynamic (slipping) and static (gripping) friction,
- Formulas involve coefficients of friction.
Circular Motion
- Centripetal Acceleration: a = v²/r; changes direction, not speed.
- Centripetal Force: Any force directed towards the center, causing circular motion.
Universal Gravitation
- Force of Gravity: F = G(m₁m₂)/r²
- Gravitational Potential Energy: U = -G(m₁m₂)/r
- Escape Velocity: Derived using energy conservation.
Work and Energy
- Work: Force applied over a distance, changes energy.
- Kinetic Energy: KE = 1/2 mv²
- Potential Energy: Gravitational (mgh) and Elastic (1/2 kx²)
- Conservation of Energy: Total initial energy = Total final energy.
Momentum
- Momentum: p = mv; vector quantity.
- Impulse: Change in momentum, J = FΔt.
- Conservation of Momentum: In isolated systems, total momentum is conserved.
Rotational Motion
- Angular Kinematics: Similar to linear kinematics, using angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration.
- Torque: τ = rFsinθ, causes angular acceleration.
- Rotational Inertia: Resistance to change in rotation, depends on mass distribution.
- Angular Momentum: L = Iω; conserved in closed systems.
Oscillations
- Hooke's Law: F = -kx for springs.
- Simple Harmonic Motion: Motion of masses on springs or pendulums.
- Periodic Motion: Described by period T and frequency f.
Fluid Mechanics
- Pressure: P = F/A; forces exerted by fluids.
- Buoyant Force: Upward force on submerged objects, equal to the weight of displaced fluid.
- Continuity Equation: A₁v₁ = A₂v₂ for incompressible fluids.
- Bernoulli's Equation: Conservation of energy principle applied to flowing fluids.
This review aims to solidify your understanding of key physics concepts and problem-solving techniques necessary for the AP Physics 1 exam.