Mastering AP Physics C – Mechanics: Your Comprehensive Guide to Success

AP Physics C: Mechanics is a highly challenging course designed for students planning to major in engineering, physics, or other STEM fields.

This course is calculus-based and aims to establish a solid foundation for college-level physics. In this article, we will introduce the course structure and content, the exam format, and effective preparation strategies.

Course Overview

AP Physics C: Mechanics covers the following seven units:

Detailed Content：

1. Kinematics (10–15%)
   • Scalars and Vectors
   • Displacement, Velocity, and Acceleration
   • Representing Motion
   • Reference Frames and Relative Motion
   • Motion in Two or Three Dimensions

2. Force and Translational Dynamics (20–25%)
   • Systems and Center of Mass
   • Forces and Free-Body Diagrams
   • Newton’s Third Law
   • Newton’s First Law
   • Newton’s Second Law
   • Gravitational Force
   • Kinetic and Static Friction  
   • Spring Forces
   • Resistive Forces
   • Circular Motion 

3. Work, Energy, and Power (15–25%)
   • Translational Kinetic Energy
   • Work
   • Potential Energy
   • Conservation of Energy
   • Power

4. Linear Momentum (10–20%)
   • Linear Momentum  
   • Impulse and Change in Momentum  
   • Conservation of Linear Momentum  
   • Elastic and Inelastic Collisions  

5. Torque and Rotational Dynamics (10–15%)
   • Rotational Kinematics  
   • Relationship Between Linear and Rotational Motion  
   • Torque  
   • Rotational Inertia  
   • Rotational Equilibrium and Newton’s First Law in Rotational Form  
   • Newton’s Second Law for Rotation  

6. Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems (10–15%)
   • Rotational Kinetic Energy  
   • Torque and Work  
   • Angular Momentum and Angular Impulse  
   • Conservation of Angular Momentum  
   • Rolling  
   • Orbital Motion  

7. Oscillations (10–15%)
   • Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)  
   • Frequency and Period of SHM  
   • Analysis of SHM  
   • Energy of Simple Harmonic Oscillators  
   • Simple and Physical Pendulums  

Exam Format

The AP Physics C: Mechanics exam consists of two sections, each contributing 50% to the total score:

How to Prepare for AP Physics C: Mechanics

Strengthen Calculus Fundamentals

Many concepts in this course require calculus, such as using differentiation to find velocity functions.

Understand Core Physics Principles

Master Newton’s laws, force equilibrium, torque equilibrium, energy conservation, and momentum conservation.

Practice Problem-Solving Regularly

Work on various types of problems, especially free-response questions, to improve analytical and problem-solving skills.

Enhance Experimental Skills

Physics relies heavily on experiments. Practical experience can make many problems more intuitive.

Utilize Learning Resources

Use reliable study materials like AP Physics C textbooks (e.g., Princeton Review or Barron’s) and online platforms like Khan Academy.

Take Mock Exams

Simulated exams help you familiarize yourself with the format and improve time management.

Consider Tutoring or Classes

Learning from experienced instructors can save time and improve efficiency.

Final Thoughts

AP Physics C: Mechanics is a challenging course. Choosing it demonstrates ambition and a commitment to your future. Although it is demanding, with effective preparation and consistent practice, achieving a high score is entirely possible. We hope this guide helps you better understand the course and boosts your confidence!

Tips for Exam Day

• Manage Time: Allocate your time wisely, and don’t spend too long on one question.  
• Show Work: For free-response questions, explain every step clearly and keep all calculations detailed. Avoid skipping steps.  
• Use Correct Units: Always include units for any physical quantity.  
• Stay Calm: Maintain a steady pace, and don’t panic when facing tough questions. Remember, if it feels difficult to you, it likely does for others too.  

2025 AP Exam Dates

Week 1

Note: Art and Design submissions are due by 8 p.m. ET on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Week 2

Sample Questions

1. A block is released from rest and slides down a track with negligible friction, descending a vertical distance of 5.0 m from its initial position to Point P, as shown in the figure. The block then slides on a horizontal surface where the coefficient of kinetic friction μ_k between the block and the horizontal surface is 0.20. How far does the block slide on the horizontal surface before coming to rest?

1. 1.0 m
2. 5.0 m
3. 10 m
4. 25 m

2. The velocity as a function of time for an object moving along a straight line is shown in the graph. For which of the following sections of the graph is the acceleration constant and nonzero?

1. QR only
2. PQ and TU only
3. RS and ST only
4. PQ, RS, ST and TU only

3. The net force F exerted on an object that moves along a straight line is given as a function of time t by \(F(t) = At^2 + B\), where \(A = 1 \, \text{N/s}^2\) and \(B = 1 \, \text{N} \). What is the change in momentum of the object from \(t = 0 \) to \(t = 3 \, \text{s} \)?

1. 6 kg·m/s
2. 12 kg·m/s
3. 17 kg·m/s
4. 30 kg·m/s

4. A spherical star spinning at an initial angular velocity \( \\omega \) suddenly collapses to half of its original radius without any loss of mass. Assume the star has uniform density before and uniform density after the collapse. What is the angular velocity of the star after the collapse?

1. \(\omega / 4 \)
2. \(\omega / 2 \)
3. \(2\omega \)
4. \(4\omega \)