Physics is a challenging subject, especially when you’re preparing for the Advanced Placement (AP) exam. But with the right formulas, you can tackle any physics question with confidence.
Kinematics
Motion with Constant Velocity:
- d = vt (distance traveled = velocity x time)
- v = d/t (velocity = distance traveled / time)
- t = d/v (time = distance traveled / velocity)
Motion with Constant Acceleration:
- v = u + at (final velocity = initial velocity + acceleration x time)
- s = ut + 1/2 at² (distance traveled = initial velocity x time + 1/2 x acceleration x time²)
- a = (v – u)/t (acceleration = (final velocity – initial velocity) / time)
- v² = u² + 2as (final velocity² = initial velocity² + 2 x acceleration x distance traveled)
Dynamics
Newton’s Laws of Motion:
- First Law: An object at rest stays at rest, and an object in motion stays in motion with constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force.
- Second Law: The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. (a = F/m)
- Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Momentum:
- p = mv (momentum = mass x velocity)
- Impulse = Δp = FΔt (impulse = change in momentum = force x time)
Work and Energy:
- Work = Fd (work done = force x distance moved)
- Power = W/t (power = work done / time)
- Kinetic Energy = 1/2 mv² (kinetic energy = 1/2 x mass x velocity²)
- Potential Energy = mgh (potential energy = mass x gravity x height)
Circular Motion:
- Centripetal Acceleration = v²/r (centripetal acceleration = velocity² / radius)
- Centripetal Force = mv²/r (centripetal force = mass x velocity² / radius)
Electricity
Ohm’s Law:
- V = IR (voltage = current x resistance)
Capacitance:
- C = Q/V (capacitance = charge / voltage)
Inductance:
- L = φ/I (inductance = magnetic flux / current)
Power:
- P = VI (power = voltage x current)
Waves
Wave Velocity:
- v = fλ (wave velocity = frequency x wavelength)
Standing Waves:
- λ = 2L/n (wavelength of standing wave = 2 x length of string / number of nodes)
Doppler Effect:
- f’ = f(v ± v_0)/(v ± v_s) (observed frequency = source frequency x (velocity of observer ± velocity of source) / (velocity of wave ± velocity of observer))
Useful Tables:
- Kinematic Equations Cheat Sheet
- Dynamics Equations Cheat Sheet
- Electricity Equations Cheat Sheet
- Waves Equations Cheat Sheet
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong formula for the situation.
- Switching between units without converting them first.
- Ignoring the signs of the variables (e.g., positive for forward and negative for backward motion).
- Not including all the necessary information in your calculations.
- Rushing through the problem and making careless errors.
How to Step-by-Step Approach
- Read the problem carefully and identify the concepts involved.
- Choose the appropriate formula and rearrange it if necessary.
- Substitute the given values into the formula.
- Solve for the unknown variable.
- Check your answer to make sure it makes sense.
Why AP Physics Formulas Matter
AP Physics formulas are essential because they allow you to:
- Quantify physical phenomena.
- Predict behavior and make calculations.
- Solve problems in physics and engineering.
Benefits of Mastering AP Physics Formulas
- Improved problem-solving skills.
- Increased confidence in physics.
- Enhanced critical thinking abilities.
- Strong foundation for college-level physics.
Conclusion
AP Physics formulas are the key to unlocking success in the classroom and beyond. By understanding and applying these formulas, you can gain a deeper understanding of the physical world and prepare yourself for a career in science, engineering, or medicine.
Remember, practice is key. The more you work with AP Physics formulas, the more proficient you will become. So, keep practicing and you will be well on your way to mastering AP Physics.