The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required for admission to medical school in the United States and Canada. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
Physics
The physics section of the MCAT is divided into two subsections:
- Physical processes: This subsection covers topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, and electricity and magnetism.
- Biological and biochemical processes: This subsection covers topics such as biophysics, medical physics, and the application of physics to medicine.
How Much Physics Is on the MCAT?
The physics section of the MCAT is worth 25% of the total exam score. This means that you can expect to see approximately 50 physics questions on the exam.
What Percentage of the MCAT Is Physics?
25% of the MCAT is dedicated to physics, constituting a significant portion of the exam.
Which Topics Are Covered in the Physics Section of the MCAT?
The following table lists the topics covered in the physics section of the MCAT, along with the percentage of the exam that each topic is worth:
| Topic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Mechanics | 40% |
| Thermodynamics | 25% |
| Electricity and Magnetism | 25% |
| Biophysics | 10% |
How to Prepare for the Physics Section of the MCAT
The best way to prepare for the physics section of the MCAT is to take a thorough review course. A good review course will cover all of the topics that are tested on the exam and will provide you with practice questions to help you prepare.
In addition to taking a review course, you can also prepare for the physics section of the MCAT by:
- Studying the MCAT physics content outline
- Watching online MCAT physics videos
- Solving MCAT physics practice questions
- Joining an MCAT study group
What Are Some Tips for Answering Physics Questions on the MCAT?
Here are some tips for answering physics questions on the MCAT:
- Read the question carefully. Make sure you understand what the question is asking before you start to answer it.
- Identify the relevant physics concepts. Once you understand what the question is asking, identify the physics concepts that are relevant to the question.
- Apply the relevant physics concepts to the question. Use the physics concepts that you have identified to answer the question.
- Be mindful of units. Make sure that your answer is in the correct units.
Conclusion
The physics section of the MCAT is a challenging but important part of the exam. By taking a thorough review course and following the tips above, you can prepare for the physics section of the MCAT and improve your chances of success.
