AP Physics 1AP
Kinematics, dynamics, energy, and waves.
Overview
AP Physics 1 covers algebra-based mechanics including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, and rotation.
Why it matters
Develops modeling and empirical reasoning skills foundational for physics and engineering.
Skills you’ll build
- Graphing & data analysis
- Free-body diagrams
- Modeling motion
- Experimental design
Topic Breakdown (Units)
Unit 1: Kinematics
- Position, velocity, acceleration
- Graphs of motion
Unit 2: Dynamics
- Forces
- Newton's laws
Unit 3: Circular Motion and Gravitation
- Uniform circular motion
- Gravity
Unit 4: Energy
- Work
- KE/PE
- Conservation
Unit 5: Momentum
- Impulse
- Collisions
Unit 6: Simple Harmonic Motion
- Springs
- Pendulums
Unit 7: Torque and Rotational Motion
- Torque
- Rotational dynamics
Lessons & Notes
Unit 1: Kinematics
Describe motion in 1D/2D with equations and graphs.
- kinematic equations
- slope/area interpretations
Unit 2: Dynamics
Relate forces to motion using net force models.
- ΣF = ma
- friction
- tension
Unit 3: Circular Motion and Gravitation
Centripetal acceleration and universal gravitation.
- ac = v²/r
- Fg = Gm1m2/r²
Unit 4: Energy
Track energy transfer and transformation.
- W = F·d
- conservation of energy
Unit 5: Momentum
Analyze interactions via momentum conservation.
- J = FΔt
- elastic/inelastic
Unit 6: Simple Harmonic Motion
Periodic motion models and energy exchange.
- ω = √(k/m)
- period
Unit 7: Torque and Rotational Motion
Extend Newtonian ideas to rotation.
- τ = rFsinθ
- Iα