AP Physics C: MechanicsAP
Calculus-based mechanics.
Overview
AP Physics C: Mechanics is a calculus-based course covering kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotation, oscillations, and gravitation.
Why it matters
Prepares students for rigorous college physics and engineering through calculus-based modeling.
Skills you’ll build
- Vector calculus in context
- Free-body analysis
- Conservation principles
- Rotational dynamics
Topic Breakdown (Units)
Kinematics
- Motion in 1D/2D
- Projectile motion
Newton's Laws of Motion
- Forces & mass
- Equilibrium & dynamics
Work, Energy, and Power
- Work-energy theorem
- Potential energy
Systems of Particles and Linear Momentum
- Impulse-momentum
- Center of mass
- Collisions
Circular Motion and Rotation
- Torque
- Angular momentum
Oscillations
- Simple harmonic motion
Gravitation
- Newtonian gravity
- Orbital motion
Lessons & Notes
Kinematics
Use calculus to relate position, velocity, and acceleration.
- x(t), v(t), a(t)
- derivatives & integrals of motion
Newton's Laws of Motion
Apply ΣF = ma in linear and planar systems.
- free-body diagrams
- constraint forces
Work, Energy, and Power
Analyze energy transfer and conservation.
- ∮F·ds
- power P = dW/dt
Systems of Particles and Linear Momentum
Conservation of momentum for isolated systems.
- J = ∫F dt
- elastic vs. inelastic
Circular Motion and Rotation
Extend Newtonian ideas to rotation.
- τ = r×F
- L = Iω
Oscillations
Small-angle approximations and energy exchange.
- ω = √(k/m)
- phase
Gravitation
Inverse-square law and orbital mechanics.
- Fg = Gm1m2/r²
- Kepler's laws