Study AP Physics 1 with flashcards covering all 7 units: kinematics, Newton's laws, circular motion, energy, momentum, simple harmonic motion, and mechanical waves.
Must-Know AP Physics 1 Laws and Equations
- Newton's Second Law: Fnet = ma. The net force on an object equals its mass times acceleration. Always draw a free-body diagram and sum forces before applying.
- Impulse-Momentum Theorem: J = Δp = FΔt. Impulse equals change in momentum. Key for collision problems — impulse is the area under an F-t graph.
- Conservation of Energy: In an isolated system, total mechanical energy (KE + PE) is constant when only conservative forces act. Add work by non-conservative forces (friction, tension) as ΔE terms.
- Conservation of Momentum: In an isolated system, total momentum is constant. Elastic collision: KE conserved. Inelastic collision: KE not conserved. Perfectly inelastic: objects stick together.
- Period of a Pendulum: T = 2π√(L/g). Period depends on length and gravity only — NOT on mass or amplitude (for small amplitudes).
- Period of a Spring: T = 2π√(m/k). Period increases with mass, decreases with spring constant k.
- Uniform Circular Motion: Net centripetal force = mv²/r directed toward center. Speed is constant; velocity direction changes continuously.
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