AP Physics 1 provides a full equation sheet on exam day. But having the equations in front of you doesn't mean you know when or how to use them — that's the actual skill the exam tests.
Equations on the AP Physics 1 Sheet
- Kinematics: v = v₀ + at, x = x₀ + v₀t + ½at², v² = v₀² + 2a(x−x₀)
- Forces: F = ma, F = Gm₁m₂/r², f = μN, F = kx
- Energy and work: W = Fd cosθ, KE = ½mv², PE = mgh, PE = ½kx²
- Momentum: p = mv, J = Δp = FΔt
- Circular motion: a_c = v²/r, F_c = mv²/r
- Waves: v = fλ, T = 1/f
- Electricity: F = kq₁q₂/r², E = F/q, V = W/q, I = Q/t, R = V/I
What Physics 1 Tests That Isn't on the Sheet
AP Physics 1 is a reasoning exam more than a formula plug-in exam. About 35% of questions require verbal or written justification — explaining WHY an object moves a certain way, not just calculating how fast. Practice reading graphs of x vs. t, v vs. t, and F vs. t until you can interpret them instantly.
AP Physics 1 Practice · AP Physics 1 FRQ Guide · AP Physics 1 Study Guide
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