What is Ap physics: Definition and 348 Discussions

In the United States, Advanced Placement (AP) Physics collectively refers to the College Board Advanced Placement Program courses and exams covering various areas of physics. These are intended to be equivalent to university courses that use best practices of physics teaching pedagogy.
Each AP Physics course culminates in an optional exam for which high-performing students may receive some credit towards their college coursework, depending on which college or university they attend.

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  1. RoboNerd

    Question on AP Physics C FRQ 2013. #3

    Homework Statement http://media.collegeboard.com/digitalServices/pdf/ap/apcentral/ap13_frq_physics_c_mechanics.pdf The problem is above. It is number 3. The solutions are below: http://media.collegeboard.com/digitalServices/pdf/ap/apcentral/ap13_physics_cm_scoring_guidelines.pdf Homework...
  2. RoboNerd

    Question on theory for solving 2015 AP Physics C Free Response Questions

    Homework Statement Here are the free response questions:[/B] https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/digitalServices/pdf/ap/ap15_frq_physics_c-m.pdf Here are the solutions: https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/digitalServices/pdf/ap/ap15_physics_cm_sg.pdf I do not understand how they solved a...
  3. Lizette Delbosque

    How Do You Determine Vehicle Speeds in Collision Analysis?

    Homework Statement I apologize in advance because this is a long question. This is a scenario based question where I role play as an intern for the Montreal Police Collision Investigation Unit. Basically I have to determine the initial velocity of vehicles to determine whether or not they are...
  4. M

    Testing AP Physics 1 & 2 Exam Prep: Focus Areas for Grade 3+

    Hi, When I am using Principles of Physics by Walker, Halliday, and Resnick to study for AP physics 1 and 2 exams, what chapters/subject areas should I focus on to get at least grade 3? Due to a lack of time to study I will need to study what's most important. Alternatively, recommendations for...
  5. M

    AP Physics Problem Set: Pole Vault Event & Calculating Energy Transfer

    Homework Statement Sorry this may be a better picture. I missed the top of the page but the question says 1) In the pole vault event, an athlete runs as fast as possible towards the bar, holding a flexible fiberglass pole. He stick s the end of the pole into a slot in the ground, swings up on...
  6. M

    AP Physics Problem: Solving Homework Equations

    Homework Statement 1 c and e from the jpeg image. Homework Equations W = Fd KE = 1/2mv^2 The Attempt at a Solution P = 42.875 * 60 J / 5.3s P= 485 W and I don't know how to start 1e. Could you please help me.
  7. M

    AP Physics Exam Tips: Ace Your Test & Get High Scores

    Do you have any tips for getting high marks on AP Physics Tests and getting a high score on the AP Physics Exam. For example, you may know material that can help you while doing the course.
  8. T

    AP Physics: Momentum & Springs

    1. A mass M is connected to a wall by an ideal spring. The mass is on a frictionless surface. The mass is pushed toward the wall, compressing the spring by a distance X. Use the impulse-momentum theorem to demonstrate that the mass will reach a maximum velocity of X * (K / M)^1/2. 2. J = delta...
  9. A

    Finding Centripetal acceleration in a vertical system

    Homework Statement Tarzan plans to cross a gorge by swinging in an arc from a hanging vine. If his arms are capable of exerting 1350 N on the vine, what is his acceleration at the point where the vine makes an angle of 45 degrees from the vertical assuming maximum speed at this point. His mass...
  10. S

    Where to Find Challenging Problems for AP Physics C?

    Hello, Currently, I attend one of the most difficult HS in America (magnet school, ranks in top 10; won't specify for privacy) and I am currently taking AP Physics C without any prior physics knowledge. I have the hardest teacher among them all (apparently taught at MIT before). His problems...
  11. J

    Self-study AP Physics C after taking IB Physics SL & Calc?

    I am a current High School senior intending on majoring in Physics in college. Last year I took IB Physics SL and got a 4 on the test but kept my head above water on all the unit tests. I'm currently taking AP Calculus BC and am doing very well. I have exhausted all other science classes in my...
  12. nenders

    Calculating Velocity and Time for an Accelerating Air Boat

    Homework Statement [/B] Problem: Sanjay's air boat starts from rest and accelerates at 9.1 m/s2 for a distance of 216 meters. How fast is it moving at the end of the 216 meters? And how much time will it take to cover this distance? Known: Vi = 0m/s A = 9.1m/s D = 216m Homework Equations...
  13. M

    AP Physics differential equation

    Homework Statement A block of mass m, which has an initial velocity v0 at time t = 0, slides on a horizontal surface. If the sliding friction force f exerted on the block by the surface is directly proportional to its velocity (that is, f = -kv), A) Write a differential equation for the...
  14. M

    Find the final velocity of the block

    Homework Statement So here is the problem, There is a .03kg block that is in an inverted cone, the cone has a slant length of 15 cm and a radius of 4 cm, and the coefficient of friction is .35. The block rotates around the inside of the cone, seamlessly, until it hits the bottom of the cone...
  15. ish512

    AP Chem, AP Physics C:M junior year

    Hey all, I am a sophomore thinking about my classes for next year. As far my classes go I am taking: AP Statistics Java I HN Spanish III HN Chemistry HN AP World History Precalculus HN Symphonic Orchestra 2 American Lit & Comp HN I want to take AP Physics C in high school but due to weird...
  16. N

    AP Physics Summer Assignment Question

    Homework Statement Ts=2π√4.5*10-2kg/2.0*103kg/s2 Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution I just started Physics Yesterday and have no idea what to do.
  17. N

    How to do really well in Ap Physics C?

    So (this is my first thread by the way so sorry if it is in the wrong place) I am now a junior who has just started junior year (Last week). I am taking AP Physics C and AP Calc BC concurrently. I have always been pretty good at math and physics, but never amazing, just around mid to low A...
  18. Alive

    Intro Physics Best AP Physics 1&2 Textbooks for Self-Study: Giancoli and Serway/Vuille Review

    I will be a sophomore this year, and I intend to self-study AP Physics 1&2. I took a non-math based semester intro course last year, so I'm basically going in blind. I've done my research and I'm intending to use Physics: Principles with Applications (7th Edition) (Douglas C. Giancoli) and...
  19. kkpanu9

    Help explain Physics Phenomenon

    http://www.quora.com/How-can-sound-waves-alter-the-flow-of-water Ok, so I carried out this experiment, and I understand some of it, but need help with other parts. Ok, so are we actually seeing a sine wave formed by the water? If so, I understand that waves are supposed to transport energy...
  20. M

    Other AP textbooks for Physics and Calculus

    Hi, I'm studying on my own for AP exams a year from now and need some advice on which books to get. I'm taking AP calculus (AB or BC, haven't decided yet), AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, and AP Physics C: Mechanics. I already have a Calculus book by Ron...
  21. A

    New Aspiring Theoretical Physicist

    Hello, my name is Alex. I'm a high school student in Menomonie and I'm fascinated by the world of physics. I want to work toward getting a doctorates degree in physics and go on to work as a theoretical physicist. I'm taking AP Physics as a class and spend all of my free time learning and...
  22. M

    Should I take AP physics C with my current Situation?

    Hi. I've been pondering on this decision lately. I'm a Junior in high school and have been accepted to take AP physics C for senior year starting with my fall semester next school year. I really want to pursue a physics/ engineer related major, but here's the thing. I'm aware that AP physics C...
  23. L

    Can AP Physics 1 be mastered in one summer with dedication?

    Hello, I'm still in high school and I was wondering if you would say that it's possible to learn the entire course of AP Physics 1 in the length of one summer with dedication not being an issue. Also, could you learn AP Physics C Mechanics and E&M WHILE you take a Calculus BC class (I'm not...
  24. E

    AP Physics C E&M RC circuit FRQ

    Homework Statement http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/repository/_ap06_frq_physicsc_em_51784.pdf Please please check out Q2 part (d) on this test Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution I understand that before S2 is closed, current through the circuit is zero. As soon as S2 is...
  25. 1

    Uniform Circular Motion question

    1. The problem The answer is A. Homework Equations x = Acoswt y = Asinwt The Attempt at a Solution C is not correct because the x & y positions are in terms of sin & cos, so the acceleration can't be constant. D is not correct because x & y are oscillating in value. E is not correct because...
  26. 1

    How Does Planet X's Gravity Affect Rocket Escape Velocity?

    1. Problem A rocket has landed on Planet X, which has half the radius of Earth. An astronaut onboard the rocket weighs twice as much on Planet X as on Earth. If the escape velocity for the rocket taking off from Earth is v , then its escape velocity on Planet X is a) 2 v b) (√2)v c) v d) v/2 e)...
  27. B

    AP Physics: Solving for Acceleration in a Cart Experiment

    I've gone ahead and uploaded the paper I had filled out during class. For this experiment, students must be able to find the acceleration of a cart using kinematics, dynamics, and energy. A cart with a mass on it (mc=2.48kg) is connected to a mass-less string which is connected to a pulley...
  28. H

    Finding propagation speed/wavelength from an equation

    Homework Statement A wave is described by y=12sin(4t-8x). What is its propagation speed? A. 0.2 B. 0.5 C. 4 D. 8 E. 12 Homework Equations v=wavelength/period v=wavelength×frequency The Attempt at a Solution period= 2π/w=2π/8=.7853 But confused on how to find the wavelength?
  29. 1

    Conservation of Angular Momentum & Energy question

    Question: A streetcar is freely coasting (no friction) around a large circular track. It is then switched to a small circular track. When coasting on the smaller circle its speed is: a) greater b) less c) unchanged Relevant Formulas: w = v/r KE = 1/2mv2 My teacher said the normal force from...
  30. S

    AP Physics ~ A good jump in the long jump event is

    A good jump in the long jump event is 3.7m. If the jumper leaves the ground at an angle of 25°, what speed must he need to jump the 3.70m distance? →Could you use this equation: vf²=vi²+2aY aka (final velocity)²= (initial velocity)²+2(acceleration)(distance in the y-direction) →So, that...
  31. S

    Projectile Motion ~ AP Physics (A rifle is fired at an angle of )

    A rifle is fired at an angle of 25° below the horizontal with an initial velocity of 400 m/s from the top of a cliff 60.0m high. How far from the base of the cliff does the bullet land? This is what I did, but I'm not sure if its right: y-component→ v=400sin(25°) ∴v=169.05 x-component→...
  32. G

    AP Physics C lab involving incline planes featuring motion laws

    Homework Statement A dot on the floor with a diameter of 2cm. A table that is at a distance of 46cm horizontally from the center of said dot. The table is 90cm tall. The meat of the problem: A ping pong ball rolls off an incline plane (a wooden board) that is on top of the table. The...
  33. M

    AP Physics B Course Description Multiple Choice #3-4

    Homework Statement http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/repository/ap-physics-course-description.pdf Page 45 Homework Equations sinθ = opp/hyp tanθ = opp/adj cosθ = adj/hyp G ≈ 10 m/{s}^2 The Attempt at a Solution I know that the weight is a force pointing downwards...
  34. S

    Tips for Excelling in AP Physics: Advice from a Struggling Top Student

    This is not a physics question. Just hoping for advice for any people who taken this course in high school. My school is a block schedule so I take AP physics B and AP physics C in one year. Currently, the first semester i am making 23% on tests and the highest was a 40%. I am one of the top...
  35. N

    A Child's Circular Adventure: Calculating Distance and Displacement

    Homework Statement A child rides on a pony around a circular track with a radius of 4.5 meters. Homework Equations What is her distance traveled and displacement after she has gone half way around the track? The Attempt at a Solution
  36. A

    Which AP Exams Should I Take for a Future in Engineering?

    Hi I'm an incoming junior in high-school and I am planning on self-studying for the AP Physics C/E&M and AP Computer Science exams since my school doesn't offer these courses. I am buying the Barrons review books but what other study materials do I need? I am also taking Physics B course in...
  37. D

    What is the value of Ts in seconds?

    Homework Statement Ts (subscript s) = 2∏*√(4.5*10^-2 kg / 2.0*10^3 kg/s^2) kg = Kilograms s = seconds Ts = ? Homework Equations I do not have any relevant questions. The Attempt at a Solution Ts = 2∏*√(4.5*10^-2 kg)/√(2.0*10^3 kg/s^2) Simplified Ts = 6.28*[(0.212 kg)/√(44.72...
  38. C

    Courses Should I take AP Physics without ever having taken a physics course?

    First off, I'm sorry if this is in the wrong section, but I am looking for some guidance other than my friends who don't see the beauty of math and science, or education in general. I am going into my senior year at public high school and have never taken a physics course, although standard...
  39. Redbelly98

    AP Physics Reading: Connect With Other Students

    Hey, I know this is a long shot, but is anybody else on here involved in the AP Physics Reading? I am, and am wondering if anybody would want to meet up.
  40. BloodyFrozen

    Preparing for AP Chem & AP Physics

    Does anyone know/have a list of topics that a HS student should know for chemistry and physics before entering into their respective APs? (Basically, I'm asking what should a HS student know for a Pre-AP leveled cumulative final exam?) Any important topics that a HS should know are welcome...
  41. S

    Using Magnetic field to repel a paper plane AP Physics Project help?

    I simply need to shoot a paper plane very far, the furthest distance. I cannot interfere with it during flight. I plan to have copper wires up a standing pole, from the pole, an extension (used as a ramp for the plane to gain acceleration), will stick out less than 90 deg/ Perpendicular). On...
  42. I

    Tips for AP Physics from Experienced Students

    I'm going to be taking AP Physics next year, and I really want to get an A (I'm going to be a senior, so in case my application gets deferred, I'll be able to improve my transcript). I've only taken two AP classes; AP Psych and AP Computer Science, both of which I got an A in Can you guys...
  43. C

    Studying Self Studying AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism

    No, you didn't read the title wrong. I am really self studying a physics class. I just finished Mechanics (Physics I) and since I want to go to college to study physics to become an engineer or physicist. I need to take the next class, E&M (Physics II, Electricity and Magnetism). However, I...
  44. G

    How Can I Prepare for the AP Physics C Mechanics Exam in 3 Weeks?

    I am not currently taking a physics class but decided a few months ago that I would self study the AP Physics C Mechanics exam (not the E&M), however I have been procrastinating ever since. The exam is scheduled for the 14th of May, and I haven't even begun to study for it. Could anyone here...
  45. N

    Ap physics questions on basic kinetics and Newtons second law

    1)A rock is dropped off a cliff and falls the first half of the distance into the ground in t1 seconds. If it falls the second half of the distance in t2 seconds, what is the value of t2/t1? Relevant equations: I think the kinematics equations of d=vt+(1/2)at^2 I have no idea how to solve...
  46. C

    2011 AP Physics C E&M frq #1 clarification

    Problem 1 on last year's normal (not form b) frq for e&m part a asked to use Gauss' law to prove essentially that at any point P within a thin spherical shell of charge density σ = q/A and radius r that the electric field at this ambiguous point P is zero. The solutions for this problem went...
  47. G

    AP Physics Multiple Choice Question

    5. A force of 12 N is applied tangentially to the rim of a wheel with radius 0.70 m and rotational inertia 3.0 kg-m2. What angular acceleration results? a) 2.6 rad/s2 b) 2.8 rad/s2 c) 3.2 rad/s2 d) 3.4 rad/s2 e) none of these ____6. If the force in question #5 acts for 20 s, what will be the...
  48. D

    How Do You Calculate Angle and Velocity in Particle Motion Analysis?

    Homework Statement the position "r" of a moving particle moving in an xy plane is given by r=(2.00(t^3) -5t)î+ (6.00-7.00(t^4) )j with r in meters and t in seconds. In unit notation calculate: A) R B) Velocity C) R when t is 25 seconds What is the able between the positive direction of the...
  49. G

    Estimating Work for Rotating a Ferris Wheel

    George Washington Gale Ferris. Jr., a civil engineering graduate from RPI, built the original Ferris wheel. The wheel carried 36 wooden cars, each holding up to 60 passengers, around a circle 76m in diameter. The cars were loaded 6 at a time, and once all 36 cars were full, the wheel made a...
  50. L

    Where to find AP Physics C: Mechanics material?

    Where to find AP Physics C: Mechanics material? So I would like to write the AP Physics exam this year. Unfortunately, my school does not offer AP physics and therefore does not have any material I can look at. So I have gotten myself a textbook, sadly, it does not have much practice material...
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