A Guide To AP® Physics 1 Units, Topics & Concepts

Start preparing for AP® Physics by getting to know the exam curriculum. We've broken down the key units, topics, and concepts to simplify your prep and help you confidently navigate the course.
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The AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based course curriculum consists of 2 primary elements: science practices and course content.1 As you progress through the course, you will learn foundational physics principles that will help you when taking AP Physics 2 and/or AP Physics C in the future. This course is equivalent to a first-semester college introductory course.

Science Practices

Here's a detailed introduction to the 8 AP Physics 1 science practices:

  1. Creating Representations

    (Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): N/A; Free-Response Questions (FRQs): 20-35%)
    Learn to create models and representations to solve scientific problems and explain various physics-related phenomena.

    Skills you will learn:
    1.A. Create diagrams, tables, charts, or schematics that effectively represent physical situations.
    1.B. Create quantitative graphs using appropriate scales and units while accurately plotting data.
    1.C. Create qualitative sketches of graphs that illustrate key aspects of a model or the behavior of a physical system.

  2. Mathematical Routines

    (FRQ: 30-40%)
    Use the right mathematical routines to solve the given scientific problems. Master these essential skills with our comprehensive AP Physics 1 course to ensure you're fully prepared.

    Skills you will learn:
    2.A. (MCQ: 15-20%) Learn to derive a symbolic expression from given quantities by choosing and applying a logical mathematical approach.
    2.B. (MCQ: 20-25%) Learn to calculate or estimate an unknown quantity with units from known values by following a logical computational process.
    2.C. (MCQ: 10-15%) Learn to compare physical quantities across different scenarios or at various times and locations within a single context.
    2.D. (MCQ: 10-15%) Learn to predict new values or changes in physical quantities by understanding the functional relationships between variables.

  3. Scientific Questioning and Argumentation

    (FRQ: 35-45%)
    Develop the skills to outline experimental procedures, examine data, and substantiate claims.

    Skills you will learn:
    3.A. (MCQ: N/A) Design experimental procedures that are appropriate for a given scientific question.
    3.B. (MCQ: 20-25%) Apply an appropriate law, definition, theoretical relationship, or model to formulate a claim.
    3.C. (MCQ: 5-10%) Design a justification for a claim using evidence from experimental data, physical representations, or physical principles or laws.

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AP Physics 1 Units and Topics

There are 8 AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based units.2 Each teaches an array of AP Physics 1 topics and concepts to provide a well-informed introduction to the science. By the end of the course, you should be ready to take the AP Physics 1 exam. The questions on this exam assess your knowledge of the course's concepts and their science practice skills. Each unit and science practice has a weighted score on the exam. Strengthen your understanding with our detailed AP Physics 1 study guide.

AP Physics 1 Labs Outline

Integrating labs will help you meet the objectives and learning goals of the AP Physics 1 course. Engaging in lab activities provides you with a valuable opportunity to enhance and hone your understanding of the subject. There are 8 labs in the curriculum, covering experiments related to kinematics, dynamics (forces and translational motion), work, energy, momentum, rotational motion, oscillations, and fluids. Through these lab investigations, you will:

  • Participate in the 3 scientific practices
  • Craft experiment blueprints
  • Formulate predictions
  • Gather and scrutinize data
  • Employ mathematical procedures
  • Construct evidence-based explanations
  • Share research outcomes

To learn about these lab experiments in detail and to understand more about their significance in the AP Physics 1 curriculum, read our article on AP Physics 1 labs.

Now that you know everything about the AP Physics 1 course and exam description (CED), it's time to start studying. Use UWorld's AP Physics 1 practice test to prepare with hundreds of exam-like questions and in-depth answer explanations that can help you focus on your weak areas and get you closer to your target score.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Based on the latest College Board® data, the most challenging topic on the exam was Science Practice 2, which focuses on Mathematical Routines. This practice involves applying mathematical principles to solve physics problems. You are required to demonstrate proficiency in algebraic manipulation, equation solving, and the interpretation of graphical representations. 

The following are the weights of each unit on the AP Physics 1 course:

  • Unit 1: Kinematics (10-15%)
  • Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics (18-23%)
  • Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power (18-23%)
  • Unit 4: Linear Momentum (10-15%)
  • Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics (10-15%)
  • Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems (5-8%)
  • Unit 7: Oscillations (5-8%)
  • Unit 8: Fluids (10-15%) 

Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics and Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power each account for 18-23% of the exam. These units cover key AP Physics 1 concepts such as Newton’s laws, work, energy conservation, and power, which are fundamental to understanding mechanics and crucial for mastering other areas of physics. 

References

  1. AP Physics 1: Course and Exam Description. (2024, Fall). apcentral.collegeboard.org. Retrieved September 17, 2024, from https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-physics-1-course-and-exam-description.pdf
  2. AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based. College Board. (2024). apstudents.collegeboard.org. Retrieved September 17, 2024, from https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-physics-1-algebra-based

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