AP® Physics 1: Algebra-Based Cheat Sheet

This comprehensive AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Cheat Sheet provides essential formulas, key concepts, and critical information across all units of the AP Physics 1 curriculum. By summarizing complex topics into easy-to-understand points, it helps students efficiently review and reinforce their knowledge. The inclusion of specific formulas and example problems aids in the application of theoretical concepts, ensuring students are well-prepared for both multiple-choice and free-response questions on the exam. With clear, concise explanations and organized sections, this cheat sheet is an invaluable study aid for achieving a high score on the AP Physics 1 exam.

Download AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Cheat Sheet – Pdf

Unit 1: Kinematics

• Vector vs. Scalar: Vectors include directions.
• Displacement vs. Distance
• Velocity vs. Speed: Include direction for velocity.
• Acceleration: (also a vector)
• Key Equations:
  • \(v = v_0 + at\)
  • \( \Delta x = v_0t + \frac{1}{2} at^2 \)
  • \( v^2 = v_0^2 + 2a\Delta x \)
  • \( \Delta x = \frac{1}{2}(v_0 + v)t \)
• Projectile Motion
• Position-Time Graphs: Slope = velocity
• Velocity-Time Graphs: Slope = acceleration
• Acceleration-Time Graphs
• Gravity: \( \text{Gravity: } g = 9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \)

Unit 2: Dynamics

• Equilibrium: Net force = 0
• Newton’s Laws:
  • 1st: Law of Inertia
  • 2nd: F = ma
  • 3rd: Action-Reaction
• Friction: \( F_f = \mu F_n \)
• Ramps/Inclined Planes: Free body diagrams
• Force Body Diagrams
• Net Force Calculation

Unit 3: Circular Motion & Gravitation

• Centripetal Force: Not an actual force, net force
  • \( F_c = \frac{mv^2}{r} \)
• Centripetal Acceleration: \( a_c = \frac{v^2}{r} \)
• Universal Gravitation: \( F = G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2} \)
• Uniform Circular Motion: Constant speed
• Gravitational Mass vs. Inertial Mass

Unit 4: Energy

• Work: W = Fd
  • Parallel: (+) Work
  • Antiparallel: (−) Work
• Energy Types:
  • Kinetic Energy: \( KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2\)
  • Potential Energy: \( PE_g = mgh, \, PE_s = \frac{1}{2} kx^2 \)
• Mechanical Energy: Sum of kinetic and potential energy
• Power: \( P = \frac{W}{t} \text{ or } P = Fv\)
• Conservation of Energy
• Graphs & Diagrams

Unit 5: Momentum

• Momentum: p = mv
• Impulse: J = Ft
  • \( \Delta p = J \)
• Conservation of Momentum
• Collisions:
  • Elastic: Kinetic Energy and Momentum conserved
  • Inelastic: Momentum conserved
• Center of Mass

Unit 6: Simple Harmonic Motion

• Spring & Pendulum
• Key Relationships:
  • Hooke’s Law: F = kx
  • Period Equations:
    • Pendulum: \( T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}} \)
    • Spring: \( T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}} \)

Unit 7: Torque & Rotational Motion

• Rotational Kinematics: θ,ω,α
  • Similar to linear kinematics with rotational symbols
• Torque: tau = rF \sin \theta \)
  • \( \tau = I\alpha \)
• Moment of Inertia: \( I = \sum mr^2 \)
• Angular Momentum: \(L = I\omega\)
• Conservation of Angular Momentum

FRQ Tips

• FRQ Breakdown:
  • Experimental Design: Data analysis
  • Quantitative & Qualitative Translation: Concept application
  • Paragraph Argument: Cohesive argument in physics
• Solving Tips:
  • Correct equations and observations
  • Direct/indirect relationships
  • Citing information
  • Basic physics application
  • Clear and concise claims