AP® Physics 1: Algebra-Based Cheat Sheet

Last Updated: November 7, 2024

Notes

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.

Free AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Practice Test

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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