AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
Discover the fundamental principles that govern motion, forces, and energy. Through hands-on laboratory investigations and mathematical analysis, explore questions about floating objects, bicycle balance, and relative motion that connect physics to everyday experiences.
Course Overview
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based provides students with a comprehensive foundation in classical mechanics, wave phenomena, and basic electricity. This inquiry-based course emphasizes hands-on laboratory investigations and mathematical modeling using algebra and trigonometry.
Students develop scientific reasoning skills through systematic investigation of physical phenomena, learning to design experiments, analyze data, and construct evidence-based explanations. The course connects abstract physical principles to real-world applications and everyday experiences.
Course Details
Essential Physics Skills
Develop the scientific reasoning and analytical skills essential for understanding physical phenomena.
Physical Representations
Create and interpret diagrams, graphs, and mathematical models that depict physical phenomena.
Mathematical Analysis
Conduct quantitative analyses to derive relationships, calculate values, and predict outcomes.
Experimental Design
Design procedures, analyze data, and support scientific claims through laboratory investigations.
Course Content & Units
Eight comprehensive units covering fundamental physics concepts from motion to fluid mechanics.
Unit 1: Kinematics
Master the fundamental study of motion in one and two dimensions using mathematical relationships.
Key Topics:
- Scalars and vectors in one dimension
- Displacement, velocity, and acceleration
- Representing motion graphically
- Reference frames and relative motion
- Vectors and motion in two dimensions
Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics
Explore forces as interactions between objects and apply Newton's laws to analyze motion.
Key Topics:
- Systems and center of mass
- Forces and free-body diagrams
- Newton's Three Laws of Motion
- Gravitational and friction forces
- Spring forces and circular motion
Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power
Understand the relationships between work, energy, and power in mechanical systems.
Key Topics:
- Translational kinetic energy
- Work done by forces
- Gravitational and elastic potential energy
- Conservation of mechanical energy
- Power and energy transfer rates
Unit 4: Linear Momentum
Analyze collisions and interactions using momentum conservation principles.
Key Topics:
- Linear momentum and impulse
- Change in momentum over time
- Conservation of linear momentum
- Elastic and inelastic collisions
- Center of mass motion
Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics
Apply rotational analogs to Newton's laws for analyzing rotating bodies.
Key Topics:
- Rotational kinematics and angular quantities
- Connecting linear and rotational motion
- Torque as rotational force
- Rotational inertia and mass distribution
- Rotational equilibrium and Newton's laws
Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems
Explore rotational energy and angular momentum in complex systems.
Key Topics:
- Rotational kinetic energy
- Work done by torques
- Angular momentum and angular impulse
- Conservation of angular momentum
- Rolling motion and satellite orbits
Unit 7: Oscillations
Analyze simple harmonic motion and periodic phenomena in physical systems.
Key Topics:
- Defining simple harmonic motion (SHM)
- Frequency, period, and amplitude
- Graphical representations of SHM
- Energy in simple harmonic oscillators
- Springs and pendulum systems
Unit 8: Fluids
Investigate the behavior of liquids and gases and their interactions with objects.
Key Topics:
- Internal structure and density
- Pressure in static and moving fluids
- Fluids and Newton's laws
- Buoyancy and Archimedes' principle
- Fluid flow and conservation laws
Hands-On Laboratory Investigations
Physics is an experimental science. Our comprehensive laboratory program develops investigation skills and deepens conceptual understanding through direct experience.
Motion Analysis Lab
Use motion sensors and video analysis to investigate kinematics
Force Investigation
Explore Newton's laws using force sensors and dynamics carts
Energy Conservation
Investigate energy transformations in mechanical systems
Collision Analysis
Study momentum conservation in elastic and inelastic collisions
Rotational Motion
Analyze rotational dynamics using spinning disks and torque apparatus
Fluid Mechanics
Investigate buoyancy, pressure, and fluid flow phenomena
Prerequisites & Preparation
Students should be comfortable with:
- Algebraic manipulation
- Basic trigonometry
- Linear equations and graphs
- Quadratic functions
- Scientific notation
- Unit conversions
- Vector components
- Data analysis and graphing
Success Strategies
🎯 Think Conceptually
Focus on understanding physical principles rather than memorizing formulas. Ask "why" and "how" questions.
🔬 Embrace Laboratory Work
Laboratory investigations are crucial. Practice designing experiments and analyzing real data.
📊 Master Problem-Solving
Develop systematic approaches: identify knowns/unknowns, choose appropriate models, solve, and check answers.
🏃♂️ Practice Regularly
Work through varied problems daily. Connect mathematical solutions to physical meanings.
Your Physics Journey
See how AP Physics 1 serves as the foundation for advanced physics study and STEM careers.
Foundation
Geometry + Algebra II
Current Course
AP Physics 1
Next Steps
AP Physics 2, AP Physics C, or Engineering
Ready to Discover Physics?
Start your physics journey with AP Physics 1. Develop scientific reasoning skills and explore the fundamental principles that govern motion, forces, and energy in our universe.
Physics Courses
Algebra-based introduction to mechanics, waves, and basic electricity.
Advanced algebra-based physics including thermodynamics and electromagnetism.
Calculus-based mechanics for engineering-bound students.
Calculus-based electricity and magnetism.
Recommended Tracks
Engineering Track
Life Sciences Track
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Physics Success
of our AP Physics students score 4 or 5
Lab Experience
Hands-on experiments and practical applications