ap physics c equation sheet 2025

3 min read 01-02-2025

The AP Physics C exam is a challenging but rewarding experience. Success hinges on a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts and the ability to apply them effectively. While memorizing every equation isn't the key, familiarity with the core formulas and their relationships is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the essential equations you'll encounter on the 2025 AP Physics C exam, broken down by topic for easier navigation. Remember, true mastery comes from understanding the underlying principles, not just rote memorization.

Important Note: The College Board doesn't release a single, comprehensive equation sheet. The formulas provided here represent the most frequently used and essential equations for both Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism sections. Always refer to your textbook and class notes for a complete and detailed understanding.

AP Physics C Mechanics: Essential Equations for 2025

This section covers the key equations you'll need for the Mechanics portion of the AP Physics C exam.

Kinematics

Displacement: Δx = x_f - x_i
Average Velocity: v_avg = Δx/Δt
Instantaneous Velocity: v = dx/dt
Average Acceleration: a_avg = Δv/Δt
Instantaneous Acceleration: a = dv/dt
Constant Acceleration Equations:
- v_f = v_i + at
- Δx = v_it + (1/2)at²
- v_f² = v_i² + 2aΔx
- Δx = (1/2)(v_i + v_f)t

Dynamics

Newton's Second Law: ΣF = ma
Weight: W = mg
Friction (Kinetic): f_k = μ_kN
Friction (Static): f_s ≤ μ_sN
Gravitational Force: F_g = Gm₁m₂/r²
Hooke's Law: F_s = -kx

Work, Energy, and Power

Work (Constant Force): W = Fd cosθ
Work (Variable Force): W = ∫Fdx
Kinetic Energy: K = (1/2)mv²
Gravitational Potential Energy: U_g = mgh
Elastic Potential Energy: U_s = (1/2)kx²
Work-Energy Theorem: W_net = ΔK
Power: P = W/t = Fv

Momentum and Impulse

Momentum: p = mv
Impulse: J = Δp = FΔt
Conservation of Momentum: m₁v_1i + m₂v_2i = m₁v_1f + m₂v_2f

Rotational Motion

Angular Displacement: θ
Angular Velocity: ω = dθ/dt
Angular Acceleration: α = dω/dt
Relating Linear and Angular Quantities: v = rω, a_t = rα, a_c = v²/r = rω²
Moment of Inertia: I
Rotational Kinetic Energy: K_rot = (1/2)Iω²
Torque: τ = rFsinθ = Iα

AP Physics C Electricity & Magnetism: Essential Equations for 2025

This section details the core equations for the Electricity & Magnetism portion of the AP Physics C exam.

Electrostatics

Coulomb's Law: F = kq₁q₂/r²
Electric Field: E = F/q
Electric Potential: V = kq/r
Electric Potential Energy: U = qV

Circuits

Ohm's Law: V = IR
Power (electrical): P = IV = I²R = V²/R
Resistors in Series: R_eq = R₁ + R₂ + ...
Resistors in Parallel: 1/R_eq = 1/R₁ + 1/R₂ + ...
Capacitors in Series: 1/C_eq = 1/C₁ + 1/C₂ + ...
Capacitors in Parallel: C_eq = C₁ + C₂ + ...
Capacitance: C = Q/V

Magnetism

Magnetic Force on a Moving Charge: F = qvBsinθ
Magnetic Force on a Current-Carrying Wire: F = ILBsinθ
Magnetic Field of a Long Straight Wire: B = μ₀I/(2πr)

This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for your AP Physics C exam preparation. Remember to practice applying these equations within various problem-solving contexts. Good luck!