AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

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About the Course

Have you ever been curious as to why some objects float while others sink? Why it’s easier to balance on a bicycle when it’s moving fast? Or why it may seem like you’re moving backward when a car passes you on the highway? In AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based, you’ll learn about kinematics, dynamics, and energy through hands-on laboratory work to investigate and answer questions such as these.

AP Physics Revisions 2024-25

We revised the 4 AP Physics courses and exams for the 2024-25 school year. 

Skills You'll Learn

  • Creating representations that depict physical phenomena

  • Conducting analyses to derive, calculate, estimate, or predict

  • Describing experimental procedures, analyzing data, and supporting claims

Equivalency and Prerequisites

College Course Equivalent

A first-semester introductory college course in algebra-based physics.

Recommended Prerequisites

You should have completed a geometry course and be concurrently taking Algebra II or an equivalent course.

Exam Date

Fri, May 16, 2025

8 AM Local

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam

This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam.

About the Units

The course content outlined below is organized into commonly taught units of study that provide one possible sequence for the course. Your teacher may choose to organize the course content differently based on local priorities and preferences.

Course Content

Credit and Placement

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Course Resources

See Where AP Can Take You

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based can lead to a wide range of careers and college majors

Career Areas 60
Majors 18