AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based
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About the Exam
Important: Because of school closures due to COVID-19, we’re offering at-home testing for the 2020 AP Physics 2 Exam as well as free resources to help you prepare. For more details, visit the 2020 AP Coronavirus Updates AP Physics 2 exam page. Note that any related adjustments to 2020 AP Exams, such as length or content covered, may not be reflected on all AP Students pages.
The AP Physics 2 Exam will test your understanding of the scientific concepts covered in the course units, including your ability to use algebra when solving problems related to quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics.
You can use a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator throughout the exam, and you will be provided with tables of commonly used physics equations and formulas.
Exam Duration
3hrs
3hrs
Exam Dates
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Wed, May 13, 2020,
12 PM ETAP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Exam
May 13, 2020 is the updated date for the AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Exam.
Exam Components
Section 1: Multiple Choice
50 Questions 1hr 30mins 50% of Score
This section contains multiple-choice questions that include:
- Individual, single questions
- Questions in sets that refer to the same diagram or data presentation
- Multi-select questions (2 options are correct)
Questions may test your ability to:
- Interpret and describe representations and models
- Use mathematics to solve science problems
- Design an experiment to answer a scientific question or test a hypothesis
- Analyze data and evaluate evidence
- Work with scientific explanations and theories
- Make connections
Section 2: Free Response
4 Questions 1hr 30mins 50% of Score
For the free-response section, credit for answers depends on the quality of the solutions and explanations shown, so be sure to show your work.
This section includes these types of questions:
- Experimental Design (1 question): pertains to designing and describing an investigation, analysis of lab data, and observations to identify patterns or explain phenomena
- Qualitative/Quantitative Translation (1 question): requires you to express a justification or reasoning quantitatively (using numbers, equations, diagrams, etc.) and qualitatively (in words)
- Short Answer (2 questions, 1 requiring a paragraph-length argument)
Questions may test your ability to:
- Interpret and describe representations and models
- Use mathematics to solve science problems
- Design an experiment to answer a scientific question or test a hypothesis
- Analyze data and evaluate evidence
- Work with scientific explanations and theories
- Make connections
Exam Essentials
Exam Preparation
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Practice in AP Classroom
Enrolled in an AP course? If you’ve already joined your class section online, your teacher can assign you practice questions through AP Classroom. Sign in to access them.
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2019 AP Physics 2 Free-Response Questions and Scoring Guidelines
Review the released free-response questions and the scoring guidelines.
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AP Physics 2 Free-Response Questions and Scoring Information Archive
Review free-response questions, sample student responses, and scoring guidelines from 2018 and earlier.
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AP Physics 2 Equation Tables
This document supplies equations commonly used in physics as well as constants, conversion factors, unit symbols, and more. This document or one like it will be provided to you on exam day for the AP Physics 2 Exam.
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The Paragraph-Length Response in AP Physics 1 and 2
Get guidance on how to tackle the exam questions that require a paragraph-length response.
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The Analysis of Experimental Uncertainty in AP Physics 1 and 2
Get information on expectations for the depth of understanding of experimental uncertainty that will be assessed on the exam and the expectations for laboratory work to be presented to colleges and universities.
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