AP Physics C: Mechanics

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About the Exam

Exam Overview
The AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam will test your understanding of the scientific concepts covered in the course units, as well as your ability to use calculus when solving problems related to kinematics, linear momentum, and more.

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. These tables are shared by both Physics C courses.

Exam Duration
1hr 30mins

Exam Date

  • Tue, May 9, 2023,
    12 PM Local

    AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam

    This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam.

Exam Components

35 Questions 45mins 50% of Score

The multiple-choice section includes individual, single questions as well as sets of questionsthat refer to the same diagram or data presentation.

Questions may test your ability to:

  • Interpret and describe visual representations of physical situations
  • Formulate a testable scientific question or hypothesis and design an experiment to test it
  • Analyze data shown in a graph
  • Determine the relationship between physical qualities
  • Solve physics problems using mathematical relationships
  • Develop and support scientific claims with evidence

 

3 Questions 45mins 50% of Score

For the free-response section, credit for answers depends on the quality of the solutions and responses shown, so be sure to show your work.

Some questions specifically ask you to justify your answer or to write a scientific explanation which includes a claim, evidence, and reasoning. This analysis may generally be in the form of writing, equations, calculations, diagrams, or graphs.

One of the three questions in this section will include an experimental or lab-based component.

Questions may test your ability to:

  • Interpret and describe visual representations of physical situations
  • Formulate a testable scientific question or hypothesis and design an experiment to test it
  • Create graphs and diagrams to represent data and physical situations
  • Analyze data shown in a graph
  • Determine the relationship between physical qualities
  • Solve physics problems using mathematical relationships
  • Support scientific claims with evidence

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