AP Physics 1 Prep Path
AP Physics 1 covers mechanics end to end — no calculus required, but deep conceptual mastery is. Follow this path unit by unit, do the practice after each module, and you'll walk into the exam having seen every idea in its proper place.
Module 1: Unit 1: Kinematics
Describing motion with graphs and equations.
Learn
- Vectors vs Scalars — The Two Kinds of Quantities in Physics
- Acceleration — Definition, Formula and Worked Examples
- Graphing Motion — Reading Position, Velocity and Acceleration Graphs
Practice
Module 2: Unit 2: Dynamics
Forces and Newton's laws — the heart of the exam.
Learn
- Newton's First Law of Motion — Inertia Explained
- Newton's Second Law — F = ma Explained with Examples
- Newton's Third Law — Action and Reaction, Clearly Explained
- Friction Force — Static vs Kinetic Friction Explained
Practice
Module 3: Unit 3: Circular motion and gravitation
Centripetal force and orbits.
Learn
Module 4: Units 4–5: Energy and momentum
Work, energy conservation and collisions.
Learn
- Work-Energy Theorem — Work Equals Change in Kinetic Energy
- Conservation of Momentum — Collisions Explained
Practice
Module 5: Unit 6: Oscillations
Simple harmonic motion and pendulums.
Learn
Module 6: Unit 8: Fluids
Pressure, buoyancy and flow.
Learn
- Density and Pressure in Fluids — Definitions, Formulas and Examples
- Buoyancy and Archimedes' Principle — Why Things Float