AP Physics 1 Exam information
What it is, what's tested, and how it's scored.
AP Physics 1 exam details
The AP Physics 1 exam evaluates students' knowledge of key principles in mechanics and the physical sciences taught in the AP Physics 1 course. As one of four AP Physics classes offered by the College Board, Physics 1 provides a foundation in conceptual and algebra-based physics, covering topics such as kinetics, dynamics, and energy.
Students who take AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based engage in intensive, undergraduate-level coursework, and a high score on the exam may grant students academic credit at a participating college.
The AP Physics 1 exam is hosted by College Board and costs $99 to register. Participants have 3 hours to answer 40 multiple-choice questions, 4 free-response questions. The passing score is 3 (on scale of 1-5).
Time
3 hours
Format
40 multiple-choice questions
4 free-response questions
Exam fee
$99
Passing score
3 (on scale of 1-5)
Details
The exam has two sections, each taking 1 hour and 20 minutes and 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. A 10-minute scheduled break is included between the two sections. The test is distributed in a hybrid format, with students completing multiple-choice questions in the Bluebook testing app and free-response questions on paper.
The AP Physics 1 exam is the final examination for students enrolled in the AP Physics 1 class. It is taken either in school or at designated testing centers.
The AP Physics 1 course and exam cover the following topics:
Unit 1: Kinematics
Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics
Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power
Unit 4: Linear Momentum
Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Motion
Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems
Unit 7: Oscillations
Unit 8: Fluids
The free-response section on the AP Physics 1 exam contains four distinct question types:
Mathematical Routines
Translation Between Representations
Experimental Design and Analysis
Qualitative/Quantitative Translation
The AP Physics 1 course framework also includes four Science Practices, which are distinct skills that students develop throughout the year to enhance their scientific reasoning:
Creating Representations: Develop the ability to construct diagrams, graphs, and models that effectively illustrate data and apply principles of physics.
Mathematical Routines: Build fluency in deriving equations, performing complex calculations, estimating unknown quantities, and comparing physical values.
Scientific Questioning and Argumentation: Strengthen understanding of scientific methods by applying relevant laws and theories, formulating claims, and supporting claims with clear, evidence-based reasoning.
The College Board creates a standardized curriculum guide for all AP classes and exams. The order, depth, and focus of units taught are determined by individual instructors.
College Board's AP Physics 1 exam summary
Multiple Choice
50% of exam
40 questions
Covers the 8 main units of AP Physics 1 and includes both conceptual and algebra-based questions. Students are required to answer questions on standalone topics or analyze a passage, diagram, or dataset in multiple steps.
Free Response
50% of exam
4 questions
- Mathematical routines - 1 question:Focuses on using mathematics to express and solve physical relationships. Students are expected to manipulate equations, perform algebraic and trigonometric operations, and calculate numerical results while maintaining proper units and significant figures.
- Translation between representations - 1 question:Assesses the ability to represent physical ideas in multiple ways, including through words, diagrams, graphs, and equations.
- Experimental design and analysis - 1 question:Involves designing and interpreting experiments in physics. Students are often asked to propose an experimental setup to test a physical law, justify their procedures, and analyze hypothetical or real data to draw conclusions.
- Qualitative/quantitative translation - 1 question:Connects conceptual reasoning (qualitative) with mathematical problem-solving (quantitative). Students must explain physical situations using principles and logic, then support their reasoning with equations and calculations.
Achievable AP Physics 1 content outline
1
Decoding the exam
Explains the purpose and structure of the AP Physics 1 exam. Includes strategies for tackling multiple-choice and free-response questions.
2
Vectors and their analysis
Introduces vector fundamentals and operations. Covers breaking vectors into components for analyzing motion and force.
3
Kinematics
Covers the description of motion in one and two dimensions using graphs, equations, and free-fall scenarios.
4
Laws of motion
Explores Newton's laws, free-body diagrams, friction, spring forces, circular motion, and gravitational interactions.
5
Work, energy, and power
Defines work and power. Analyzes energy transformations, including kinetic and potential energy in physical systems.
6
Linear momentum and collisions
Covers momentum, impulse, and conservation principles. Includes elastic and inelastic collisions in one and two dimensions.
7
Torque and rotational mechanics
Explores rotational motion concepts such as torque, rotational inertia, angular kinematics, and conservation of angular momentum.
8
Oscillations
Covers simple harmonic motion (SHM), including motion of springs and pendulums, and energy in oscillating systems.
9
Fluids
Introduces fluid statics and dynamics. Topics include pressure, buoyancy, continuity, and Bernoulli's principle.
10
Labwork
Focuses on experimental design, data collection, analysis, and answering lab-based free-response questions.