AP Physics 1: Updated Course for May 2025 Exam

In this blog, we aim to be the go-to guide for students, breaking down the entire syllabus of AP Physics 1 in a concise and engaging manner. From foundational concepts to real-world applications, we'll navigate the essential principles of classical mechanics. The AP Physics 1 Exam for May 2025 has undergone some changes. We have incorporated these changes below. To view changes for AP Physics C Mechanics, click here, and for AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, click here.

Importance of AP Physics 1

• Building a Physics Foundation: It provides a foundational understanding of classical mechanics, covering kinematics, dynamics, and energy.
• Critical Thinking Skills: The course hones critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiments and theoretical concepts.
• Application of Physics Principles: Students learn to apply physics principles to real-world situations, fostering practical knowledge.
• College Credits Opportunity: Success in the AP exam earns college credits, providing an advantageous start in higher education.
• Versatility in Career Paths: Knowledge in physics opens doors to diverse career paths, from engineering to research and beyond.

Syllabus of AP Physics 1

Unit Name	Topics	Weightage in the Exam
Unit 1: Kinematics	Scalars and Vectors in One Dimension Displacement, Velocity, and Acceleration  Representing Motion  Reference Frames and Relative Motion  Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions	10-15%
Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics	Systems and Center of Mass Forces and Free-Body Diagrams  Newton’s Third Law Newton’s First Law Newton’s Second Law Gravitational Force  Kinetic and Static Friction  Spring Forces  Circular Motion	18-23%
Unit 3: Work, Energy and Power	Translational Kinetic Energy Work Potential Energy Conservation of Energy Power	18-23%
Unit 4: Linear Momentum	Linear Momentum Change in Momentum and Impulse Conservation of Linear Momentum  Elastic and Inelastic Collisions	10-15%
Unit 5: Torque and rotational dynamics	Rotational Kinematics  Connecting Linear and Rotational Motion Torque  Rotational Inertia Rotational Equilibrium and Newton’s First Law in Rotational Form Newton’s Second Law in Rotational Form	10-15%
Unit 6: Energy and momentum of rotating systems	Rotational Kinetic Energy Torque and Work Angular Momentum and Angular Impulse  Conservation of Angular Momentum  Rolling Motion of Orbiting Satellites	5-8%
Unit 7: Oscillations	Defining Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) Frequency and Period of SHM  Representing and Analyzing SHM  Energy of Simple Harmonic Oscillators	5-8%
Unit 8: Fluids	Internal Structure and Density Pressure  Fluids and Newton’s Laws  Fluids and Conservation Laws	10-15%

AP Physics 1 Exam Structure

The AP Physics 1 exam for May 2025 has undergone some changes. The updated structure is as follows:

Section I: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

• Number of Questions: 40 questions (decreased from 50)
• Multiselect questions removed
• Duration: 80 minutes (decreased from 90 minutes)

Section II: Free-Response Questions (FRQs)

• Number of Questions: 4 questions
• Duration: 100 minutes (increased from 90 minutes)

Types of Questions:

• Mathematical routines
• Translation between representations
• Experimental design and analysis
• Qualitative/quantitative translation

Top 10 Majors Backed Up by AP Physics 1

1. Physics and Astrophysics: AP Physics 1 lays the groundwork for students pursuing majors in physics and astrophysics, providing essential principles for understanding the fundamental laws governing the universe.
2. Mechanical Engineering: Aligned with the curriculum of mechanical engineering majors, the course offers a comprehensive understanding of forces, motion, and energy.
3. Civil Engineering: Understanding the principles of motion and forces is crucial in civil engineering, making AP Physics 1 beneficial for those aspiring to contribute to infrastructure design.
4. Aerospace Engineering: Relevant for careers in aerospace engineering, the course covers dynamics and motion principles fundamental to aircraft and spacecraft design.
5. Computer Science and Engineering: The analytical and problem-solving skills developed in AP Physics 1 complement the requirements of computer science and engineering majors, contributing to success in software and hardware development.
6. Electrical Engineering: Concepts of motion and forces are applicable in electrical engineering, making the course valuable for students interested in understanding the behavior of electrical systems.
7. Applied Mathematics: The integration of mathematical concepts in AP Physics 1 provides a strong background beneficial for students pursuing majors in applied mathematics, where mathematical modeling is essential.
8. Biomedical Engineering: For those interested in the intersection of physics and biology, particularly in understanding the mechanics of living organisms, AP Physics 1 provides relevant insights for biomedical engineering majors.
9. Materials Science: Mechanics plays a crucial role in materials science, and students exploring this field can benefit from the foundational knowledge offered in AP Physics 1.
10. Environmental Science: The course's focus on forces and energy is relevant to environmental science, where understanding the impact of natural processes on the environment is essential for sustainable practices.

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We hope this article helped you with the subject knowledge. Reach out to us by filling out our assistance form if you need any help with the preparations.