AP Physics 1: Core Concepts & Applications

Front

Define Kinematics vs. Dynamics

Back

**Kinematics** is the study of motion without considering the forces (describes *how* things move using displacement, velocity, acceleration). **Dynamics** is the study of the forces that cause motion (explains *why* things move using Newton's Laws).

Front

Instantaneous vs. Average Velocity

Back

**Average Velocity** is the slope of the secant line on a position-time graph ($\Delta x / \Delta t$). **Instantaneous Velocity** is the slope of the tangent line at a specific point, representing the limit as the time interval approaches zero.

Front

Projectile Motion Independence

Back

The horizontal (x) and vertical (y) components of projectile motion are **independent** of each other. The horizontal acceleration is zero (constant velocity), while the vertical acceleration is $g$ (gravity) acting downwards. They are linked only by time.

Front

Newton's Third Law Pairs

Back

For every action force, there is an equal and opposite reaction force. **Crucial Note:** These forces act on **different objects**, not the same object. They are also of the **same type** (e.g., both are gravitational, contact, or normal forces).

Front

Analyzing Free-Body Diagrams (FBDs)

Back

An FBD represents only the forces acting **on** the single object of interest. It excludes forces exerted *by* the object on other things. The length of vectors represents relative magnitude. The net force ($\Sigma F$) points in the direction of acceleration.