AP Physics C Equation Sheet: Complete Guide & Key Formulas

If you’re preparing for AP Physics C, you already know how essential having the right formulas at your fingertips is. The AP Physics C equation sheet isn’t just a reference—it’s your secret weapon for mastering mechanics and electricity & magnetism. Whether you’re struggling to memorize equations or just need a quick refresher, this guide will walk you through everything you need to succeed.

In this article, we’ll break down the key equations, explain how to use them, and give tips to maximize your exam performance. Let’s dive in!

What Is the AP Physics C Equation Sheet?

The AP Physics C exam is split into two main sections: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism. Unlike some other AP exams, the College Board provides a reference equation sheet for both sections.

Here’s what makes it crucial:

Quick Access: You don’t have to memorize every formula.
Exam Efficiency: Save time during problem-solving.
Confidence Booster: Knowing formulas are available reduces stress.

The sheet includes essential physics formulas, constants, and relationships you’ll use repeatedly in calculations.

AP Physics C Mechanics Equations

Mechanics covers motion, forces, energy, momentum, rotational motion, and gravitation. Here’s a structured look at the key equations from the AP Physics C equation sheet:

Kinematics

$v = v_0 + at$ — Velocity with constant acceleration
$x_0 + v_0t + \frac{1}{2}at^2$ — Position with constant acceleration
$v^2 = v_0^2 + 2a(x – x_0)$ — Motion without time

Newton’s Laws

$F = ma$ — Force and acceleration
$Fnet=∑FiF_{net} = \sum F_i$ — Net force
$Ff=μFNF_f = \mu F_N$ — Friction force

Energy & Work

$\cdot d \cdot \cos\theta$ — Work done
$\frac{1}{2}mv^2$ — Kinetic energy
$U = m g h$ — Gravitational potential energy
$Wnet=ΔKW_{net} = \Delta K$ — Work-energy theorem

Momentum

$p = m v$ — Momentum
$FΔt=ΔpF\Delta t = \Delta p$ — Impulse
$m_1v_1 + m_2v_2 = m_1v_1′ + m_2v_2′$ — Conservation of momentum

Rotational Motion

$τ=Iα\tau = I\alpha$ — Torque
$I\omega$ — Angular momentum
$Krot=12Iω2K_{rot} = \frac{1}{2}I\omega^2$ — Rotational kinetic energy

AP Physics C Electricity & Magnetism Equations

The Electricity & Magnetism section requires a strong grasp of electric forces, fields, circuits, and magnetic effects. The AP Physics C equation sheet includes all essential formulas:

Electrostatics

$\frac{q_1 q_2}{r^2}$ — Coulomb’s Law
$\frac{F}{q}$ — Electric field
$\frac{q_1 q_2}{r}$ — Electric potential energy
$\frac{U}{q}$ — Electric potential

Circuits

$\frac{V}{R}$ — Ohm’s Law
$I^2R = \frac{V^2}{R}$ — Electrical power
Series: $Req=R1+R2+…R_{eq} = R_1 + R_2 + \dots$
Parallel: $1Req=1R1+1R2+…\frac{1}{R_{eq}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + \dots$

Magnetism

$\sin\theta$ — Magnetic force on a charge
$ΦB=B⋅A⋅cos⁡θ\Phi_B = B \cdot A \cdot \cos\theta$ — Magnetic flux
$E=−dΦBdt\mathcal{E} = -\frac{d\Phi_B}{dt}$ — Faraday’s Law

Tips for Using the AP Physics C Equation Sheet

Even though the equation sheet is provided, it’s not just a crutch. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Familiarize Yourself: Review every formula before the exam.
Understand, Don’t Memorize: Know what each variable represents.
Highlight Frequently Used Equations: Quick access saves precious time.
Practice Problems Using the Sheet: Simulate exam conditions to build confidence.
Combine with Units & Constants: Always check units; some answers fail due to unit errors.

FAQ About the AP Physics C Equation Sheet

Q1: Is the AP Physics C equation sheet allowed for both multiple-choice and free-response questions?
Yes, it’s provided for the entire exam, so you can reference it for any question.

Q2: Do I need to memorize the equations if I have the sheet?
While memorization isn’t required, understanding how and when to use each formula is essential.

Q3: Are constants like $g$ or $k$ included on the sheet?
Yes, standard constants like $g = 9.8 \, m/s^2$ and $\times 10^9 \, N·m^2/C^2$ are provided.

Q4: Can I annotate my AP Physics C equation sheet?
During the exam, no, but practicing with annotated sheets at home is highly recommended.

Conclusion

The AP Physics C equation sheet is more than a list of formulas—it’s a strategic tool that can boost your exam performance when used correctly. By familiarizing yourself with the mechanics and electricity & magnetism equations, practicing problem-solving, and understanding how each formula works, you’ll approach the exam with confidence and precision.

Ready to take your prep to the next level? Start using your equation sheet strategically in practice tests, and watch your AP Physics C scores soar.

AP Physics C Equation Sheet: Your Ultimate Study Companion