AP Physics C: Mechanics
Advanced Placement Physics C: Mechanics with calculus-based physics principles.
Study Strategies
Effective Free-Body Diagrams
Drawing Forces Clearly
Free-body diagrams are your best friend in mechanics! Always start by isolating the object of interest and representing all forces (gravity, normal, tension, friction) with arrows. Label the forces and indicate their directions clearly.
Use these diagrams to write equations for Newton's Laws, and check your work by making sure all forces are accounted for before solving.
Examples
Sketch a block on a ramp, showing gravity, normal force, and friction.
Draw all forces acting on a pendulum at the lowest point in its swing.