AP Physics C: Mechanics — Practice
AP Physics C: Mechanics is a challenging scientific and calculus-based course equivalent to an introductory college course in physics. Course topics range from Newton’s laws of motion to work and energy, all of which are studied through laboratory work and classroom investigations. Prepare for the AP Physics C: Mechanics exam with with our free online practice tests!
Free AP Physics C: Mechanics Practice Tests
Unit 1:
Kinematics
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Unit 2:
Laws of Motion
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Unit 3:
Work & Energy
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Unit 4:
Linear Momentum
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Unit 5:
Rotations
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Unit 6:
Oscillations
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Unit 7:
Gravitation
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Free AP Physics C: Mechanics Overview
Multiple choice
- 35 questions in 45 minutes; worth 50% of your score.
- Covers motion, forces, energy, rotation, and gravitation.
- Focus on calculus-based problem solving and reasoning.
- Many questions use diagrams, graphs, or data sets.
Free response
- Three questions in 45 minutes; worth 50% of your score.
- Requires detailed solutions using calculus.
- Often includes multi-step problems and explanations.
- Show clear work, reasoning, and correct units throughout.
AP Physics C Exam
AP Physics C: Mechanics is a college-level course that explores principles of classical mechanics with a strong emphasis on problem-solving and calculus-based analysis. Topics include kinematics, Newton’s laws, work, energy, power, systems of particles, linear momentum, circular motion, rotation, oscillations, and gravitation. The course is designed for students planning to major in physical science or engineering fields.
The AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam is administered at the end of the school year and tests both conceptual understanding and the application of calculus to physical problems. Students should be concurrently enrolled in, or have already completed, a calculus course.
Content Categories
The exam is one hour and thirty minutes in total and is divided into two equal sections:
1
Multiple Choice
This section consists of 35 questions to be completed in 45 minutes, and it accounts for 50% of your total score.
2
Free Response
In this section, you’ll have 45 minutes to solve 3 free response questions, also worth 50% of your total score.
A scientific or graphing calculator is allowed on both sections of the exam. You’ll also be provided with a formula sheet containing key equations and constants.
AP Physics C: Mechanics is known for its rigor—it combines physics concepts with mathematical precision and requires a solid grasp of calculus. Many students find the material challenging, especially when applying multiple concepts to solve multi-step problems. Success on the exam comes from both mastering the theory and developing strong problem-solving strategies.
Use the seven AP Physics C practice tests above to review all major units of the course and build confidence before exam day. Each test is designed to reflect the timing, format, and difficulty level of the real AP exam. With dedicated practice, you’ll be well on your way to earning a top score and preparing for future success in physics and engineering!