AP Physics 2
Course Information
AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that builds on the foundations developed in AP Physics 1.
Subject Area: Science
UC A-G Area: D – Science
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/11/2026
Course End: 4/30/2027
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many STEM, engineering, and technical college pathways, including:
Electrical Engineering / Mechanical Engineering / Aerospace Engineering / Physics / Computer Science / Pre-Medicine / Architecture / Mathematics / Astronomy / Chemistry
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Successfully complete AP Physics 1
- Earn an A in Algebra 2 or Integrated Math 3 (College Prep or Honors)
Students should also be comfortable applying algebra and basic trigonometry to quantitative physics problems.
College Board recommends that students entering AP Physics 2 have completed AP Physics 1 or a comparable introductory physics course and have taken or be concurrently taking precalculus or an equivalent course.
Course Units
- Thermodynamics
- Electric Force, Field, and Potential
- Electric Circuits
- Magnetism and Electromagnetism
- Geometric Optics
- Waves, Sound, and Physical Optics
- Modern Physics
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 6, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 42 questions
- 1 Hour 25 Minutes
- 50% of Score
Questions include both individual questions and question sets based on scientific scenarios, diagrams, experimental information, and data.
Students may be asked to:
- Apply physics principles and mathematical relationships
- Analyze physical systems
- Interpret graphs and representations
- Evaluate experimental data
- Make predictions based on physical models
A permitted calculator may be used throughout the section.
Section II
Free Response
- 4 questions
- 1 Hour 35 Minutes
- 50% of Score
The section includes one question of each type:
- Mathematical Routines
- Translation Between Representations
- Experimental Design and Analysis
- Qualitative / Quantitative Translation
Students are expected to show their reasoning, connect mathematical and visual representations, analyze experimental procedures and data, and explain physical relationships clearly.
Free-response questions are viewed in Bluebook, while answers are handwritten in the provided exam booklet.
A permitted calculator may be used throughout the section.
Related AP Courses
Explore other AP courses that complement this course and can help you build a broader academic pathway based on your interests, strengths, and future college goals.
AP Physics 1
Build the algebra-based physics foundation in mechanics, energy, momentum, rotation, oscillations, and fluids.
AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
Continue into calculus-based electricity and magnetism, including electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic induction.
AP Calculus AB
Build a foundation in differential and integral calculus for future calculus-based physics and engineering coursework.
AP Chemistry
Develop quantitative scientific reasoning through atomic structure, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
Questions About AP Physics 2
Where can I find official AP Physics 2 resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, calculator policies, reference materials, and student resources, visit the College Board AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based page.
Do I need to take AP Physics 1 before AP Physics 2?
At Franklin Academy, yes. AP Physics 1 is a prerequisite for AP Physics 2. College Board also recommends that students have completed AP Physics 1 or a comparable introductory physics course before taking AP Physics 2.
Do I need calculus for AP Physics 2?
No. AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based course. Students should be comfortable with algebra and basic trigonometry, but calculus is not required for the course or exam.
Is there a laboratory component to AP Physics 2?
Yes. AP Physics 2 includes inquiry-based laboratory work in which students design investigations, make predictions, collect and analyze data, and support scientific claims with evidence.
What changed on the 2027 AP Physics 2 Exam?
Beginning with the May 2027 exam, the multiple-choice section increased from 40 to 42 questions and now lasts 85 minutes. The free-response section contains four questions and lasts 95 minutes.
Interested in Enrolling in AP Classes?
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