AP Physics C: Mechanics
Course Information
AP Physics C: Mechanics is a calculus-based, college-level physics course designed for students planning to pursue engineering, physics, mathematics, or other quantitative STEM fields.
Subject Area: Science
UC A-G Area: D – Science
Course Level: Advanced Placement
Open Terms: Summer & Fall
Enrollment Information
Course Start: 9/15/2026
Course End: 12/22/2026
Class Mode: Onsite/Online
Enrollment Period: 5/1/2026-8/30/2026
Related College Majors
This course provides useful preparation for many rigorous STEM, engineering, and technical college pathways, including:
Mechanical Engineering / Aerospace Engineering / Physics / Civil Engineering / Astronomy / Applied Mathematics / Materials Science / Architecture
Prerequisites
Students should:
- Have taken or be concurrently taking Calculus
- Earn an A or B in AP Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC when possible
Students should also be comfortable with algebra, trigonometry, derivatives, and integrals and be ready to apply those mathematical tools to physical systems and quantitative problem-solving.
Course Units
- Kinematics
- Force and Translational Dynamics
- Work, Energy, and Power
- Linear Momentum
- Torque and Rotational Dynamics
- Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems
- Oscillations
Comparison Table
2027 AP Exam Information
Exam Date: May 3, 2027 | Exam Duration: 3 Hours
Section I
Multiple Choice
- 42 questions
- 1 Hour 25 Minutes
- 50% of Score
Questions may be presented individually or in sets based on diagrams, graphs, data, experimental scenarios, or physical systems.
Students may be asked to:
- Apply calculus-based physics relationships
- Analyze motion and force interactions
- Interpret graphical and mathematical representations
- Evaluate experimental data
- Make quantitative predictions
- Connect mathematical models with physical behavior
A permitted calculator may be used throughout this 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 apply calculus, show mathematical reasoning, connect equations with physical systems, analyze experimental methods and data, and justify conclusions.
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 C: Electricity and Magnetism
Continue into electricity and magnetism, including circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetic induction.
AP Calculus BC
Strengthen calculus skills through advanced integration, parametric and polar functions, vectors, sequences, and series.
AP Computer Science A
Apply mathematical reasoning and structured problem-solving to object-oriented programming and algorithm development in Java.
AP Physics 2
Explore electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, optics, waves, and modern physics using an algebra-based approach.
Questions About AP Physics C: Mechanics
Where can I find official AP Physics C: Mechanics resources and exam details?
For the official course framework, exam information, calculator policies, reference materials, and student resources, visit the College Board AP Physics C: Mechanics page.
Do I have to take AP Physics 1 first?
No. College Board does not require AP Physics 1 as a prerequisite. Students should, however, have taken calculus or be taking calculus concurrently. Prior physics experience can still be helpful because Physics C: Mechanics moves quickly and uses calculus throughout the course.
Is there a laboratory component?
Yes. AP Physics C: Mechanics includes inquiry-based laboratory work in which students design investigations, make observations, collect and analyze data, evaluate experimental procedures, and connect mathematical models to physical systems.
How is AP Physics C: Mechanics different from AP Physics 1?
Both courses study mechanics, but AP Physics 1 uses algebra and basic trigonometry, while AP Physics C: Mechanics applies differential and integral calculus and moves at a more mathematically advanced pace.
Will I receive high school credit for taking this course?
Yes. Franklin Academy is a WASC-accredited private school. Upon completion of the course, Franklin Academy issues an official transcript with the WASC seal. Students may choose to transfer credits to their school of record or submit the Franklin Academy transcript as part of their college application materials.
Interested in Enrolling in AP Classes?
Franklin Academy offers a range of AP courses designed to help students strengthen their academic foundation, explore advanced subjects, and prepare for college-level coursework. Complete the form below and let us know which AP courses you’re interested in.