AP Physics 1

Advanced Placement Physics 1 covers the fundamentals of mechanics, waves, and electricity in preparation for college-level physics.

Kinematics: Describing MotionNewton's Laws of MotionEnergy and Work
Rotational Motion and TorqueWaves and Simple Harmonic MotionElectric Charge and Circuits
Physics in SportsHome Electricity SafetyEngineering and Building Structures
Mastering Free-Body DiagramsSolving Problems Step-by-Step
Kinematics: Describi...Newton's Laws of Mot...Energy and WorkRotational Motion an...Waves and Simple Har...Electric Charge and ...Physics in SportsHome Electricity Saf...Engineering and Buil...Mastering Free-Body ...Solving Problems Ste...
Advanced Topics

Electric Charge and Circuits

Powering the Modern World

Electricity is all about charges in motion! AP Physics 1 focuses on the basics: electric charge, current, voltage, and simple circuits.

What is Electric Charge?

Matter is made up of tiny particles with electric charge. Like charges repel, unlike charges attract.

Circuits and Current

  • Current (\( I \)) is the flow of electric charge, measured in amperes (A).
  • Voltage (\( V \)) is the potential difference that pushes charges through a circuit.
  • Resistance (\( R \)) opposes current flow.

Ohm's Law ties it all together: \[ V = IR \]

Real-World Importance

From lighting your room to charging your phone, understanding circuits is crucial for modern technology.

Key Formula

\[V = IR\]

Examples

  • A flashlight turns on when a circuit allows current to flow from the battery.

  • Your phone charger uses voltage and current to refill your battery.

In a Nutshell

Electricity involves the movement of charges through circuits, enabling everything from lights to smartphones.

Key Terms

Voltage
The energy per unit charge driving current through a circuit.
Current
The flow of electric charge.
Resistance
A measure of how much a material opposes the flow of current.
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Physics in Sports