AP Physics B

AP Physics B covers fundamental concepts in physics, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and waves, preparing students for college-level physics courses.

Advanced Topics

Electricity and Magnetism

Exploring Electric and Magnetic Forces

Electricity and magnetism are closely related forces studied in physics. Electric charges can attract or repel, and moving charges create magnetic fields.

Key Concepts

  • Coulomb’s Law: Describes the force between two electric charges.
  • Ohm’s Law: Relates voltage, current, and resistance (\( V = IR \)).
  • Electromagnetism: A changing magnetic field can create electric currents, and vice versa.

Everyday Impact

Electricity powers our homes, and magnetism guides compasses and enables MRI machines.

Real World Impact

From smartphones to power plants, these principles drive modern technology.

Key Formula

\[V = IR\]

Examples

  • Flipping a light switch completes a circuit, allowing current to flow.

  • A credit card’s magnetic strip stores data using magnetism.

In a Nutshell

Electricity and magnetism explain how we generate, transmit, and use energy in countless devices.

Key Terms

Current
The flow of electric charge.
Voltage
The potential difference that drives current.
Magnetic Field
A region where magnetic forces can be detected.