SAT Subject Test in Physics

The SAT Subject Test in Physics assesses students' understanding of physics concepts and their ability to apply these concepts to solve problems.

Basic Concepts

Newton's Laws and Forces

The Rules of Motion

Newton's Laws of Motion are the backbone of classical physics. They explain why objects move (or don't move) the way they do.

Newton’s 1st Law: Inertia

Objects keep doing what they're doing unless a force makes them change.

Newton’s 2nd Law: F = ma

The force on an object equals its mass times its acceleration. This equation helps you solve almost any force problem!

Newton’s 3rd Law: Action and Reaction

For every action, there’s an equal and opposite reaction. Push on a wall, and it pushes back.

Types of Forces

  • Gravity
  • Friction
  • Normal force
  • Tension

Everyday Examples

From riding a skateboard to launching a rocket, Newton’s Laws are everywhere!

Examples

  • A hockey puck glides across ice until friction (a force) slows it down.

  • Jumping off a boat pushes you forward—and the boat backward.

In a Nutshell

Newton’s Laws explain how forces cause changes in motion.