Our AP Physics C: Mechanics course represents the gold standard of high school mechanics education, providing a rigorous, calculus-based treatment of classical mechanics. This course is designed for students who want to experience physics at the college level and develop the mathematical sophistication required for advanced STEM fields.
AP Physics C: Mechanics is equivalent to a semester-long, calculus-based college mechanics course. Unlike algebra-based physics courses, this program integrates calculus throughout, using derivatives to describe motion and integrals to solve energy and momentum problems. Students will develop both conceptual understanding and advanced mathematical problem-solving skills essential for engineering and physics majors.
This course requires calculus! You'll use derivatives to analyze motion, integrals to calculate work and impulse, and differential equations to solve complex mechanics problems. Concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus AB or prior completion is essential.
Mathematics: AP Calculus AB (concurrent enrollment acceptable) or equivalent
Physics Background: Strong algebra-based physics foundation recommended (AP Physics 1 or equivalent)
Mathematical Skills: Comfort with derivatives, integrals, and basic differential equations
Exam Date: May 2026 | Duration: 90 minutes | Format: Multiple Choice (45 min) + Free Response (45 min)
The exam emphasizes mathematical reasoning, with heavy use of calculus in problem-solving. Free response questions often require setting up and solving differential equations.
Access to all live session recordings for review and reinforcement at your own pace
24/7 support for quick questions and clarifications outside of scheduled sessions
Regular assessments under exam conditions to track progress and build exam confidence
Seamless integration of calculus concepts with physics, building mathematical sophistication
Calculus-based treatment of motion in one and multiple dimensions.
Force analysis with calculus, including variable forces and differential equations.
Energy concepts with integral calculus and advanced applications.
Center of mass, momentum, and collisions with calculus-based analysis.
Comprehensive treatment of rotational motion using calculus.
Simple harmonic motion through differential equations and calculus.
Universal gravitation with calculus-based approach to orbital mechanics.
Complete 50-hour AP Physics C Mechanics course with all materials and resources included
AP Physics C: Mechanics represents one of the most rigorous and rewarding courses available at the high school level. This course will not only prepare you for the AP exam but also provide you with the mathematical sophistication and problem-solving skills essential for success in engineering, physics, and other quantitative fields.
Students who complete this course often find their college physics and engineering courses much more manageable, having already developed comfort with the mathematical tools and reasoning patterns used in advanced STEM education. The combination of deep conceptual understanding and mathematical rigor makes this course invaluable preparation for technical careers.