Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

AP Physics C vs. AP Physics 1: Which one should I choose?

I'm trying to decide which AP Physics class to take next year. Can anyone share their experiences with either AP Physics C or AP Physics 1, and help me figure out which one will be a better fit for me?

2 years ago

Hey! So AP Physics C differs from AP Physics 1 in that it's divided into two sections: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism, and you'll need to know some calculus for it. AP Physics C is more math-intensive and it's generally geared towards students who are planning to major in engineering, physics, or any field that requires a heavy understanding of mechanics and electricity. You'll learn more advanced topics in AP Physics C compared to AP Physics 1, and it will probably be more challenging as well.

On the other hand, AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based course, which is more appropriate for students with a strong foundation in algebra and trigonometry. It's more of an introductory course to the broad field of physics, so you'll learn more about kinematics, dynamics, electromagnetism, and other concepts. This course might be a better fit for you if you're not planning on majoring in a highly technical or specialized field, or if you haven't taken calculus yet.

To sum it up, if you've got a solid understanding of calculus and you're aiming for a career in a technical field, then I'd recommend AP Physics C. If you prefer an introductory course to physics with a primary focus on algebra and trigonometry, go for AP Physics 1. Just make sure you're comfortable with the math involved in whichever course you choose. Good luck!

2 years ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.