Is AP Physics 1 algebra-based or calculus-based?

AP Physics 1 is algebra-based. You don't need calculus to take the course or the exam.

The College Board designed AP Physics 1 to be accessible to students who have completed or are taking Algebra II. All the equations you need can be derived and applied using algebra and basic trig. If you're wondering exactly what math you need, check out what math do I need for AP Physics 1.

This is different from AP Physics C, which is calculus-based and uses integrals and derivatives throughout. AP Physics C also covers different content - because it gets deeper into the math, it doesn't cover as many areas of physics as AP Physics 1. For a deeper comparison, see is AP Physics 1 harder than AP Physics C.

You will need to interpret graphs - for example, understanding that the slope of a position-time graph gives velocity, or that the area under a force-time graph gives impulse. You don't need to calculate integrals, but you should understand these graphical relationships.

If you're deciding between AP Physics 1 and AP Physics C: take AP Physics 1 if you haven't taken calculus yet, or if you want a broader introduction to physics topics. Take AP Physics C if you've completed calculus and want a deeper dive into mechanics.

Many students take AP Physics 1 first and then AP Physics C the following year. The conceptual foundation from AP Physics 1 makes AP Physics C way easier. You can also use your AP Physics 1 knowledge to get a head start on university physics courses.

PhysicsGraph currently covers AP Physics 1. We assume you have a solid algebra foundation but don't require or use any calculus. You can preview our topics to see the full curriculum.