Physics is the study of energy and matter. Since everything in our universe is made up of energy and matter, it follows that physics is the study of everything. Physics covers every scale from small, subatomic particles to large superclusters of galaxies. Physics deals with natural phenomena and the fundamental properties of matter, making it the most pure and basic of the hard sciences. Mathematics is the foundation of physics and allows for the creation of various models which characterize the physical phenomena we experience everyday. Physics uses these mathematical models to predict the future—which is pretty cool. In addition to deepening our understanding of the world, a course in physics will also help develop problem solving skills, making it a welcome addition to any well-rounded curriculum.
AP Physics B is an algebra-based course, comparable to the physics course a life science major might take in college. AP Physics is deeper and more rigorous than Conceptual Physics. Students will be expected to have an excellent working knowledge of algebra as well as trigonometry, as AP Physics requires students to connect their understanding of the concepts to the mathematical models used to solve various problems. The topics of mechanics, thermodynamics, and electricity and magnetism will be surveyed, as well as several modern topics, such as lasers and special relativity, if time permits. | 