#AP Physics 2: Forces and Thermodynamics - Your Last Minute Guide 🚀

Hey there, future physicist! Let's make sure you're totally prepped for the AP Physics 2 exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the test. We'll break down the key concepts, make connections, and get you feeling confident. Let's do this!

#1. Forces: A Quick Review from Physics 1 💪

#1.1 What is a Force?

• A force is simply a push or pull on an object. It can cause an object to:
  • Accelerate
  • Change direction
  • Change shape
• Forces are vectors, meaning they have both magnitude (size) and direction.
• Measured in Newtons (N): 1 N = 1 kg * m/s²

#1.2 Net Force

• The net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object.
• Newton's Second Law: $F_{net} = ma$ (Net force equals mass times acceleration).

#1.3 Common Forces

• Gravitational Force: The force of attraction between objects with mass.

• Buoyant Force: The upward force exerted by a fluid on an object.

• Normal Force: The force exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it.

#1.4 Pressure and Force

• Pressure is the force exerted per unit area: $P = F/A$.
• Pressure is related to the average change in momentum of molecules colliding with container walls.

#1.5 Momentum and Force

• Impulse (change in momentum) is equal to the force multiplied by the time interval: $J = F\Delta t = \Delta p$