Unit 1 of AP Physics C lays the groundwork for the entire course, focusing on kinematics and dynamics. Mastering these concepts is crucial for success. This practice test will help you assess your understanding and identify areas needing further review. Remember to approach each problem methodically, showing your work to track your thought process and catch potential errors.
Instructions: Attempt each problem to the best of your ability. Check your answers against a solutions guide (not provided here – consult your textbook or teacher for solutions). Focus on understanding the why behind each answer, not just getting the right numerical result.
Section 1: Kinematics
This section tests your understanding of motion without considering the forces causing that motion.
1. Displacement vs. Distance: A particle moves along the x-axis. It starts at x = 2m, moves to x = 8m, then returns to x = 5m. What is (a) the total distance traveled and (b) the total displacement?
2. Velocity and Acceleration: A car accelerates uniformly from rest to 20 m/s in 5 seconds. What is its acceleration? How far did it travel during this time?
3. Projectile Motion: A ball is thrown horizontally from a cliff 20m high with an initial speed of 15 m/s. Ignoring air resistance, how far from the base of the cliff does it land? What is its final velocity (magnitude and direction) just before impact?
4. Graphical Analysis: You are given a velocity-time graph for an object's motion. Explain how you would determine the object's displacement and acceleration from the graph. Provide specific examples based on the shape of the graph (e.g., straight lines, curves).
Section 2: Dynamics
This section explores the relationship between forces and motion.
5. Newton's Laws: A 5kg block rests on a frictionless surface. A 10N force is applied horizontally. What is the acceleration of the block? If a second 5kg block is placed on top, what is the new acceleration?
6. Friction: A 2kg block is sliding down a 30-degree inclined plane with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.2. What is the acceleration of the block down the incline?
7. Forces and Equilibrium: A 10kg weight hangs from a rope attached to the ceiling. A second rope is attached to the weight and pulled horizontally with a force of 50N. What is the tension in the first rope (attached to the ceiling)? What angle does the first rope make with the vertical?
8. Circular Motion: A 0.5kg ball is swung in a horizontal circle with a radius of 1m at a constant speed of 4 m/s. What is the centripetal acceleration of the ball? What is the tension in the string?
Section 3: Problem-Solving Strategies
This section assesses your ability to apply concepts to complex scenarios.
9. Combined Motion: A projectile is launched with an initial velocity of 20 m/s at a 30-degree angle above the horizontal. Find its maximum height, range, and time of flight. Ignore air resistance.
10. Multiple Objects: Two blocks of mass 3kg and 5kg are connected by a massless string over a frictionless pulley. Assuming the 5kg block hangs vertically and the 3kg block rests on a horizontal surface with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.1, find the acceleration of the system and the tension in the string.
This practice test provides a comprehensive review of Unit 1 topics. Remember to consult your textbook, notes, and teacher for additional support. Good luck!
