AP® Physics B

This course is the equivalent of an introductory college-level survey course, but does not require proficiency in calculus. Students focus on five general areas: Newtonian mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students gain an understanding of the core principles of physics and then apply them to problem-solving exercises. They learn how to measure the mass of a planet without weighing it, find out how electricity makes a motor turn, and learn how opticians know how to shape lenses for glasses. Students prepare for the AP® Exam and for further study in science and engineering.

Two semesters

• Schaum’s Outline of College Physics, by Bueche and Hecht, tenth edition

Algebra II, Pre-Calculus (with trigonometry), and a grade of B or higher in most recent Math and Science courses