Name:____________________________________

Answer Sheet for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Practice Exam, Section I

No. Answer No. Answer

1 26
2 27
3 28
4 29
5 30
6 31
7 32
8 33
9 34
10 35
11 36
12 37
13 38
14 39
15 40
16 41
17 42
18 43
19 44
20 45
21 131
22 132
23 133
24 134
25 135
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam
®

SECTION I: Multiple Choice

DO NOT OPEN THIS BOOKLET UNTIL YOU ARE TOLD TO DO SO.

Instructions
At a Glance
Section I of this exam contains 50 multiple-choice questions. Pages containing equations
Total Time and other information are also printed in this booklet. Calculators, rulers, and
1 hour and 30 minutes straightedges may be used in this section.
Number of Questions
50 Indicate all of your answers to the multiple-choice questions on the answer sheet. No
Percent of Total Score credit will be given for anything written in this exam booklet, but you may use the booklet
50% for notes or scratch work.
Writing Instrument
Pencil required Because this section offers only four answer options for each question, do not mark the
Electronic Device (E) answer circle for any question. If you change an answer, be sure that the previous
Calculator allowed mark is erased completely.
For questions 1 through 45, select the single best answer choice for each question. After
you have decided which of the choices is best, completely fill in the corresponding circle
on the answer sheet. Here is a sample question and answer.

For questions 131 through 135, select the two best answer choices for each question.
After you have decided which two choices are best, completely fill in the two
corresponding circles on the answer sheet. Here is a sample question and answer.

Use your time effectively, working as quickly as you can without losing accuracy. Do not
spend too much time on any one question. Go on to other questions and come back to
the ones you have not answered if you have time. It is not expected that everyone will
know the answers to all of the multiple-choice questions.
Your total score on Section I is based only on the number of questions answered correctly.
Points are not deducted for incorrect answers or unanswered questions.
 AP® PHYSICS 1 TABLE OF INFORMATION
CONSTANTS AND CONVERSION FACTORS
27 19
Proton mass, mp 1.67 10 kg Electron charge magnitude, e 1.60 10 C
27
Neutron mass, mn 1.67 10 kg Coulomb’s law constant, k 1 4 pe0 9.0 10 9 N  m 2 C2
31 Universal gravitational 11
Electron mass, me 9.11 10 kg
constant, G 6.67 10 m 3 kgs2
Acceleration due to gravity
Speed of light, c 3.00 108 m s at Earth’s surface, g 9.8 m s2

meter, m kelvin, K watt, W degree Celsius, C

UNIT kilogram, kg hertz, Hz coulomb, C
SYMBOLS second, s newton, N volt, V
ampere, A joule, J ohm, W

PREFIXES VALUES OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS FOR COMMON ANGLES

Factor Prefix Symbol       
q 0 30 37 45 53 60 90
12 tera T
10
sinq 0 12 35 2 2 45 3 2 1
10 9 giga G
10 6 mega M cosq 1 3 2 45 2 2 35 12 0
10 3 kilo k tanq 0 3 3 34 1 43 3
2 centi c
10
3 milli m
10 The following conventions are used in this exam.
10 6 micro m I. The frame of reference of any problem is assumed to be inertial unless
otherwise stated.
9 nano n
10 II. Assume air resistance is negligible unless otherwise stated.
10 12 pico p III. In all situations, positive work is defined as work done on a system.
IV. The direction of current is conventional current: the direction in which
positive charge would drift.
V. Assume all batteries and meters are ideal unless otherwise stated.
 AP® PHYSICS 1 EQUATIONS
MECHANICS ELECTRICITY
Ãx Ãx 0 ax t a = acceleration  q1q2 A = area
A = amplitude FE k 2 F = force
r
1 2 d = distance I = current
x x0 Ãx 0 t at Dq
2 x E = energy I  = length
Dt
f = frequency P = power
Ãx2 Ãx20 2ax x x0 = force
r
F R q = charge
  I = rotational inertia A R = resistance
 F Fnet K = kinetic energy DV r = separation
a I
m m k = spring constant R t = time
  L = angular momentum P I DV V = electric potential
Ff m Fn
 = length Rs Ri r = resistivity
m = mass i
2
à 1 1
ac P = power
r Rp Ri
p = momentum
  i
p mv r = radius or separation
  T = period
Dp F Dt t = time WAVES
U = potential energy f = frequency
1 2 v
K mv V = volume l v = speed
2 f
v = speed l = wavelength
DE W Fd Fd cos q W = work done on a system
GEOMETRY AND TRIGONOMETRY
x = position
DE y = height Rectangle A = area
P a = angular acceleration A bh C = circumference
Dt
m = coefficient of friction V = volume
1 2 Triangle S = surface area
q q0 w0t at q = angle
2 1 b = base
r = density A bh
2 h = height
w w0 at t = torque  = length
w = angular speed Circle w = width
x A cos 2 p ft
A pr 2 r = radius
  DUg mg Dy
 t t net C 2 pr
a
I I
2p 1 Rectangular solid Right triangle
T
t r F rF sin q w f V wh c2 a2 b2
L Iw m a
Ts 2p Cylinder sin q
k c
DL t Dt V pr 2
b
 S 2 pr  2 pr 2 cos q
Tp 2p c
1 2 g
K Iw a
2 Sphere tan q
  m1m2 b
 Fg G 4 3
Fs kx V pr
r2 3 c a
 90°
Us
1 2
kx  Fg S 4pr 2 q
2 g b
m
m Gm1m2
r UG
V r
 PHYSICS 1
SECTION I
Time—1 hour and 30 minutes
50 Questions

Note: To simplify calculations, you may use g ! 10 m/s2 in all problems.

Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by four suggested answers or
completions. Select the one that is best in each case and then fill in the corresponding circle on the answer sheet.

1. A 4 kg object moving to the left collides with 3. At time t = 0, a cart is at x =10 m and has a
and sticks to a 3 kg object moving to the right. velocity of 3 m/s in the −x -direction. The cart
Which of the following is true of the motion of has a constant acceleration in the +x-direction
the combined objects immediately after the
with magnitude 3 m/s2 < a < 6 m/s2 . Which of
collision?
the following gives the possible range of the
(A) They must be moving to the left. position of the cart at t =1 s ?
(B) They must be moving to the right.
(A) 4 m < x < 5.5 m
(C) They must be at rest.
(B) 8.5 m < x < 10 m
(D) The motion cannot be determined without
knowing the speeds of the objects before (C) 11.5 m < x < 13 m
the collision. (D) 14.5 m < x < 16 m

2. A brother and sister are standing next to each

other at rest on a surface of frictionless ice. The
brother’s mass is exactly twice that of his
sister’s. The sister suddenly pushes her brother.
As a result, the sister moves with kinetic energy
K . What is the resulting kinetic energy of the
brother?

(A) 4K
(B) 2K
K
(C)
2
K
(D)
4

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4. A launcher with mass m1 is suspended from the ceiling by a string, as shown. A block with mass m 2 < m1 is
launched horizontally. At the moment of launch, the block has unknown speed v2 and the launcher has
unknown speed v1 in the opposite direction. Which of the following is a true statement about the forces exerted
between the launcher and block?

(A) The launcher exerts a greater force on the block than the block exerts on the launcher.
(B) The block exerts a greater force on the launcher than the launcher exerts on the block.
(C) The block and the launcher exert forces of equal magnitude on each other.
(D) The relative magnitude of the force exerted on the spring by the block and launcher cannot be determined
without knowing v1 and v2.

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Questions 5 and 6 refer to the following material. 5. In which segment does the net force exerted on
the object have the greatest magnitude?

(A) HI
(B) IJ
(C) JL
(D) LM

6. What is the kinetic energy of the object at point

K ?

(A) 5 J
(B) 4 J
(C) 3 J
The graph above shows the potential energy U of a
system as one object in the system moves along the (D) 2 J
x -axis and the rest of the system does not move. Six
evenly-spaced points along the x -axis are labeled. At
point H , the object is moving in the positive
x -direction and the mechanical energy of the system
is 5.0 J . As the object moves, no energy enters or
leaves the system.

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7. Which of the following describes the magnitude of the momentum of the object in the first two straight-line
segments shown in the graph as the object moves from point H to point J ?

(A)
HI IJ

Zero Increasing

(B)
HI IJ

Zero Decreasing

(C)
HI IJ

Constant but nonzero Increasing

(D)
HI IJ

Constant but nonzero Decreasing

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8. At time t = 0 s, an object is moving to the right
with a velocity v that can be modeled by the
equation v=(4.2 m/s)-(1.4 m/s2) t . At what time,
if any, does the object change its direction of
motion?

(A) 0.33 s
(B) 3.0 s
(C) 5.6 s
(D) At no time; the object never changes
direction.

9. Two objects, X and Y, experience external net torques that vary over a period of 5 seconds. Object X has a
moment of inertia I0, and Object Y has a moment of inertia 2I0 . The average value of the magnitude of the
external net torque exerted on Object X from time t = 0 to t = 5 s is tX . Similarly, the average value for Object
Y is tY . The magnitudes of the angular momenta L of Objects X and Y versus t are shown in the graph. Which
of the following expressions correctly relates tY to tX ?

(A) tY = 4tX
(B) tY = 2tX
(C) 2tY = tX
(D) 4tY = tX

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10. Two identical blocks slide along a ramp with negligible friction, as shown. The first block has an initial speed
v0 up the ramp while the second has the same initial speed v0 down the ramp. The coordinate system shown
defines down the ramp to be the positive x direction. While both blocks are sliding on the ramp, the center of
mass velocity of the two-block system is

(A) constant and zero

(B) constant but not zero
(C) increasing in the −x direction
(D) increasing in the +x direction

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11. Blocks 1 and 2 are connected by a light string that passes over a pulley with negligible mass and friction, as
shown in the figure. Block 1 is on a table covered with two different materials, A and B. The two-block system
is released from rest, and the speed of block 1 begins to increase. When block 1 reaches material B, its speed
increases at a greater rate. Which of the following correctly compares the coefficient of kinetic friction m
between block 1 and the two materials and describes the change in the magnitude of the net force on block 2 as
block 1 slides from material A to material B?

(A) Coefficients Net Force

mA > mB Decreases

(B) Coefficients Net Force

mA > mB Increases

(C) Coefficients Net Force

mA < mB Increases

(D) Coefficients Net Force

mA < mB Decreases

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12. A toy doll and a toy robot are standing on a
frictionless surface facing each other. The doll
has a mass of 0.20 kg, and the robot has a mass
of 0.30 kg. The robot pushes on the doll with a
force of 0.30 N. The magnitude of the
acceleration of the robot is

(A) zero
(B) 0.60 m/s2
(C) 1.0 m/s2
(D) 1.5 m/s2

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13. A block of mass m travels with speed v0 to the right on a horizontal surface with negligible friction toward a
sphere of mass 2m hanging at rest from a light cord, as shown above. The block collides elastically with the
sphere. Which of the following correctly describes the speed and direction of the block and the speed of the
sphere a short time after the collision?

(A) Speed and Direction of

Speed of Sphere
Block
v0 2v0
to the left Slightly less than
3 3

(B) Speed and Direction of

Speed of Sphere
Block
v0 2v0
to the right Slightly less than
3 3

(C)
Speed and Direction of
Speed of Sphere
Block
Zero Slightly less than v0

(D) Speed and Direction of

Speed of Sphere
Block
v0 to the left Zero

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14. A block of mass m slides along a frictionless
surface with kinetic energy Ki. It collides with a
block of mass 3m that is initially at rest, and the
two blocks stick together and slide with total
kinetic energy Kf . What is the ratio Kf : Ki ?

(A) 1: 1
(B) 1: 2
(C) 1: 3
(D) 1: 4

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Questions 15 and 16 refer to the following. 16. Does the planet exert a torque on the meteoroid
with respect to the center of mass of the planet?
Why or why not?
A meteoroid is in a circular orbit 600 km above the
surface of a distant planet. The planet has the same
(A) Yes, because the planet exerts a centripetal
mass as Earth but has a radius that is 90 % of Earth’s force on the meteoroid.
(where Earth’s radius is approximately 6370 km ).
(B) Yes, because the meteoroid’s direction of
motion is constantly changing.
(C) No, because the force exerted by the planet
on the meteoroid has a negligible
15. The acceleration of the meteoroid due to the magnitude.
gravitational force exerted by the planet is most (D) No, because the planet exerts a force on the
nearly meteoroid parallel to its position vector
relative to the center of mass of the
(A) 9 m/s2 toward the center of the planet planet.
(B) 9 m/s2 in the direction of the meteoroid’s
motion
(C) 10 m/s2 toward the center of the planet
(D) 10 m/s2 in the direction of the meteoroid’s
motion

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17. A satellite in a circular orbit around Earth is initially not rotating with respect to its center of mass. Two
identical thrusters on opposite sides of the satellite fire in opposite directions over the same 10 -minute time
interval, as shown above, and then turn off. How does the firing of the thrusters affect the mechanical energy of
the satellite-Earth system and the shape of the satellite’s orbit, if at all?

(A) Mechanical Energy of

Shape of Orbit
Satellite-Earth System
No effect No effect

(B) Mechanical Energy of

Shape of Orbit
Satellite-Earth System
No effect Would change

(C) Mechanical Energy of

Shape of Orbit
Satellite-Earth System
Increases No effect

(D) Mechanical Energy of

Shape of Orbit
Satellite-Earth System
Increases Would change

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18. A box of mass m is released from rest and accelerates down a ramp that is at an angle q to the horizontal, as
shown. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the box and the ramp is m . As the box is sliding down the
ramp, how are the magnitudes of the horizontal and vertical components of the box’s velocity changing, if at
all?

(A) Horizontal Component Vertical Component

Not changing Not changing

(B) Horizontal Component Vertical Component

Not changing Increasing

(C) Horizontal Component Vertical Component

Increasing Not changing

(D) Horizontal Component Vertical Component

Increasing Increasing

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19. A vertical spring has unstretched length L 0 , as shown in Figure 1. A block is attached to the top of the spring
and slowly lowered until it is at rest and the spring has length L eq , as shown in Figure 2 . The block is then
pushed down until the spring is compressed to length L comp , as shown in Figure 3, and then released. After
release, at what height will the kinetic energy of the block be maximum?

(A) L 0
(B) L eq
(C) L comp

(L eq + Lcomp)
(D)
2

Final Momentum
Cart Mass (kg) Applied Force (N) Time Force is Exerted (s)
(kg
m
s ) Final Kinetic Energy (J)

1 5 2 10 50

2 5 2 10

20. Two frictionless lab carts start from rest and are pushed along a level surface by a constant force. Students
measure the magnitude and duration of the force on each cart, as shown in the partially completed data table
above, and calculate final kinetic energy and momentum. Which cart has a greater kinetic energy at the end of
the push?

(A) The 1 kg cart

(B) The 2 kg cart
(C) Both carts have the same amount of kinetic energy.
(D) The relationship cannot be determined without knowing the distance each cart moved as the force was
being applied.

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21. A simple pendulum consists of a sphere tied to
the end of a string of negligible mass. The
sphere is pulled back until the string is
horizontal and then released from rest. Assume
gravitational potential energy is zero when the
sphere is at its lowest point. What angle will the
string make with the horizontal when the kinetic
energy and the potential energy of the
sphere-Earth system are equal?

(A) Greater than 45°

(B) Equal to 45°
(C) Less than 45°
(D) It cannot be determined without knowing
the mass of the sphere.

22. A stationary cart attached to a force gauge is on a straight, horizontal, frictionless track. A student uses the
force gauge to move the cart, and the gauge produces the graph of force as a function of time shown above.
How does the momentum of the cart change during the time interval 0 s to 20 s ?

(A) The momentum increases in magnitude during the entire time interval.
(B) The momentum decreases in magnitude during the entire time interval.
(C) The momentum increases in magnitude at first, then decreases and reverses direction.
(D) The momentum increases in magnitude at first, then decreases without reversing direction.

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23. An engineer measures the velocity v of a remote-controlled cart on a straight track at regular time intervals.
The data are shown in the graph above. During which of the following time intervals did the cart return to its
position at time t = 0 s ?

(A) 3 s £ t < 5 s
(B) 5 s £ t < 7 s
(C) 7 s £ t < 10 s
(D) 10 s £ t < 12 s

24. A 2.0 kg disk is able to move on a straight, level track with negligible friction. With the disk initially at rest, a
horizontal force is applied to the disk. The force is measured as a function of the disk’s displacement, and the
data are shown in the graph. When the disk’s displacement is 2.0 m , the speed of the disk is most nearly

(A) 2.8 m/s

(B) 4.0 m/s
(C) 5.6 m/s
(D) 8.0 m/s

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25. On another planet, a ball is in free fall after being released from rest at time t = 0. A graph of the height of the
ball above the planet’s surface as a function of time t is shown. The acceleration due to gravity on the planet is
most nearly

(A) 8 m / s2
(B) 16 m / s2
(C) 20 m / s2
(D) 40 m / s2

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 An amusement park ride consists of a large vertical
wheel of radius R that rotates counterclockwise on a
horizontal axis through its center, as shown above.
The cars on the wheel move at a constant speed v.
Points A and D represent the position of a car at the
highest and lowest point of the ride, respectively. A
person of weight Fg sits upright on a seat in one of the
cars. As the seat passes point A, the seat exerts a
normal force with magnitude 0.8Fg on the person.
While passing point A, the person releases a small
rock of mass m, which falls to the ground without
hitting anything.

26. Which of the following best describes the passenger’s linear and angular velocity while passing point A ?

(A) Linear Velocity Angular Velocity

Constant Changing

(B) Linear Velocity Angular Velocity

Constant Constant

(C) Linear Velocity Angular Velocity

Changing Changing

(D) Linear Velocity Angular Velocity

Changing Constant

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27. What is the normal force exerted on the rider
when passing point D ?

(A) 0.2Fg
(B) 0.8Fg
(C) 1.0Fg
(D) 1.2Fg

28. The kinetic energy of the rock when it is at the

same height as point D is most nearly

1
(A) mv 2
2
1
(B) 2mgR
2
1
(C) 4mgR
2
1
(D) m(v 2 + 4gR)
2

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29. Three blocks, A, B, and C, are pushed by a constant force F that is applied on block A as shown. There is
negligible friction between the blocks and the surface. When a small object is attached to the top of block B,
the normal force between blocks A and B is FAB and the normal force between blocks B and C is FBC . How
will the values of FAB and FBC change if the small object is moved to the top of block C and the experiment is
repeated?

(A)
FAB FBC

Increases Stays the same

(B)
FAB FBC

Decreases Increases

(C)
FAB FBC

Stays the same Decreases

(D)
FAB FBC

Stays the same Increases

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30. The graph shows the acceleration as a function of time for an object that is at rest at time t = 0 s. The distance
traveled by the object between 0 and 2 s is most nearly

(A) 1 m
(B) 2 m
(C) 3 m
(D) 4 m

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31. An object hangs in equilibrium from a spring, as
shown above. The object is then displaced to one
of the labeled points X , Y , or Z . Which of the
following correctly ranks the elastic potential
energy U stored in the spring when the object is
at each of the three positions?

(A) UZ > (UX = UY )

(B) UY > (UX = UZ )
(C) UY > UX > UZ
(D) UY > UZ > UX

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32. At time t = 0, a projectile is launched from the top of a cliff at an angle of 30 degrees below the horizontal.
Which of the following pairs of graphs best represents the horizontal displacement Δx and the vertical velocity
component vvert of the projectile as a function of time t ?

(A) Horizontal Displacement Vertical Velocity Component

(B) Horizontal Displacement Vertical Velocity Component

(C) Horizontal Displacement Vertical Velocity Component

(D) Horizontal Displacement Vertical Velocity Component

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33. The graph above represents the position of two identical carts on a straight horizontal track as a function of
time. Which of the following statements about the magnitude of the momentum of the two-cart system’s center
of mass, pcom , is true?

(A) pcom is constant from t = 0 s to t = 5 s .

(B) pcom is smaller after t = 2 s than it is before t = 2 s .
(C) pcom is larger after t = 2 s than it is before t = 2 s .
(D) pcom increases at a constant rate from t = 0 s to t = 5 s .

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34. Sphere 1 of mass m and sphere 2 of mass 2m hang from light strings. Sphere 1 is pulled back, as shown
above, and released from rest. Sphere 1 has kinetic energy Ki immediately before colliding with sphere 2 . The
two spheres stick together and move horizontally for an instant after the collision. During the collision, what is
the change in the kinetic energy ΔK of the two-sphere system?

(A) 0
Ki
(B) −
3
Ki
(C) −
2
2Ki
(D) −
3

35. A wheel with radius 0.33 m and rotational

inertia 2.0 kg · m2 spins on an axle with an
initial angular speed of 3.0 rad /s. Friction in the
axle exerts a torque on the wheel, causing the
wheel to stop after 6.0 s . The average torque
exerted on the wheel as it slows down has
magnitude

(A) 0.50 N·m

(B) 1.0 N·m
(C) 2.0 N·m
(D) 3.0 N·m

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36. Three blocks are pushed along a rough surface by a force with magnitude P, as shown above. FC is the
magnitude of the contact force between blocks 2 and 3, and Ff , FN , and FG are the magnitudes of the friction,
normal, and gravitational forces on block 3, respectively. Which of the following is a correct free-body diagram
for block 3 ?

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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37. A block is set on a table, where there is negligible friction between the block and the table. The block is
connected to an identical hanging block by a lightweight string that passes over an ideal pulley as shown. When
the blocks are released from rest, the two-block system gains kinetic energy because work is done on the
system. Which type of force or forces make a nonzero contribution to the net work done on the two-block
system?

(A) Gravitational force only

(B) Gravitational force and tension only
(C) Gravitational force and normal force only
(D) Gravitational force, tension, and normal force

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38. The graph shows the force exerted on a ball by the floor as a function of time as the ball bounces off the floor.
If the positive direction is upward, which of the following graphs could represent the force exerted on the floor
by the ball?

(A) (B)

(C) (D)

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39. In Figure 1, cart Y is connected to cart X by a tight string and is also connected to the hanging block of mass
m 0 by a light string that passes over a pulley. Figure 2 shows a system that is identical except for one change:
cart Y and X are connected by a spring at its equilibrium length. Both systems are released from rest. Is the
hanging block’s acceleration as a function of time the same in both systems, and why or why not?

(A) Yes, because the net external force exerted on both systems is the same.
(B) Yes, because the tension in the string connecting the block to cart Y is determined by the masses of cart Y
and the block.
(C) No, because the net external force exerted on each system is different.
(D) No, because the tension in the string connected to the block is constant in one system but not in the other.

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40. A horizontal disk is free to rotate about an axle
at its center. The labeled arrows in the figure
represent forces of equal magnitude that are
exerted on the edge of the disk in the directions
shown. Which of the following correctly ranks
the magnitude t of the torque about the axle
exerted by each force?

(A) tA = tB = tC = tD
(B) tA > tD > (tB = tC)
(C) (tA = tB = tD) > tC
(D) (tB = tC) > tD > tA

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41. A block is set on a rough horizontal table where frictional forces are not negligible. The block is pushed against
a horizontal spring, and it is released at time t = 0. The spring pushes the block across the table. At time t = t1,
the block leaves the table. The block strikes the ground at time t = t2. Which of the following describes the
change in mechanical energy of the block-spring system for times 0 < t < t1 and t1 < t < t2 ?

(A)
0 < t < t1 t1 < t < t2

Stays the same Stays the same

(B)
0 < t < t1 t1 < t < t2

Increases Decreases

(C)
0 < t < t1 t1 < t < t2

Stays the same Increases

(D)
0 < t < t1 t1 < t < t2

Decreases Increases

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42. A box of mass m slides up a ramp with initial velocity +v0. The kinetic friction force on the box has magnitude
f . Which of the following is a correct equation that could be used to determine the acceleration a of the box?

(A) −f = ma
(B) mg sin q − f = ma
(C) f − mg sin q = ma
(D) −f − mg sin q = ma

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43. Two identical spaceships are moving through
space both with speed v0. Both spaceships
experience a net force of magnitude F0 over the
same time interval. For spaceship 1, the net force
acts in the same direction as the spaceship is
moving; for spaceship 2 , the net force is
directed opposite to the spaceship’s motion,
causing spaceship 2 to slow down but not stop.
For which spaceship, if either, does the kinetic
energy change by a greater magnitude, and why?

(A) Spaceship 1 will have a greater change in

kinetic energy because the distance
traveled is greater than that of spaceship
2.
(B) Spaceship 2 will have a greater change in
kinetic energy because the force slows
down the spaceship.
(C) Spaceship 1 and 2 have the same change
in kinetic energy because the time and the
force are the same.
(D) Spaceship 1 and 2 have the same change
in kinetic energy because the net work
done on each has the same magnitude.

44. A platform is initially rotating on smooth ice with negligible friction, as shown at left in the figure. A stationary
disk is dropped directly onto the center of the platform. A short time later, the disk and platform rotate together
at the same angular velocity, as shown at right in the figure. How does the angular momentum of only the
platform change, if at all, after the disk drops? What is a justification for your answer?

(A) It decreases. The top disk exerts a torque on the platform.

(B) It decreases. The potential energy of the platform-disk-Earth system decreases when the disk drops.
(C) It stays the same. Angular momentum is a conserved quantity.
(D) It stays the same. The torques that the disk and platform exert on each other are equal in magnitude but in
opposite directions.

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45. A block is attached to the end of a string and initially moves at a constant speed in a horizontal circle of
constant radius, as shown. The radius is then increased slowly while the speed remains the same. Which of the
following graphs best represents the force exerted on the block by the string as a function of the radius?

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

- - GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.

Directions: For each of the questions or incomplete statements below, two of the suggested answers will be correct.
For each of these questions, you must select both correct choices to earn credit. No partial credit will be earned if
only one correct choice is selected. Select the two that are best in each case and then fill in the corresponding circles
that begin with number 131 on the answer sheet.

131. A block slides down an inclined plane in a

classroom. Which of the following pieces of
information are needed to determine whether the
velocity of the block will be constant? Select
two answers.

(A) The mass of the block

(B) The angle of the inclined plane
(C) The acceleration due to gravity in the
classroom
(D) The coefficient of kinetic friction between
the block and the inclined plane

132. A test car and its driver, with a combined mass

of 600 kg, are moving along a straight,
horizontal track when a malfunction causes the
tires to stop rotating. The car skids to a halt with
constant acceleration, leaving skid marks on the
road during the whole time it skids. Which two
of the following measurements, taken together,
would allow engineers to find the total
mechanical energy dissipated during the skid?
Select two answers.

(A) The length of the skid marks

(B) The contact area of each tire with the track
(C) The coefficient of static friction between
the tires and the track
(D) The coefficient of kinetic friction between
the tires and the track

- - GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.

133. An object is moving along a straight, flat section of track. The net force acting on the object as a function of
position is shown in the graph, where the positive direction is in the direction of motion of the object.
Assuming the object moves from position x = 0 to x = 7d 0 without stopping or moving backward, which of
the following statements about its motion are correct? Select two answers.

(A) The object has its greatest kinetic energy at position 5d 0.

(B) The kinetic energy of the object at position d 0 is greater than 2F0 d 0 .
(C) The object has the same kinetic energy at position d 0 that it has at position 7d 0 .
(D) The kinetic energy of the object is not changing when it is between positions d 0 and 3d 0.

- - GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.

134. Four forces are exerted on a disk of radius R
that is free to spin about its center, as shown
above. The magnitudes are proportional to the
length of the force vectors, where F1 = F4 ,
F2 = F3 , and F1 = 2F2 . Which two forces
combine to exert zero net torque on the disk?
Select two answers.

(A) F1
(B) F2
(C) F3
(D) F4

-4 - GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.

135. A cart travels toward the right on a track where friction between the cart and track is negligible. The
momentum of the cart as a function of time is modeled in the graph. Which of the following statements are true
for the time recorded? Select two answers.

(A) The change in momentum of the cart is nearly equal to 1.9 kg · m / s.

(B) The impulse delivered to the cart is nearly equal to 0.75 kg · m / s.
(C) The net external force exerted on the cart is nearly equal to 0.15 N.
(D) The work done on the cart is nearly equal to 1.5 J .

-4 - GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.

AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Exam
®

SECTION II: Free Response

DO NOT OPEN THIS BOOKLET UNTIL YOU ARE TOLD TO DO SO. on Information
PLEASE PRINT WITH PEN:
1. First two letters of your last name
At a Glance 4. Unless I fill in the circle below, I grant
College Board the unlimited right to use,
First letter of your first name reproduce, and publish my free-response
Total Time materials, both written and oral, for educational
1 hour and 30 minutes research and instructional purposes. My name
Number of Questions 2. Date of birth and the name of my school will not be used in
5 any way in connection with my free-response
Percent of Total Score materials. I understand that I am free to
Month Day
50% mark “No” with no effect on my score or
3. Six-digit school code its reporting.
Writing Instrument
Either pencil or pen with No, I do not grant College Board
black or dark blue ink Month Day these rights.
Electronic Device
Calculator allowed
Suggested Time
Approximately
25 minutes each for
questions 2 and 3 and
13 minutes each for Instructions
questions 1, 4, and 5
Weight The questions for Section II are printed in this booklet. A table of information and lists of
Approximate weights: equations that may be helpful are printed in the orange Reference booklet. You may use
Questions 2 and 3: any blank space in the orange booklet for scratch work, but you must write your answers
26% each in the spaces provided for each answer in this Free Response booklet. No credit will be
Questions 1, 4, and 5:
16% each given for any work written in the orange booklet. Calculators, rulers, and straightedges
may be used in this section.
All final numerical answers should include appropriate units. Credit for your work
depends on demonstrating that you know which physical principles would be appropriate
to apply in a particular situation. Therefore, you should show your work for each part in
the space provided after that part. If you need more space, be sure to clearly indicate
where you continue your work. Credit will be awarded only for work that is clearly
designated as the solution to a specific part of a question. Credit also depends on the
quality of your solutions and explanations, so you should show your work.
Write clearly and legibly. Do not write outside the box. Cross out any errors you make;
erased or crossed-out work will not be scored. You may lose credit for incorrect work that
is not crossed out.
Manage your time carefully. You may proceed freely from one question to the next. You
may review your responses if you finish before the end of the exam is announced.
 AP® PHYSICS 1 TABLE OF INFORMATION
CONSTANTS AND CONVERSION FACTORS
27 19
Proton mass, mp 1.67 10 kg Electron charge magnitude, e 1.60 10 C
27
Neutron mass, mn 1.67 10 kg Coulomb’s law constant, k 1 4 pe0 9.0 10 9 N  m 2 C2
31 Universal gravitational 11
Electron mass, me 9.11 10 kg
constant, G 6.67 10 m 3 kgs2
Acceleration due to gravity
Speed of light, c 3.00 108 m s at Earth’s surface, g 9.8 m s2

meter, m kelvin, K watt, W degree Celsius, C

UNIT kilogram, kg hertz, Hz coulomb, C
SYMBOLS second, s newton, N volt, V
ampere, A joule, J ohm, W

PREFIXES VALUES OF TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS FOR COMMON ANGLES

Factor Prefix Symbol       
q 0 30 37 45 53 60 90
12 tera T
10
sinq 0 12 35 2 2 45 3 2 1
10 9 giga G
10 6 mega M cosq 1 3 2 45 2 2 35 12 0
10 3 kilo k tanq 0 3 3 34 1 43 3
2 centi c
10
3 milli m
10 The following conventions are used in this exam.
10 6 micro m I. The frame of reference of any problem is assumed to be inertial unless
otherwise stated.
9 nano n
10 II. Assume air resistance is negligible unless otherwise stated.
10 12 pico p III. In all situations, positive work is defined as work done on a system.
IV. The direction of current is conventional current: the direction in which
positive charge would drift.
V. Assume all batteries and meters are ideal unless otherwise stated.
 AP® PHYSICS 1 EQUATIONS
MECHANICS ELECTRICITY
Ãx Ãx 0 ax t a = acceleration  q1q2 A = area
A = amplitude FE k 2 F = force
r
1 2 d = distance I = current
x x0 Ãx 0 t at Dq
2 x E = energy I  = length
Dt
f = frequency P = power
Ãx2 Ãx20 2ax x x0 = force
r
F R q = charge
  I = rotational inertia A R = resistance
 F Fnet K = kinetic energy DV r = separation
a I
m m k = spring constant R t = time
  L = angular momentum P I DV V = electric potential
Ff m Fn
 = length Rs Ri r = resistivity
m = mass i
2
à 1 1
ac P = power
r Rp Ri
p = momentum
  i
p mv r = radius or separation
  T = period
Dp F Dt t = time WAVES
U = potential energy f = frequency
1 2 v
K mv V = volume l v = speed
2 f
v = speed l = wavelength
DE W Fd Fd cos q W = work done on a system
GEOMETRY AND TRIGONOMETRY
x = position
DE y = height Rectangle A = area
P a = angular acceleration A bh C = circumference
Dt
m = coefficient of friction V = volume
1 2 Triangle S = surface area
q q0 w0t at q = angle
2 1 b = base
r = density A bh
2 h = height
w w0 at t = torque  = length
w = angular speed Circle w = width
x A cos 2 p ft
A pr 2 r = radius
  DUg mg Dy
 t t net C 2 pr
a
I I
2p 1 Rectangular solid Right triangle
T
t r F rF sin q w f V wh c2 a2 b2
L Iw m a
Ts 2p Cylinder sin q
k c
DL t Dt V pr 2
b
 S 2 pr  2 pr 2 cos q
Tp 2p c
1 2 g
K Iw a
2 Sphere tan q
  m1m2 b
 Fg G 4 3
Fs kx V pr
r2 3 c a
 90°
Us
1 2
kx  Fg S 4pr 2 q
2 g b
m
m Gm1m2
r UG
V r
 Begin your response to QUESTION 1 on this page.

PHYSICS 1
SECTION II
Time—1 hour and 30 minutes
5 Questions

Directions: Questions 1, 4, and 5 are short free-response questions that require about 13 minutes each to answer and
are worth 7 points each. Questions 2 and 3 are long free-response questions that require about 25 minutes each to
answer and are worth 12 points each. Show your work for each part in the space provided after that part.

1. (7 points, suggested time 13 minutes)

Two blocks, with masses m and 3m , are attached to the ends of a string with negligible mass that passes over a
pulley, as shown above. The pulley has negligible mass and friction and is attached to the ceiling by a bracket. The
blocks are simultaneously released from rest.

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 Continue your response to QUESTION 1 on this page.

(a) Derive an equation for the speed v of the block of mass 3m after it falls a distance d in terms of m, d , and
physical constants, as appropriate.

(b) Determine the work done by the string on the two-block system as each block moves a distance d .

(c) The acceleration of the center of mass of the blocks-string-pulley system has magnitude a COM. Briefly
explain, in terms of any external forces acting on the system, why a COM is less than g .

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 Begin your response to QUESTION 2 on this page.

2. (12 points, suggested time 25 minutes)

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 Continue your response to QUESTION 2 on this page.

A passenger compartment of a rotating amusement park ride contains a bench on which a book of mass mb is
placed, as indicated by the dot in the left figure above. The compartment moves with a constant angular speed
about the center of the ride along a circular path of radius R. The bench remains horizontal throughout the
compartment’s motion. The right figure above shows a magnified view of the compartment.

The graph below shows the horizontal (x) component of the book’s position as a function of time, where the
+ x-direction is to the right.

(a)

i. Determine the period of revolution of the book.

ii. Calculate the tangential speed vb (not the angular speed) of the book.

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 Continue your response to QUESTION 2 on this page.

(b)
i.. On the dot be w, which represents the book, draw and label the forces (not components) that act on the book at
the lowest point of its circular path. Each force must be represented by a distinct arrow starting on, and pointing
away from, the dot.

ii. At the lowest point of the circular path, the book is moving only in the horizontal direction. In what direction, if
any, is the net vertical force on the book?
___ Up ___ Down ___ No direction, since the net vertical force is equal to zero

Without deriving any equations, briefly explain your reasoning in terms of the book’s motion.

(c) Derive an algebraic equation for the vertical force that the bench exerts on the book at the lowest point of the
circular path in terms of the book’s mass mb , tangential speed vb, radius R of the path, and physical constants,
as appropriate. Do not substitute any numerical values for variables or physical constants.

(d) At the lowest point of the circular path, is the force that the bench exerts on the book greater than, less than, or
equal to the weight of the book?
___ Greater Than ___ Less Than ___ Equal to

Briefly explain how your answers in (b)ii and (c) support your selection.

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 Begin your response to QUESTION 3 on this page.

3. (12 points, suggested time 25 minutes)

A company selling a type of spring makes the following claim: “The elastic potential energy that the spring is
capable of storing for a given compression distance does not decrease, even after the spring compresses and/or
stretches hundreds of times.” The students in a physics class have decided to test the company’s claim.
(a)
i. State a basic physics principle or law the students could use in designing an experiment to test the company’s
claim.

ii. Using the principle or law stated in part (a)i, determine an equation for the elastic potential energy stored in the
spring in terms of quantities that can be obtained from measurements made with equipment usually found in a
school physics laboratory.

(b) Design an experimental procedure the students could use to collect the data needed to test the company’s
claim. Assume equipment usually found in a school physics laboratory is available.

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 Begin your response to QUESTION 3 on this page.

In the table below, list the quantities and associated symbols that would be measured in your experiment and the
equipment used to measure them. Also list the equipment that would be used to measure each quantity. You do not
need to fill in every row. If you need additional rows, you may add them to the space just below the table.

Equipment for
Quantity to Be Measured Symbol for Quantity
Measurement

Describe the overall procedure to be used, referring to the table. Provide enough detail so another student could
replicate the experiment, including any steps necessary to reduce experimental uncertainty. As needed, use the
symbols defined in the table and/or include a simple diagram of the setup.

(c) Explain how the students should analyze the data to determine whether the company’s claim is true, i.e.,
whether the energy stored by the spring for a given compression distance does not decrease after the spring has
compressed and/or stretched hundreds of times.

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 Continue your response to QUESTION 3 on this page.

(d) The students also investigate two springs, spring A and spring B, made by another company. The students
hang spring A vertically, attaching blocks of various known masses from the bottom end of the spring and
measuring the total length of the spring for each block. The students graph the spring length as a function of
hanging mass and draw the line of best fit, as shown below.

i. The students follow the same procedure using spring B, which has the same equilibrium length as spring A but
stores more energy than spring A for a given displacement. On the graph above, sketch what the line of best fit
could look like for the data obtained using spring B.

ii. The students attach a block to spring B and let it hang at rest. The students pull the block down by 1 cm ,
release it, and measure the time interval Δt for one oscillation. The students then repeat the procedure, but pull the
block down by 2 cm instead of 1 cm . For which initial displacement, if either, is Δt greater?

Δt is greater for the 1 cm displacement.

Δt is greater for the 2 cm displacement.

Δt is the same in both cases.

Briefly explain your reasoning.

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 Begin your response to QUESTION 4 on this page.

4. (7 points, suggested time 13 minutes)

Two bars, bar 1 and bar 2, are at rest on a smooth horizontal table as shown in the top view above. Each bar is
connected to the table with a vertical pin. Bar 1 and bar 2 are made from the same material and have the same
physical dimensions, but bar 1 has three additional large holes drilled through it. The two bars are each
accelerated from rest by forces of equal magnitude F applied at their right end. The forces remain perpendicular
to the bars and the forces are exerted for an equal amount of time t1.

(a) Briefly explain using physics principles why the angular displacement for bar 1 is larger than the angular
displacement for bar 2.

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 Continue your response to QUESTION 4 on this page.

(b) On the axes below, sketch the angular velocity of each bar as a function of time. Label the sketch for bar 1
“Bar 1”. Label the sketch for bar 2, “Bar 2”.

(c) After the force has been applied to both bars for a time t1, is the angular momentum of bar 1 larger than,
smaller than, or the same as the angular momentum of bar 2 ?

___ Larger ___ Smaller ___ The same

Justify your answer.

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 Begin your response to QUESTION 5 on this page.

5. (7 points, suggested time 13 minutes)

The figures above show three stages of a dive performed by an athlete. During the dive, the athlete completes
several rotations in midair while traveling from the platform to the surface of the water. Figure 1 shows the athlete
just after jumping off the platform. Figure 2 shows the athlete rotating in midair. Figure 3 shows the athlete about
to enter the water.

(a) In a clear, coherent paragraph-length response that may also contain figures and/or equations, explain why the
athlete’s angular speed increases between Figure 1 and Figure 2 but decreases between Figure 2 and Figure 3.

(b) Is the rotational kinetic e gy K2, rot of the athlete in Figure 2 greater than, less than, or equal to the
rotational kinetic energy K1, rot of the athlete in Figure 1 ?

K2, rot > K1, rot K2, rot < K1, rot K2, rot = K1, rot

Briefly explain your answer.

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Answer Key for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
Practice Exam, Section I

Question 1: D Question 26: D

Question 2: C Question 27: D
Question 3: B Question 28: D
Question 4: C Question 29: D
Question 5: D Question 30: C
Question 6: C Question 31: C
Question 7: C Question 32: A
Question 8: B Question 33: B
Question 9: B Question 34: D
Question 10: D Question 35: B
Question 11: B Question 36: C
Question 12: C Question 37: A
Question 13: A Question 38: C
Question 14: D Question 39: D
Question 15: C Question 40: B
Question 16: D Question 41: D
Question 17: C Question 42: D
Question 18: D Question 43: A
Question 19: B Question 44: A
Question 20: A Question 45: D
Question 21: C Question 131: B, D
Question 22: D Question 132: A, D
Question 23: C Question 133: B, C
Question 24: B Question 134: B, D
Question 25: B Question 135: B, C
AP® Physics 1 2022 Question Descriptors and Performance Data

Multiple-Choice Questions

Question Science Practice Learning Objective Topic Key

1 2.2 5.D.2.5 5.4 D
2 7.2 5.D.2.3 5.4 C
3 1.5 3.A.1.1 1.1 B
4 7.2 3.A.4.2 2.5 C
5 6.4 4.C.2.1 4.2 D
6 2.2 4.C.1.1 4.2 C
7 1.4 4.B.1.1 5.2 C
8 2.2 3.A.1.1 1.1 B
9 2.2 4.D.3.1 7.3 B
10 1.4 4.A.3.2 2.7 D
11 7.2 3.A.3.1 2.5 B
12 7.2 3.A.4.2 2.5 C
13 2.2 5.D.1.5 5.4 A
14 6.4 5.D.2.3 5.4 D
15 2.2 2.B.2.2 3.4 C
16 7.2 5.E.1.1 7.4 D
17 1.4 5.B.3.3 4.3 C
18 5.1 3.A.1.3 1.1 D
19 6.4 5.B.4.1 4.3 B
20 6.4 4.C.2.1 4.2 A
21 1.4 5.B.4.2 6.2 C
22 6.4 3.D.2.2 5.1 D
23 5.1 3.A.1.3 1.1 C
24 5.1 5.B.5.1 4.3 B
25 5.1 3.A.1.3 1.1 B
26 1.5 3.A.1.1 7.1 D
27 1.1 3.A.2.1 3.8 D
28 1.4 5.B.4.2 4.3 D
29 1.4 4.A.1.1 1.2 D
30 5.1 3.A.1.3 1.1 C
31 1.4 5.B.3.3 6.2 C
32 2.2 3.A.1.1 1.1 A
33 1.4 4.B.1.1 5.2 B
34 6.4 5.D.2.3 5.4 D
35 2.2 4.D.3.1 7.3 B
AP® Physics 1 2022 Question Descriptors and Performance Data

Question Science Practice Learning Objective Topic Key

36 1.1 3.A.2.1 2.5 C
37 6.4 4.C.2.1 4.2 A
38 6.4 3.A.4.2 2.5 C
39 7.1 1.A.5.1 2.1 D
40 1.4 3.F.1.2 7.2 B
41 6.4 4.C.1.2 4.2 D
42 2.2 3.B.1.3 2.6 D
43 6.4 4.C.2.1 4.2 A
44 6.4 3.F.3.1 7.2 A
45 6.4 3.A.3.1 3.8 D

Question Science Practice Learning Objective Topic Key

131 4.2 3.B.1.2 2.6 B, D
132 7.2 3.E.1.1 4.2 A, D
133 1.4 3.E.1.2 4.2 B, C
134 6.4 3.F.2.1 7.2 B, D
135 1.4 4.B.1.1 5.2 B, C

Free-Response Questions

Question Science Practice Learning Objective Topic

1 2.2|2.2|2.2|2.2|6.4|2.2|2.2 4.A.3.1|4.A.2.3|4.A.2.3|4.A.2.3|5.B.5.5|4.A.3.1|4.A.2.3 2.7|1.2|1.2|1.2|4.3|2.7|1.2

1.5|2.2|2.2|1.1|1.1|1.1|6.4|1.4| 3.A.1.1|3.A.1.1|3.A.1.1|3.B.2.1|3.B.2.1|3.B.2.1|3.A.3.1| 3.8|3.8|3.8|3.7|3.7|3.7|

2
2.2|2.2|6.4|7.2 3.B.2.1|3.B.1.3|3.B.2.1|3.A.3.1|3.A.3.1 3.8|3.7|3.7|3.7|3.8|3.8

6.4|4.2|4.2|4.2|4.2|4.2|5.1|5.1| 5.B.3.1|5.B.5.1|5.B.5.1|3.B.3.2|5.B.5.1|5.B.5.1|5.B.5.1| 4.3|4.3|4.3|6.1|4.3|4.3|

3
6.4|5.1|6.4|6.4 5.B.5.1|3.A.3.A|5.B.5.1|4.C.2.1|3.B.3.1 4.3|4.3|2.5|4.3|4.2|6.1

4 1.5|1.5|1.5|6.4|2.2|2.1|6.4 3.A.1.1|3.A.1.1|3.A.1.1|3.F.2.1|3.F.1.3|3.F.3.3|3.F.2.1 7.1|7.1|7.1|7.2|7.2|7.2|7.2

5 6.4|1.2|6.4|6.4|6.4|6.4|7.2 5.E.1.1|4.D.2.1|5.E.1.1|5.E.1.1|5.E.1.1|5.B.3.1|5.B.3.1 7.4|7.3|7.4|7.4|7.4|4.3|4.3

AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

Question 1: Short Answer 7 points

(a) For using an appropriate equation for Newton’s second law 1 point
 
Σ F = ma

For using Newton’s second law to find the magnitude of the common acceleration of the 1 point
blocks

Let FgA and FgB be the gravitational forces exerted on the blocks of mass m and 3m,
respectively.

Example response 1:
Apply Newton’s second law to the two-block system along the path of motion
 
Σ F = (3m + m)a
FgB − FgA = (3m + m)a
3mg − mg = 4ma
2mg = 4ma
a = 2mg 4m = 2 g 4 = g 2

Example response 2:
Apply Newton’s second law to each block separately, and eliminate the tension force FT
 
For block B: Σ F = 3ma
FgB − FT = 3ma
3mg − FT = 3ma
FT = 3mg − 3ma
 
For block A: Σ F = ma
FT − FgA = ma
3mg − 3ma − mg = ma
4ma = 2mg
a = 2mg 4m = 2 g 4 = g 2

For using correct kinematics equation(s) to find the speed of the block 1 point

Example response 1:
v 2y = v 2y 0 + 2a y ( y − y0 )

Example response 2:
y = y0 + v y 0t + 1 2 a y t 2 and v y = v y 0 + a y t

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

For a correct answer, or an answer consistent with the acceleration identified earlier, with 1 point
supporting work

Example response 1:
v 2y = v 2y 0 + 2a y ( y − y0 )
g
v 2y = (0) 2 − 2( )(0 − d ) = (− g )(− d ) = gd
2
v y = ± gd
v y = gd

Example response 2:
First apply y = y0 + v y 0t + 1 2 a y t 2
0 = d + (0)(t ) − (1 2)( g 2)t 2
−d = − ( g 4)t 2
t 2 = 4d g , thus t = ± 2 d g
t =2 d g
Then apply v y = v y 0 + a y t
v y = (0) − ( g 2)(2 d g ) = − gd
v y = gd

Alternate solution (using conservation of energy) Alternate

points
For using an appropriate equation for conservation of energy 1 point
Example response 1:
−∆U = ∆K

Example response 2:
U iB + U iA + KiB + KiA = U fB + U fA + K fB + K fA

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

For correctly relating the types of energy present (e.g., correct expressions are used for 1 point
the gravitational potential energy of both mass-Earth systems and the kinetic energy of
both masses)
For correct qualitative application for the upward motion of the block of mass M (i.e. - 1 point
appropriate signs for gravitational potential energy terms for the two blocks)
For a correct answer with supporting work 1 point
Example response 1:
−∆U = ∆K
− ( ∆U B + ∆U A ) = K B + K A
3mgd − mgd = (1 2)(3m)v 2 + (1 2)(m)v 2
2mgd = 2mv 2
gd = v 2
v = ± gd
v = gd

Example response 2:
U iB + U iA + KiB + KiA = U fB + U fA + K fB + K fA
3mgd + mg (0) + (0) + (0) = 3mg (0) + mgd + (1 2)(3m)v 2 + (1 2)mv 2
3mgd = mgd + 2mv 2
3 gd − gd = 2v 2
2 gd = 2v 2
gd = v 2
v = ± gd
v = gd

Total for part (a) 4 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

(b) For a correct answer of zero 1 point

OR

an algebraic expression (in terms of m, d, and/or g) that is equivalent to zero

Scoring note: This point can be earned if an incorrect unit is written or if no unit is
indicated.

Example response 1:
0J

Example response 2:
WT = FT d + (− FT d ) = (3 2)mgd − (3 2)mgd = 0 J

Example response 3:
WS + Wg = ∆K
WS = ∆K − Wg
= (1 2)(m + 3m)v 2 − (3mgd − mgd )
= 2mv 2 − 2mgd = 2mgd − 2mgd = 0 J

Total for part (b) 1 point

(c) For indicating that there is an upward force on the system 1 point
Scoring note: String tension is NOT a force on the system because the string is part of
the system

For relating the net force to the acceleration of the center of mass to show that aCOM < g 1 point

OR
for showing that Fnet is less than the weight of the system

Example explanation:
The force of gravity acts downward on the system, but there is an upward external force
exerted on the pulley by the bracket attached to the ceiling, This makes the net force on
the system less than the weight of the system. Thus, the acceleration of the system is less
than g: Fnet = maCOM and if Fnet < mg then aCOM < g .

Claim (given): aCOM is less than g.

Evidence:
The system is supported at the pulley by the bracket (shown in earlier figure).
Reasoning:
The upward supporting force exerted by the bracket makes the net force on the system
less than the weight of the system. Thus, the acceleration of the system is less than g.
Total for part (c) 2 points

Total for question 1 7 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

Question 2: Qualitative/Quantitative Translation 12 points

(a) (i) For indicating the correct period of 120 seconds, 2 minutes, OR the equivalent 1 point

(ii) For using the correct radius of 30 m as found from the graph 1 point
For substitution of the period, consistent with the answer in (a)(i), into a correct 1 point
expression

Speed = d T = 2 R T = 2 ( 30 m ) (120 s ) = 1.6 m s

Scoring note: ( 2 ) m s is acceptable.

R (60 s) or ( R 60 ) m s can only earn 1 of the two points.

Total for part (a) 3 points

(b) (i) For a correctly drawn and labeled normal force 1 point
For a correctly drawn and labeled gravitational force 1 point
For drawing no extraneous forces, given that at least one force is drawn 1 point
(ii) Correct answer: “Up”
Scoring note: Response cannot earn credit if incorrect selection is made.
For an explicit or implicit assertion based on forces 1 point
Example explanation:
Because there is a centripetal force

Claim:
The direction of the net vertical force on the book is up.
Evidence:
The book is at the lowest point of its circular path. (Given)
For an object in uniform circular motion, the centripetal force is always directed toward
the center of the circular path.
Reasoning:
The net force is the centripetal force on the book, which must be upward toward the
center of the book’s circular path.

Total for part (b) 4 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

(c) For using Newton’s 2nd law correctly or consistent with the diagram in (b)(i) 1 point
 
Σ F = ma (for the rotating system)
Fnet = mac = m v 2 r

For a correct expression for the centripetal acceleration 1 point

ac = mv 2 r = mb vb2 R

For a correct final expression with no numbers substituted for values 1 point

Fnet = mb vb2 R = FN − FG

FN = mb vb2 R + FG
(
= mb vb2 R + g )
Total for part (c) 3 points
(d) Correct Answer: “Greater than”
For correct reasoning with a selection consistent with the answer from (b)(ii) and (c) 1 point
For explaining why the force from the bench is greater than the weight of the book. 1 point
Scoring note: A response with an incorrect selection consistent with parts (b)(ii) and (c)
can earn 2 points.
Claim:
At the lowest point of the circular path, the force that the bench exerts on the book is
greater than the weight of the book.
Evidence:
The direction of the net vertical force on the book is up. (Part (b)(ii) answer)
(
The book exerts a vertical force on the bench of magnitude mb vb2 R + g . )
(Part (c) answer)
Reasoning:
The upward force exerted by the bench must be greater than the downward gravitational
force, in order for the net force to be upward as stated in the answer to (b)(ii).
( )
The magnitude mb vb2 R + g of the force exerted by the bench derived in part (c) is
greater than the book’s weight mb g .

Total for part (d) 2 points

Total for question 2 12 points

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 2 22

Question 3: Experimental Design 12 points

(a) (i)(ii) For a valid equation or valid equations in (a)ii that is/are consistent with (a)i AND that 1 point
include(s) the elastic potential energy stored in the spring

Example response:
Conservation of Energy, Work-Energy Theorem

U s = 1 2 kx 2 , U s = 1 2mvmax
2
, OR ∆U g = mg ∆y

Total for part (a) 1 point

(b) Measurements and equipment

For listing relevant/appropriate equipment that matches the measured quantities 1 point

Procedure

For a plausible/practical way to directly or indirectly determine the stored energy in the 1 point
spring or spring constant of the spring

For compressing and/or stretching the spring multiple (hundreds of) times in between the 1 point
initial and final measurements

For including both initial and final measurements so that the stored energy can be 1 point
compared

For attempting to reduce uncertainty (e.g. - multiple trials with either one spring or 1 point
multiple springs)

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 2 22

Example Procedure 1:
Quantity to Be Measured Symbol for Quantity Equipment for Measurement
Spring Compression D Meterstick
Maximum Velocity vmax Motion Sensor

Attach the spring to a wall horizontally. Push a block into the spring, compressing the
spring a displacement D. Measure the displacement, D, with a meterstick. Release the
block and use the motion sensor to record the block’s maximum velocity, vmax . Repeat
the experiment to verify the maximum velocity. Compress the spring from equilibrium to
distance D and back to equilibrium hundreds of times and then repeat the displacement
and maximum velocity measurements.
Example Procedure 2:
Quantity to Be Measured Symbol for Quantity Equipment for Measurement
Spring Compression D Meterstick
Maximum Compression Force Fmax Force Sensor

Attach the spring horizontally to a wall. Apply a force Fmax to compress the spring a
displacement D from equilibrium. Measure D with a meterstick and Fmax with a force
sensor. Relax the spring and repeat the experiment to confirm Fmax . Compress the spring
from equilibrium to the displacement D and back to equilibrium hundreds of times, then
repeat the displacement and force measurements.

Total for part (b) 5 points

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(c) For explaining how to compare the initial elastic spring potential energy to the final 1 point
spring potential energy after many trials (or a plausible alternative) to quantify if the
energy stored by the spring for a given compression distance does not decrease after the
spring has compressed and/or stretched hundreds of times

For indicating how the comparison would confirm or refute the hypothesis 1 point
Example Analysis 1:
When the spring is compressed and comes back to equilibrium, all the stored elastic
potential energy is transferred to kinetic energy of the block, causing the block to reach
maximum velocity. If the maximum velocity vmax of the block before and after the
hundreds of stretches is the same, then the stored elastic potential energy is the same, and
the company’s claim is true.

Claim:
If the maximum velocity vmax of the block before and after the hundreds of stretches is
the same, then the stored elastic potential energy is the same, and the company’s claim is
true.
Evidence:
1 1
Energy is a conserved quantity. U S = kx 2 K = mv 2
2 2
Reasoning:
When the spring is compressed and comes back to equilibrium, all the stored elastic
potential energy is transferred to kinetic energy of the block, causing the block to reach
maximum velocity.

Example Analysis 2:

( )
The work done on the spring is equal to average applied force 1 Fmax times the
2
displacement from equilibrium. The work done is also equivalent to the elastic potential
energy stored by the spring. If Fmax remains the same for displacement D after several
hundred stretches, then the elastic potential energy is the same, and the company’s claim
is true.

Claim:
If Fmax remains the same for displacement D after several hundred stretches, then the
elastic potential energy is the same, and the company’s claim is true.
Evidence:
1 2
Energy is a conserved quantity. U S = kx ∆E = W = F d
2
Reasoning:

( )
The work done on the spring is equal to average applied force 1 Fmax times the
2
displacement from equilibrium. The work done is also equivalent to the elastic potential
energy stored by the spring.
Total for part (c) 2 points

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(d) (i) For a curve starting at (0, 25) 1 point

For a straight line with positive slope 1 point
For a line with a smaller slope than the original best fit line, regardless of vertical-axis 1 point
intercept.
(ii) Correct answer: “ ∆t is the same in both cases”

Scoring note: Response cannot earn credit if incorrect selection is made.

m 1 point
For indicating that the mathematical model T = 2 only depends on the mass and the
k
spring constant
OR
that the period does not depend on distance the spring is stretched
Claim:
∆t is the same in both cases.

Evidence:
m
T =2
k

Reasoning:
The period of an object oscillating on a spring depends on the mass and the spring
constant, but not the amplitude.
Total for part (d) 4 points

Total for question 3 12 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

Question 4: Short Answer 7 points

(a) For a justification that includes that the acceleration is larger for bar 1 because the 1 point
rotational inertia is smaller

For a justification that includes a larger acceleration for the same time means that bar 1 1 point
has a larger angular displacement

Scoring note: A response that includes that the angular displacement is larger because the
area under the angular velocity as a function of time graph is larger for bar 1 earns 1 of
the 2 points available in part (a)

Example response for part (a)

The rotational inertia for bar 1 is smaller than the rotational inertia for bar 2. This
means that when the two bars have equal torques applied to them, bar 1 has a larger
angular acceleration. Since both bars start from rest and are accelerated for the same
time, bar 1 has a larger angular displacement.
Total for part (a) 2 points

(b) For a graph for bar 1 and bar 2 that both start at the origin 1 point
For both graphs being linear with a positive slope 1 point
For a graph for bar 1 that has a larger slope than bar 2 1 point
Example response for part (a)

Total for part (b) 3 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

(c) Correct answer: Both bars have the same angular momentum

For a statement that both bars experience the same torque because they experience the 1 point
same force at the same distance from the pivot

For a statement that the torque times the time is the same for both bars 1 point

Example response for part (c)

Both bars experience the same torque because they experience the same force at the same
distance from the pivot. Change in angular momentum is equal to torque times time, so
since the two bars have the same torque exerted for the same time, the two bars have the
same change in angular momentum from t = 0 to t = t1 .

Total for part (c) 2 points

Total for question 4 7 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

Question 5: Paragraph-Length Response 7 points

(a) For a statement that angular momentum is conserved (i.e. - statement that angular 1 point
momentum stays the same while the athlete is in the air)

For reasoning in terms of mass distribution why rotational inertia is less in Figure 2 than 1 point
in 1 and/or 3

For a correct indication that I and angular speed are inversely related. 1 point
Scoring note: The response can refer to “ L = I ” or a similar word-based statement.

For explicitly addressing both intervals 1-2 and 2-3. 1 point

Scoring note: The response can simply refer to earlier reasoning without repeating it.

For a logical, relevant, and internally consistent argument that addresses the required 1 point
argument, explanation or question asked, and follows the guidelines described in the
published requirements for the paragraph-length response

Example paragraph response:

The angular momentum of the athlete remains constant throughout the dive. In Figure 2
the athlete pulls in her arms and legs closer to the point of rotation, so the rotational
inertia decreases. Since angular momentum is conserved, and L = I , the angular
velocity increases. In Figure 3 the athlete extends her arms and legs increasing the
rotational inertia and decreasing the angular velocity.

Claim (given):
The athlete’s angular speed increases between Figure 1 and Figure 2 but decreases
between Figure 2 and Figure 3.
Evidence: Angular momentum is a conserved quantity.
Reasoning:
In Figure 2 the athlete pulls in her arms and legs closer to the point of rotation, so the
rotational inertia decreases. Since angular momentum is conserved, and L = I , the
angular velocity increases. In Figure 3 the athlete extends her arms and legs increasing the
rotational inertia and decreasing the angular velocity.

Total for part (a) 5 points

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

(b) Correct answer:

K 2,rot K1,rot

Scoring note: the response can earn credit even if an incorrect selection is made.
For reasoning that there is an increase in angular velocity and a decrease in rotational 1 point
inertia

For reasoning qualitatively or quantitatively that the decrease in rotational inertia does not 1 point
“compensate for” the increase in angular velocity

Claim:

K 2,rot K1,rot

Evidence:
1 2
L= I K = I
2
Reasoning:
There is an increase in angular velocity and a decrease in rotational inertia. In terms of the
1 1 1
rotational kinetic energy K rot = I 2 = ( I ) = L , the decrease in I does not
2 2 2
“compensate for” the increase in .

Alternate solution (using angular momentum and energy) Alternate

points
For reasoning that angular speed increases or rotational inertia decreases and angular 1 point
momentum is constant

For reasoning qualitatively or quantitatively that kinetic energy depends on angular speed 1 point
or rotational inertia

Claim:
K 2,rot K1,rot

Evidence:

L= I K rot =
1
2
L = L()
1 L
2 I
=
1 L2
2 I

Reasoning:
There is an increase in angular velocity (or a decrease in rotational inertia I) and
angular momentum is constant. In terms of rotational kinetic energy

1 1 L2
K rot = L =
2 2 I
, a constant angular momentum means that K rot must increase,
K 2,rot K1,rot
so .

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AP® Physics 1 2022 Scoring Guidelines

Alternate solution (using work and energy): Alternate

points
For reasoning that no work is done on the athlete by external torques 1 point
For reasoning that mechanical energy was increased by the work done by her muscles 1 point
(and/or conversion of cellular chemical energy into mechanical energy)

Claim:
K 2,rot K1,rot

Evidence:
∆E = W = F d = Fd cos

Reasoning:
The force exerted by the athlete’s muscles on the arms and legs is inward, in the same
direction that the arms and legs are moving between Figures 1 and 2, so positive work is
done by the muscles. No other forces exert a torque on the athlete, so the positive work
done by the muscles results in greater kinetic energy.
Total for part (b) 2 points

Total for question 5 7 points

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