AP B or AP C

AP B or AP C?

AP courses are meant to follow the format of comparable college classes. In most colleges, you will find three types of entry level physics: A, B, & C. Level A involves very little math. It's often called "conceptual physics." Level B involves a good deal of math, but little or no calculus. Level C involves the most complex mathematics, including calculus.

AP Physics B . . .

	is an extension of the topics covered in honors physics.
	covers old topics to greater complexity and greater depth, plus a few new ones.
	involves a good deal of algebra and trigonometry, but no calculus.
	is a two period class, which allows for far more labs and activities.
	is a course designed for students who are interested in physics, but do not plan to pursue a physics-related career.

AP Physics C . . .

	is a course designed to reflect those that are required for physics, engineering, math, and most chemistry majors in college.
	covers fewer subjects than B, but those subjects are covered in far greater depth.
	covers all of mechanics and electromagnetism, but does not cover thermodynamics, waves & sound, optics, fluids, or nuclear physics at all.
	is a calculus based course.
	actually exists as two separate courses, mechanics and electricity & magnetism. These are the topics covered in 1st semester and 2nd semester college courses, respectively. Each class is one period, and can be taken individually or together, as a separate AP test is given at the end of the year for each one.

For full course descriptions, visit AP Central