USAPhO Guide

F=ma

Mechanics for the F=ma exam, from vectors to oscillations.

1Toolkit: Before You Start

Units, vectors and the calculus you'll use in every unit after this.

2Kinematics

Position, velocity and acceleration in one and two dimensions.

3Newton's Laws & Forces

Free body diagrams, friction, pulleys, circular motion and gravity.

4Work, Energy & Momentum

Energy and momentum conservation, collisions, center of mass.

5Rotational Motion

Torque, moment of inertia, angular momentum and rolling.

6Oscillations

Springs, pendulums and simple harmonic motion.

7Fluids & Extra Mechanics

Fluids, and accelerating reference frames.