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Volume I · MMXXVI AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based
Library› AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based› Unit 7: Oscillations
⁂   AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based · Unit 7

7. Oscillations

5–8% of the AP exam. 7 key topics. 4 common errors analyzed.

5–8% exam weight

Unit 7: Oscillations

Unit 7 (Oscillations) is part of AP Physics 1 (Algebra-Based). Concept-first: understand the physical reasoning before memorizing equations — the four named FRQ types reward explanation over plug-and-chug.

Key topics in this unit

  1. Conditions for simple harmonic motion: restoring force proportional to displacement
  2. Frequency and period relationships
  3. Representing and analyzing SHM with position, velocity, and acceleration graphs
  4. Phase relationships between x(t), v(t), and a(t) in SHM
  5. Energy in SHM: kinetic-potential energy exchange
  6. Period of a mass-spring system
  7. Period of a simple pendulum

Common errors — what the rubric penalizes

These are the most frequently penalized mistakes on AP exam FRQs and MCQs. Review each before your next practice session.

Common error

Swapping the period formulas for springs and pendulums — T_spring = 2π√(m/k) depends on mass and spring constant while T_pendulum = 2π√(L/g) depends on length and gravitational field strength; notably, pendulum period is independent of the bob's mass

Common error

Misidentifying when kinetic and potential energy are maximum in SHM — KE is maximum at the equilibrium position (where speed is greatest and displacement is zero) and PE is maximum at the amplitude (where speed is zero and restoring force is greatest)

Common error

Incorrect phase relationships: on x-t and v-t graphs, velocity leads position by 90°, and acceleration is always opposite in sign to displacement; students frequently draw these in phase rather than out of phase

Common error

Assuming SHM applies to large-amplitude pendulums — the small-angle approximation (sin θ ≈ θ) is required for the standard period formula to hold; large amplitudes produce longer periods than the formula predicts

Study checklist

  • Can you list all key topics from memory without this page?
  • Have you worked through at least one FRQ-style question per topic?
  • Can you explain each common error above — and why the correct answer differs?
  • Have you reviewed the relevant College Board CED section and formula sheet entries?
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