Kinematics Overview — AP Physics 1
1. Unit at a Glance
Kinematics is the starting point for all of physics because it answers the most basic question: how do things move? This unit builds incrementally, starting from core definitions of motion quantities, moving to graphical representations, then algebraic problem-solving, and ending with application to the common real-world case of projectile motion.
Each sub-topic relies on the previous one: you will first master what each motion quantity means, then learn how to visualize motion with graphs, then solve problems with kinematic equations, and finally extend your skills to two-dimensional motion.
Common Pitfalls
Why: Distance and speed are scalars (no direction), while displacement and velocity are vectors (include direction).
Why: Acceleration sign depends on your defined coordinate system, not whether an object is speeding up or slowing down.
Why: Horizontal and vertical motion are independent vector components that cannot be added directly as scalars.