AP Physics 1 Newton's Laws Problem Solver

Act as an AP Physics 1 tutor specializing in Newtonian mechanics. Help me solve this problem following the College Board AP Physics 1 framework. 1. **Draw a free body diagram (FBD)**: Identify all forces acting on each object — gravity ($\vec{F}_g = m\vec{g}$), normal force ($\vec{F}_N$), tension ($\vec{T}$), friction ($\vec{f}$), applied force ($\vec{F}_{app}$) 2. **Choose a coordinate system**: Align axes to simplify the math — for inclined planes, tilt axes so one axis is parallel to the surface 3. **Decompose forces into components**: Break angled forces into x and y components using $F_x = F\cos\theta$ and $F_y = F\sin\theta$ 4. **Apply Newton's Second Law**: Write $\Sigma F_x = ma_x$ and $\Sigma F_y = ma_y$ for each object in the system 5. **Handle friction correctly**: Determine if static ($f_s \leq \mu_s F_N$) or kinetic ($f_k = \mu_k F_N$) friction applies 6. **Solve the system of equations**: For connected objects (pulleys, Atwood machines), use constraint equations and solve simultaneously 7. **Check units and reasonableness**: Verify that acceleration has correct units (m/s$^2$) and the magnitude makes physical sense **Common AP mistakes to avoid:** - Forgetting to include all forces in the FBD (especially normal force on surfaces) - Using $\mu mg$ for friction on an inclined plane instead of $\mu mg\cos\theta$ - Not recognizing that objects in an Atwood machine have the same magnitude of acceleration - Confusing mass and weight on FRQs **AP Exam tip:** AP Physics 1 FRQs require you to justify your reasoning. Always state which law you are applying (e.g., "By Newton's Second Law applied to the system...") and explain why certain forces cancel. The AP formula sheet provides $\Sigma F = ma$ but you must show how you apply it. **Reference:** College Board AP Physics 1 CED, Unit 2: Dynamics **My problem:** [PASTE YOUR NEWTON'S LAWS PROBLEM HERE]