Deciding Between AP Physics B & C for Engineering Majors

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the decision-making process for a student contemplating whether to take the AP Physics B or C exam, particularly in the context of preparing for an engineering major. Participants explore the differences in content coverage, the perceived value of each exam for college admissions, and personal experiences related to AP Physics courses.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that their teacher claims the AP Physics BC course is a blend of B and C, primarily focusing on mechanics with limited coverage of electricity.
  • Another participant expresses concern about whether good engineering colleges prioritize a score of 5 on the Physics C test over a score of 4 on the C test or a 5 on the B test.
  • A participant with experience in a top-ten engineering program argues against taking the Physics B test, stating it is less rigorous and may not be accepted for credit by engineering programs.
  • Some participants suggest that the Physics C test requires a solid understanding of calculus, which is a significant differentiator from Physics B.
  • A participant shares their personal experience of achieving a 5 on both Physics C tests, indicating that their undergraduate institution did not place importance on those scores for credit.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the value of the AP Physics B test for engineering majors, with some advocating for Physics C as the better option while others question the necessity of achieving a high score on either test. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best choice for the original poster.

Contextual Notes

There are varying assumptions about the acceptance of AP Physics B and C scores by different colleges, and the discussion reflects a lack of consensus on the importance of these tests for engineering admissions.

jouncey
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I need help deciding which AP Physics test to take.
Currently, I am a junior taking AP Physics BC, which my teacher claims is between AP Physics B and C. It looks like all we will learn this year is mechanics, maybe touch on electricity. Our teacher isn’t giving us any AP test questions or practice, but I think he is covering the material well, explaining the concepts and equations thoroughly.
My teacher says good engineering colleges will only notice me if I take the AP Physics C test. He says his course doesn’t cover much of the C test and I won’t have enough time to study for it.
I bought a AP Barron’s Physics C book (barely opened, so I can still return it).
I’m planning to major in engineering (probably mechanical) in college.
How much more material does Physics C cover than Physics B? Would the Physics C book also be helpful for studying Physics B?
I understand the concepts taught in class well and so far I am maintaining a high A. Which test should I take? Do good colleges really only care about 5s on the C test?
Thanks!
 
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One more general question:
Is it better to get a 4 on the C test or a 5 on the B test?
 
Also, if I take the C test, I would just take mechanics.
 
Hello,

From my experience, many schools will not even accept credit from the physics B test for engineering majors. physics B has broader, lower-level coverage than physics C, with the biggest difference being the use of some calculus in physics C.

As a mechanical engineering student in a top-ten undergraduate program, I advocate avoiding the physics B test, as it likely won't count for anything. That said, you should be pretty confident before attempting the physics C test. My school requires a 5. Most list the requirements online. Look into the schools you are considering to see what you would need.

I hope this helps. If you need more clarification, feel free to ask.
 
I got a 5 on both Physics C tests and my undergrad school didn't care.

I was in a similar situation to yours where the teacher didn't really care about the AP tests and didn't attempt to cover the material on them. I think I self-studied from Barron's as well. Give it your best shot, but don't expect it to count for anything, necessarily.
 

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