MCAT Physics Equations Sheet

Gold Standard's MCAT Physics Equations Sheet ('cheat sheet' notes, formulas)

This MCAT Physics Equations Sheet provides helpful physics equations for exam preparation. Physics equations on motion, force, work, energy, momentum, electricity, waves and more are presented below. Please keep in mind that understanding the meaning of equations and their appropriate use will always be more important than memorization. Sometimes, formulas will be provided during the exam but, as you will see, you are expected to already know quite a few. Doing and reviewing practice questions and practice tests will improve your understanding of what you need to know.

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MCAT Physics equations to memorize

MCAT Physics throws a lot of equations your way, but don't worry, you don't have to remember them all! This guide focuses on the essential formulas you'll need to commit to memory, from the core concepts of motion (think: translating objects from point A to B) all the way to how light bends with refraction. By mastering these key equations, you'll have a solid foundation for tackling MCAT physics problems and feeling confident on test day.

Translational motion	x = x_o + v_ot + 1/2at² \| (V_ƒ)² = (V_o)² + 2ax	V_ƒ = V_o + at
Frictional force	f_max = μ Ν	μ_k < μ_s always
Uniform circular motion*	F_c = ma_c = mv² /r	a_c= v² /r
Momentum, Impulse*	I = F Δt = ΔM	M = mv
Work, Power	W = F d cosθ	P = ΔW/Δt
Energy (conservation)	E_T = E_k + E_p	E = mc²
Spring Force, Work	F = -kx	W = kx² /2
Continuity (fluids)	A v = const.	ρAv = const.
Current and Resistance	I = Q/t	R = ρl/A
Resistors (series, par.)	R_eq = R₁ + R₂ . . .	1/ R_eq = 1/ R₁ + 1/ R₂
Capacitors in Ser. and Par.	1/ C_eq = 1/ C₁ + 1/ C₂ + 1/ C₃ . . .	C_eq = C₁ + C₂ . .
Sound	dB = 10 log₁₀ (I/I₀ )	beats = Δ ƒ
Kirchoff's Laws	Σi = 0 at a junction	ΣΔV = 0 in a loop
Thermodynamics	Q = mc Δ T (MCAT !)	Q = mL
Torque forces	L₁ = F₁× r₁ (CCW + ve)	L₂ = F₂ × r₂ (CW - ve)
Torque force at EQ	ΣF_x = 0 and ΣF_y = 0	ΣL = 0
Refraction	( sin θ₁ )/(sin θ₂ ) = v₁ /v₂ = n₂ /n₁ = λ₁ /λ₂	n = c/v

Put these equations to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

Physics equations (formulas) to memorize as pairs

MCAT Physics loves to test your understanding through equations, but memorizing everything can be overwhelming. By mastering these essential equation pairs, you'll unlock a powerful problem-solving approach that will conquer the MCAT physics section.

F = ma	Similar Form
F = qE	Similar Form
F = K_G ( m₁ m₂ / r² )
F = k ( q₁ q₂ / r² )
V = IR	Paired Use
P = IV	Paired Use
v_av = Δ d / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
a_av = Δ v / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
v = λ f	(f = 1/T)
E = hf	(f = 1/T)
E_k = 1/2 mv²	(kin, pot E)
E_p = mgh	(kin, pot E)
Ρ = F/A	(pressure Ρ)
Δ Ρ = ρgΔh	(pressure Ρ)
SG = ρ substance / ρ water	(Spec Grav)
ρ = 1 g/cm³ = 10³ kg/m³	(Spec Grav)
ρ = mass / volume	(buoyant F)
F_b = Vρg = mg	(buoyant F)
1/ i + 1/ o = 1/ f = 2/r = Power	Optics
M = magnification = - i/o	Optics
ΔG = ΔH - TΔS	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq
Gibbs Free Energy	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq

F = ma	F = qE	Similar Form
F = K_G ( m₁ m₂ / r² )	F = k ( q₁ q₂ / r² )
V = IR	P = IV	Paired Use
v_av = Δ d / Δ t	a_av = Δ v / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
v = λ f	E = hf	(f = 1/T)
E_k = 1/2 mv²	E_p = mgh	(kin, pot E)
Ρ = F/A	Δ Ρ = ρgΔh	(pressure Ρ)
SG = ρ substance / ρ water	ρ = 1 g/cm³ = 10³ kg/m³	(Spec Grav)
ρ = mass / volume	F_b = Vρg = mg	(buoyant F)
1/ i + 1/ o = 1/ f = 2/r = Power	M = magnification = - i/o	Optics
ΔG = ΔH - TΔS	Gibbs Free Energy	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq

Note: Specific gravity (SG) is equivalent to the fraction of the height of a buoyant object below the surface of the fluid.

Mastering Physics concepts is crucial for MCAT success. Our comprehensive home study courses provide in-depth content review, practice questions, and expert guidance, all designed to help you excel on the exam. Learn more: MCAT prep courses

Know how to use these physics equations; do not memorize

Not all MCAT physics equations demand memorization! This guide will help you navigate the ones you can understand conceptually.

Ρ + ρgh + 1/2 ρv₂ = constant

Bernouilli's Equation

Fluids in Motion

f₀ = f_s (V ± V₀ )/( V ± V_s )

Doppler Effect: when d is decreasing use + V₀ and - V_s

V = Ed for a parallel plate capacitor

d = the distance between the plates

dF = dq v(B sin α) = I dl(B sin α)

Laplace's Law

RH rule

Potential Energy ( PE ) = W = 1/2 QV

Work in Electricity

W = 1/2 CV²

Ρ + ρgh + 1/2 ρv₂ = constant	Bernouilli's Equation	Fluids in Motion
f₀ = f_s (V ± V₀ )/( V ± V_s )	Doppler Effect: when d is decreasing use + V₀ and - V_s
V = Ed for a parallel plate capacitor	d = the distance between the plates
dF = dq v(B sin α) = I dl(B sin α)	Laplace's Law	RH rule
Potential Energy ( PE ) = W = 1/2 QV	Work in Electricity	W = 1/2 CV²

Put these equations to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

Atomic nucleus & electronic structure

MCAT Physics loves to test your understanding of the atom's inner workings! This guide will crack open the atomic nucleus and unravel the mysteries of electronic structure.

Alpha (α) particle = ₂He⁴ (helium nucleus);
Beta (β) particle = _-1e⁰ (an electron);
A positron = ₊₁e⁰ (same mass as an electron but opposite charge);
Gamma (γ) ray = no mass, no charge, just electromagnetic energy;
Δ m /Δ t = rate of decay where Δ m = change in mass, Δ t = change in time.
If the number of half-lifes n are known we can calculate the percentage of a pure radioactive sample left after undergoing decay since the fraction remaining = (1/2)ⁿ.
N_electrons = 2 n² , where N_electrons designates the number of electrons in shell n.
The state of each electron is determined by the four quantum numbers:
- Principal quantum number = n
  - Determines the number of shells
  - Possible values are: 1 (K), 2 (L), 3 (M), etc...
- Angular momentum quantum number = l
  - Determines the subshell
  - Possible values are: 0 (s), 1 (p), 2 (d), 3 (f), n-1, etc...
- Magnetic momentum quantum number = m_l
  - Determines the orbital
  - Possible values are: ± l , ... , 0
- Spin quantum number = m_s
  - Determines the direction of rotation of the electron
  - Possible values are: ± 1/2

Put these equations to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

MCAT Physics equations - the basics of Trigonometry

Trigonometry basics, sin = opp/hyp, cos = adj/hyp and tan =opp/adj

sin θ = opp/hyp

cos θ = adj/hyp

tan θ =opp/adj

Angle θ may be given in radians (R) where 1 revolution = 2π^R = 360°
Estimate square root 3 as 1.7 and root 2 as 1.4
Cross-sectional area of a tube = area of a circle = πr² where π can be estimated as 3.14 and r is the radius of the circle; circumference = 2πr

Put your Trigonometry knowledge to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

MCAT Physics units to memorize

Both work and energy are measured in joules where 1 joule (J) = 1 N × 1 m . {Imperial units: the foot-pound , CGS units: the dyne-centimeter or erg }
The SI unit for power is the watt (W) which equals one joule per second (J/s) = volts × amperes.
Current is measured in amperes = coulombs/sec. The units of resistance are ohms, symbolized by Ω (omega), where 1 ohm = 1 volt/ampere.
The SI unit for pressure is the pascal (1 Pa = 1 N/m² ). Other units are: 1.00 atm = 1.01 × 10⁵ Pa = 1.01 bar = 760 mmHg = 760 torr.
The SI unit for the magnetic induction vector B is the tesla where 1 T = 1 N/(A)(m) = 10⁴ gauss.

Put these Physics units to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

Do you have to memorize all equations for MCAT?: No, you do not need to memorize all equations for the MCAT. For MCAT Physics, there are many equations that you should memorize in order to maximize your score. Occasionally, the AAMC will provide physics formulas during the exam itself, but never basic formulas.

How do you remember MCAT physics formulas?: The best way to remember MCAT Physics formulas is by: 1) understanding the idea(s) behind the equation; 2) application: doing and reviewing practice questions and practice tests that require classic MCAT physics formulas, which of course, will improve your understanding of what you need to know; 3) in rare instances, using mnemonics or other memory devices (e.g. heat energy Q = mcΔT = MCAT !).

How hard is MCAT Physics?: Yes, MCAT physics is hard, but with adequate content review and consistent practice, it is quite manageable. This exam tests your knowledge on common physics concepts taught in undergraduate school, so its questions should not be any harder than the questions you faced in your college physics classes. What students tend to find most challenging about this exam’s physics content is the dimensional analysis, unit conversion, and mental math required to answer questions quickly. This is where content review and practice questions become most beneficial. The more you review the formulas and units, the less hard this section will feel.

Is the MCAT Physics 1 or 2?: Physics topics on the MCAT usually cover content from the first semester of college physics, or Physics 1, and the second semester of college physics, or Physics 2. For curriculums in which Physics 2 covers more theoretical applications, this exam will focus primarily on topics covered in Physics 1. Students who have only taken an Introduction to Physics course will most likely need to take the next-level physics course offered at their school to learn all the physics concepts tested on the exam. Regardless of the courses you have taken, make sure to review the AAMC’s exam topic outline.

Gold Standard’s Science Summaries

Gold Standard Health-related Exams: Physics Links

Translational motion
x = xo + vot + 1/2at2 \| (Vƒ)2 = (Vo)2 + 2ax
Vƒ = Vo + at
Frictional force
fmax = μ Ν
μk < μs always
Uniform circular motion*
Fc = mac = mv2 /r
ac= v2 /r
Momentum, Impulse*
I = F Δt = ΔM
M = mv
Work, Power
W = F d cosθ
P = ΔW/Δt
Energy (conservation)
ET = Ek + Ep
E = mc2
Spring Force, Work
F = -kx
W = kx2 /2
Continuity (fluids)
A v = const.
ρAv = const.
Current and Resistance
I = Q/t
R = ρl/A
Resistors (series, par.)
Req = R1 + R2 . . .
1/ Req = 1/ R1 + 1/ R2
Capacitors in Ser. and Par.
1/ Ceq = 1/ C1 + 1/ C2 + 1/ C3 . . .
Ceq = C1 + C2 . .
Sound
dB = 10 log10 (I/I0 )
beats = Δ ƒ
Kirchoff's Laws
Σi = 0 at a junction
ΣΔV = 0 in a loop
Thermodynamics
Q = mc Δ T (MCAT !)
Q = mL
Torque forces
L1 = F1× r1 (CCW + ve)
L2 = F2 × r2 (CW - ve)
Torque force at EQ
ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0
ΣL = 0
Refraction
( sin θ1 )/(sin θ2 ) = v1 /v2 = n2 /n1 = λ1 /λ2
n = c/v

Translational motion	x = x_o + v_ot + 1/2at² \| (V_ƒ)² = (V_o)² + 2ax	V_ƒ = V_o + at
Frictional force	f_max = μ Ν	μ_k < μ_s always
Uniform circular motion*	F_c = ma_c = mv² /r	a_c= v² /r
Momentum, Impulse*	I = F Δt = ΔM	M = mv
Work, Power	W = F d cosθ	P = ΔW/Δt
Energy (conservation)	E_T = E_k + E_p	E = mc²
Spring Force, Work	F = -kx	W = kx² /2
Continuity (fluids)	A v = const.	ρAv = const.
Current and Resistance	I = Q/t	R = ρl/A
Resistors (series, par.)	R_eq = R₁ + R₂ . . .	1/ R_eq = 1/ R₁ + 1/ R₂
Capacitors in Ser. and Par.	1/ C_eq = 1/ C₁ + 1/ C₂ + 1/ C₃ . . .	C_eq = C₁ + C₂ . .
Sound	dB = 10 log₁₀ (I/I₀ )	beats = Δ ƒ
Kirchoff's Laws	Σi = 0 at a junction	ΣΔV = 0 in a loop
Thermodynamics	Q = mc Δ T (MCAT !)	Q = mL
Torque forces	L₁ = F₁× r₁ (CCW + ve)	L₂ = F₂ × r₂ (CW - ve)
Torque force at EQ	ΣF_x = 0 and ΣF_y = 0	ΣL = 0
Refraction	( sin θ₁ )/(sin θ₂ ) = v₁ /v₂ = n₂ /n₁ = λ₁ /λ₂	n = c/v

Put these equations to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

F = ma	Similar Form
F = qE	Similar Form
F = K_G ( m₁ m₂ / r² )
F = k ( q₁ q₂ / r² )
V = IR	Paired Use
P = IV	Paired Use
v_av = Δ d / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
a_av = Δ v / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
v = λ f	(f = 1/T)
E = hf	(f = 1/T)
E_k = 1/2 mv²	(kin, pot E)
E_p = mgh	(kin, pot E)
Ρ = F/A	(pressure Ρ)
Δ Ρ = ρgΔh	(pressure Ρ)
SG = ρ substance / ρ water	(Spec Grav)
ρ = 1 g/cm³ = 10³ kg/m³	(Spec Grav)
ρ = mass / volume	(buoyant F)
F_b = Vρg = mg	(buoyant F)
1/ i + 1/ o = 1/ f = 2/r = Power	Optics
M = magnification = - i/o	Optics
ΔG = ΔH - TΔS	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq
Gibbs Free Energy	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq

F = ma	F = qE	Similar Form
F = K_G ( m₁ m₂ / r² )	F = k ( q₁ q₂ / r² )
V = IR	P = IV	Paired Use
v_av = Δ d / Δ t	a_av = Δ v / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
v = λ f	E = hf	(f = 1/T)
E_k = 1/2 mv²	E_p = mgh	(kin, pot E)
Ρ = F/A	Δ Ρ = ρgΔh	(pressure Ρ)
SG = ρ substance / ρ water	ρ = 1 g/cm³ = 10³ kg/m³	(Spec Grav)
ρ = mass / volume	F_b = Vρg = mg	(buoyant F)
1/ i + 1/ o = 1/ f = 2/r = Power	M = magnification = - i/o	Optics
ΔG = ΔH - TΔS	Gibbs Free Energy	ΔG° = -RTln K_eq

Note: Specific gravity (SG) is equivalent to the fraction of the height of a buoyant object below the surface of the fluid.

Put these equations to the test, try some MCAT Physics questions with our free MCAT practice test.

Ρ + ρgh + 1/2 ρv₂ = constant

Bernouilli's Equation

Fluids in Motion

f₀ = f_s (V ± V₀ )/( V ± V_s )

Doppler Effect: when d is decreasing use + V₀ and - V_s

V = Ed for a parallel plate capacitor

d = the distance between the plates

dF = dq v(B sin α) = I dl(B sin α)

Laplace's Law

RH rule

Potential Energy ( PE ) = W = 1/2 QV

Work in Electricity

W = 1/2 CV²

Ρ + ρgh + 1/2 ρv₂ = constant	Bernouilli's Equation	Fluids in Motion
f₀ = f_s (V ± V₀ )/( V ± V_s )	Doppler Effect: when d is decreasing use + V₀ and - V_s
V = Ed for a parallel plate capacitor	d = the distance between the plates
dF = dq v(B sin α) = I dl(B sin α)	Laplace's Law	RH rule
Potential Energy ( PE ) = W = 1/2 QV	Work in Electricity	W = 1/2 CV²