Physics: Mechanics for the MCAT

Kinematics

$v = v_0 + at$ $x = x_0 + v_0 t + \frac{1}{2}at^2$ $v^2 = v_0^2 + 2a(x - x_0)$

Projectile Motion: Horizontal velocity is constant; vertical acceleration = g = 9.8 m/s²

Newton's Laws

1. An object at rest stays at rest (inertia)
2. F = ma — net force equals mass times acceleration
3. Every action has an equal and opposite reaction

Friction: Static (fs ≤ μsN) prevents motion; Kinetic (fk = μkN) acts during motion

Work, Energy & Power

$W = Fd\cos\theta$ $KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$ $PE_{gravity} = mgh$ $\text{Conservation: } KE_1 + PE_1 = KE_2 + PE_2$

Fluids

$P = P_0 + \rho gh \quad \text{(hydrostatic pressure)}$ $F_b = \rho_{fluid} \cdot V_{displaced} \cdot g \quad \text{(buoyancy)}$ $P_1 + \frac{1}{2}\rho v_1^2 + \rho g h_1 = P_2 + \frac{1}{2}\rho v_2^2 + \rho g h_2 \quad \text{(Bernoulli)}$