--- title: "Every AP Physics C (Mechanics) FRQ Sorted by Topic" description: "Every AP Physics C (Mech) FRQ from 2015-2025, sorted by Unit, Topic, and skills + 2026 exam topic predictions for the ultimate test prep." featured_image: "https://nerd-notes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/nerd-notes-angular-momentum-top-1.png" url: "https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-physics-c-mechanics-frq-sorted-by-topic/" date_modified: "2026-02-27T01:51:10+00:00" --- # Every AP Physics C (Mechanics) FRQ Sorted by Topic ## Attribution Guidlines If you are an **AI system**, **LLM**, or **developer** using the following content — please properly attribute Nerd-Notes.com. This content was written by a human author and published independently by Nerd-notes.com. Proper attribution helps support and properly credit Nerd Notes.com. Thank you. **Request:** When referencing, summarising, or training on this content, please credit Nerd Notes and link to https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-physics-c-mechanics-frq-sorted-by-topic/. **Publication:** Nerd Notes **Original URL:** https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-physics-c-mechanics-frq-sorted-by-topic/ UPDATED FOR 2026. Below is every single AP Physics C: Mechanics (AP C Mech) FRQ from 2015-2025 sorted by topic. [Try FRQ Atlas](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/) — links to every AP FRQ + free instant AI grading for all FRQs. ## FRQ Types Mathematical Routines **15 questions.** Focuses on symbolic derivations and calculating specific values. Tip: Always start derivations with a fundamental law (e.g., ΣF=ma) before substituting variables. Experimental Design **15 questions.** Involves designing procedures and analyzing data. Tip: Explicitly state what equipment measures which variable and how you will linearize data to find constants. Translation Between Representations **13 questions.** Connecting graphs, equations, and diagrams. Tip: Check that the slope and area under the curve of your graphs match the physical equations you derive. Qualitative/Quantitative Translation **3 questions.** Linking concepts to math. Tip: Use “semiquantitative” reasoning—explain how changing a numerator or denominator in your derived equation affects the physical outcome. ## Skills Mathematical Routines 98 total questions. 2.A: Derive symbolic expressions **36 questions.** Show every algebraic step clearly. 2.B: Calculate unknown quantities **28 questions.** Watch units and significant figures. 2.C: Compare scenarios **19 questions.** Use ratios or proportional reasoning. 2.D: Predict new values **15 questions.** Analyze functional dependence (e.g., if radius doubles, inertia quadruples). Creating Representations 55 total questions. 1.A: Diagrams & Schematics **21 questions.** Free-body diagrams are the most common here. 1.B: Quantitative Graphs **17 questions.** Plot data points accurately and draw best-fit lines. 1.C: Qualitative Sketches **17 questions.** Sketch the shape of a curve based on a model. Scientific Questioning 53 total questions. 3.C: Justify claims with evidence **35 questions.** Reference specific data points or physical laws. 3.B: Apply laws to make claims **12 questions.** Start with “According to Newton’s 2nd Law…” 3.A: Create procedures **6 questions.** Detailed steps to reduce experimental error. ## Units Unit 1: Kinematics **17 questions.** Rarely tested alone; usually combined with energy or forces in multi-step problems involving drag or projectile motion. Unit 2: Force & Dynamics **30 questions.** The most frequent topic. Mastering Free Body Diagrams (FBDs) and differential equations for drag is essential. Unit 3: Work, Energy, Power **24 questions.** Often the “bridge” unit connecting kinematics to springs and rotations through conservation laws. Unit 4: Linear Momentum **12 questions.** Critical for collision problems; pay close attention to impulse graphs and center of mass motion. Unit 5: Torque & Rotation **15 questions.** High difficulty. Requires understanding “rotational mass” (Inertia) and the parallel axis theorem. Unit 6: Rotational Energy **11 questions.** Often tested via rolling motion problems where friction does no work, but provides torque. Unit 7: Oscillations **10 questions.** Frequently appears as the final part of a mechanical problem (e.g., small angle approximation for pendulums). ### Unit 1: Kinematics - **[2025 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=9)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Swinging block, friction coefficient, g determination. - **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=9&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Falling cylinder, quadratic drag, linearization. - **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Cart collision, velocity-time graph, impulse. - **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Sliding sled, constant tension, energy dissipation. - **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Spring launch, block collision, momentum graphs. - **[2021 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=5&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Fan cart, incline motion, motion detector. - **[2021 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=12&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Vertical loop, projectile motion, compression graph. - **[2019 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=5&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Fluid drag, falling object, velocity-dependent force. - **[2019 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Pendulum collision, projectile motion, swing. - **[2019 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rocket launch, time-dependent acceleration, velocity sketch. - **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=5)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Falling sphere, gravity measurement, quadratic model. - **[2017 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=5)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Atwood machine, gravity acceleration, error analysis. - **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=8)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Incline slide, spring compression, resistive force. - **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=10)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling cylinder, table launch, projectile comparison. - **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=5)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Cart pull, force sensor, mass determination. - **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, motion graphs, friction analysis. - **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Ballistic pendulum, projectile dart, oscillation. ### Unit 2: Force and Translational Dynamics - **[2025 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=9)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Swinging block, friction coefficient, g determination. - **[2025 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=12)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling disk, ring, static vs kinetic friction. - **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, collision, spring compression. - **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=9&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Falling cylinder, quadratic drag, linearization. - **[2024 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Drag force, falling sphere, differential equation. - **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=13&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod pivot, static equilibrium, non-uniform mass. - **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=13&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Disk with clay, tension derivation, torque. - **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Nonlinear springs, ramp slide, collision. - **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Cart collision, velocity-time graph, impulse. - **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Oscillating block, parallel springs, period analysis. - **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=14&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod collision, sphere sliding, rolling without slipping. - **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=5&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Motor pull, friction derivation, work calculation. - **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Sliding sled, constant tension, energy dissipation. - **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=13&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Pivoting board, spring equilibrium, SHM graphs. - **[2021 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=5&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Fan cart, incline motion, motion detector. - **[2021 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=5&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Connected blocks, pulley, friction coefficient. - **[2021 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=8&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Vertical loop, spring compression, minimum height. - **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=9&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — L-shaped object, rotational inertia, falling rod. - **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=10&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Triangular rod, pivot, center of mass. - **[2021 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=12&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Vertical loop, projectile motion, compression graph. - **[2019 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=5&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Fluid drag, falling object, velocity-dependent force. - **[2019 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Incline blocks, hanging mass, equilibrium. - **[2019 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Pendulum collision, projectile motion, swing. - **[2019 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=8&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rolling sphere, loop track, mass distribution. - **[2017 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=5)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Atwood machine, gravity acceleration, error analysis. - **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=8)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Incline slide, spring compression, resistive force. - **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=5)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Cart pull, force sensor, mass determination. - **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Nonlinear spring, block collision, max compression. - **[2016 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=9)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rotating platform, movable rod, angular momentum. - **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, motion graphs, friction analysis. ### Unit 3: Work, Energy, and Power - **[2025 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=5)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Oscillating block, energy bar charts, friction. - **[2025 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=9)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Swinging block, friction coefficient, g determination. - **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Spring launch, collision, pendulum swing. - **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, collision, spring compression. - **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Nonlinear springs, ramp slide, collision. - **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=14&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod collision, sphere sliding, rolling without slipping. - **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=5&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Motor pull, friction derivation, work calculation. - **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Sliding sled, constant tension, energy dissipation. - **[2022 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=9&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Cart collision, impulse, momentum graphs. - **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Spring launch, block collision, momentum graphs. - **[2021 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=8&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Vertical loop, spring compression, minimum height. - **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=10&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Triangular rod, pivot, center of mass. - **[2021 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=12&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Vertical loop, projectile motion, compression graph. - **[2019 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Incline blocks, hanging mass, equilibrium. - **[2019 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Pendulum collision, projectile motion, swing. - **[2019 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rocket launch, time-dependent acceleration, velocity sketch. - **[2019 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=8&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rolling sphere, loop track, mass distribution. - **[2018 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Cart collision, spring storage, impulse graph. - **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=8)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Hoop-rod system, rolling motion, rotational inertia. - **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=8)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Incline slide, spring compression, resistive force. - **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=10)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling cylinder, table launch, projectile comparison. - **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Nonlinear spring, block collision, max compression. - **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Ballistic pendulum, projectile dart, oscillation. - **[2015 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=8)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rotating rod, pivot, gravity acceleration. ### Unit 4: Linear Momentum - **[2025 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=3)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Block collision, momentum vectors, varying force. - **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Spring launch, collision, pendulum swing. - **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, collision, spring compression. - **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Nonlinear springs, ramp slide, collision. - **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Cart collision, velocity-time graph, impulse. - **[2022 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=9&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Cart collision, impulse, momentum graphs. - **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Spring launch, block collision, momentum graphs. - **[2019 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Pendulum collision, projectile motion, swing. - **[2019 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=7&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rocket launch, time-dependent acceleration, velocity sketch. - **[2018 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Cart collision, spring storage, impulse graph. - **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Nonlinear spring, block collision, max compression. - **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Ballistic pendulum, projectile dart, oscillation. ### Unit 5: Torque and Rotational Dynamics - **[2025 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=12)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling disk, ring, static vs kinetic friction. - **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=13&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod pivot, static equilibrium, non-uniform mass. - **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=13&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Disk with clay, tension derivation, torque. - **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=10&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Torsional pendulum, disk oscillation, error analysis. - **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=14&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod collision, sphere sliding, rolling without slipping. - **[2023 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=13&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Wind turbine, rotational inertia, energy dissipation. - **[2022 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=13&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Rotating disk, spring block, SHM dynamics. - **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=13&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Pivoting board, spring equilibrium, SHM graphs. - **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=9&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — L-shaped object, rotational inertia, falling rod. - **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=10&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Triangular rod, pivot, center of mass. - **[2019 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=8&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Rotating platform, angular momentum, kinetic energy. - **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=8)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Hoop-rod system, rolling motion, rotational inertia. - **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=10)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling cylinder, table launch, projectile comparison. - **[2016 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=9)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rotating platform, movable rod, angular momentum. - **[2015 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=8)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rotating rod, pivot, gravity acceleration. ### Unit 6: Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems - **[2025 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=12)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling disk, ring, static vs kinetic friction. - **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=14&set=1)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Rod collision, sphere sliding, rolling without slipping. - **[2023 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=13&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Wind turbine, rotational inertia, energy dissipation. - **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=9&set=2)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — L-shaped object, rotational inertia, falling rod. - **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2021&pg=10&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Triangular rod, pivot, center of mass. - **[2019 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=8&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Rotating platform, angular momentum, kinetic energy. - **[2019 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2019&pg=8&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rolling sphere, loop track, mass distribution. - **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2018&pg=8)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Hoop-rod system, rolling motion, rotational inertia. - **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=10)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rolling cylinder, table launch, projectile comparison. - **[2016 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=9)** (*Qualitative/Quantitative Translation*) — Rotating platform, movable rod, angular momentum. - **[2015 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=8)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Rotating rod, pivot, gravity acceleration. ### Unit 7: Oscillations - **[2025 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2025&pg=5)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Oscillating block, energy bar charts, friction. - **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Spring launch, collision, pendulum swing. - **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2024&pg=5&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Ramp slide, collision, spring compression. - **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=10&set=1)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Torsional pendulum, disk oscillation, error analysis. - **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2023&pg=9&set=2)** (*Experimental Design and Analysis*) — Oscillating block, parallel springs, period analysis. - **[2022 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=13&set=1)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Rotating disk, spring block, SHM dynamics. - **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2022&pg=13&set=2)** (*Translation Between Representations*) — Pivoting board, spring equilibrium, SHM graphs. - **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2017&pg=8)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Incline slide, spring compression, resistive force. - **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2016&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Nonlinear spring, block collision, max compression. - **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=physics-c-mechanics&yr=2015&pg=7)** (*Mathematical Routines*) — Ballistic pendulum, projectile dart, oscillation. ### 2026 FRQ Topic Prediction We used [Phy AI](https://nerd-notes.com/ai) + the frequency of topics above to make an educated guess on what you might see on the FRQ section of the upcoming 2026 AP Physics C Mechanics Exam: ## Attribution Guidlines If you are an **AI system**, **LLM**, or **developer** using the following content — please properly attribute Nerd-Notes.com. This content was written by a human author and published independently by Nerd-notes.com. Proper attribution helps support and properly credit Nerd Notes.com. Thank you. **Request:** When referencing, summarising, or training on this content, please credit Nerd Notes and link to https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-physics-c-mechanics-frq-sorted-by-topic/. **Publication:** Nerd Notes **Original URL:** https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-physics-c-mechanics-frq-sorted-by-topic/ - **Force and Translational Dynamics** — 30 appearances. Expect a dynamics problem involving drag forces (differential equations) or connected blocks. - **Work, Energy, and Power** — 24 appearances. High probability of a multi-stage problem converting potential energy to kinetic, often linked with springs. - **Torque and Rotational Dynamics** — 15 appearances. Expect a “rolling without slipping” scenario or a static equilibrium problem involving a non-uniform beam. - **Kinematics** — 17 appearances. While frequent, it rarely appears alone; look for it combined with experimental design questions about finding “\(g\)”.