Physics Formula MCAT

Essential Physics Formulas for MCAT with Examples

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a critical exam for aspiring medical students. Physics plays a significant role in the MCAT, making it vital to understand key formulas and their applications. In this article, we will cover essential physics formulas for MCAT, complete with explanations and examples to help you grasp the concepts better.

Kinematics Formulas

Kinematics deals with the motion of objects without considering the causes of motion. The following are essential kinematics equations:

1. Displacement Formula

Displacement (Δx) = v_it + (1/2)at²

Where:

v_i: Initial velocity
a: Acceleration
t: Time

Example: An object starts from rest and accelerates at 5 m/s² for 3 seconds. Find its displacement.

Solution:

Since the initial velocity is zero, the formula simplifies to:

Δx = (1/2)(5)(3)² = 22.5 m

2. Final Velocity Formula

v_f = v_i + at

Where:

v_f: Final velocity
v_i: Initial velocity
a: Acceleration
t: Time

Example: If an object accelerates from 10 m/s at 4 m/s² for 5 seconds, find its final velocity.

Solution:

v_f = 10 + (4)(5) = 30 m/s

Work and Energy Formulas

Understanding work and energy is crucial for solving physics problems in MCAT. Below are key formulas:

1. Work Formula

W = Fd cos(θ)

Where:

W: Work
F: Force
d: Displacement
θ: Angle between the force and displacement

Example: A force of 50 N is applied at an angle of 30° to move an object 10 m. Calculate the work done.

Solution:

W = (50)(10) cos(30°) = 433 J

2. Kinetic Energy Formula

KE = (1/2)mv²

Where:

KE: Kinetic energy
m: Mass
v: Velocity

Example: Find the kinetic energy of a 2 kg object moving at 5 m/s.

Solution:

KE = (1/2)(2)(5)² = 25 J

Momentum and Impulse Formulas

Momentum and impulse are vital topics in MCAT physics, focusing on the relationship between force and motion.

1. Momentum Formula

p = mv

Where:

p: Momentum
m: Mass
v: Velocity

2. Impulse Formula

J = FΔt

Where:

J: Impulse
F: Force
Δt: Time interval

Example: A force of 10 N acts on an object for 2 seconds. Find the impulse.

Solution:

J = (10)(2) = 20 Ns

Electricity and Magnetism Formulas

Electricity and magnetism are significant components of MCAT physics. Understanding these formulas is essential.

1. Ohm's Law

V = IR

Where:

V: Voltage
I: Current
R: Resistance

2. Coulomb's Law

F = k(q₁q₂)/r²

Where:

F: Force between charges
k: Coulomb's constant (8.99 x 10⁹ N m²/C²)
q₁, q₂: Magnitudes of the charges
r: Distance between the charges

3. Power Formula

P = IV

Where:

P: Power
I: Current
V: Voltage

Example: A device uses a current of 3 A and operates at 120 V. Calculate the power consumed.

Solution:

P = (3)(120) = 360 W

4. Magnetic Force Formula

F = qvB sin(θ)

Where:

F: Magnetic force
q: Charge
v: Velocity of the charge
B: Magnetic field strength
θ: Angle between velocity and magnetic field

Example: A particle with a charge of 2 C moves at a velocity of 5 m/s perpendicular to a magnetic field of 0.5 T. Find the magnetic force acting on the particle.

Solution:

F = (2)(5)(0.5) sin(90°) = 5 N

Conclusion

Mastering physics formulas is crucial for MCAT success. By understanding these essential equations and practicing their applications, you can enhance your problem-solving skills and boost your overall MCAT performance. Remember, consistent practice and conceptual clarity are key to excelling in the physics section of the MCAT. Ensure you review these formulas regularly and practice solving problems to gain confidence.

Additionally, understanding the conceptual meaning behind each formula helps you apply them more effectively in different scenarios. For instance, knowing how energy transforms from one form to another, or how forces interact in various physical systems, will give you an edge in solving complex MCAT problems. Keep practicing, and good luck with your MCAT preparation!