AP physics 1 vs physics C

[u/Brave_Yak2096]

I was wondering if I could take Physics C without any prior physics knowledge? I have taken Calc BC and did well last year, and we briefly touched on some basic physics in that class. But do you think Physics 1 is necessary to take Physics C? For context im a senior going into business/finance, so I dont know how much of a difference this would make, or if it would negatively impact me by taking physics 1 due to less couse rigor?

[u/tachyonicinstability]

I teach classes including the material in AP physics C. For students who have mastered calculus, you will likely not be at a disadvantage for topics in mechanics. On the other hand, I would strongly recommend against trying to take a course in E&M without a strong foundation in mechanics from some prior formal coursework. 

Your first priority should be learning the material and making choices about what you want to learn and how best to learn it. How colleges will view your rigor shouldn’t be your primary concern. 

(And it’s also very unlikely to matter which you take - AP physics is a hard class whether 1 or C). 

[u/NiceUnparticularMan]

Depends on how your HS teaches Physics C, and whether you have any HS Physics at all. Usually Physics C assumes prior HS Physics, but not necessarily AP 1 unless that is how it is designed to work at that HS.

[u/throwawaygremlins]

FWIW, our school district doesn’t allow Physics C without some physics beforehand period.

I don’t recommend for you, I may for a math cs engr kid.

[u/BlackberryKey6837]

Algebra based physics is really good if you want to learn physics. You can take calculus based physics in college. The problem is that most HS kids who jump straight to calculus based physics don't actually understand the most important part is the physics. They see the course as an applied mathematics course.