MCAT Physics & Chemistry Equation Flashcards: Formulas, Units & When to Use Them

Memorize MCAT physics and chemistry equations with variables, units, conditions, and original when-to-use examples—not a bare formula dump.

Über dieses Lernkartenset

MCAT Physics & Chemistry Equation Flashcards: Formulas, Units & When to Use Them

These 180 cards build fast recall for the equation-heavy part of MCAT Chem/Phys: 95 physics cards and 85 chemistry cards. They cover formulas, variables, units, assumptions, signs, and the small clues that tell you which relationship fits.

What the cards practice

The prompts move in several useful directions. Some ask for an equation from a concept, some ask what an equation or unit means, and others give a short original setup where the main job is choosing the right relationship. Common traps—such as static friction always equaling its maximum, Celsius in a gas law, or multiplying a reduction potential by a coefficient—get their own constraint cards.

This isn't a mechanical set of forward-and-reverse pairs. Closely related variants appear only when they train a different recall job, and the fixed order keeps them at least three unrelated cards apart. Physics and chemistry are interleaved while prerequisites stay in order inside each topic. Long-term spacing is left to the review scheduler.

Coverage

Physics covers dimensional analysis and SI units, mechanics, fluids, waves and sound, electrostatics, circuits, magnetism, light, geometrical optics, and thermal expansion. Chemistry covers gases, stoichiometry, solutions and concentration, acids and bases, buffers, thermodynamics, calorimetry, kinetics, equilibrium, solubility, and electrochemistry.

The deck is a recall layer, not a substitute for passage analysis, estimation, or multi-step calculation practice. The AAMC outline includes scientific reasoning and formula use in context, so practice problems still matter.

Scope and provenance

The current AAMC content outline was used to set the boundary, while independent open references were used to check equations, variables, units, assumptions, and sign conventions. The prompts, answers, micro-scenarios, sequence, and metadata were written independently. Public pages from UWorld, MedSchoolCoach, and MCAT Bootcamp were compared only at a structural level; no table, wording, example, or organization was copied.

The Common knowledge · CC0 1.0 label applies to the original wording, organization, metadata, and generated cover to the extent applicable rights exist. It doesn't claim ownership of scientific facts or third-party names.

This package is independent and unofficial, with no affiliation with or endorsement by AAMC. No official questions, answer keys, mark schemes, outline wording, logos, or trade dress were copied. Check the official AAMC MCAT content outline for the exam owner's current requirements.

Karten in diesem Lernkartenset

  1. Karte 1

    Frage

    Which relationship gives average velocity over a time interval?

    Antwort

    vˉ=Δx/Δt\bar v=\Delta x/\Delta t.

    Displacement Δx\Delta x includes direction; average speed instead uses total distance.

  2. Karte 2

    Frage

    How do you convert a sample's mass to moles?

    Antwort

    n=m/Mn=m/M.

    Divide mass mm by molar mass MM using compatible units.

  3. Karte 3

    Frage

    What is the electrostatic force between two point charges?

    Antwort

    F=keq1q2/r2F=k_e|q_1q_2|/r^2.

    It acts along the line joining the charges; like charges repel and unlike charges attract.

  4. Karte 4

    Frage

    How is pH defined from hydrogen-ion activity in the usual MCAT approximation?

    Antwort

    pH=log[H+]\mathrm{pH}=-\log[H^+].

    The bracket approximation uses molar concentration for sufficiently dilute solutions.

  5. Karte 5

    Frage

    How are period and frequency related?

    Antwort

    f=1/Tf=1/T.

    Frequency is in hertz and period is in seconds.

  6. Karte 6

    Frage

    Which relationship gives sensible heat for a sample with known specific heat?

    Antwort

    q=mcΔTq=mc\Delta T.

    Use it within one phase when the specific heat cc is approximately constant.

  7. Karte 7

    Frage

    Which relationship defines mass density?

    Antwort

    ρ=m/V\rho=m/V.

    Density has SI units of kg/m3\mathrm{kg/m^3}; 1 g/mL=1000 kg/m31\ \mathrm{g/mL}=1000\ \mathrm{kg/m^3}.

  8. Karte 8

    Frage

    What is the concentration equilibrium constant for aA+bBcC+dDaA+bB\rightleftharpoons cC+dD?

    Antwort

    Kc=[C]c[D]d/([A]a[B]b)K_c=[C]^c[D]^d/([A]^a[B]^b).

    Use equilibrium concentrations and stoichiometric coefficients as exponents.

  9. Karte 9

    Frage

    How is photon energy related to frequency and wavelength?

    Antwort

    E=hf=hc/λE=hf=hc/\lambda.

    Higher frequency and shorter wavelength mean greater photon energy.

  10. Karte 10

    Frage

    How is standard cell potential calculated from reduction potentials?

    Antwort

    Ecell=EcathodeEanodeE^\circ_{\mathrm{cell}}=E^\circ_{\mathrm{cathode}}-E^\circ_{\mathrm{anode}}.

    Use both tabulated values as reductions; do not multiply potentials by stoichiometric coefficients.

  11. Karte 11

    Frage

    Which SI base units cover the quantities most often used in MCAT mechanics and circuits?

    Antwort

    Use meters (m) for length, kilograms (kg) for mass, seconds (s) for time, and amperes (A) for electric current. Amount of substance uses moles (mol), and thermodynamic temperature uses kelvin (K).

  12. Karte 12

    Frage

    How do you convert Celsius temperature to kelvin for gas-law work?

    Antwort

    TK=TC+273.15T_K=T_{^\circ C}+273.15.

    Gas-law temperatures must be absolute; a Celsius value cannot be inserted directly.

  13. Karte 13

    Frage

    Which relationship gives average acceleration over a time interval?

    Antwort

    aˉ=Δv/Δt\bar a=\Delta v/\Delta t.

    Acceleration has SI units of m/s2\mathrm{m/s^2}.

  14. Karte 14

    Frage

    How is reaction rate related to a species concentration and its stoichiometric coefficient?

    Antwort

    For aAcCaA\rightarrow cC, rate=(1/a)d[A]/dt=(1/c)d[C]/dt\mathrm{rate}=-(1/a)d[A]/dt=(1/c)d[C]/dt.

    The signs and coefficients make one reaction rate consistent across species.

  15. Karte 15

    Frage

    What electric-field magnitude does a point charge produce?

    Antwort

    E=keq/r2E=k_e|q|/r^2.

    The field points away from a positive source charge and toward a negative one.

  16. Karte 16

    Frage

    How do moles relate to the number of microscopic particles?

    Antwort

    N=nNAN=nN_A, with NA6.022×1023 mol1N_A\approx6.022\times10^{23}\ \mathrm{mol^{-1}}.

  17. Karte 17

    Frage

    For constant acceleration, how does velocity change with time?

    Antwort

    v=v0+atv=v_0+at.

    Use it when acceleration is constant and the elapsed time is known.

  18. Karte 18

    Frage

    How is pOH defined?

    Antwort

    pOH=log[OH]\mathrm{pOH}=-\log[OH^-].

  19. Karte 19

    Frage

    How is specific gravity defined?

    Antwort

    SG=ρsubstance/ρwaterSG=\rho_{\mathrm{substance}}/\rho_{\mathrm{water}}.

    It is dimensionless because it is a density ratio.

  20. Karte 20

    Frage

    How is an object's heat capacity related to heat and temperature change?

    Antwort

    q=CΔTq=C\Delta T.

    Heat capacity CC applies to the whole object; specific heat is per unit mass.

  21. Karte 21

    Frage

    How are frequency and wavelength related for electromagnetic radiation in vacuum?

    Antwort

    c=fλc=f\lambda.

    Use c3.00×108 m/sc\approx3.00\times10^8\ \mathrm{m/s}.

  22. Karte 22

    Frage

    Which species are omitted from a heterogeneous equilibrium expression?

    Antwort

    Pure solids and pure liquids are omitted because their activities are effectively constant. Gases and dissolved species remain.

  23. Karte 23

    Frage

    What force does an electric field exert on a charge?

    Antwort

    F=qE\vec F=q\vec E.

    A negative charge feels force opposite the field direction.

  24. Karte 24

    Frage

    Which equation relates pressure, volume, amount, and temperature for an ideal gas?

    Antwort

    PV=nRTPV=nRT.

    Use absolute temperature and a gas constant whose units match pressure and volume.

  25. Karte 25

    Frage

    Which equation relates wave speed, frequency, and wavelength?

    Antwort

    v=fλv=f\lambda.

    The medium sets the wave speed; changing frequency then changes wavelength.

  26. Karte 26

    Frage

    What is the water-ion product at 25C25^\circ\mathrm{C}?

    Antwort

    Kw=[H+][OH]1.0×1014K_w=[H^+][OH^-]\approx1.0\times10^{-14}.

    Its value changes with temperature.

  27. Karte 27

    Frage

    What base-unit dimensions define one newton?

    Antwort

    1 N=1 kgms21\ \mathrm{N}=1\ \mathrm{kg\,m\,s^{-2}}.

    A force must have dimensions of mass times acceleration.

  28. Karte 28

    Frage

    How is cell potential related to reaction free energy?

    Antwort

    ΔG=nFEcell\Delta G=-nFE_{\mathrm{cell}}.

    A positive galvanic-cell potential gives negative ΔG\Delta G for the written reaction.

  29. Karte 29

    Frage

    For constant acceleration, how does displacement depend on time?

    Antwort

    Δx=v0t+12at2\Delta x=v_0t+\tfrac12at^2.

    Choose a positive direction first, then keep signs consistent.

  30. Karte 30

    Frage

    How is molarity defined?

    Antwort

    M=nsolute/VsolutionM=n_{\mathrm{solute}}/V_{\mathrm{solution}}.

    Use solution volume in liters, so molarity has units of mol/L\mathrm{mol/L}.

  31. Karte 31

    Frage

    What electric potential does a point charge produce?

    Antwort

    V=keq/rV=k_e q/r.

    Potential is scalar, so contributions from multiple charges add algebraically.

  32. Karte 32

    Frage

    Which relationship gives heat absorbed or released during a phase change?

    Antwort

    q=nΔHphaseq=n\Delta H_{\mathrm{phase}}, or q=mLq=mL when latent heat is given per unit mass. Temperature stays constant during an ideal equilibrium phase change.

  33. Karte 33

    Frage

    Which constant-acceleration equation avoids time?

    Antwort

    v2=v02+2aΔxv^2=v_0^2+2a\Delta x.

    It connects speed and displacement when time is absent.

  34. Karte 34

    Frage

    What is the general experimental rate-law form?

    Antwort

    rate=k[A]m[B]n\mathrm{rate}=k[A]^m[B]^n.

    The exponents are determined experimentally and need not equal overall-reaction coefficients.

  35. Karte 35

    Frage

    Which relationship defines pressure from a normal force?

    Antwort

    P=F/AP=F_\perp/A.

    Pressure is scalar and measured in pascals.

  36. Karte 36

    Frage

    What pH–pOH relationship applies at 25C25^\circ\mathrm{C}?

    Antwort

    pH+pOH=14.00\mathrm{pH}+\mathrm{pOH}=14.00.

    More generally, pH+pOH=pKw\mathrm{pH}+\mathrm{pOH}=\mathrm{p}K_w.

  37. Karte 37

    Frage

    How is wave intensity related to transmitted power and area?

    Antwort

    I=P/AI=P/A.

    Intensity is power per area, measured in W/m2\mathrm{W/m^2}.

  38. Karte 38

    Frage

    How is molality defined?

    Antwort

    m=nsolute/(kg of solvent)m=n_{\mathrm{solute}}/(\mathrm{kg\ of\ solvent}).

    Molality uses solvent mass, not solution volume, and is temperature-independent.

  39. Karte 39

    Frage

    What base-unit dimensions define one joule?

    Antwort

    1 J=1 Nm=1 kgm2s21\ \mathrm{J}=1\ \mathrm{N\,m}=1\ \mathrm{kg\,m^2\,s^{-2}}.

    Work, energy, and heat share this unit.

  40. Karte 40

    Frage

    What is the chemistry sign-convention form of the first law?

    Antwort

    ΔU=q+w\Delta U=q+w.

    q>0q>0 means heat enters the system, and w>0w>0 means work is done on the system.

  41. Karte 41

    Frage

    How is refractive index related to light speed in a medium?

    Antwort

    n=c/vn=c/v.

    A larger refractive index means a lower phase speed in the material.

  42. Karte 42

    Frage

    What equation links net force and acceleration?

    Antwort

    F=ma\sum \vec F=m\vec a.

    The vector sum of external forces determines the acceleration.

  43. Karte 43

    Frage

    Which relationship compares two states of a fixed amount of ideal gas?

    Antwort

    P1V1/T1=P2V2/T2P_1V_1/T_1=P_2V_2/T_2.

    It assumes the amount of gas is unchanged. Holding one variable constant gives Boyle's, Charles's, or Gay-Lussac's law.

  44. Karte 44

    Frage

    How is electric potential energy related to charge and voltage?

    Antwort

    ΔU=qΔV\Delta U=q\Delta V.

    A positive charge gains potential energy when moved to higher potential; a negative charge does the opposite.

  45. Karte 45

    Frage

    How are standard cell potential and the equilibrium constant related?

    Antwort

    lnK=nFEcell/(RT)\ln K=nFE^\circ_{\mathrm{cell}}/(RT).

    At equilibrium, the Nernst equation gives Ecell=0E_{\mathrm{cell}}=0.

  46. Karte 46

    Frage

    What is an object's weight near Earth's surface?

    Antwort

    W=mgW=mg.

    Weight is a force in newtons; mass remains in kilograms.

  47. Karte 47

    Frage

    How are KpK_p and KcK_c related for an ideal-gas reaction?

    Antwort

    Kp=Kc(RT)ΔngasK_p=K_c(RT)^{\Delta n_{\mathrm{gas}}}.

    Δngas\Delta n_{\mathrm{gas}} is gaseous product coefficients minus gaseous reactant coefficients.

  48. Karte 48

    Frage

    How does pressure change with depth in a static incompressible fluid?

    Antwort

    P=P0+ρghP=P_0+\rho gh.

    hh is depth below the surface; the gauge pressure is ρgh\rho gh.

  49. Karte 49

    Frage

    How do the units of a rate constant depend on overall reaction order NN?

    Antwort

    [k]=M1Ns1[k]=\mathrm{M^{1-N}s^{-1}} when rate is in M/s\mathrm{M/s}. For example, first-order kk has units of s1\mathrm{s^{-1}}.

  50. Karte 50

    Frage

    Which relationship defines electric current?

    Antwort

    I=ΔQ/ΔtI=\Delta Q/\Delta t.

    Conventional current points in the direction positive charge would move.

  51. Karte 51

    Frage

    What is the acid-dissociation expression for HAH++AHA\rightleftharpoons H^++A^-?

    Antwort

    Ka=[H+][A]/[HA]K_a=[H^+][A^-]/[HA].

    A larger KaK_a means a stronger acid under comparable conditions.

  52. Karte 52

    Frage

    What equation governs refraction at a boundary?

    Antwort

    n1sinθ1=n2sinθ2n_1\sin\theta_1=n_2\sin\theta_2.

    Angles are measured from the normal, not the surface.

  53. Karte 53

    Frage

    How is mole fraction defined for component ii?

    Antwort

    Xi=ni/jnjX_i=n_i/\sum_jn_j.

    Mole fractions are dimensionless and sum to 1.

  54. Karte 54

    Frage

    What SI units and base dimensions define pressure?

    Antwort

    Pressure is measured in pascals: 1 Pa=1 N/m2=1 kgm1s21\ \mathrm{Pa}=1\ \mathrm{N/m^2}=1\ \mathrm{kg\,m^{-1}\,s^{-2}}.

  55. Karte 55

    Frage

    What pressure–volume work occurs against constant external pressure?

    Antwort

    w=PextΔVw=-P_{\mathrm{ext}}\Delta V.

    Expansion has ΔV>0\Delta V>0 and therefore negative work on the system.

  56. Karte 56

    Frage

    How does intensity from an isotropic point source vary with distance?

    Antwort

    I=P/(4πr2)I=P/(4\pi r^2).

    Doubling distance reduces intensity to one quarter if absorption is negligible.

  57. Karte 57

    Frage

    How large can static friction become before slipping begins?

    Antwort

    fsμsNf_s\leq\mu_sN, with fs,max=μsNf_{s,\max}=\mu_sN.

    Static friction matches the needed opposing force up to its maximum; it isn't always equal to μsN\mu_sN.

  58. Karte 58

    Frage

    Which relationship handles dilution when solute amount is conserved?

    Antwort

    M1V1=M2V2M_1V_1=M_2V_2.

    It applies when solvent is added without reaction or solute loss.

  59. Karte 59

    Frage

    What is Ohm's law for an ohmic element?

    Antwort

    V=IRV=IR.

    It applies when resistance is approximately constant over the operating range.

  60. Karte 60

    Frage

    How is the reaction quotient QQ constructed?

    Antwort

    Use the same expression as KK, but insert the current—not necessarily equilibrium—activities or concentrations.

  61. Karte 61

    Frage

    What is the usual model for kinetic friction on a sliding surface?

    Antwort

    fk=μkNf_k=\mu_kN.

    The force points opposite the relative sliding motion.

  62. Karte 62

    Frage

    What is the base-dissociation expression for B+H2OHB++OHB+H_2O\rightleftharpoons HB^++OH^-?

    Antwort

    Kb=[HB+][OH]/[B]K_b=[HB^+][OH^-]/[B].

  63. Karte 63

    Frage

    What equation expresses Pascal's principle in a hydraulic device?

    Antwort

    F1/A1=F2/A2F_1/A_1=F_2/A_2.

    An applied pressure change is transmitted through a confined incompressible fluid.

  64. Karte 64

    Frage

    How much charge passes through a cell carrying constant current?

    Antwort

    Q=ItQ=It.

    Use amperes and seconds to obtain coulombs.

  65. Karte 65

    Frage

    What is the critical-angle condition for total internal reflection?

    Antwort

    sinθc=n2/n1\sin\theta_c=n_2/n_1 when n1>n2n_1>n_2.

    Total internal reflection occurs only when light starts in the higher-index medium and θ1>θc\theta_1>\theta_c.

  66. Karte 66

    Frage

    How is total pressure related to component pressures in an ideal gas mixture?

    Antwort

    Ptot=iPiP_{\mathrm{tot}}=\sum_iP_i.

    Dalton's law treats each gas as contributing its own partial pressure.

  67. Karte 67

    Frage

    How is the coulomb expressed through SI base units?

    Antwort

    1 C=1 As1\ \mathrm{C}=1\ \mathrm{A\,s}.

    Charge equals current multiplied by time.

  68. Karte 68

    Frage

    How is standard reaction enthalpy obtained from standard formation enthalpies?

    Antwort

    ΔHrxn=νΔHf(products)νΔHf(reactants)\Delta H^\circ_{\mathrm{rxn}}=\sum\nu\Delta H_f^\circ(\mathrm{products})-\sum\nu\Delta H_f^\circ(\mathrm{reactants}).

  69. Karte 69

    Frage

    How is sound intensity level in decibels defined?

    Antwort

    β=10log10(I/I0)\beta=10\log_{10}(I/I_0).

    The reference intensity is commonly I0=1012 W/m2I_0=10^{-12}\ \mathrm{W/m^2}.

  70. Karte 70

    Frage

    What is the integrated rate law for a zero-order reactant?

    Antwort

    [A]t=[A]0kt[A]_t=[A]_0-kt.

    A plot of [A][A] versus time is linear with slope k-k.

  71. Karte 71

    Frage

    How does a uniform wire's resistance depend on material and geometry?

    Antwort

    R=ρL/AR=\rho L/A.

    Longer wires have more resistance; larger cross-sectional area lowers it. Here ρ\rho is resistivity.

  72. Karte 72

    Frage

    Which equation gives the magnitude of torque from a force?

    Antwort

    τ=rFsinθ=rF\tau=rF\sin\theta=r_\perp F.

    Here rr_\perp is the perpendicular lever arm from the pivot to the force's line of action.

  73. Karte 73

    Frage

    How is mass percent composition calculated?

    Antwort

    % by mass=100×mcomponent/mtotal\%\mathrm{\ by\ mass}=100\times m_{\mathrm{component}}/m_{\mathrm{total}}.

  74. Karte 74

    Frage

    What buoyant force acts on a submerged object?

    Antwort

    FB=ρfluidVdisplacedgF_B=\rho_{\mathrm{fluid}}V_{\mathrm{displaced}}g.

    It equals the weight of displaced fluid.

  75. Karte 75

    Frage

    How is pKa\mathrm{p}K_a related to KaK_a?

    Antwort

    pKa=logKa\mathrm{p}K_a=-\log K_a.

    Lower pKa\mathrm{p}K_a corresponds to the stronger acid.

  76. Karte 76

    Frage

    What two conditions define static mechanical equilibrium?

    Antwort

    F=0\sum \vec F=0 and τ=0\sum\tau=0.

    Both translational and rotational equilibrium are required.

  77. Karte 77

    Frage

    How does Hess's law combine reaction enthalpies?

    Antwort

    Add the manipulated step equations and add their ΔH\Delta H values. Reversing a step changes the sign; multiplying a step multiplies ΔH\Delta H by the same factor.

  78. Karte 78

    Frage

    Which equivalent forms give electrical power in a resistor?

    Antwort

    P=IV=I2R=V2/RP=IV=I^2R=V^2/R.

    Choose the form that uses the known current, voltage, and resistance.

  79. Karte 79

    Frage

    How does mole fraction determine an ideal gas's partial pressure?

    Antwort

    Pi=XiPtotP_i=X_iP_{\mathrm{tot}}, where Xi=ni/ntotX_i=n_i/n_{\mathrm{tot}}.

  80. Karte 80

    Frage

    What decibel change corresponds to multiplying sound intensity by 10?

    Antwort

    A tenfold intensity increase adds 10 dB10\ \mathrm{dB} because 10log10(10)=1010\log_{10}(10)=10. A hundredfold increase adds 20 dB20\ \mathrm{dB}.

  81. Karte 81

    Frage

    How does comparing QQ with KK predict reaction direction?

    Antwort

    If Q<KQ<K, the forward direction is favored. If Q>KQ>K, the reverse direction is favored. If Q=KQ=K, the system is at equilibrium.

  82. Karte 82

    Frage

    Which equation relates object, image, and focal distances for a thin lens or spherical mirror?

    Antwort

    1/f=1/do+1/di1/f=1/d_o+1/d_i.

    Use the adopted sign convention consistently; positive did_i usually denotes a real image.

  83. Karte 83

    Frage

    How do charge and Faraday's constant give moles of electrons?

    Antwort

    ne=Q/Fn_{e^-}=Q/F, where F9.6485×104 C/mol eF\approx9.6485\times10^4\ \mathrm{C/mol\ e^-}.

  84. Karte 84

    Frage

    How is the volt expressed through joules and coulombs?

    Antwort

    1 V=1 J/C1\ \mathrm{V}=1\ \mathrm{J/C}.

    Voltage is energy transferred per unit charge.

  85. Karte 85

    Frage

    How is pKb\mathrm{p}K_b related to KbK_b?

    Antwort

    pKb=logKb\mathrm{p}K_b=-\log K_b.

  86. Karte 86

    Frage

    What work is done by a constant force through a displacement?

    Antwort

    W=FdcosθW=Fd\cos\theta.

    θ\theta is the angle between the force and displacement; perpendicular force does zero work.

  87. Karte 87

    Frage

    How is volume percent calculated for a liquid mixture?

    Antwort

    % by volume=100×Vcomponent/Vsolution\%\mathrm{\ by\ volume}=100\times V_{\mathrm{component}}/V_{\mathrm{solution}}.

    Use it only when the problem defines composition by volume.

  88. Karte 88

    Frage

    How do resistors combine in series?

    Antwort

    Req=iRiR_{\mathrm{eq}}=\sum_iR_i.

    Series elements carry the same current and their voltage drops add.

  89. Karte 89

    Frage

    What is the half-life of a zero-order reactant?

    Antwort

    t1/2=[A]0/(2k)t_{1/2}=[A]_0/(2k).

    Unlike first-order half-life, it depends on starting concentration.

  90. Karte 90

    Frage

    How is volumetric flow rate related to cross-sectional area and speed?

    Antwort

    Q=AvQ=Av.

    QQ has SI units of m3/s\mathrm{m^3/s} and assumes the average speed across the section.

    Abstract study cards linking physics motion, waves, circuits, and chemistry lab motifs.

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  91. Karte 91

    Frage

    How can average bond energies estimate reaction enthalpy?

    Antwort

    ΔHrxnD(bonds broken)D(bonds formed)\Delta H_{\mathrm{rxn}}\approx\sum D(\mathrm{bonds\ broken})-\sum D(\mathrm{bonds\ formed}).

    Breaking bonds costs energy; forming bonds releases it.

  92. Karte 92

    Frage

    What is the translational kinetic energy of a point mass?

    Antwort

    K=12mv2K=\tfrac12mv^2.

    Kinetic energy is a scalar measured in joules.

  93. Karte 93

    Frage

    What ratio defines parts per million by mass?

    Antwort

    ppm=106×msolute/msolution\mathrm{ppm}=10^6\times m_{\mathrm{solute}}/m_{\mathrm{solution}}.

    For dilute aqueous solutions, 1 ppm1\ \mathrm{ppm} is often approximately 1 mg/L1\ \mathrm{mg/L} when density is near 1 kg/L1\ \mathrm{kg/L}.

  94. Karte 94

    Frage

    How do resistors combine in parallel?

    Antwort

    1/Req=i1/Ri1/R_{\mathrm{eq}}=\sum_i1/R_i.

    Parallel branches share the same voltage, and the equivalent resistance is below the smallest branch resistance.

  95. Karte 95

    Frage

    How are the dissociation constants of a conjugate acid–base pair related?

    Antwort

    KaKb=KwK_aK_b=K_w.

    At 25C25^\circ\mathrm{C}, pKa+pKb=14.00\mathrm{p}K_a+\mathrm{p}K_b=14.00.

  96. Karte 96

    Frage

    How do powers of ten combine when multiplying quantities in scientific notation?

    Antwort

    Multiply the coefficients and add the exponents: (a×10m)(b×10n)=ab×10m+n(a\times10^m)(b\times10^n)=ab\times10^{m+n}. Then normalize the result so its final coefficient cc satisfies 1c<101\leq|c|<10; a coefficient of exactly 10 becomes 1 while the exponent increases by 1.

  97. Karte 97

    Frage

    How many moles of a product requiring zz electrons per mole form during electrolysis?

    Antwort

    nproduct=Q/(zF)=It/(zF)n_{\mathrm{product}}=Q/(zF)=It/(zF).

    This is the ideal Faraday-law result before any stated efficiency correction.

  98. Karte 98

    Frage

    How is lateral magnification related to image and object distances?

    Antwort

    m=hi/ho=di/dom=h_i/h_o=-d_i/d_o.

    A negative magnification indicates inversion; m|m| gives the size ratio.

  99. Karte 99

    Frage

    What is the average translational kinetic energy per mole of an ideal gas?

    Antwort

    K=32RT\overline{K}=\tfrac32RT.

    It depends only on absolute temperature, not molecular identity.

  100. Karte 100

    Frage

    What are the allowed frequencies of a string fixed at both ends?

    Antwort

    fn=nv/(2L)f_n=nv/(2L) for n=1,2,3,n=1,2,3,\ldots.

    Both ends are nodes, so every positive integer harmonic is allowed.

  101. Karte 101

    Frage

    How does reversing a reaction change its equilibrium constant?

    Antwort

    Kreverse=1/KforwardK_{\mathrm{reverse}}=1/K_{\mathrm{forward}}.

  102. Karte 102

    Frage

    What does the work–energy theorem say?

    Antwort

    Wnet=ΔKW_{\mathrm{net}}=\Delta K.

    Net work changes kinetic energy, even when individual forces are nonconservative.

  103. Karte 103

    Frage

    What entropy change accompanies reversible heat transfer at constant temperature?

    Antwort

    ΔS=qrev/T\Delta S=q_{\mathrm{rev}}/T.

    Temperature must be in kelvin.

  104. Karte 104

    Frage

    What does Kirchhoff's junction rule require?

    Antwort

    Iin=Iout\sum I_{\mathrm{in}}=\sum I_{\mathrm{out}}.

    It follows from conservation of charge at a node.

  105. Karte 105

    Frage

    Which equation estimates the pH of a buffer made from a weak acid and its conjugate base?

    Antwort

    pH=pKa+log([A]/[HA])\mathrm{pH}=\mathrm{p}K_a+\log([A^-]/[HA]).

    Henderson–Hasselbalch works best when both buffer components are present in meaningful amounts.

  106. Karte 106

    Frage

    What continuity relationship applies to steady incompressible flow?

    Antwort

    A1v1=A2v2A_1v_1=A_2v_2.

    A narrower section has a larger average speed when the same volume passes each second.

  107. Karte 107

    Frage

    A liquid has known density and volume. Which rearranged density relationship gives its mass?

    Antwort

    m=ρVm=\rho V.

    Here mm is mass, ρ\rho is density, and VV is volume; use compatible units when density and volume are known. For example, 25 mL25\ \mathrm{mL} of a 1.20 g/mL1.20\ \mathrm{g/mL} solution has mass m=(1.20)(25)=30 gm=(1.20)(25)=30\ \mathrm{g}.

  108. Karte 108

    Frage

    What is local gravitational potential energy near Earth's surface?

    Antwort

    Ug=mghU_g=mgh.

    Only changes matter: ΔUg=mgΔh\Delta U_g=mg\Delta h when gg is approximately constant.

  109. Karte 109

    Frage

    What is the integrated rate law for a first-order reactant?

    Antwort

    ln[A]t=ln[A]0kt\ln[A]_t=\ln[A]_0-kt.

    A plot of ln[A]\ln[A] versus time is linear with slope k-k.

  110. Karte 110

    Frage

    What are the allowed frequencies of a pipe open at both ends?

    Antwort

    fn=nv/(2L)f_n=nv/(2L) for n=1,2,3,n=1,2,3,\ldots.

    Both open ends are displacement antinodes.

  111. Karte 111

    Frage

    Which equation relates Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy at constant temperature?

    Antwort

    ΔG=ΔHTΔS\Delta G=\Delta H-T\Delta S.

    Use compatible energy units and absolute temperature.

  112. Karte 112

    Frage

    What does Kirchhoff's loop rule require?

    Antwort

    ΔV=0\sum\Delta V=0 around any closed loop.

    Voltage rises and drops must be assigned consistently with the chosen traversal direction.

  113. Karte 113

    Frage

    What elastic potential energy is stored in an ideal spring?

    Antwort

    Us=12kx2U_s=\tfrac12kx^2.

    xx is displacement from equilibrium and kk has units of N/m\mathrm{N/m}.

  114. Karte 114

    Frage

    How does multiplying every reaction coefficient by a factor nn change KK?

    Antwort

    Knew=KnK_{\mathrm{new}}=K^n.

    Dividing coefficients by nn takes the corresponding root.

  115. Karte 115

    Frage

    How can you estimate the order of magnitude of a quotient without a calculator?

    Antwort

    Divide the leading coefficients and subtract powers of ten: (a×10m)/(b×10n)=(a/b)×10mn(a\times10^m)/(b\times10^n)=(a/b)\times10^{m-n}. Normalize the result so its final coefficient cc satisfies 1c<101\leq|c|<10; if the coefficient is exactly 10, write it as 1 and increase the exponent by 1.

  116. Karte 116

    Frage

    How is lens power related to focal length?

    Antwort

    P=1/fP=1/f with ff in meters.

    Power is measured in diopters; converging lenses have positive power and diverging lenses negative power.

  117. Karte 117

    Frage

    How does root-mean-square molecular speed depend on molar mass?

    Antwort

    vrms=3RT/Mv_{\mathrm{rms}}=\sqrt{3RT/M}.

    Use molar mass MM in kg/mol\mathrm{kg/mol}; lighter gases move faster at the same temperature.

  118. Karte 118

    Frage

    Which equation relates pressure, speed, and height along ideal fluid flow?

    Antwort

    P+12ρv2+ρgy=constantP+\tfrac12\rho v^2+\rho gy=\text{constant}.

    Bernoulli's equation assumes steady, incompressible, nonviscous flow along a streamline.

  119. Karte 119

    Frage

    What is the Nernst equation for a cell reaction?

    Antwort

    E=E(RT/(nF))lnQE=E^\circ-(RT/(nF))\ln Q.

    At 25C25^\circ\mathrm{C}, E=E(0.0592 V/n)logQE=E^\circ-(0.0592\ \mathrm{V}/n)\log Q.

  120. Karte 120

    Frage

    What force does an ideal spring exert?

    Antwort

    Fs=kxF_s=-kx.

    The minus sign means the spring force points back toward equilibrium.

  121. Karte 121

    Frage

    What conjugate-base-to-acid ratio gives a target buffer pH?

    Antwort

    [A]/[HA]=10pHpKa[A^-]/[HA]=10^{\mathrm{pH}-\mathrm{p}K_a}.

    This is Henderson–Hasselbalch solved for the composition ratio.

  122. Karte 122

    Frage

    Which relationship defines capacitance?

    Antwort

    C=Q/VC=Q/V.

    Capacitance is charge stored per potential difference and is measured in farads.

  123. Karte 123

    Frage

    How do elemental mass percentages lead to an empirical formula?

    Antwort

    Convert each element's mass to moles, divide every mole amount by the smallest, then multiply to obtain the smallest whole-number ratio. The retrieval target is the mole ratio, not the mass ratio.

  124. Karte 124

    Frage

    When can mechanical energy be conserved?

    Antwort

    Ki+Ui=Kf+UfK_i+U_i=K_f+U_f when only conservative forces do work. With nonconservative work, use Wnc=Δ(K+U)W_{nc}=\Delta(K+U).

  125. Karte 125

    Frage

    What sign of ΔG\Delta G indicates a thermodynamically spontaneous forward process at constant temperature and pressure?

    Antwort

    ΔG<0\Delta G<0. At equilibrium ΔG=0\Delta G=0; ΔG>0\Delta G>0 favors the reverse direction. Spontaneity does not say the reaction is fast.

  126. Karte 126

    Frage

    Which metric-prefix factors correspond to milli-, micro-, and nano-?

    Antwort

    Milli is 10310^{-3}, micro is 10610^{-6}, and nano is 10910^{-9}. Each step is a factor of 10310^3.

  127. Karte 127

    Frage

    What is the pH at the half-equivalence point of a weak-acid/strong-base titration?

    Antwort

    pH=pKa\mathrm{pH}=\mathrm{p}K_a.

    Half of the original weak acid has become conjugate base, so [A]=[HA][A^-]=[HA].

  128. Karte 128

    Frage

    What are the allowed frequencies of a pipe closed at one end?

    Antwort

    fn=nv/(4L)f_n=nv/(4L) for odd n=1,3,5,n=1,3,5,\ldots.

    The closed end is a displacement node and the open end is an antinode.

  129. Karte 129

    Frage

    What is the half-life of a first-order reaction?

    Antwort

    t1/2=ln2/kt_{1/2}=\ln2/k.

    It is independent of initial concentration.

  130. Karte 130

    Frage

    How is the focal length of a spherical mirror related to its radius of curvature?

    Antwort

    f=R/2f=R/2.

    This paraxial approximation applies to rays near the principal axis.

  131. Karte 131

    Frage

    How is a molecular formula obtained from an empirical formula?

    Antwort

    k=Mmolecular/Mempiricalk=M_{\mathrm{molecular}}/M_{\mathrm{empirical}}, then multiply every empirical subscript by the integer kk.

  132. Karte 132

    Frage

    What is the capacitance of an ideal parallel-plate capacitor?

    Antwort

    C=κε0A/dC=\kappa\varepsilon_0A/d.

    Larger plate area or dielectric constant raises capacitance; greater separation lowers it.

  133. Karte 133

    Frage

    What does Graham's law predict for two gas effusion rates?

    Antwort

    r1/r2=M2/M1r_1/r_2=\sqrt{M_2/M_1}.

    At the same temperature, effusion rate is inversely proportional to the square root of molar mass.

  134. Karte 134

    Frage

    Which relationship gives laminar flow through a cylindrical tube?

    Antwort

    Q=πr4ΔP8ηLQ=\dfrac{\pi r^4\Delta P}{8\eta L}.

    Poiseuille flow is extremely sensitive to radius and assumes a Newtonian fluid in a long rigid tube.

  135. Karte 135

    Frage

    How do equilibrium constants combine when reactions are added?

    Antwort

    Multiply them: Koverall=K1K2K_{\mathrm{overall}}=K_1K_2\cdots.

    Reverse or scale each component reaction before applying the reciprocal or power rule.

  136. Karte 136

    Frage

    Which relationship defines average power?

    Antwort

    P=W/ΔtP=W/\Delta t.

    Power is the rate of energy transfer and is measured in watts, where 1 W=1 J/s1\ \mathrm{W}=1\ \mathrm{J/s}.

  137. Karte 137

    Frage

    What voltage does an ideal concentration cell produce at 25C25^\circ\mathrm{C}?

    Antwort

    E=(0.0592 V/n)log(Chigh/Clow)E=(0.0592\ \mathrm{V}/n)\log(C_{\mathrm{high}}/C_{\mathrm{low}}) for the simple same-ion setup. The voltage vanishes when concentrations equalize.

  138. Karte 138

    Frage

    Which equivalent forms give energy stored in a capacitor?

    Antwort

    U=12CV2=12QV=Q2/(2C)U=\tfrac12CV^2=\tfrac12QV=Q^2/(2C).

    Use the form matching the known variables.

  139. Karte 139

    Frage

    How is standard free-energy change related to the equilibrium constant?

    Antwort

    ΔG=RTlnK\Delta G^\circ=-RT\ln K.

    A large KK corresponds to negative ΔG\Delta G^\circ.

  140. Karte 140

    Frage

    What instantaneous power is delivered by a force to a moving object?

    Antwort

    P=Fv=FvcosθP=\vec F\cdot\vec v=Fv\cos\theta.

    Only the force component parallel to velocity transfers energy at that instant.

  141. Karte 141

    Frage

    How is percent yield calculated?

    Antwort

    %yield=100×(actual yield)/(theoretical yield)\%\mathrm{yield}=100\times(\mathrm{actual\ yield})/(\mathrm{theoretical\ yield}).

  142. Karte 142

    Frage

    What condition gives constructive interference in a double-slit experiment?

    Antwort

    dsinθ=mλd\sin\theta=m\lambda for integers mm.

    For small angles on a screen, fringe position is approximately ym=mλL/dy_m=m\lambda L/d.

  143. Karte 143

    Frage

    What stoichiometric condition marks acid–base equivalence?

    Antwort

    Acid equivalents equal base equivalents: naza=nbzbn_a|z_a|=n_b|z_b|. For molarity and volume, MaVaza=MbVbzbM_aV_a|z_a|=M_bV_b|z_b|.

  144. Karte 144

    Frage

    What value is useful for the speed of light in vacuum?

    Antwort

    Use c3.00×108 m/sc\approx3.00\times10^8\ \mathrm{m/s}. In a material, light travels at v=c/nv=c/n.

  145. Karte 145

    Frage

    Which Doppler relationship applies to collinear motion in a stationary medium?

    Antwort

    f=fv±vovvsf'=f\dfrac{v\pm v_o}{v\mp v_s}.

    Choose signs that raise ff' when source and observer approach and lower it when they separate.

  146. Karte 146

    Frage

    What is the integrated rate law for a second-order reaction in one reactant?

    Antwort

    1/[A]t=1/[A]0+kt1/[A]_t=1/[A]_0+kt.

    A plot of 1/[A]1/[A] versus time is linear with slope kk.

  147. Karte 147

    Frage

    What dimensionless quantity helps predict laminar versus turbulent pipe flow?

    Antwort

    Re=ρvD/ηRe=\rho vD/\eta.

    Lower Reynolds number favors laminar flow; higher values make turbulence more likely.

  148. Karte 148

    Frage

    How is reaction free energy related to standard free energy and reaction quotient?

    Antwort

    ΔG=ΔG+RTlnQ\Delta G=\Delta G^\circ+RT\ln Q.

    This predicts the favorable direction under nonstandard conditions.

  149. Karte 149

    Frage

    What is linear momentum?

    Antwort

    p=mv\vec p=m\vec v.

    Momentum is a vector with SI units of kgm/s\mathrm{kg\,m/s}.

  150. Karte 150

    Frage

    How do you identify the limiting reactant from available moles?

    Antwort

    Compare ni/νin_i/\nu_i for each reactant, where νi\nu_i is its stoichiometric coefficient. The smallest ratio runs out first and sets the reaction extent.

  151. Karte 151

    Frage

    How do capacitors combine in parallel?

    Antwort

    Ceq=iCiC_{\mathrm{eq}}=\sum_iC_i.

    Parallel capacitors share voltage and their stored charges add.

  152. Karte 152

    Frage

    How do you estimate the pH of a dilute strong monoprotic acid of concentration CC?

    Antwort

    Assuming complete dissociation and negligible water autoionization, [H+]C[H^+]\approx C and pHlogC\mathrm{pH}\approx-\log C.

  153. Karte 153

    Frage

    What relationship connects impulse and momentum change?

    Antwort

    J=Fdt=Δp\vec J=\int\vec F\,dt=\Delta\vec p. For a constant force, J=FΔt\vec J=\vec F\Delta t.

  154. Karte 154

    Frage

    What is the solubility-product expression for MaXb(s)aM+bXM_aX_b(s)\rightleftharpoons aM+bX?

    Antwort

    Ksp=[M]a[X]bK_{sp}=[M]^a[X]^b.

    The solid is omitted; dissolved-ion concentrations carry their stoichiometric exponents.

  155. Karte 155

    Frage

    What condition gives minima from a single slit of width aa?

    Antwort

    asinθ=mλa\sin\theta=m\lambda for m=1,2,3,m=1,2,3,\ldots.

    The central maximum lies between the first minima.

  156. Karte 156

    Frage

    Which way do electrons flow in both galvanic and electrolytic cells?

    Antwort

    Electrons flow through the external circuit from anode to cathode. Oxidation is always at the anode; reduction is always at the cathode.

  157. Karte 157

    Frage

    How do capacitors combine in series?

    Antwort

    1/Ceq=i1/Ci1/C_{\mathrm{eq}}=\sum_i1/C_i.

    Series capacitors carry equal charge magnitude, and the equivalent capacitance is below the smallest one.

  158. Karte 158

    Frage

    Which equation adds molecular size and attraction corrections to the ideal gas law?

    Antwort

    (P+an2V2)(Vnb)=nRT\left(P+a\dfrac{n^2}{V^2}\right)(V-nb)=nRT.

    The aa term corrects attractions; bb corrects finite molecular volume.

  159. Karte 159

    Frage

    What beat frequency is heard from two nearby tones?

    Antwort

    fbeat=f1f2f_{\mathrm{beat}}=|f_1-f_2|.

    Beats arise from alternating constructive and destructive interference.

  160. Karte 160

    Frage

    What near-Earth gravitational acceleration is useful for MCAT estimates?

    Antwort

    Use g9.8 m/s2g\approx9.8\ \mathrm{m/s^2}, or 10 m/s210\ \mathrm{m/s^2} for quick order-of-magnitude work when the choices allow it.

  161. Karte 161

    Frage

    What weak-acid approximation estimates [H+][H^+] for initial concentration CC?

    Antwort

    [H+]KaC[H^+]\approx\sqrt{K_aC} when dissociation is small compared with CC. Check that the resulting ionization is roughly below 5%.

  162. Karte 162

    Frage

    Why does a constriction in a horizontal ideal-fluid tube usually have lower static pressure?

    Antwort

    Continuity raises the speed in the narrow section, and Bernoulli's relationship then requires lower static pressure when height is unchanged. This is the Venturi effect.

  163. Karte 163

    Frage

    How does a solid's length change for a small temperature shift?

    Antwort

    ΔL=αL0ΔT\Delta L=\alpha L_0\Delta T.

    α\alpha is the linear expansion coefficient; the approximation assumes it stays nearly constant.

  164. Karte 164

    Frage

    When is total linear momentum conserved?

    Antwort

    pi=pf\sum\vec p_i=\sum\vec p_f when the net external impulse on the chosen system is zero. Internal forces can redistribute momentum without changing the total.

  165. Karte 165

    Frage

    What relationship connects absorbance and concentration in a dilute solution?

    Antwort

    A=εbcA=\varepsilon bc.

    Beer–Lambert law uses molar absorptivity ε\varepsilon, path length bb, and concentration cc; it is most reliable in the linear dilute range.

  166. Karte 166

    Frage

    What magnetic force acts on a moving charge?

    Antwort

    F=qvBsinθF=|q|vB\sin\theta.

    The force is perpendicular to both velocity and magnetic field, so it changes direction but does no work.

  167. Karte 167

    Frage

    How does the Arrhenius equation relate rate constant and temperature?

    Antwort

    k=AeEa/(RT)k=Ae^{-E_a/(RT)}. Equivalently, lnk=lnAEa/(RT)\ln k=\ln A-E_a/(RT). Higher temperature or lower activation energy increases kk.

  168. Karte 168

    Frage

    What is centripetal acceleration for uniform circular motion?

    Antwort

    ac=v2/r=ω2ra_c=v^2/r=\omega^2r.

    It points toward the center even when speed is constant.

  169. Karte 169

    Frage

    How do ions in a salt bridge move to maintain electroneutrality in a galvanic cell?

    Antwort

    Anions migrate toward the anode compartment, where oxidation creates excess positive charge. Cations migrate toward the cathode compartment, where reduction creates relative excess negative charge by consuming cations or producing anions. These migrations maintain charge neutrality.

  170. Karte 170

    Frage

    What is the maximum kinetic energy in the photoelectric effect?

    Antwort

    Kmax=hfϕK_{\max}=hf-\phi.

    Electrons are emitted when hfϕhf\geq\phi. Exactly at threshold, hf=ϕhf=\phi and Kmax=0K_{\max}=0; positive kinetic energy requires hf>ϕhf>\phi.

  171. Karte 171

    Frage

    What molar volume is a useful ideal-gas reference at 0C0^\circ\mathrm{C} and 1 atm1\ \mathrm{atm}?

    Antwort

    About 22.4 L/mol22.4\ \mathrm{L/mol}.

    This shortcut is tied to those stated conditions, not every convention labeled STP.

  172. Karte 172

    Frage

    What is the period of an ideal mass–spring oscillator?

    Antwort

    T=2πm/kT=2\pi\sqrt{m/k}.

    The small-amplitude period depends on mass and spring stiffness, not amplitude.

  173. Karte 173

    Frage

    For MX2(s)M2++2XMX_2(s)\rightleftharpoons M^{2+}+2X^-, how is KspK_{sp} related to molar solubility ss in pure water?

    Antwort

    Ksp=s(2s)2=4s3K_{sp}=s(2s)^2=4s^3.

    This relation changes when a common ion is already present.

  174. Karte 174

    Frage

    What does a dimensional-consistency check require of an equation?

    Antwort

    Every term that is added or equated must have the same dimensions. A mismatch, such as adding energy to force, proves the equation or unit conversion is wrong.

  175. Karte 175

    Frage

    How is percent ionization of a weak acid calculated?

    Antwort

    %ionization=100×[H+]eq/[HA]0\%\mathrm{ionization}=100\times[H^+]_{\mathrm{eq}}/[HA]_0 for a monoprotic acid. Dilution generally raises percent ionization even while lowering [H+][H^+].

  176. Karte 176

    Frage

    What pressure difference does surface tension create across one spherical liquid–gas interface?

    Antwort

    ΔP=2γ/r\Delta P=2\gamma/r.

    For a soap bubble with two interfaces, ΔP=4γ/r\Delta P=4\gamma/r. Smaller radii require larger pressure differences.

  177. Karte 177

    Frage

    What energy balance applies in an insulated calorimetry problem?

    Antwort

    q=0\sum q=0, so heat lost by hotter parts equals heat gained by colder parts and the calorimeter. Include every component named in the setup.

  178. Karte 178

    Frage

    What radius does a charged particle follow when moving perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field?

    Antwort

    r=mv/(qB)r=mv/(|q|B).

    The magnetic force supplies centripetal force; faster or heavier particles curve less.

  179. Karte 179

    Frage

    How do you find concentration after mixing solutions of the same nonreacting solute?

    Antwort

    Mf=(M1V1+M2V2)/(V1+V2)M_f=(M_1V_1+M_2V_2)/(V_1+V_2) when volumes are additive. If the solutes react, do stoichiometry before calculating the remaining concentration.

  180. Karte 180

    Frage

    What net inward force is required for circular motion?

    Antwort

    Fc=mv2/r=mω2rF_c=mv^2/r=m\omega^2r.

    “Centripetal force” is the inward net force supplied by real forces, not an extra force.

Abstract study cards linking physics motion, waves, circuits, and chemistry lab motifs.

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MCAT Physics & Chemistry Equation Flashcards: Formulas, Units & When to Use Them

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