MCAT Physics Notes
Topic-wise MCAT physics notes covering all 17 chapters, vectors, force and motion, electromagnetism, waves, optics, modern physics and more. Physics is a core part of the Chemical and Physical Foundations (Chem/Phys) section of the MCAT.
Organized by the AAMC content outline: physics chapters are grouped by Chem/Phys content category (4A to 4E, plus thermodynamics under 5E), and each card shows its code. Off-outline material sits in a separate low-yield group at the bottom.
4A: Motion, Forces, Work and Energy
Kinematics, Newton's laws, equilibrium, torque and energy.
Vectors, Torque and Equilibrium
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Kinematics, Newton's Laws and Momentum
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Circular Motion and Torque
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Work, Energy and Power
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4B: Fluids
Fluid statics and dynamics, including blood flow.
4C: Electricity and Magnetism
Electrostatics, DC circuits and magnetic forces.
Electrostatics and Capacitors
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DC Circuits: Current and Resistance
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Magnetism and Moving Charges
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Electromagnetic Induction
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4D: Light and Sound
Waves, sound, and geometric and physical optics.
4E: Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Quantum theory, atomic spectra and radioactive decay.
Atomic Emission and Absorption Spectra
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Quantum Theory and the Photoelectric Effect
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Nuclear Decay and Radioactivity
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5E: Thermodynamics
Heat, temperature and the laws of thermodynamics.
Low-yield / outside the outline
Kept for reference. Each page opens with a note on the small part the MCAT does test and where to study it instead.
How to use these notes
- Read the chapter notes to build the concept layer.
- Take a timed practice test on the chapter to validate recall under pressure.
- Review wrong answers and re-read the relevant subtopic section in the notes.
- Once comfortable, attempt full-length mocks on Practice Test.