<p>I just figured out that my school doesn't offer Physics C and I was planning on self-studying Physics C. I was wondering if there is two separate exams for Physics C Mechanics and Physics C E&M or if they both make up one exam.</p>
<p>Also, with prior Physics B knowledge, is self-studying this course and getting a 5 on the AP exam possible?</p>
<p>There are two separate exams: AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Physics C: E&M. You can take one, the other, or both.</p>
<p>If you have taken (or are currently taking) AP Calculus AB/BC in addition to AP Physics B, the mechanics portion of the C exam is very easy if you’re apt at math/physics. If you’re struggling in calculus or physics, you’ll just waste your time.</p>
<p>Personally, I self-studied a 5 on Physics C Mech while in Physics B before I even took a formal calculus course, but I had self-studied single variable at that point as well. I also loved Physics B, so it was easy to move that over with the calculus. Most of the mechanics topics overlap, but Mech includes the calculus connections in all of them (obviously), has the additional unit of rotational motion, and also has slightly more involved problems.</p>
<p>The calculus on Physics C Mechanics is very straightforward but gets much more intense in E&M, when you need to integrate over closed surfaces for flux, etc.</p>
<p>Bottom line: If you are good at/enjoy physics and calculus, Mech will be very easy for you. E&M will require much more effort if you want a 5.</p>