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AP Physics 2 · 13 Geometric Optics

Optical instruments for AP Physics 2

Optical instruments is mapped to 13 Geometric Optics in the AP Physics 2 pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.

AP 2 · AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based12–15%Guide 6 of 6

Where this fits

13 Geometric Optics

Curriculum
AP Physics 2
Theme or group
AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based
Current framework
2026–27 course year · May 2027 exam format

Reflection, refraction, and dispersion are in Chapter 25; mirrors and lenses are in Chapter 26.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    Label the wave or ray diagram with the quantities and boundary conditions that matter.

  2. 02

    Relate frequency, period, wavelength, speed, phase, or angle using the correct model.

  3. 03

    Predict how the observable pattern changes when one controlled variable changes.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

13 Geometric Optics is identified as 12–15% in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

13 Geometric Optics

This syllabus point maps to 6 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01Reflection and ray diagrams
  2. 02Refraction and Snell's law
  3. 03Total internal reflection
  4. 04Curved mirrors
  5. 05Thin lenses
  6. 06Optical instrumentsCurrent guide

Continue on GioPhysics

Choose the right next step.

The curriculum context stays public. Lesson and presentation access follows the existing GioPhysics membership rules.

LearnOpen the mapped lessonOptical instrumentsTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapCollege Board AP Physics