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AP Physics 2 · 9 Thermodynamics

Ideal gases and gas laws for AP Physics 2

Ideal gases and gas laws is mapped to 9 Thermodynamics 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-Based15–18%Guide 3 of 8

Where this fits

9 Thermodynamics

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

Thermal concepts, kinetic theory, and gas laws are in Chapter 40; the first law, PV processes, heat engines, and entropy are in Chapter 41.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    Define the system and distinguish temperature, internal energy, and transferred energy.

  2. 02

    Connect the macroscopic process to a particle or molecular explanation.

  3. 03

    Use an energy balance with consistent signs, units, and process assumptions.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

9 Thermodynamics is identified as 15–18% in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

9 Thermodynamics

This syllabus point maps to 8 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01Temperature and internal energy
  2. 02Kinetic theory and the particle model
  3. 03Ideal gases and gas lawsCurrent guide
  4. 04Specific heat and latent heat
  5. 05Conduction, convection, and radiation
  6. 06The first law and gas processes
  7. 07Heat engines and the second law
  8. 08Entropy

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 lessonIdeal gases and gas lawsTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapCollege Board AP Physics