Best-fit lines and the AP Physics test

摘要

In the past 15 years especially, the AP Physics exams have asked students to make and interpret best-fit trend lines on data-based or lab-based questions. These constant slopes can be used to find relationships between variables and determine natural constants. This skill is tested on all AP Physics exams (including the discontinued B exam). In this article, I explain precisely how students can create best-fit lines that earn points and provide several example labs that include this specific skill.