This section of the MCAT test is based on concepts in physics and in general chemistry that are covered in first year undergraduate, introductory courses.

Although the section often presents advanced topics which seem too difficult for the undergraduate level, the questions themselves are always oriented to an introductory level. This is merely a way of making the test look difficult.

Acquiring a fundamental knowledge of physics and general chemistry and basic science concepts is necessary, but not sufficient. Analytical reasoning and data interpretation are crucial in order to succeed.  In some cases the application of common sense to the information given in the texts or questions could lead to the correct answer.

It is highly recommended to take a FREE MCAT practice test in order to understand these ideas, or simply view our Sample MCAT questions.

Math requisites

Common subjects include: algebra, trigonometry (basic and inverse functions and their standard angels, etc.), logarithmic and exponential functions (natural and base ten), quadratic equations, graphic interpretation (slope, axes intersections, etc.), vector mathematics, basic probability and statistics (average, standard deviation, correlation, etc.).

Some equations and constants are required to be known by heart. They are used in introductory courses and are listed specifically in the physics review (equation table).
Necessary equations, constants and conversion factors are provided with the test passages or questions.

In addition, a periodic table of the elements, including atomic numbers and atomic weights, is provided.

Types of passages

Three main types of passages are common to the MCAT test physical  sciences section: 

1. Informative - Drawn from academic or professional literature, such as text books or journals, this type of passage presents newly discovered or known phenomena related to biology and organic chemistry.

2. Research and experimental - This passage type describes the objectives, methods, results and conclusions of a research study. 

3. Persuasive argument - This type of passage presents a single or two opposing viewpoints of a given subject. Usually, if two viewpoints are given, one is valid and the other is not. This type of passage rarely appears in the physics sciences section.