I was wondering if it's necessary to memorize all of the equations from physics and gen chem for the MCAT or if they will be given. I know some of them and understand the ideas behind them but it's overwhelming thinking about having to know all of them exactly. Should I just make a list and remember all of them?
Memorizing physics and general chemistry equations?
- Thread starter zachjm2
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It's definitely important to at least be familiar with all the physics equations. Memorize all the kinetics equations for sure. Some of the other stuff, it should be okay to just know the concept, because a lot of problems won't actually ask you to solve but rather figure out like the ratio between the two. For example, like whats the difference in centripetal force when you double the radius... just know that the relationship is radius squared.
For the gen chem, not a whole lot of equations to memorize per say. I would say it's definitely worth knowing the henderson-hasselbach equation for acid/base. Also know how to set up an acid/base reaction and calculate titration stuff, like half-point, equivalent point etc.
For the gen chem, not a whole lot of equations to memorize per say. I would say it's definitely worth knowing the henderson-hasselbach equation for acid/base. Also know how to set up an acid/base reaction and calculate titration stuff, like half-point, equivalent point etc.
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No equations are "given" on the MCAT. Any decent MCAT study material will let you know which equations to memorize. You can also find a compiled list of need-to-know equations somewhere.
As you said, it's more important to have an understanding of the concepts behind the equations, but that's not to say you don't need to have them memorized.
As you said, it's more important to have an understanding of the concepts behind the equations, but that's not to say you don't need to have them memorized.
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Helps tremendously to have the equations down cold. That way your brain is freed up to think through the problem and how to apply the formula. The formulas in red in the EK materials are a solid, relatively brief, list. Takes about 4 hrs per subject to commit them to memory.
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I'm not quite sure what you mean that "No equations are "given" on the MCAT"; nearly every AAMC test will provide an equation or equations in the passage or question stem that they would expect students to either be familiar with (i.e. Bernouilli's, Doppler, the modification of the ideal gas equation for non ideal conditions) or they'll have an equation presenting advanced level information. In either case, usually the question is based on some basic manipulation or graphic/table relation.
Here is a formula list that differentiates between memorization and understanding vs. just understanding: mcat physics equations
NB: I completely agree with JDissere that the objective should always be understanding. I also understand the desire to only learn what is pertinent to the exam rather than what your 1st year prof wanted you to know.
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You should never need to sit down and do rote memorization of equations. Instead, you'll naturally memorize the necessary equations through application via tons of practice passages. Furthermore, you will gain a better understanding of the equations by applying them. Having an understanding of what they mean is very important for the MCAT.
