Mechanics diagnostic challenge
A mechanics contest scored on reasoning.
The FirstPrinciples Challenge is a short mechanics diagnostic. The questions test force diagrams, constraints, choosing a system and choosing a conservation law, rather than how fast you can use a formula.
solvemechanics probe
namereasoning trap
repairatlas + rung
The leaderboard is optional. Everyone gets a report.
01 Format
How it works.
Each item targets a known AP → F=ma reasoning trap.
Students answer the physics and identify the tempting wrong model.
Every participant gets Error Atlas and ladder recommendations.
Aggregate results become an anonymized mistake-pattern summary.
02 Trap set
What it tests.
Normal-force trap
Inclines, elevators, and external pushes.
Constraint trap
Pulleys, two-block systems, and rolling conditions.
Circular-direction trap
Centripetal acceleration and banked-curve friction.
Energy/momentum trap
When a collision needs momentum, energy, or both.
prep Enter with a baseline
Take the diagnostic first so you know your weak spots before the challenge.