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AP Biology Free Response Questions

The best way to get better at FRQs is practice. Browse through dozens of practice AP Biology FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (18)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (30)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (32)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (28)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (31)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (27)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (52)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (32)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Amino Acid Properties and Protein Folding

Examine how the polarity of amino acid side chains influences protein folding and enzyme activity un

Hard

Carbon and the Formation of Organic Molecules

A molecular biologist is examining why carbon is uniquely suited to form the complex organic molecul

Easy

Chemical Bonding in Biological Molecules

Investigate the different types of chemical bonds that are critical to biological molecules. Conside

Medium

Enzymatic Activity and Protein Structure

Enzymes are proteins whose structures are critical to their catalytic function. Examine how environm

Medium

Examining the Effect of Temperature on Enzyme Catalysis with pH Drift

A researcher performs an enzyme kinetics study by incubating reactions at different temperatures and

Extreme

FRQ 10: Levels of Protein Structure

Proteins exhibit four levels of structure that are essential for their function. Analyze these struc

Medium

Integrative Analysis of Biomolecules in Cellular Functions

Synthesize your understanding of the four major classes of organic molecules by discussing their rol

Extreme

Investigating Capillary Action and Water's Adhesion and Cohesion

A botanist is interested in how water rises in narrow tubes due to adhesion and cohesion. The study

Easy

Investigating the Role of Trace Elements in Enzyme Catalysis

A researcher investigates the effect of trace elements, such as copper and iron, on the catalytic ra

Medium

Lipid Saturation and Membrane Fluidity

A biologist studies how variations in lipid saturation affect the fluidity of cell membranes. Artifi

Hard

Nucleic Acid Formation and Hydrogen Bonding in DNA

DNA is synthesized through dehydration reactions that form phosphodiester bonds, and its double-heli

Hard

Nucleic Acid Stability Under Temperature Variation

A geneticist investigates the thermal stability of DNA by monitoring its denaturation as the tempera

Medium

Organic Molecules: Carbohydrates and Dehydration Synthesis

Investigate the formation of complex carbohydrates via dehydration synthesis and discuss the reversi

Medium

Organic Molecules: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Examine the processes of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in the formation and breakdown of poly

Medium

pH Variations in Aquatic Ecosystems: Impact and Analysis

An environmental team is monitoring pH fluctuations in a river affected by industrial pollution. Ans

Extreme

Properties of Water: Hydrogen Bonding and Density Anomalies

Analyze how the unique properties of water arise from hydrogen bonding and interpret a graph of wate

Hard

Protein Structure and Denaturation Under pH Variation

A researcher investigates how varying pH levels affect protein structure and enzyme activity. In the

Medium

Understanding the Role of Molecular Components in Cell Signaling

A study investigates how cholesterol-derived hormones are produced and how molecular structure influ

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active Transport and ATP Usage in Ion Pumps

A study was conducted to assess the role of ATP in the activity of the sodium-potassium pump in cult

Medium

Calculation of Surface Area and Volume: Cubical Cell Model

This question involves calculating the surface area and volume of a cell modeled as a cube and discu

Easy

Cell Diffusion Efficiency Based on Radius

A researcher measured the diffusion rates of a solute in cells of varying radii. The theoretical rel

Medium

Cellular Responses to Environmental Stress: Osmotic Pressure

The table below presents data on the percentage of cells undergoing plasmolysis under different osmo

Medium

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells: Structure and Function

A student isolates cells from two different organisms. One sample is known to be prokaryotic and the

Medium

Critically Evaluating Cellular Storage: Vacuoles in Plant Cells

A research paper claims that central vacuoles in plant cells are essential for maintaining turgor pr

Medium

Cytoskeleton: Microfilaments vs. Microtubules

The cytoskeleton is essential for maintaining cell shape and enabling movement. Analyze the differen

Medium

Endocytosis and Exocytosis Experimental Data Analysis

The table below shows experimental data measuring the rates of endocytosis and exocytosis at various

Hard

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex in Protein Processing

Protein synthesis is closely coordinated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi complex. Exam

Hard

Golgi Complex Function in Protein Secretion

Design an experiment to assess how inhibition of the Golgi complex affects protein processing and se

Easy

Golgi Complex: Processing and Packaging Proteins

The Golgi complex is essential for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for transport. Answer

Medium

Hormone Secretion via Exocytosis

A cell secretes hormones through exocytosis. Each vesicle contains 10,000 hormone molecules and fuse

Medium

Integration of Cellular Transport Mechanisms and Homeostasis

This FRQ integrates passive and active transport mechanisms to analyze changes in intracellular ion

Extreme

Investigating the Effects of Cell Membrane Permeability Changes

The table below presents data from an experiment where chemical treatments altered cell membrane per

Hard

Microscopic Techniques in Cellular Analysis

Compare the capabilities of light microscopy and electron microscopy in studying cellular components

Easy

Microscopy and its Applications in Cell Biology

Microscopy is a fundamental tool for exploring cell structure. Compare and contrast light microscope

Medium

Mitochondria: Energy Conversion and ATP Production

The table below presents experimental data on ATP production rates by isolated mitochondria at vario

Medium

Mitochondrial ATP Production

A cell oxidizes 0.002 moles of glucose per minute. Given that one mole of glucose yields 36 moles of

Hard

Mitochondrial Function and ATP Production

Mitochondria are central to energy production in the cell. (a) Outline the structure of the mitocho

Medium

Mitochondrial Structure and ATP Production

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, and their structure is closely related to their functio

Medium

Observing Cell Structures Using Microscopy

A research laboratory has access to two principal types of microscopes: a light microscope (which ma

Medium

Osmosis and Plasmolysis in Plant Cells Under Tonicity Variations

Design an experiment to analyze the effects of hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic solutions on plan

Easy

Plant Cell Osmotic Behavior in Different Solutions

A plant cell is placed in three different solutions whose solute concentrations are listed in the ta

Medium

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

This FRQ focuses on the structure of the plasma membrane and its role in regulating the movement of

Easy

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

The plasma membrane exhibits a fluid mosaic structure that is crucial for cell function. Explore how

Medium

Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis Efficiency

Design an experiment to evaluate the efficiency of receptor-mediated endocytosis in cells exposed to

Hard

Role of Membrane Proteins in Cell Signaling and Transport

The table below compares the primary functions of different types of membrane proteins. Use the data

Easy

Scaling of Metabolic Waste Accumulation with Cell Volume

As a cell increases in size, waste production (proportional to cell volume) may outpace waste remova

Hard

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms

An experiment was designed to examine how organism size affects heat exchange with the environment u

Easy

Temperature Effects on Cellular Metabolism

Design an experiment to assess how different temperatures influence the rate of enzyme-catalyzed rea

Hard
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Respiration Comparison

Aerobic and anaerobic respiration differ markedly in their ATP yields and metabolic pathways. Compar

Medium

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Inhibition

This question focuses on enzyme regulation via inhibitors and allosteric effects.

Hard

Assessment of Photosystem Activity using Extracted Chlorophyll

A researcher extracted chlorophyll from senescent leaves to measure photosystem II activity via chlo

Medium

ATP Production via Oxidative Phosphorylation

Oxidative phosphorylation is a key process in ATP production through the electron transport chain (E

Hard

ATP Synthase and Chemiosmosis

Describe the process of chemiosmosis and the role of ATP synthase in oxidative phosphorylation.

Medium

ATP Yield in Cellular Respiration Processes

Refer to the table below listing ATP and electron carrier yields from different stages of cellular r

Medium

Cofactors in Enzymatic Reactions

A researcher is exploring the roles of various cofactors in enzyme-catalyzed reactions, with special

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

A flow diagram is provided comparing the overall processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiratio

Medium

Coupling of Exergonic and Endergonic Reactions in Metabolism

Reaction coupling allows cells to drive unfavorable reactions by pairing them with exergonic process

Hard

Electron Transport Chain (ETC) and Oxidative Phosphorylation

This question explores the mechanism of the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation i

Hard

Enzyme Catalysis and Activation Energy

Enzymes accelerate reactions by lowering the activation energy. Analyze this effect quantitatively u

Medium

Enzyme Cofactors and Regulation

This question examines the role of enzyme cofactors and their effects on enzyme activity.

Easy

Enzyme Kinetics: Saturation and Reaction Rates

A researcher examines the effect of substrate concentration on enzyme activity to explore substrate

Medium

Enzyme Regulation and Inhibition Mechanisms

Cells tightly regulate enzyme activity to maintain metabolic balance. Evaluate the mechanisms of enz

Medium

Enzyme Saturation and Reaction Rate

A researcher examines how increasing substrate concentration affects an enzyme's reaction rate. Data

Easy

Evaluation of Light Wavelength Effects on Photosynthetic Pigment Absorption

A group of researchers aimed to determine the absorption spectra of various photosynthetic pigments

Hard

Examination of Energy Coupling in Chloroplast ATP Synthesis

A research team designed an experiment to study the coupling of proton gradient formation to ATP syn

Hard

Fermentation vs. Aerobic Respiration

Contrast anaerobic fermentation and aerobic respiration in terms of ATP yield, by‐products, and the

Medium

Impact of Allosteric Inhibitors on Enzyme Regulation

A table below shows enzyme reaction rates in the presence of various concentrations of an inhibitor.

Hard

Impact of pH on ATP Hydrolysis Rate

Review the table below showing rates of ATP hydrolysis at various pH levels. Analyze the data to det

Easy

Impact of Unintended Inhibition on Hexokinase Activity Measurements

A student designed an experiment to measure the kinetics of hexokinase by monitoring the rate of glu

Medium

Metabolic Adaptations During Intense Exercise

During intense exercise, muscle cells switch from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism. Analyze the metab

Extreme

Muscle Cell Fermentation Under Oxygen Debt

During high-intensity exercise, muscle cells may switch to fermentation due to oxygen debt, resultin

Medium

pH Effects on Enzyme Activity

Answer the following questions regarding the effect of pH on enzyme activity.

Medium

Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration: Interconnected Processes

This question explores the interdependent relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respirati

Medium

Photosynthesis: C3, C4, and CAM Pathways

Compare and contrast the three photosynthetic pathways (C3, C4, and CAM) in terms of their mechanism

Hard

Pyruvate to Acetyl-CoA Conversion

The conversion of pyruvate into acetyl-CoA is a crucial step between glycolysis and the Krebs cycle.

Easy

Role of Enzyme Structural Integrity on Reaction Specificity Under Salt Stress

Researchers conducted an experiment to compare an enzyme's specificity for two substrates under vary

Medium

Simulation of Anaerobic Glycolysis in Muscle Cells

An experiment was conducted using cultured muscle cells to simulate the anaerobic conditions typical

Medium

Temperature Dependence of Enzyme Activity

A researcher measured an enzyme's activity at various temperatures, and the results are shown in the

Medium

Temperature Effects on Enzyme Kinetics

This question explores how temperature influences enzyme kinetics and reaction rates.

Medium

Temperature-Induced Enzyme Denaturation

Propose an experiment to investigate the effect of elevated temperatures on enzyme activity and stru

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Regulation

Cells must accurately replicate and divide their genetic material, a process tightly controlled by c

Medium

Cell Cycle Dysregulation and Apoptosis Triggering

The decision between cell cycle progression, DNA repair, and apoptosis is critical for preventing th

Easy

Cell Migration and Developmental Patterning

Design an experiment to study the migration patterns of cells during development in a tissue model,

Medium

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A recent study claims that chemotaxis in unicellular organisms is primarily controlled by the intera

Easy

Chromatid Separation and Centromere Function

A student claims that the centromere is essential for proper chromatid separation during mitosis and

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Receptor Types in Signal Transduction

An article compares three classes of membrane receptors: ligand-gated ion channels, catalytic recept

Hard

Cyclin-Dependent Kinases and Cell Cycle Progression

An experiment measured cyclin concentrations during different phases of the cell cycle. The data bel

Hard

Effects of Temperature on Mitotic Duration

Design an experiment to determine how temperature variations affect the duration of mitosis in eukar

Medium

Environmental Stress and Signal Transduction

Cells exposed to high salinity experience stress that can disrupt their signal transduction pathways

Medium

Experimental Design: Identifying Feedback Loop Mechanisms

A researcher is studying a metabolic pathway suspected to be regulated by a negative feedback loop.

Hard

G-Protein-Linked Receptor Signaling in Sensory Cells

This question examines the mechanism by which G-protein-linked receptors activate secondary messenge

Hard

GPCR Activation and cAMP Measurement

Design an experiment to measure intracellular cAMP responses to varying concentrations of a GPCR ago

Medium

Homeostasis and Hormonal Regulation

It is claimed that insulin and glucagon work via feedback mechanisms to maintain blood glucose level

Easy

Integration of Taxis and Signal Transduction Pathways

Cells integrate external chemical signals and internal signal transduction mechanisms to navigate th

Easy

Interphase and DNA Replication Dynamics

Interphase is a critical period in the cell cycle during which cells grow and replicate their DNA.

Medium

Investigating the Role of Cell Junctions in Direct Cell Communication

Cells in multicellular organisms communicate directly through specialized structures known as cell j

Easy

Mathematical Modeling of Diffusion in Signal Transduction

This question explores the diffusion of signaling molecules using Fick's First Law and requires a mu

Hard

Mitosis and Its Role in Tissue Repair

Mitosis is essential for tissue repair and regeneration. Refer to the diagram provided to answer the

Medium

Mitosis Process and Chromosomal Dynamics

Mitosis is the process by which a cell divides its genetic material into two daughter cells. A resea

Easy

Mitosis Stages and Chromosome Segregation

The following table describes the duration of each stage of mitosis in a cultured cell.

Easy

Mitosis Stages Timing and Chromosome Segregation Error

Mitosis is a tightly regulated process involving several stages. Analyzing the timing of these stage

Easy

Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and Cancer Progression

A research study compares the proliferation rates of different cell types to understand the roles of

Medium

Pathway Crosstalk Analysis in Fibroblasts

A researcher explores potential crosstalk between the MAP kinase pathway and the PI3K/Akt pathway in

Extreme

Positive and Negative Feedback in Cell Signaling

A laboratory study investigates two distinct cellular signaling pathways: one regulated by negative

Medium

Rapid Signal Amplification in a Two-Tier Cascade Model

This question examines signal amplification in a cellular cascade involving two tiers of messenger m

Hard

Signal Amplification in Cell Communication

Signal transduction cascades allow cells to amplify a small external signal. Using the concept of si

Easy

Signal Amplification in Transduction Cascades

Develop an experiment to quantify signal amplification in a transduction cascade, such as the GPCR-c

Hard

Temperature Effects on Chemotactic Movement

Design an experiment to determine how variations in temperature affect chemotaxis in unicellular org

Medium
Unit 5: Heredity

Analysis of Linked Genes and Recombination Frequency Data

A researcher investigates three linked genes (A, B, and C) on the same chromosome. The recombination

Hard

Analyzing a Mistaken Procedure in Gametogenesis Observation

A laboratory experiment was conducted to observe gametogenesis in a model organism using time-lapse

Medium

Analyzing Monohybrid Cross Results in Pea Plants

In an experiment inspired by Mendel, a researcher crosses true‐breeding tall pea plants (TT) with tr

Medium

Chromosomal Behavior in Prophase I

During prophase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes undergo synapsis and crossing-over. Describe th

Easy

Chromosomal Nondisjunction and Developmental Defects

Errors during meiosis can lead to nondisjunction, resulting in abnormal chromosome numbers (aneuploi

Hard

Chromosome Separation Simulation Experiment

In an experiment, students used a microfluidic chip to simulate the stages of meiosis in plant cells

Medium

Comparative Study: Spermatogenesis vs. Oogenesis

A developmental biologist investigates the differences between spermatogenesis and oogenesis in a ve

Medium

Comparing Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis vs Oogenesis

This question asks you to compare the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, focusing on both t

Medium

Designing a Mendelian Genetics Experiment

Design an experiment using pea plants to test the Law of Segregation. Answer the following: (a) Dev

Hard

Environmental Effects on Phenotypic Plasticity

A researcher is studying how environmental variables, such as temperature, influence the expression

Hard

Environmental Effects on Trait Expression

The environment can significantly influence the expression of genetic traits, resulting in phenotypi

Medium

Gamete Production and Fertilization

Describe the process of gametogenesis in males and females and analyze how these processes contribut

Medium

Impact of Meiotic Errors on Offspring Viability

Errors during meiosis, such as nondisjunction, can lead to aneuploidy and affect offspring viability

Medium

Inheritance Patterns: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

Not all traits follow purely dominant-recessive inheritance. Consider cases of incomplete dominance

Medium

Integrative Inheritance: Combining Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Traits

Design an experiment in which you cross organisms that exhibit both Mendelian (e.g., dominant/recess

Hard

Interpreting Pedigree Data

Given the following simplified pedigree data for a trait that appears to be recessive: | Generation

Medium

Mapping Linked Genes Using Recombination Frequencies

A geneticist studying three linked genes, A, B, and C, observes the following recombination frequenc

Hard

Mechanisms of Crossing-over and Genetic Recombination

A molecular geneticist is studying the process of crossing-over during prophase I of meiosis and its

Easy

Mitochondrial Inheritance Patterns

Unlike nuclear genes, mitochondrial genes are inherited maternally. This question investigates how m

Medium

Monohybrid Cross Analysis

This question explores Mendel's principles using a monohybrid cross between pea plants. Explain the

Easy

Non-Mendelian Genetics: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

In some cases, inheritance does not follow strict Mendelian patterns. This question asks you to prov

Medium

Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Codominance vs. Incomplete Dominance

Compare and contrast codominance and incomplete dominance using real-world examples. Then, predict t

Medium

Pedigree Analysis for Inheritance of a Recessive Trait

A genetic counselor examines a pedigree chart in which a specific recessive trait appears to skip ge

Easy

Pedigree Analysis for Inheritance Patterns

A pedigree chart shows the appearance of a certain trait across multiple generations in a family. Us

Medium

Pedigree Analysis for Inheritance Patterns

A pedigree chart (provided below) tracks an inherited trait over several generations. Analyze the ch

Hard

Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium model uses probability to predict genotype frequencies in a large pop

Extreme

Recombination Frequency and Gene Mapping

Gene mapping relies on the analysis of recombination frequencies observed during meiosis. Answer the

Hard

Statistical Analysis of Gamete Viability Based on Environmental Stress

A study evaluates the effect of temperature on gamete viability. Analyze the provided data and discu

Extreme

Test Cross Analysis for Genotype Determination

A test cross is used to determine the genotype of an individual with a dominant phenotype. In this s

Medium

Test Cross Analysis in Pea Plants

A tall pea plant has an ambiguous genotype. Describe how a test cross with a homozygous recessive (t

Medium

X-Inactivation and Barr Body Formation

In female mammals, X-inactivation plays a crucial role in balancing gene expression between XX femal

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analyzing DNA Gel Electrophoresis Results

A researcher runs gel electrophoresis on DNA fragments produced by a restriction enzyme. Three bands

Hard

Analyzing PCR Results

Examine the principles of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and evaluate troubleshooting scenarios

Hard

Antiparallel Structure of DNA and Its Functional Implications

The antiparallel orientation of DNA strands is a key feature of the double helix. Answer the followi

Easy

Comparative Analysis of DNA and RNA Structures

A table below outlines several key differences between DNA and RNA. Use this information to answer t

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Gene Expression

A researcher compared key features of gene expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The table

Medium

DNA Repair Analysis with Unwarranted Telomere Removal

A researcher examines UV-induced DNA damage repair in eukaryotic cells. Cells are exposed to UV ligh

Medium

DNA Replication Fidelity Assessment with Nucleotide Substitution Error

A researcher aims to compare the fidelity of two DNA polymerases by running parallel PCR reactions.

Hard

DNA Structure and Complementary Base Pairing

A researcher investigates the structure of the DNA double helix to determine how its chemical proper

Medium

Effects of UV Exposure on DNA Replication Efficiency

A biologist evaluated the effect of UV exposure on the efficiency of DNA replication. A graph (provi

Medium

Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Modifications

Answer the following questions about epigenetics and how chromatin modifications influence gene expr

Hard

Evaluating the Function of Telomeres and Telomerase

Researchers are investigating the role of telomeres in safeguarding chromosome ends and how telomera

Medium

Evolutionary Impact of Gene Rearrangements

Gene rearrangements, including duplications and translocations, play a significant role in evolution

Extreme

FRQ 14: Telomeres and Cellular Aging

A study tracks telomere length in human fibroblasts over several passages and correlates these measu

Easy

Gel Electrophoresis and RFLP Analysis

Scientists use gel electrophoresis to analyze restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) from

Medium

Gene Regulation in Embryonic Development

This question delves into the role of gene regulation during embryonic development, with a focus on

Extreme

Identifying Point Mutation Types

This question focuses on identifying and interpreting point mutations. Consider a scenario where a c

Medium

Investigating Reverse Transcription in Retroviruses

A virology study investigates the efficiency and fidelity of reverse transcriptase in retroviruses l

Hard

Investigation of Plasmid Size on Transformation Efficiency

Propose an experimental design to assess how plasmid size affects transformation efficiency in bacte

Medium

Modeling DNA Helix Unwinding

DNA helicase is essential for unwinding the double helix during DNA replication. Answer the followin

Easy

mRNA Translation and Ribosome Function

This question focuses on both quantitative and descriptive aspects of mRNA translation.

Easy

Mutation Detection and the Central Dogma

Using the central dogma as a framework, analyze how mutations in DNA can affect protein synthesis an

Hard

Operon Regulation Investigation with Promoter–Operator Confusion

A researcher studies the regulation of gene expression in E. coli by analyzing the lac operon. Cells

Medium

Recombinant DNA and Ethical Implications

Explore the process of creating recombinant DNA and discuss its scientific benefits alongside potent

Hard

Recombinant DNA and Ligation Efficiency

This question evaluates recombinant DNA techniques emphasizing ligation efficiency in cloning experi

Medium

Recombinant DNA Assembly with Misinterpreted Restriction Enzyme Specificity

A researcher attempts to assemble a recombinant DNA plasmid by digesting both the vector and insert

Medium

Recombinant DNA Techniques and Applications

Discuss the methodology of creating recombinant DNA and analyze its real-world applications.

Hard

Topoisomerase Function Analysis with Incorrect Inhibitor Application

A researcher is investigating the role of topoisomerase in relieving DNA supercoiling during replica

Hard
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Adaptive Traits in Arctic Plants Under Climate Change

Researchers are investigating how an Arctic plant species adapts to rising temperatures and changes

Hard

Analysis of Natural Selection in Peppered Moths

A study records the frequency of dark and light-colored Peppered moths before and after the industri

Medium

Analyzing Different Modes of Natural Selection

A population of insects displays variation in body size under different selection pressures. Using e

Hard

Analyzing the Fossil Record

Examine the fossil record as evidence for evolution and answer the following questions:

Medium

Artificial Selection in Drosophila Wing Patterns

In this experiment, a researcher is investigating the outcomes of artificial selection on wing patte

Medium

Climate Change and Evolutionary Adaptations

A graph plots environmental temperature against the frequency of a particular trait in a population.

Hard

Comparative Morphology and Homologous Structures

A study compared the skeletal structure of forelimbs in a bat, a whale, and a human. The following t

Medium

Comparing Artificial and Natural Selection

Compare and contrast the mechanisms of artificial selection and natural selection using examples fro

Easy

Darwin’s Natural Selection Observations

Analyze Darwin’s observations, including the production of excess offspring, competition, and differ

Easy

Effects of Gene Flow on Subpopulation Divergence

Two subpopulations of the same species are separated by a mountain range, but occasional migration (

Medium

Embryological Evidence for Common Ancestry

Researchers examined the embryonic development of various vertebrates and noted similar early develo

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Adaptive Evolution

Environmental factors drive adaptive changes in populations. Answer the following:

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Phenotypic Traits

A study examines the effect of temperature on the beak size of a particular bird species. Use the pr

Medium

Evidence for Evolution from Fossils, Biogeography, and Embryology

Analyze the multiple lines of evidence that underpin the theory of evolution.

Hard

Evolutionary Impacts of Climate Change on Coral Reefs

Over the past decade, a coral reef ecosystem has experienced rising sea temperatures, accompanied by

Hard

Experimental Test on Effects of Sexual Selection in Bird Mating Displays

Design an experiment to investigate how female mate choice influences the evolution of male plumage

Hard

Factors Disrupting Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Discuss the factors that can disrupt Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in a population:

Medium

Fossil Record Analysis

A timeline table outlines major fossil discoveries corresponding to various geological periods.

Easy

Fossil Record Analysis and Dating Techniques

Dating methods and fossil records are crucial for understanding evolutionary timelines. Delve into t

Extreme

Gene Flow and Its Impact on Population Genetics

Gene flow plays a critical role in shaping genetic diversity within populations. Examine how migrati

Medium

Genetic Variability and Adaptation in a Laboratory Plant Study

Researchers are investigating a plant species that displays extensive genetic variability. In contro

Medium

Graph Analysis: Rate of Speciation

This question requires you to analyze a graph depicting speciation events over time and perform a re

Extreme

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Analysis in a Beetle Population

A population of beetles exhibits color variations due to a single gene with two alleles. Analyze the

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Experiment in Bacterial Populations

A microbiologist wants to investigate whether a bacterial population maintains Hardy-Weinberg equili

Hard

Impact of Gene Flow on Genetic Variation

Two previously isolated populations of a species began interbreeding. The following table presents t

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Genotypes

In this experiment, a researcher assesses the impact of an invasive species on the genetic diversity

Extreme

Impact of Mutations on Microbial Populations

In a controlled experiment, a microbial population is exposed to a mutagen, altering the mutation ra

Hard

Impact of Mutations on Population Genetics

Analyze the role of mutations in contributing to genetic variability and evolution. Answer the follo

Hard

Impact of Population Bottlenecks on Genetic Drift

Population bottlenecks can greatly influence genetic drift. Suppose a species experiences a bottlene

Extreme

Modeling the Hardy-Weinberg Principle in a Changing Population

Apply the Hardy-Weinberg principle to a population undergoing genetic change, and critique the model

Hard

Molecular Clocks and Evolutionary Timing

A graph representing molecular substitution rates over time is provided. The graph plots the number

Hard

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

Examine how molecular data, such as DNA or protein sequences, provide evidence for common ancestry a

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution: Cladistic Analysis

Analyze the molecular data provided in the table to construct a cladogram and explain how DNA sequen

Extreme

Natural Selection in the Peppered Moth

The case of the peppered moth exemplifies natural selection in action. Analyze how environmental cha

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

A long-term study on peppered moth populations recorded changes in allele frequency as air pollution

Medium

Peppered Moths: A Case Study in Directional Selection

Examine the changes in population frequencies of the peppered moth before and after industrializatio

Easy

Peppered Moths: Environmental Impact and Evolution

A study of peppered moth populations before, during, and after industrialization provides insights i

Medium

Phylogenetic Analysis Error in Cladogram Construction

In this experiment, a researcher aims to determine the evolutionary relationships among various rept

Hard

Phylogenetic Analysis of Vertebrate Evolution

Using genetic sequence data from various vertebrates, design an experiment to construct a phylogenet

Hard

Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

Examine the scenario described below regarding relationships among four species and their common anc

Medium

Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Analysis

Using the genotype count data provided in the table, calculate allele frequencies and predict expect

Medium

Selection Pressures in Peppered Moth Populations

The case of the peppered moth is a classic example of natural selection, where environmental changes

Medium

Sexual Selection and Evolutionary Fitness

Sexual selection represents a unique mechanism of evolution driven by mate choice and competition. E

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Evolution

Sexual selection can lead to the evolution of exaggerated traits. Evaluate how sexual selection infl

Medium

Sexual Selection: Trade-offs in Peafowl

Studies of peafowl indicate that males with larger and more colorful tails are more attractive to fe

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Barriers

Discuss how reproductive barriers can lead to speciation, focusing on the roles of pre-zygotic and p

Easy

Testing Disruptive Selection Under Varied Ecological Conditions

Design an experiment using a model organism that occupies two distinct ecological niches to test for

Hard

The Bottleneck Effect and Genetic Diversity

A population undergoing a bottleneck event experienced a severe reduction in size. Data on effective

Hard

The Peppered Moth Case Study: Directional Selection

Examine the classic case of the peppered moth and answer the following questions:

Medium

The RNA World Hypothesis and Origins of Life

This question examines the RNA world hypothesis and the role of prebiotic experiments in understandi

Medium

The Role of Sexual Selection in Trait Evolution

This FRQ investigates the influence of sexual selection on the evolution of secondary sexual traits

Medium

Understanding Convergent Evolution in Desert Plant Species

Design an experiment to compare both morphological traits and genetic sequences of desert plants tha

Medium
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruism in Animal Groups

Data from behavioral studies on a social species indicate variations in the frequency of altruistic

Medium

Analysing Plant Flowering Responses

A study recorded the percentage of plants that flowered under different day-length (photoperiod) con

Medium

Animal Learned Behaviors vs. Instincts: A Comparative Analysis

Animals display behaviors that may be innate (instinct) or acquired (learned). Answer the following:

Medium

Assessing Agonistic Behavior and Dominance Hierarchies

An observational study on a flock of birds provides data on aggressive interactions and shows that t

Hard

Assessing Simpson’s Diversity Index in a Forest Ecosystem

An ecologist collects data on tree species abundance within a 1-hectare plot in a temperate forest t

Extreme

Biodiversity Analysis and Diversity Index

Using the species count data provided, calculate Simpson’s Diversity Index and interpret what the va

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

A researcher studies a rabbit population within a confined habitat that follows a logistic growth pa

Easy

Chemical Communication: Pheromones in Social Insects

A study examined how varying concentrations of pheromones affect foraging success in ants. The table

Medium

Circadian Rhythms in Endotherms and Ectotherms

Review the graph provided, which compares the circadian patterns of body temperature in an endotherm

Medium

Climate Change Effects on Population Dynamics and Distribution

Assess the potential impacts of climate change on species' population growth and geographic distribu

Extreme

Critical Periods and Imprinting in Avian Species

A researcher is studying imprinting behavior in domestic chicks. In the experiment, one set of chick

Medium

Dominance Hierarchies and Social Rank Modeling

Investigate the formation of dominance hierarchies in social animals and model how aggressive behavi

Hard

Dominance Hierarchies and Territoriality in Social Animals

Social animals often establish dominance hierarchies and territories that structure interactions wit

Medium

Ecological Pyramids and Energy Transfer

An ecologist studies an ecosystem’s trophic structure using the 10% rule of energy transfer.

Medium

Ecological Succession and Community Dynamics

After a major disturbance, an ecologist monitors the succession of plant communities over 50 years.

Medium

Ecosystem Analysis of Keystone Species

An ecosystem study involved the experimental removal of a keystone species. Data on species populati

Extreme

Experimental Evaluation of Habituation in Rodents

An experiment was conducted in which a rodent was repeatedly exposed to a harmless sound. Over time,

Easy

Human Impacts: Deforestation Effects on Biodiversity

A study examines the impact of deforestation on species diversity in a tropical forest. Surveys indi

Medium

Imprinting and Critical Periods

Imprinting is a rapid form of learning that occurs during a critical period in an animal's early lif

Medium

Instinct, Learning, and Imprinting in Birds

A researcher studies the behavior of ducklings with respect to imprinting. In the absence of their m

Medium

Learning Through Habituation Analysis

A behavioral experiment measured the startle response of animals subjected to a repeated startling s

Medium

Modeling Population Growth: Exponential vs Logistic

A bacterial culture is observed under two conditions. Under ideal conditions, it grows exponentially

Extreme

Parasitism and Host Response

This FRQ investigates the dynamics between parasites and their hosts, including the detrimental effe

Hard

Photoperiodism and Plant Flowering

Plants rely on photoperiodism—the response to the duration of day and night—to time essential proces

Hard

Plant Tropisms and Photoperiodism

Plants exhibit various behavioral responses to environmental stimuli. This FRQ focuses on the mechan

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism vs Thigmotropism

A botanist is interested in determining whether the signaling pathways involved in phototropism (res

Medium

Population Ecology: Reproductive Rate (r) Calculation

Reproductive rate (r) is central to understanding population dynamics. Answer the parts below.

Medium

Population Growth and Exponential Models

Populations can grow exponentially under ideal conditions. The reproductive rate is given by the for

Medium

Primary vs. Net Productivity in Ecosystems

Gross productivity refers to the total amount of organic material produced via photosynthesis; howev

Hard

Simpson’s Diversity Index and Ecosystem Health

This FRQ assesses your understanding of biodiversity metrics, particularly Simpson’s Diversity Index

Hard

Simpson's Diversity Index: Calculations and Ecological Implications

Simpson's Diversity Index is used to quantify the biodiversity of a community. Answer the following

Hard

Thermoregulation in Endotherms vs. Ectotherms

A biologist compared two groups of animals—endotherms and ectotherms—by measuring their body tempera

Medium

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Tips from Former AP Students

FAQWe thought you might have some questions...
Where can I find practice free response questions for the AP Biology exam?
The free response section of each AP exam varies slightly, so you’ll definitely want to practice that before stepping into that exam room. Here are some free places to find practice FRQs :
  • Of course, make sure to run through College Board's past FRQ questions!
  • Once you’re done with those go through all the questions in the AP BiologyFree Response Room. You can answer the question and have it grade you against the rubric so you know exactly where to improve.
  • Reddit it also a great place to find AP free response questions that other students may have access to.
How do I practice for AP AP Biology Exam FRQs?
Once you’re done reviewing your study guides, find and bookmark all the free response questions you can find. The question above has some good places to look! while you’re going through them, simulate exam conditions by setting a timer that matches the time allowed on the actual exam. Time management is going to help you answer the FRQs on the real exam concisely when you’re in that time crunch.
What are some tips for AP Biology free response questions?
Before you start writing out your response, take a few minutes to outline the key points you want to make sure to touch on. This may seem like a waste of time, but it’s very helpful in making sure your response effectively addresses all the parts of the question. Once you do your practice free response questions, compare them to scoring guidelines and sample responses to identify areas for improvement. When you do the free response practice on the AP Biology Free Response Room, there’s an option to let it grade your response against the rubric and tell you exactly what you need to study more.
How do I answer AP Biology free-response questions?
Answering AP Biology free response questions the right way is all about practice! As you go through the AP AP Biology Free Response Room, treat it like a real exam and approach it this way so you stay calm during the actual exam. When you first see the question, take some time to process exactly what it’s asking. Make sure to also read through all the sub-parts in the question and re-read the main prompt, making sure to circle and underline any key information. This will help you allocate your time properly and also make sure you are hitting all the parts of the question. Before you answer each question, note down the key points you want to hit and evidence you want to use (where applicable). Once you have the skeleton of your response, writing it out will be quick, plus you won’t make any silly mistake in a rush and forget something important.