AP Biology FRQ Room

Ace the free response questions on your AP Biology exam with practice FRQs graded by Kai. Choose your subject below.

Which subject are you taking?

Knowt can make mistakes. Consider checking important information.

Pick your exam

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.

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (23)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (30)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (34)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (34)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (22)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (27)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (57)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (23)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, and Polysaccharides

Analyze the structural differences and functional roles of carbohydrates in biological systems. Use

Medium

Carbohydrates: Structure and Function

This question investigates the structural characteristics of carbohydrates and distinguishes between

Easy

Chemical Bonding in Biological Molecules

Examine the roles of different types of chemical bonds in maintaining the structure of biological mo

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Carbohydrate Storage

Two plant species utilize different carbohydrate storage molecules. Species A primarily stores energ

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Carbohydrate Storage Molecules

Compare the structures and functions of starch and glycogen, and explain how these attributes are su

Easy

Comparative Analysis of DNA and RNA

This question addresses the structural and functional distinctions between DNA and RNA. You will com

Easy

Dehydration Synthesis in Polymer Formation

Dehydration synthesis (or condensation) reactions are used to form polymers such as proteins from mo

Easy

Elemental Composition and Isotopes in Biological Molecules

You are presented with information about the elements that form biological molecules and the occurre

Hard

FRQ 13: Amphipathic Nature of Phospholipids

Phospholipids are key components of cell membranes due to their amphipathic nature. Analyze how thei

Medium

FRQ 16: Analyzing a Graph of Enzyme Activity vs. Temperature

The graph provided represents the activity of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction as a function of temperat

Hard

FRQ 20: Capillary Action in Plants

Capillary action, driven by the cohesive and adhesive properties of water, is essential for water tr

Hard

Impact of Molecular Polarity on Solubility and Membrane Transport

Evaluate how molecular polarity influences the solubility of compounds in water and affects their ab

Medium

Isotopic Tracers in Metabolic Pathways

Analyze the use of isotopes as tracers in the study of metabolic pathways.

Extreme

Molecular Modeling of the Phospholipid Bilayer and Membrane Fluidity

Explore how the structure of phospholipid bilayers relates to membrane fluidity, and how temperature

Hard

Nucleic Acids: Structure, Function, and Polymerization

Explore the structure and synthesis of nucleic acids. Analyze how nucleotide properties contribute t

Hard

Polymerization and Hydrolysis in Biological Systems

This question addresses the processes of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in the formation and b

Medium

Polymerization Reactions: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Discuss the chemical processes involved in polymer formation and breakdown.

Easy

Protein Denaturation: Heat and pH Effects

Investigate how environmental conditions such as temperature and pH lead to protein denaturation.

Extreme

Protein Structure and Folding

Proteins have a complex hierarchy of structure that is critical to their function. (a) Describe the

Easy

Protein Structure and Mutation Analysis

A molecular biologist is investigating the structure of proteins and the effects of mutations.

Medium

Structure and Function of Carbohydrates

This FRQ examines the formation and function of carbohydrates. You will explore how monosaccharides

Medium

Trace Elements and Enzyme Activity

A biochemist hypothesizes that trace elements, such as copper (Cu), affect the activity of a specifi

Medium

Trace Elements and Enzyme Activity

Evaluate the importance of trace elements in supporting enzyme function and overall biological activ

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active Transport and the Sodium-Potassium Pump

The sodium-potassium pump actively transports ions by moving 3 Na⁺ ions out of the cell and 2 K⁺ ion

Hard

Analyzing Cytoskeleton's Role in Maintaining Cell Shape

The table below reports the degree of cell deformation under mechanical stress for cells with an int

Easy

Analyzing the Role of Ribosomes in Protein Synthesis and Cellular Stress

A recent study claims that under cellular stress conditions, cells compensate for increased protein

Medium

Assessing Osmosis and Tonicity in Plant Cells

A research study examined how plant cells respond to changes in external solute concentration. The c

Medium

Bulk Flow and Dialysis in Biological Systems

Bulk flow and dialysis are processes that involve the movement of fluids and solutes. Answer the fol

Easy

Chloroplast Photosynthesis Efficiency Experiment

An experiment was established to study the effect of light intensity on photosynthetic efficiency in

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

The following table lists key features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Analyze the differences

Medium

Comparative Analysis: Plant and Animal Cells

This FRQ compares structural features of plant and animal cells and their functional implications.

Easy

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 Function and Cellular Dynamics

The cytoskeleton is essential for maintaining cell shape, enabling movement, and facilitating cell d

Hard

Cytoskeleton: Microfilaments vs. Microtubules

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

Medium

Dialysis Membrane Efficiency and Solute Diffusion

Design an experiment to evaluate how increasing solute concentration affects the rate of diffusion a

Hard

Impact of Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio on Organismal Physiology

The concept of the surface area-to-volume ratio is critical not only at the cellular level but also

Hard

Integrated Analysis: From Cellular Structure to Organism Function

This question integrates concepts from cellular geometry, membrane transport, and energy metabolism.

Extreme

Interdependence of Cellular Structures in Transport and Metabolism

Cells rely on a network of organelles and structures to coordinate transport and metabolic processes

Extreme

Light vs. Electron Microscopy Analysis

A researcher is using microscopy techniques to study cell structures and needs to understand the adv

Medium

Lysosomes in Cellular Maintenance and Apoptosis

Lysosomes play a key role in cellular digestion and programmed cell death (apoptosis). (a) Define t

Medium

Mechanisms of Endocytosis and Exocytosis

Cells use various mechanisms to move large molecules and particles across the plasma membrane. Analy

Medium

Mitochondrial Function and Cellular Respiration

A biologist obtains experimental data showing oxygen consumption in cells under varying concentratio

Medium

Mitochondrial Function and Energy Conversion

Mitochondria convert energy from nutrients into ATP. Answer each part of the question below:

Medium

Organelle Dysfunction and Disease

A researcher studies the impact of mitochondrial and lysosomal malfunctions in a disease model, focu

Extreme

Osmosis and Water Potential Experiment

In an experiment to investigate the effects of osmotic pressure on plant cells, researchers placed i

Hard

Osmosis and Water Potential in Cells

This question assesses understanding of osmosis, water potential, and the consequences of solute con

Hard

Passive Transport: Simple and Facilitated Diffusion

Passive transport in cells occurs via simple diffusion or facilitated diffusion. Answer the followin

Hard

Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Growth Rates

Design an experiment to compare the growth rates of a prokaryotic organism (e.g., a bacterium) and a

Easy

Ribosome Protein Synthesis Efficiency

A prokaryotic cell contains approximately 10,000 ribosomes, with each ribosome synthesizing proteins

Hard

Ribosome Structure and Protein Synthesis

A biologist investigates the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis, as well as the effects of ribos

Medium

Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis

Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis in cells. Answer the following questions regarding thei

Easy

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Efficiency

This FRQ investigates how cell size affects the efficiency of material exchange. Consider a spherica

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms

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

Easy
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Kinetics

This question examines how allosteric regulation influences enzyme kinetics and metabolic control.

Medium

Analysis of Inhibition: Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

Using the data in the table below that compares reaction rates at various substrate concentrations w

Hard

ATP Yield from Cellular Respiration

Aerobic cellular respiration converts glucose into energy. In this problem, you will derive the tota

Hard

ATP Yield in Cellular Respiration Processes

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

Medium

Calvin Cycle and Carbon Fixation

A botanist investigates the dark reactions of photosynthesis, focusing on the Calvin cycle and its r

Medium

Calvin Cycle and Reaction Coupling

Detail the Calvin Cycle and explain how it is coupled to the products of the light-dependent reactio

Hard

CAM vs C4 Pathways under Drought Stress

A biologist compares CO2 uptake efficiency and water-use efficiency between CAM and C4 plants under

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Photosynthesis

The table below compares key features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic photosynthesis. Analyze the data

Extreme

Comparing Competitive vs Noncompetitive Inhibition

Answer the following questions regarding enzyme inhibition using the provided data.

Medium

Designing an Experiment on Allosteric Regulation

Design a controlled experiment to test the effect of an allosteric inhibitor on enzyme activity.

Hard

Effect of Inorganic Cofactor Concentrations on Enzyme Kinetics

Design an experiment to assess how varying concentrations of an inorganic cofactor (e.g., $$Mg^{2+}$

Medium

Effect of Temperature on Enzyme Activity

A researcher studies the impact of temperature on the activity of an enzyme. The experiment involves

Medium

Effects of Temperature and pH on Enzyme Activity

This question examines how environmental factors like temperature and pH affect enzyme activity.

Medium

Electron Transport in Photosynthesis

Outline the sequence of events in the light reactions of photosynthesis, with reference to the elect

Medium

Energy Yield of Aerobic Respiration

Outline the stages of aerobic respiration and calculate the total ATP yield from one molecule of glu

Medium

Enzyme Inhibition and Kinetics

This question explores the mechanisms of enzyme inhibition and how they affect reaction kinetics.

Hard

Enzyme Kinetics and Temperature Effects

Examine the table below showing enzyme reaction rates measured at different temperatures. Use the da

Hard

Enzyme Saturation and Reaction Rate

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

Easy

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

Functional Adaptations in Photosynthetic Pathways

A plant biologist is studying different photosynthetic pathways to understand how plants adapt to di

Hard

Investigation of ATP Synthase Activity via Proton Gradient Manipulation

Design an experiment to determine how alterations in the proton gradient across the mitochondrial in

Hard

Investigation of Cytochrome c Oxidase Inhibition and Membrane Integrity

A research team designed an experiment to study the effect of increasing concentrations of a cytochr

Hard

Investigation of Enzyme Catalysis in ATP Hydrolysis

A research team designed an experiment to study the effect of enzyme concentration on ATP hydrolysis

Medium

Light Reactions vs. Calvin Cycle in Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis comprises two major phases: the light reactions and the Calvin cycle. A researcher is

Easy

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

Optimal Reaction Conditions and Enzyme Denaturation

Enzyme activity is highly sensitive to temperature. Analyze the relationship between enzyme activity

Easy

Photosynthesis Pigment Absorption

A plant physiologist examines how light energy is captured by photosynthetic pigments during the lig

Medium

Proton Gradients in Cellular Energy Conversion

A researcher is exploring how proton gradients are generated and utilized in mitochondria and chloro

Hard

Pyruvate to Acetyl-CoA Conversion

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

Easy

Reaction Coupling and ATP Hydrolysis Calculations

Cells frequently couple exergonic and endergonic reactions to drive unfavorable processes. Use the p

Hard

Thermodynamic Constraints on Reaction Coupling

This question explores the thermodynamic basis for coupling reactions in metabolism.

Medium

Thermodynamic Principles in Cellular Respiration

Cellular respiration must obey the principles of thermodynamics. Use the provided energy data to ana

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Catalytic Receptor Activity in Initiating Cell Division

An experiment is designed to study the effect of an enzyme-linked (catalytic) receptor on cell proli

Hard

Cell Communication in Tissue Regeneration

During wound healing, tissue regeneration relies on effective cell communication via growth factor s

Hard

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Regulation

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

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and DNA Damage Response

Construct a detailed experimental plan to investigate the activation of cell cycle checkpoints in ma

Hard

Cell Cycle Regulation and Cancer

This question addresses the regulatory mechanisms of the cell cycle and the potential consequences w

Hard

Cell Migration and Developmental Patterning

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

Medium

Cell-to-Cell Communication Mechanisms

This question explores the diverse mechanisms by which cells communicate with each other, particular

Easy

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A researcher investigates the chemotactic response of a bacterial species to increasing concentratio

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Membrane Receptors

Various classes of membrane receptors differ in structure and function. A researcher is comparing li

Medium

Comparative Study of Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes

Researchers compare mutation frequencies in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes across several canc

Medium

Distinguishing Negative and Positive Feedback in Cellular Signaling

A researcher monitors the strength of a cellular signal over time following an initial stimulus. The

Medium

Enzyme-Linked Receptor Kinetics and Substrate Conversion

This question focuses on catalytic (enzyme-linked) receptors and uses Michaelis-Menten kinetics to a

Medium

Evaluating Oncogenic Activation Effects on Mitotic Rate

This question examines how oncogenic activation can influence the rate of cell division by altering

Extreme

Experimental Design: Investigating Taxis Behavior

A scientist aims to study the directed movement (taxis) of organisms in response to a chemical gradi

Hard

Exploring Cell Junctions and Direct Cell-to-Cell Communication

Cell junctions play a critical role in maintaining proper cell-to-cell communication in tissues.

Easy

Feedback Control in Hormone Regulation

Design an experiment investigating the negative feedback loop between insulin and glucagon in regula

Hard

Feedback Mechanisms in Hormonal Regulation

Hormonal regulation, such as the maintenance of blood glucose levels, often relies on feedback mecha

Medium

Feedback Regulation in Homeostasis

A study monitors blood glucose levels over time after a meal and the corresponding insulin and gluca

Easy

G-Protein Coupled Receptor Activation and cAMP Signaling

Researchers are studying the activation of a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) in cultured cells. Wh

Hard

G-Protein Coupled Receptors Function

G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) play a crucial role in cellular signaling. Answer the following

Hard

G-Protein-Coupled Receptors and cAMP Amplification

An endocrinologist studies the effect of adrenaline on heart cells, focusing on its interaction with

Hard

Genetic Mutations and Oncogene Activation

Mutations in regulatory genes can transform proto-oncogenes into oncogenes, leading to increased cel

Easy

Impact of CDK Inhibition on Cell Cycle Progression

Design an experiment to analyze the effect of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors on cell cycle

Extreme

Impact of Receptor Mutation on Signal Transduction

A mutation in the extracellular domain of a plasma membrane receptor can drastically alter cell comm

Hard

Mitosis: The Dance of the Chromosomes

Mitosis is a critical process for cell division. Refer to the provided diagram to answer the questio

Medium

Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and Cancer Progression

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

Medium

Plasma Membrane Receptor Specificity

Researchers test the specificity of plasma membrane receptors by exposing a cultured cell line to a

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

Role of GTPases in Regulation of Signal Transduction

G-protein linked receptors utilize GTPases as part of their signal transduction mechanism. Consider

Hard

Short-Range vs. Long-Range Signaling in Multicellular Organisms

In a cultured mammalian cell system, researchers study the effects of a signaling molecule that is h

Hard

Signal Amplification in Cellular Communication

A cell receives a low concentration of a signaling molecule, yet the resulting intracellular respons

Medium

Signal Transduction in Environmental Stress Response

An aquatic plant is exposed to a contaminant that acts as a signaling molecule, triggering a cellula

Medium

Signal Transduction in Mammalian Cells

A team of scientists studies the activation of a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) in cultured mamma

Hard

Temporal Coordination of DNA Replication and the S Phase

Accurate DNA replication during the S phase is essential for genomic stability. Evaluate the timing

Hard
Unit 5: Heredity

Analyzing Pedigree Data to Determine Inheritance Patterns

A genetic counselor is analyzing a pedigree chart showing the inheritance pattern of a particular tr

Medium

Barr Bodies and X-Inactivation

X-inactivation is a process that equalizes gene dosage in female mammals. Answer the following: (a)

Easy

Chromosomal Behavior in Meiosis

Compare the behavior of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis with regard to their arrangement, occ

Easy

Chromosome Separation Simulation Experiment

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Haploid and Diploid Cells

In a tissue culture experiment, a researcher isolates haploid and diploid cells from the same plant

Medium

Evidence for Haploid and Diploid States

A researcher conducted an experiment to determine chromosome numbers in various cell types. The foll

Medium

Gene Mapping and Crossing-Over Analysis

In a genetic mapping experiment, a researcher obtained the following recombination frequencies: | G

Extreme

Investigating Meiotic Errors: Nondisjunction Events

A geneticist investigates nondisjunction events in meiosis by analyzing gametes with abnormal chromo

Medium

Mapping Gene Order Through Analysis of Recombination Frequencies in Fruit Flies

Design an experiment using genetic crosses in fruit flies to map the order of three linked genes on

Extreme

Maternal Inheritance: Mitochondrial Genetics

Mitochondrial inheritance differs from Mendelian inheritance as mitochondria are passed only from th

Easy

Mendelian Inheritance and Test Cross

This question involves using a test cross to determine the genotype of a tall pea plant. A tall plan

Hard

Mendelian Monohybrid Cross Analysis

Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants laid the groundwork for classical genetics. Analyze the

Easy

Mitochondrial Inheritance Patterns

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

Medium

Non-Nuclear Inheritance: Mitochondrial Genetics in Plants

A geneticist is examining inheritance patterns in plants with the goal of distinguishing between tra

Hard

Polygenic Inheritance in Quantitative Traits

A population genetics study focuses on a quantitative trait, such as human height, which is influenc

Hard

Product and Sum Rule Application in Dihybrid Crosses

Given that in a dihybrid cross the probability of expressing a recessive phenotype for a single trai

Medium

Recombination Mapping and Gene Order Determination

A genetic study on three genes (X, Y, and Z) produced the following recombination frequencies: $$rf_

Hard

Sex-Linked Traits Inheritance

This question explores the unique pattern of inheritance for X-linked traits using color blindness a

Medium

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

Synapsis and Crossing-Over: Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram illustrating synapsis and crossing-over during prophase I of meiosis. I

Hard

Test Cross for Determining Genotype

A test cross is a common method used to determine the genotype of an individual displaying the domin

Medium

Validating Dihybrid Cross Outcomes Using Probability Rules

Design an experiment to validate the expected outcomes of a dihybrid cross using the product and sum

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

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

Bacterial Gene Transfer by Transduction

Analyze the process of transduction in bacteria and its implications for genetic diversity.

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Translation

Discuss the translation process in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, noting key differences and

Medium

Comparative Genomics of Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

This question compares the genome organization in prokaryotes versus eukaryotes. Provide comprehensi

Medium

Complementary Base Pairing and Hydrogen Bond Stability

A media report claims that increased temperature causes significant weakening of hydrogen bonds in D

Hard

DNA Sequence Mutation Analysis

Consider the mRNA transcript 5'-AUG UCC GUA AAA UGA-3' derived from a DNA coding sequence. A point m

Easy

DNA Sequencing Accuracy Analysis

This question addresses the impact of sequencing errors on genetic analysis.

Hard

FRQ 11: Transcription Factor Binding and Promoter Efficiency

Researchers have engineered a synthetic promoter to enhance gene expression in cultured cells. A rep

Hard

FRQ 16: Reverse Transcriptase Activity in Retroviruses

Researchers are studying HIV and focus on how the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase converts RNA in

Hard

FRQ 20: Effects of Mutations on Protein Structure and Function

A point mutation in a multi-domain enzyme leads to the substitution of a polar amino acid with a non

Extreme

Gene Regulation in Eukaryotic Cells

In studying gene regulation, a researcher monitored mRNA expression in eukaryotic cells after applyi

Medium

Genomic Organization and Chromatin Structure

Discuss how genomic organization affects gene expression.

Easy

Impact of Hox Gene Mutations on Vertebrate Body Plan Development

Design a multi-step experimental study to investigate the effects of Hox gene mutations during early

Extreme

Impacts of Genetic Mutations on Protein Synthesis

Considering different types of genetic mutations, answer the following questions regarding their eff

Medium

Investigating Promoter Mutations on mRNA Synthesis

Design a controlled experiment to determine how promoter mutations affect transcription efficiency i

Hard

Investigating the Impact of Chromosomal Inversions on Gene Regulation

Propose an experimental design to study the effects of chromosomal inversions on gene expression pat

Extreme

Mechanisms of DNA Replication Enzyme Functions

A researcher performs an in vitro study to elucidate the roles of key enzymes in DNA replication, in

Medium

Operon Function in Bacterial Gene Regulation

This question examines the structure and function of bacterial operons and the consequences of regul

Easy

Operon Regulation Under Nutrient Conditions

This question explores how environmental conditions can affect operon-mediated gene regulation in ba

Hard

PCR Amplification and Gel Electrophoresis Analysis

A molecular biology experiment aimed to amplify a specific gene using PCR and analyze the PCR produc

Medium

PCR Amplification Experiment

A researcher employs PCR to amplify a specific gene fragment, varying the number of cycles to observ

Medium

Plasmid Transformation and Gene Expression in Bacteria

Design an experiment involving bacterial transformation with a plasmid to achieve gene expression an

Extreme

Recombinant DNA and Ethical Implications

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

Hard

Regulation of Gene Expression in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Compare the mechanisms of gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, highlighting both shared pr

Medium

Retroviral Replication and Reverse Transcriptase

Researchers are studying the replication cycle of retroviruses and comparing it with bacteriophage r

Hard

Semiconservative Replication: The Meselson-Stahl Experiment

The Meselson-Stahl experiment provided key evidence for semiconservative DNA replication. Answer the

Extreme

Topoisomerase Function Analysis

Topoisomerases relieve supercoiling during DNA replication. In an experiment, a cell's DNA has 10,00

Medium
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Adaptive Radiation in Island Ecosystems

This question explores the concept of adaptive radiation and its role in generating biodiversity on

Hard

Analysis of Darwin's Observations and Natural Selection

This question asks you to analyze Darwin's observations of reproduction, intraspecific variation, an

Medium

Analyzing the Fossil Record

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

Medium

Artificial Selection and Crop Improvement

Agricultural scientists use artificial selection to improve traits such as yield in wheat crops. Dat

Medium

Artificial Selection and Its Effects

In a controlled breeding experiment with domestic dogs, a table of average tail lengths over success

Medium

Case Study: The Impact of Pollution on Peppered Moth Populations

Using the peppered moth as a case study, analyze how environmental pollution affects allele frequenc

Medium

Coevolution in Predator-Prey Relationships

The following table shows population numbers for a predator and its prey over several years. Use the

Medium

Comparing Artificial and Natural Selection

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

Easy

Comparing Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

A graph displays a frequency distribution for a particular trait within a population. Using the grap

Hard

Comparison of Natural and Artificial Selection

Natural selection and artificial selection lead to changes in populations, but they operate via diff

Medium

Darwin's Observations and Natural Selection

A researcher studies a finch population on an isolated island and collects data on beak sizes, avail

Medium

Darwin’s Observations and Natural Selection

Examine Darwin's observations regarding reproduction, variation, and survival, and describe how thes

Easy

Darwin's Observations: Population Dynamics

A researcher gathers data on a population of beetles under conditions of limited resources. The foll

Easy

Effects of Gene Flow on Population Genetics

Habitat changes lead to the reunion of two previously isolated populations of a bird species, result

Medium

Environmental Pressures and Adaptive Traits

Selective pressures from an organism’s environment influence the development of adaptive traits. Use

Medium

Evaluating Lamarckian Inheritance Versus Darwinian Natural Selection

Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck proposed that acquired traits can be inherited, while Darwin’s theory empha

Medium

Evidence for Evolution: Fossils, Embryology, and Molecular Data

Evaluate the evidence for evolution provided by different scientific fields including paleontology,

Medium

Experimental Evolution in Microbial Populations

Researchers exposed a bacterial population to increasing concentrations of an antibiotic and recorde

Hard

Fossil Dating and Paleontological Evidence

Fossil dating is a critical tool in understanding evolutionary timelines. The table below summarizes

Hard

Fossil Record and Evolutionary Chronology

A geologist compiled data on fossils from various rock layers, using both relative dating and carbon

Medium

Gene Flow and Adaptation in Populations

Gene flow between populations can alter genetic composition and affect adaptation. The table below s

Medium

Genetic Drift and the Bottleneck Effect

Using the data provided in the table, explain how a bottleneck event can impact genetic diversity an

Hard

Genetic Drift in Small Populations

On an isolated island, a small population of finches exhibits significant fluctuations in allele fre

Hard

Genetic Variability and Adaptation in a Laboratory Plant Study

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

Medium

Genetic Variability and Natural Selection

A biologist investigates genetic variability within a population to understand its potential for evo

Easy

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 in Populations

The Hardy-Weinberg principle provides a framework for understanding genetic variation in populations

Medium

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 Population Genetics

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

Hard

Integrative Evolutionary Synthesis

Synthesizing multiple lines of evidence, analyze how diverse fields such as paleontology, molecular

Extreme

Interpreting Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

Phylogenetic trees illustrate the evolutionary relationships among species. Analyze the provided phy

Medium

Lamarck vs. Darwin: Inheritance of Traits

A biologist observes a population of organisms where some individuals appear to acquire enhanced fea

Easy

Lamarckian vs. Darwinian Evolutionary Mechanisms

Compare and contrast Lamarck’s theory of acquired traits with Darwin’s theory of natural selection,

Medium

Mechanisms of Speciation: Geographic Isolation and Beyond

Speciation can occur through various mechanisms, including allopatric and sympatric speciation. Usin

Hard

Mechanisms of Speciation: Reproductive Isolation

A study examines several populations of frogs that have been geographically separated. Researchers h

Medium

Mendelian Genetics and Evolutionary Equilibrium

This question integrates Mendelian genetics with population-level equilibrium analyses. Calculate al

Medium

Miller-Urey Experiment Simulation: Origins of Life

Scientists replicate the famous Miller-Urey experiment to simulate early Earth conditions. In the ex

Medium

Molecular Evidence and Common Ancestry

Molecular biology offers compelling evidence for evolution. Discuss how molecular data supports the

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

A table provides the percentages of DNA sequence similarity among various species. Use this molecula

Medium

Molecular Evidence Supporting Common Ancestry

Scientists compare gene sequences from various species to assess their evolutionary relationships an

Hard

Non-random Mating and Hardy-Weinberg Deviations

A table provides data on a population exhibiting non-random mating with an inbreeding coefficient $$

Extreme

Peppered Moths: Environmental Impact and Evolution

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

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Founder Effects

Population bottlenecks and founder effects are important examples of genetic drift. Evaluate how the

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Drift

Population bottlenecks can profoundly influence genetic diversity through genetic drift. Consider th

Hard

Population Genetics and Genetic Drift

Examine the role of genetic drift in shaping genetic diversity within a population. Answer the follo

Hard

Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg Law

Analyze a population using Hardy-Weinberg principles to evaluate its genetic structure.

Hard

Predator-Prey Dynamics and Natural Selection in Prey Populations

When a new predator is introduced into an ecosystem, it can drastically impact the natural selection

Medium

Sexual Selection and Avian Plumage

In this experiment, a researcher investigates sexual selection in birds by comparing the mating succ

Hard

Sexual Selection and Mate Choice in Peafowl

A long-term field study on peafowl examines the relationship between male tail length and mating suc

Hard

Sexual Selection and Mating Preferences

Sexual selection is a fundamental evolutionary process distinct from natural selection. Answer the f

Medium

Sexual Selection and Reproductive Fitness

Examine the concept of sexual selection and its relationship to reproductive fitness in natural popu

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Propagation

Analyze the role of sexual selection in driving the evolution of secondary sexual traits. Answer the

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Barriers

Examine the process of allopatric speciation and explain the role of reproductive isolation in the f

Hard

Testing Non-Random Mating Patterns

This FRQ focuses on the concept of non-random mating and explores its effects on genetic diversity a

Medium

The RNA World Hypothesis and Origins of Life

Scientists continue to explore the origins of life, and one prominent theory is the RNA world hypoth

Hard

The RNA World Hypothesis and the Origins of Life

Experiments simulating early Earth conditions, such as the Miller-Urey experiment, provide support f

Extreme
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruistic Behavior and Kin Selection

A behavioral study recorded the frequency of altruistic helping behaviors in relation to the coeffic

Medium

Analyzing Population Growth Using the r Equation

A researcher studying an insect population collected data on births and deaths over one generation a

Easy

Assessing Biodiversity Using Simpson's Diversity Index

A researcher uses Simpson's Diversity Index, given by $$D = 1 - \sum (n_i/N)^2$$, to assess biodiver

Extreme

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

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

Easy

Circadian Rhythm Phase Shift Analysis

Researchers are studying circadian rhythms in roosters and plants. The activity level of the organis

Hard

Distinguishing Learning and Instinct in Animal Behavior

A researcher observes that in a group of birds, certain behaviors are exhibited immediately upon hat

Extreme

Dominance Hierarchies and Agonistic Behavior

This FRQ examines the role of aggressive interactions in establishing and maintaining dominance hier

Hard

Human Impact on Biodiversity

Environmental scientists compared two regions—one with significant human-induced deforestation and o

Hard

Human Impact on Ecosystems

Human activities have significantly altered natural ecosystems. This FRQ examines various human-indu

Medium

Human Impact: Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

A conservation biologist examines the relationship between deforestation rates and species richness

Medium

Imprinting and Behavior Analysis

This FRQ focuses on the process of imprinting in animals. Explore how imprinting as a form of learni

Easy

Imprinting and Critical Period Sensitivity

A biologist studying imprinting behavior in waterfowl wishes to examine how the timing of exposure t

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

Investigating Phototropism: Plant Growth Towards Light

Researchers observed that plants exposed to a directional light source exhibit curvature towards the

Medium

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Dynamics

Keystone species have a disproportionate effect on their ecosystems. Answer the following:

Hard

Learning Behavior: Habituation in Animals

Consider the table below showing the response intensity of an animal to a repeated auditory stimulus

Easy

Learning Behaviors: Habituation and Imprinting in Birds

A behavioral ecologist wants to compare the processes of habituation and imprinting in birds by desi

Hard

Learning Through Habituation Analysis

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

Medium

Photosynthesis Rate Under Variable Conditions

Investigate how changes in light intensity and temperature affect the rate of photosynthesis in plan

Hard

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism, Gravitropism, and Thigmotropism

Plants display directional growth responses or tropisms in reaction to external stimuli. Phototropis

Hard

Symbiotic Relationships in Coastal Ecosystems

A researcher surveys the symbiotic relationships in a coastal ecosystem. Examples observed include a

Easy

Territoriality and Mating Success in Amphibians

A herpetologist hypothesizes that territorial behavior in male frogs directly correlates with their

Medium

Territoriality and Resource Abundance in Lizards

Researchers studied how territory size in a population of lizards is influenced by resource abundanc

Hard

Trusted by millions

Everyone is relying on Knowt, and we never let them down.

3M +Student & teacher users
5M +Study notes created
10M + Flashcards sets created
Victoria Buendia-Serrano
Victoria Buendia-SerranoCollege freshman
Knowt’s quiz and spaced repetition features have been a lifesaver. I’m going to Columbia now and studying with Knowt helped me get there!
Val
ValCollege sophomore
Knowt has been a lifesaver! The learn features in flashcards let me find time and make studying a little more digestible.
Sam Loos
Sam Loos12th grade
I used Knowt to study for my APUSH midterm and it saved my butt! The import from Quizlet feature helped a ton too. Slayed that test with an A!! 😻😻😻

Need to review before working on AP Biology FRQs?

We have over 5 million resources across various exams, and subjects to refer to at any point.

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.