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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 $AP Biology FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (26)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (35)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (26)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (27)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (31)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (28)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (48)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (29)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Bonding and Molecular Geometry

A chemistry student uses VSEPR theory to analyze the shapes of common molecules such as water, ammon

Easy

Carbohydrate Structures and Functions

A research team is investigating various carbohydrates to understand their roles in energy storage a

Easy

Carbon's Versatility in Organic Molecules

This question explores why carbon's tetravalency is crucial for the diversity of organic molecules a

Extreme

Cell Membrane Dynamics and Phospholipid Density

Cell membranes are composed primarily of a phospholipid bilayer, whose organization is crucial for t

Medium

Comparative Analysis of DNA and RNA

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

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Energy Storage Molecules

This question focuses on the differences in energy storage among carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins

Hard

Electronegativity and Bond Polarity

Investigate how differences in electronegativity between atoms determine the type and polarity of ch

Easy

Elemental Tracers in Ecosystems

Environmental scientists are studying the distribution of trace elements in various organisms to und

Hard

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

Hydrolysis of Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides can be broken down into their constituent monosaccharides via hydrolysis reactions.

Hard

Integrative Analysis of Biomolecules in Cellular Functions

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

Extreme

Isotope Abundance and Stable Isotopes in Biological Research

Discuss the use of stable isotopes in studying metabolic pathways.

Medium

Isotope Labeling in Metabolic Pathways

This question focuses on the application of isotopic labeling to study metabolic processes such as t

Hard

Lipids and Cellular Membranes

A cell biologist is investigating how membrane composition affects fluidity under different temperat

Easy

Lipids and Membrane Dynamics

Discuss how the structural characteristics of lipids influence cell membrane properties.

Medium

Lipids as a Source of Energy and Structural Components

A nutrition scientist is examining how triglycerides stored in adipose tissue serve both as energy r

Medium

Macromolecules and Storage Compounds

This question focuses on differentiating between storage and structural carbohydrates, and explores

Easy

Nucleic Acid Stability Under Temperature Variation

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

Medium

Properties of Water Molecules

This question examines how water's hydrogen bonding leads to its unique properties and how these pro

Medium

Protein Structure and Denaturation Under pH Variation

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

Medium

Protein Structure and Function: From Primary to Quaternary Structures

In this question, you will outline protein structure from the primary sequence to quaternary arrange

Hard

Role of Polysaccharides in Organismal Structure and Energy Storage

A botanist examines the roles of various polysaccharides in plants and animals. Answer the following

Easy

Role of Trace Elements in Biology

Trace elements, although required in very small quantities, are vital for proper biological function

Easy

Subatomic Particles and Elemental Diversity

Discuss the fundamental components of atoms and explain the significance of isotopic variation in bi

Easy

Trace Elements and Enzyme Activity

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

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

Aquaporin Overexpression and Water Transport

Design an experiment to determine how overexpression of aquaporin proteins affects water transport i

Medium

Bulk Flow Analysis in Fluid Systems

This FRQ investigates the concept of bulk flow in fluid systems such as blood vessels or plant xylem

Medium

Bulk Flow and Dialysis in Physiological Systems

Bulk flow and dialysis are essential for fluid transport in biological systems and medical applicati

Extreme

Cell Diffusion Efficiency Based on Radius

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

Medium

Cell Signaling: Receptor-Ligand Dynamics

This FRQ examines receptor-ligand binding data to infer receptor affinity and specificity in cell si

Medium

Cell Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cellular Efficiency

A researcher studies the effects of cell size on the efficiency of material exchange in the cell. Th

Medium

Chloroplast Photosynthesis Efficiency Experiment

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

Medium

Cilia and Flagella in Cell Motility

Cilia and flagella are specialized structures that enable movement in many cells. Delve into the str

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

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ in several fundamental aspects, leading to differences in co

Medium

Diffusion and Osmosis in Cellular Environments

Passive transport is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Consider the mechanisms of diffusio

Hard

Diffusion vs. Facilitated Diffusion: Reaction Rate Analysis

The table below provides diffusion rates for a hydrophobic molecule (simple diffusion) and a hydroph

Medium

Endocytosis and Exocytosis Mechanisms

This FRQ examines the cellular processes of endocytosis and exocytosis in maintaining homeostasis.

Easy

Endocytosis and Exocytosis: Mechanisms and Functions

A researcher is exploring the mechanisms by which cells internalize and expel substances. The proces

Easy

Fluid Mosaic Model and Plasma Membrane Structure

The plasma membrane is best described by the fluid mosaic model. This question explores the structur

Medium

Golgi Complex: Processing and Packaging Proteins

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

Medium

Investigating the Efficiency of Lipid Bilayers in Facilitating Diffusion

A study utilizes artificial lipid bilayers to test their permeability to various solutes. The claim

Easy

Light vs. Electron Microscopy Analysis

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

Medium

Mechanisms of Endocytosis and Exocytosis

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

Medium

Mechanisms of Secondary Active Transport

Secondary active transport uses the energy stored in electrochemical gradients to move substances ac

Hard

Microscopic Techniques in Cellular Analysis

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

Easy

Microscopy Techniques in Cell Biology

This question explores the differences between microscopy techniques used in cell biology and requir

Easy

Microscopy Techniques in Observing Cellular Structures

The table below compares light and electron microscopes. Use this information to explain how each te

Easy

Mitochondrial ATP Production and Substrate Availability

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of varying substrate concentrations on ATP production

Extreme

Osmosis and Water Potential Calculations

This FRQ involves calculating water potential using the equation $$\Psi_s = - i * C * R * T$$ and di

Hard

Osmosis and Water Potential Experiment

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

Hard

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

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

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of Osmosis Using Water Potential Equations

A study claims that the rate of water influx into cells can be accurately predicted by differences i

Extreme

Ratios of Phospholipids and Proteins in Artificial Membranes

The table below shows how varying the phospholipid-to-protein ratio in artificial membranes affects

Extreme

Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis

Ribosomes are essential organelles for protein synthesis. Answer the following parts regarding the r

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Cells and Organisms

Consider a spherical cell with radius r. The surface area (SA) is given by $$SA = 4*\pi*r^2$$ and vo

Medium

Temperature Effects on Active Transport Mechanisms

Design an experiment to assess how varying temperatures affect the activity of the sodium-potassium

Hard

Understanding Bulk Flow in Vascular and Plant Systems

An ecophysiologist investigates the movement of fluids in both animal circulatory systems and plant

Hard
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Activity Modulation

Investigate the impact of allosteric inhibitors on enzyme kinetics by analyzing the provided graph w

Extreme

Analysis of Substrate Concentration Impact on Enzyme Kinetics

An undergraduate student designed an experiment to measure amylase activity by evaluating the rate o

Medium

Cellular Respiration Stages and Energy Production

Describe the four stages of cellular respiration, detailing the key reactions and net production of

Hard

Chlorophyll Absorption Spectra

The efficiency of photosynthesis depends on the light absorption properties of pigments. Analyze and

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Respiration

This question compares the processes and efficiencies of aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

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

Medium

Designing an Experiment on Allosteric Regulation

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

Hard

Energy Coupling Analysis in Metabolic Reactions

Design an experiment to analyze how energy coupling between ATP hydrolysis and a biosynthetic reacti

Extreme

Enzyme Kinetics Analysis

A researcher conducts an experiment where the rate of an enzyme reaction is measured at varying subs

Easy

Enzyme Kinetics: Substrate Concentration and Reaction Rate

In this FRQ, you will analyze how substrate concentration affects enzyme activity as depicted in an

Medium

Glycolysis Pathway and ATP Yield

This question focuses on glycolysis, the pathway that breaks down glucose to yield ATP and NADH.

Easy

Impact of Environmental Conditions on Enzyme Activity

Environmental factors such as temperature and pH have significant effects on enzyme activity and str

Hard

Impact of Enzyme Concentration on Reaction Rate

An experiment was conducted in which the concentration of an enzyme was varied while maintaining a c

Easy

Impact of pH on Enzyme Catalysis

Review the table below that lists enzyme reaction rates at various pH levels. Analyze how pH affects

Medium

Impact of Temperature on Enzyme Activity

Design an experiment to evaluate how temperature affects the catalytic activity of lactate dehydroge

Medium

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 Photosynthesis Efficiency in Isolated Chloroplasts

A research group isolates chloroplasts from spinach leaves to investigate the rate of photosynthesis

Medium

Muscle Cell Fermentation Under Oxygen Debt

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

Medium

Oxygen and Cellular Respiration

A researcher is studying how oxygen availability influences the efficiency of cellular respiration.

Easy

Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration involve electron transport chains and ATP synthesis. Co

Medium

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 Energy Transfer

Cells use reaction coupling to power endergonic reactions by pairing them with exergonic processes.

Medium

Role of Cofactors in Enzyme Catalysis

A researcher investigates how varying concentrations of the cofactor Mg2+ affect the activity of an

Hard

Role of Electron Transport Chain and Chemiosmosis

Oxidative phosphorylation involves both the electron transport chain (ETC) and chemiosmosis to synth

Hard

Substrate Concentration and Enzyme Saturation

A researcher studies how varying substrate concentration affects the reaction rate of an enzyme-cata

Hard
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Analysis of Tumor Suppressor Gene Function in the Cell Cycle

Tumor suppressor genes play a critical role in preventing uncontrolled cell division. Analyze a scen

Medium

Catalytic Receptor Activity Experiment

A study investigates enzyme-linked (catalytic) receptors which possess an extracellular ligand-bindi

Medium

Cell Cycle Disruption and Cancer Development

Mutations affecting cell cycle regulators can lead to cancer. Answer the following questions regardi

Hard

Cell Cycle Regulation through Cyclins and CDKs

A cell biologist studies the concentration of cyclins over time during the cell cycle. The table bel

Medium

Cell Junction Communication Study

In an experiment designed to evaluate cell-to-cell communication via gap junctions, a researcher sti

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Cell Communication Mechanisms

Multicellular organisms employ various methods for cell communication. Part a: Describe the mechan

Easy

Comparative Signal Transduction in Cancerous vs. Normal Cells

Construct an experimental plan to compare the activation of signal transduction pathways in cancerou

Extreme

Effects of Receptor Inhibition on Signal Transduction

A pharmaceutical test examines the effect of a new compound on signal transduction in cultured cells

Medium

Environmental Stress and Signal Transduction

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

Medium

Experimental Design: Investigating Taxis Behavior

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

Hard

Feedback Control in Hormone Regulation

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

Hard

Hormonal Regulation and Feedback in Blood Glucose Homeostasis

A researcher examines the mechanisms of blood glucose regulation and collects data under various con

Medium

Interphase Dynamics and DNA Replication

Interphase is a critical period during which the cell grows and duplicates its genetic material. A r

Easy

Investigating Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A researcher is studying chemotaxis in E. coli by testing the effect of a glucose gradient on bacter

Medium

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels in Muscle Contraction

A neuromuscular junction study explores the effect of acetylcholine (ACh) on muscle cell contraction

Medium

Ligand-Receptor Interaction and Signal Amplification

Cells in multicellular organisms rely heavily on signal transduction for coordinated responses. In t

Medium

Molecular Basis of Cancer: Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressors

The regulation of the cell cycle is critical for preventing cancer. Answer the following questions r

Hard

Mutagenic Effects of UV Radiation on Skin Cells

A researcher investigates the effects of UV radiation on skin cells by measuring the rate of apoptos

Medium

Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes in Cancer

This question examines the genetic basis of cancer with a focus on the roles of oncogenes and tumor

Hard

Role of Cyclins and CDKs in the Cell Cycle

Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are central regulators of the cell cycle. Consider the f

Medium

Signal Amplification and Cascade Effects

An experiment aims to demonstrate signal amplification within a cell signaling cascade. The claim is

Hard

Signal Amplification in Transduction Cascades

This question examines how signal transduction cascades amplify extracellular signals within the cel

Medium

Signal Transduction in Mammalian Cells

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

Hard

Signal Transduction Pathways Analysis

A research lab examines the activation of a catalytic receptor by exposing cells to various concentr

Medium

Signal Transduction via G-Protein Coupled Receptors

A study investigates a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) mediated signaling pathway leading to cAMP

Medium

Temperature Effects on Signal Transduction in Yeast

A group of students investigates a signal transduction pathway in yeast by measuring cAMP levels aft

Medium

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

Analysis of X-Inactivation Using Barr Body Data

In studies of female cells, researchers have counted the number of Barr bodies present. The table be

Easy

Analyzing Meiotic Errors: Nondisjunction Effects

In an experiment, two groups of cells undergo meiosis. Group A experiences nondisjunction during ana

Extreme

Application of the Law of Independent Assortment in Dihybrid Crosses

A genetics laboratory is investigating two traits in pea plants: plant height (T: tall, t: short) an

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Haploid vs Diploid Cells

Using the provided schematic diagram, compare haploid and diploid cells. In your answer, describe th

Medium

Comparative Analysis: Spermatogenesis versus Oogenesis

Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are two distinct processes of gamete formation in animals. Each proces

Easy

Comparative Study: Spermatogenesis vs. Oogenesis

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

Medium

Comparing Haploid and Diploid Cells

Examine and contrast haploid (n) and diploid (2n) cells, and explain the significance of homologous

Medium

Critical Evaluation of Dominance and Segregation Claims

A recent research study claims that the observed 3:1 phenotype ratio in a plant monohybrid cross doe

Medium

Effects of Nondisjunction on Gamete Formation

During meiosis in a human female, nondisjunction occurs during anaphase I resulting in 1/6 of the ga

Medium

Epigenetics and the Influence of the Environment

Environmental factors can alter gene expression through epigenetic modifications. Answer the followi

Medium

Epistatic Interactions: Modifiers of Mendelian Ratios

This question challenges you to analyze epistatic interactions where one gene masks the expression o

Extreme

Exploring Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

Design an experiment using snapdragon flowers to demonstrate incomplete dominance. Cross true-breedi

Easy

Gamete Production and Fertilization

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

Medium

Gene Mapping through Recombination Data

In an experiment to map the distance between two linked genes, the following data were collected fro

Hard

Genetic Variation from Crossing Over

During prophase I of meiosis, crossing over can lead to recombinant chromosomes. Assume the probabil

Hard

Haploid vs Diploid and Gamete Formation

Explain the differences between haploid and diploid cells and describe the significance of haploid g

Easy

Incomplete Dominance in Flower Color

In some cases, the blending of traits can occur through incomplete dominance, such as in snapdragons

Medium

Inheritance Patterns: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

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

Medium

Investigation of the Law of Segregation in Pea Plants

A botanist studying the inheritance of pea plant height observes that self-pollinating the F1 genera

Medium

Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Meiosis is a crucial process for generating genetic diversity. This question focuses on the mechanis

Medium

Meiosis: Stages and Their Significance

Meiosis is critical for gamete formation and genetic diversity. Describe the key differences between

Medium

Mendelian Genetics and the Law of Dominance

Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants provided the foundation for classical genetics. Consider

Medium

Non-Nuclear Inheritance: Mitochondrial Genetics in Plants

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

Hard

Pedigree Analysis: Determining Mode of Inheritance

Using the provided pedigree stimulus, analyze the inheritance pattern of a trait and determine the m

Hard

Polygenic Inheritance and Environmental Influences

This question explores the concept of polygenic inheritance and examines how environmental factors c

Hard

Recombination Frequency and Gene Mapping

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

Hard

Stages of Meiosis: Analyzing a Diagram

Using the provided diagram of meiotic stages, analyze the key events that contribute to genetic vari

Easy

Synapsis and Crossing-Over Analysis in Meiosis

A researcher conducts an experiment to quantify the frequency of crossing-over events during synapsi

Extreme

Test Cross Analysis for Determining Genotype

A researcher designs an experiment to determine whether several tall pea plants are homozygous (TT)

Easy

Test Cross and Determining Genotypes

A plant that exhibits the dominant tall phenotype is being test crossed with a recessive short (tt)

Medium

Test Cross for Determining Genotype

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

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analysis of DNA Replication Enzymes

A researcher measured the relative activities of several enzymes involved in DNA replication under p

Medium

Analyzing PCR Results

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

Hard

Antiparallel DNA and Replication Dynamics

Discuss how the antiparallel nature of DNA influences the dynamics of replication.

Easy

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

Central Dogma and Variations in Genetic Information Flow

A review of the central dogma reveals instances where the expected flow of genetic information is al

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Gene Expression

Discuss the differences and implications of gene expression processes in prokaryotic and eukaryotic

Hard

Comparative Genomics of Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

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

Medium

DNA Packaging and Histone Modifications

Chromatin structure, including histone modifications, plays a critical role in regulating gene expre

Medium

DNA Repair Mechanisms

Examine the causes of DNA damage and describe the mechanisms cells use to repair such damage.

Hard

DNA Topoisomerase Function Analysis

Using the provided graph, answer the following questions about DNA supercoiling and the role of topo

Hard

DNA Topology and the Function of Topoisomerases

In an experiment, researchers measured changes in DNA supercoiling when treated with varying concent

Hard

Effects of DNA Mutations on Antiparallel Structure

A diagram provided in the stimulus shows a segment of a double-stranded DNA molecule, with one stran

Easy

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

Gene Regulation in Embryonic Development

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

Extreme

Hydrogen Bonding in DNA Base Pairing

A double-stranded DNA molecule contains 1×10^6 base pairs. Assuming that 50% of the base pairs are a

Easy

Impacts of Genetic Mutations on Protein Synthesis

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

Medium

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

mRNA Translation and Ribosome Function

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

Easy

Mutation Effects: Frameshift vs. In-Frame Insertions

This question addresses the consequences of insertion mutations on protein structure.

Medium

Mutation Types and Phenotypic Consequences

This question focuses on different types of genetic mutations and how they affect proteins and pheno

Medium

PCR Amplification and Analysis

Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique, answer the following questions regarding its me

Medium

Plasmid Construction and Genetic Engineering

This question focuses on the use of plasmids in genetic engineering. Provide comprehensive answers t

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 Gene Cloning Efficiency

A research team is investigating the efficiency of gene cloning by transforming bacteria with plasmi

Hard

RNA Processing and mRNA Splicing

A laboratory study is conducted to analyze pre-mRNA processing in eukaryotic cells. Researchers obse

Easy

Telomere Function and Cellular Aging

Answer the following questions regarding telomere structure, its role in cellular aging, and implica

Easy

Telomeres, Replication, and Cellular Aging

Discuss the structure and function of telomeres, and analyze their impact on cellular aging.

Medium

Transcription Factor Binding and Promoter Strength

In a study, the rate of transcription (R) is modeled as a function of transcription factor concentra

Easy
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Abiotic Factors Affecting Plant Reproductive Success

This FRQ investigates how an abiotic factor such as soil pH can influence plant reproductive success

Easy

Abiotic Selective Pressures in an Arid Environment

In an arid region experiencing prolonged drought, a native plant species faces severe water scarcity

Hard

Adaptive Change in Response to Climate Alteration

In this long-term study, a researcher monitors a population of lizards over a 10-year period to asse

Extreme

Adaptive Radiation in Island Ecosystems

Investigate the process of adaptive radiation and its role in species diversification within island

Hard

Analyzing Fossil Record and Evolutionary Trends

Paleontologists use the fossil record to trace evolutionary history. A timeline graph (provided) sho

Medium

Artificial Selection and Its Effects

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

Medium

Artificial Selection in Drosophila Wing Patterns

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

Medium

Artificial vs. Natural Selection in Domesticated Dogs

Dog breeders have long used artificial selection to accentuate desired traits, such as herding abili

Easy

Comparative Anatomy and Homologous Structures

This question addresses the role of homologous structures in comparative anatomy as evidence for com

Easy

Comparing Darwin's Natural Selection and Lamarck's Theory

This question asks you to compare the theory of natural selection with Lamarck's theory of the inher

Medium

Darwin vs. Lamarck: Mechanisms of Evolution

The theories proposed by Charles Darwin and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck offer different explanations for h

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

Environmental Pressures and Evolutionary Fitness in Fish Populations

Researchers are studying fish populations in an estuary with varying salinity and pollution levels t

Hard

Evidences of Continuing Evolution: Fossils and Molecular Biology

Continuing evolution is supported by multiple lines of evidence. Answer the following:

Hard

Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance

A graph depicts the increase in the percentage of antibiotic-resistant bacteria over a 30-day period

Hard

Evolutionary Adaptations in Urban Environments

Urban environments impose unique selective pressures that can lead to rapid evolutionary adaptations

Hard

Evolutionary Dynamics in Peppered Moths

A population of peppered moths in an industrial area experienced a dramatic shift in phenotype frequ

Medium

Evolutionary Stasis and Punctuated Equilibrium

Evaluate the theories of gradualistic evolution versus punctuated equilibrium in explaining patterns

Medium

Experimental Evolution in Microbial Populations

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

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

Fossil Record and Dating Techniques

Assess how the fossil record and dating techniques contribute to our understanding of evolutionary h

Medium

Gene Flow and Local Adaptation in Butterfly Populations

In this experiment, a researcher is studying gene flow and its effects on local adaptation in butter

Extreme

Gene Flow, Immigration, and the Founder Effect

The founder effect describes how a new population started by a few individuals can have a significan

Hard

Homologous vs. Analogous Structures and Evolution

Differentiate between homologous and analogous structures and explain how each provides insights int

Medium

Impact of Environmental Changes on Evolutionary Fitness

This question explores how sudden environmental changes, such as temperature increases, impact evolu

Hard

Integrating Molecular Biology and the Fossil Record for Evolutionary Evidence

Discuss how molecular biology and the fossil record complement each other in providing evidence for

Hard

Interpreting a Phylogenetic Tree Diagram

Examine the phylogenetic tree diagram provided and analyze its components, potential errors, and way

Hard

Interpreting Phylogenetic Data Through Cladograms

Cladograms and phylogenetic trees help illustrate evolutionary relationships and common ancestry amo

Hard

Laboratory Simulation of Natural Selection

Interpret and analyze the results from a laboratory simulation designed to study natural selection u

Hard

Lamarck vs Darwin: Comparative Analysis

Research on evolutionary theories continues to provoke discussion. Compare the historical theories o

Hard

Linking Evolutionary Theory to Modern Genomics in Human Populations

Geneticists analyze a set of molecular markers across diverse human populations to study genetic var

Extreme

Molecular Evidence for Evolution: Comparative Genomics

Comparative analysis of DNA sequences among different species reveals varying degrees of similarity.

Medium

Mutation as the Source of Genetic Variation

Explain the role of mutations in generating genetic variability and discuss their different impacts

Easy

Non-Mendelian Inheritance and Evolutionary Predictions

Non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance add complexity to our understanding of genetic variation. Expl

Extreme

Origins of Life and the RNA-World Hypothesis

Experiments simulating early Earth conditions have provided data on the synthesis of amino acids. Us

Medium

Origins of Life: Analyzing the Oparin-Urey Experiment

The Oparin-Urey experiment aimed to simulate early Earth conditions in order to test hypotheses rega

Extreme

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

The following table shows the frequency of dark-colored and light-colored peppered moths observed du

Hard

Phylogenetic Analysis and Common Ancestry

Researchers have constructed a cladogram based on morphological features for several vertebrate spec

Medium

Phylogenetic Tree Analysis and Evolutionary Relationships

Examine the provided phylogenetic tree diagram that represents relationships among various vertebrat

Medium

Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

Researchers have compiled both molecular and fossil data to construct a phylogenetic tree that maps

Medium

Phylogenetics and Cladistics: Inferring Evolutionary Relationships

Consider a simplified phylogenetic scenario in which species A and B form a clade based on shared de

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Founder Effects

Examine how population bottlenecks and founder effects can dramatically alter allele frequencies in

Hard

Resource Competition and Its Role in Natural Selection

This FRQ explores how competition for limited resources drives natural selection by affecting popula

Easy

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 Trade-Offs

Examine the role of sexual selection in evolution and its potential trade-offs:

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

Testing the RNA-World Hypothesis with Laboratory Simulations

This FRQ investigates the RNA-world hypothesis by asking you to design a detailed experimental proto

Extreme

The RNA World Hypothesis and Origins of Life

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

Medium
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruistic Behavior and Group Dynamics

Altruistic behavior, in which an individual benefits another at a cost to itself, poses interesting

Medium

Altruistic Behavior and Kin Selection

A behavioral ecologist investigates altruistic behavior in social mammals with a focus on kin select

Hard

Assessing Biodiversity using Simpson’s Diversity Index

A field ecologist surveys a pond ecosystem and records the number of organisms for each species. Use

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

Carrying capacity limits population size in an environment. Answer the following parts.

Medium

Chemical Communication Analysis

A study was conducted to analyze how varying concentrations of pheromones affect the frequency of a

Medium

Circadian Rhythms in Endotherms and Ectotherms

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

Medium

Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

This FRQ examines the impact of deforestation on biodiversity and explores potential conservation st

Medium

Ecological Energy Pyramid and Trophic Levels

This FRQ focuses on the energy transfer within ecosystems as represented by ecological pyramids, and

Medium

Ecological Succession and Community Dynamics

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

Medium

Ecological Succession in Pioneer Communities

Following a volcanic eruption, an ecologist monitored primary succession on a barren substrate where

Medium

Ecosystem Energy Flow and Ecological Pyramids

An ecologist measured the biomass at different trophic levels within an ecosystem. The table below s

Hard

Impact of Toxins in Food Chains

Toxins released into the environment can accumulate in organisms through the process of biomagnifica

Hard

Imprinting Timing and Responses in Ducklings

Researchers conducted an experiment on ducklings to study the imprinting process. In this experiment

Medium

Interactions of Endothermy and Behavior

A researcher examines energy expenditure in birds by comparing endothermic metabolic costs and the i

Hard

Learning and Conditioning in Animal Behavior

Animals adapt to their environments through various forms of learning. Two key processes are habitua

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 Growth Analysis

Populations in ideal conditions often exhibit exponential growth. Answer the following parts.

Extreme

Photoperiodism and Flowering in Plants

A study investigated how day length influences the number of days required for a plant to flower. Th

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Directed Growth Responses

Plants exhibit growth responses to external stimuli known as tropisms. Answer the following:

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism and Thigmotropism

Review the diagram provided that illustrates plant responses to environmental stimuli. The diagram s

Medium

Population Dynamics Calculation

A monitored animal population provided data on births, deaths, and total population size over time.

Medium

Population Growth and Carrying Capacity

Examine the graph comparing exponential growth and logistic growth curves. Answer the following:

Hard

Population Growth Dynamics and Carrying Capacity

A population ecologist monitored the growth of a species over time and recorded population sizes. Th

Medium

Primary Ecological Succession on Barren Rock

In a study of primary succession, a barren rock is initially colonized by lichens. Over time, the de

Medium

Primary Productivity: Gross vs. Net

A researcher measured both the gross productivity and respiration rate of a photosynthetic community

Extreme

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships come in different forms. Answer the following parts.

Easy

The Role of Keystone Species in Maintaining Ecosystem Balance

A study documents the removal of a top predator in an ecosystem, leading to a trophic cascade and si

Hard

Thermoregulation and Circadian Rhythms in Endotherms and Ectotherms

This question explores how different animals regulate their body temperature and the role of interna

Medium

Toxin Biomagnification in Aquatic Food Chains

A study examines the concentration of a pollutant in organisms across different trophic levels in a

Hard

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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.