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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 (26)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (28)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (34)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (23)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (24)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (62)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (35)
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

Carbohydrates: Structure and Function

Investigate the structural differences and roles of monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysacchari

Easy

Carbon's Central Role in Biomolecules

A biologist is exploring why carbon is fundamental to the structure of organic molecules.

Easy

Carbon's Versatility in Organic Compounds

Investigate why carbon is uniquely suited for building complex organic molecules compared to other e

Extreme

Carbon's Versatility in Organic Molecules

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

Extreme

Cholesterol's Role in Membrane Fluidity

Investigate how cholesterol modulates cell membrane fluidity across a range of temperatures. Analyze

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis Reaction Investigation

A biochemist studies the processes of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in the formation and brea

Hard

DNA Structure and Effects of Point Mutations

Examine the structure of nucleic acids and the consequences of genetic mutations.

Hard

Elemental Tracers in Ecosystems

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

Hard

Experimental Design: Enzyme Kinetics Under Acidic Conditions

A researcher tests the effect of pH on the kinetics of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction.

Hard

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 Nucleic Acid Polymerization via Hydrolysis Reaction

A researcher studies the hydrolysis of RNA under acidic conditions to break it down into individual

Medium

Lipids and Membrane Structure

Discuss the roles of phospholipids and cholesterol in maintaining membrane fluidity and integrity, a

Medium

Nitrogen in Macromolecules

Nitrogen is an essential element in many organic molecules. (a) Explain why nitrogen is important i

Easy

Nucleic Acid Structure and Stability

A geneticist is examining the structure of nucleic acids and their stability under varying condition

Hard

Nucleic Acids and Information Storage

This question explores the structural differences between DNA and RNA and addresses the role of nucl

Easy

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 Function: From Primary to Quaternary Structures

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

Hard
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active Transport and the Sodium-Potassium Pump

Active transport is essential for maintaining ion gradients across the plasma membrane. (a) Describ

Medium

Analysis of Exocytosis Process

This question addresses the process of exocytosis and requires a critical analysis of a diagram repr

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 Function Under Variable Light Intensities

Design an experiment to investigate how changes in light intensity affect the rate of photosynthesis

Medium

Cilia and Flagella: Structure and Function

Cilia and flagella are specialized structures that aid in cell movement. Answer the following:

Easy

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cell Structures

A recent media report claims that prokaryotic cells are more efficient in energy utilization compare

Medium

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Cells can be broadly classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types. This question asks you to com

Easy

Dialysis and Solute Diffusion Analysis

This FRQ explores how the principles of diffusion are utilized in dialysis to remove solutes from th

Easy

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 Processes

Cells use vesicular transport to move large particles and bulk materials across the plasma membrane.

Medium

Endocytosis Processes

This question examines the different mechanisms of endocytosis and requires analysis of a diagram de

Medium

Endoplasmic Reticulum Function and Structure

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a multifunctional organelle in eukaryotic cells. Answer the follow

Medium

Fluid Mosaic Model and Plasma Membrane Function

The table below lists different types of membrane proteins and their functions. Use this information

Medium

Impact of Membrane Structure Alterations on Cellular Function

A researcher conducts experiments altering the lipid composition of cell membranes, specifically cha

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

Lysosomes in Cellular Maintenance and Apoptosis

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

Medium

Microscopy and its Applications in Cell Biology

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

Medium

Microscopy Techniques Comparison

A researcher compared observations of eukaryotic cells using both light microscopy and electron micr

Medium

Mitochondria: Energy Conversion and ATP Production

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

Medium

Mitochondrial Structure and ATP Synthesis

Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, with structures that are intricately linked to their f

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential Calculations

Osmosis is critical for maintaining cellular water balance. Answer the following parts:

Hard

Peroxisome Detoxification Experiment

A study was undertaken to evaluate the detoxification efficiency of peroxisomes in liver cells by me

Medium

Receptor Mediated Endocytosis and Signal Transduction

This question explores receptor-mediated endocytosis and its possible influence on downstream cellul

Hard

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Efficiency

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

Medium

Vacuoles in Plant vs. Animal Cells

Vacuoles serve different roles in plant and animal cells. Compare and contrast these functions.

Easy
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Anaerobic Respiration: Fermentation in Muscle Cells and Yeast

This question investigates anaerobic respiration pathways in muscle cells and yeast, focusing on the

Medium

ATP Yield in Cellular Respiration

A student analyzes the stages of cellular respiration to determine the ATP yield from glycolysis, py

Medium

Bioenergetic Trade-offs in Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Respiration

A researcher compares aerobic and anaerobic respiration in terms of energy yield and metabolic bypro

Easy

Cofactors and Coenzymes in Enzyme Function

Discuss the roles of cofactors and coenzymes in enzyme-catalyzed reactions and provide an example hi

Easy

Coupled Reactions and ATP Synthesis

A researcher investigates how cells couple exergonic and endergonic reactions to drive ATP synthesis

Medium

Coupling of Exergonic and Endergonic Reactions in Metabolism

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

Hard

Delta G and Reaction Feasibility

Determine the spontaneity of various biochemical reactions by analyzing their free energy (ΔG) value

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 Oxygen Availability on the Electron Transport Chain

Develop an experimental design to study how varying oxygen levels affect electron transport chain ef

Hard

Energy Diagrams Analysis

Analyze the energy diagram provided to determine the type of reaction depicted. Use the graph to ext

Medium

Energy Diagrams and Reaction Types

A researcher provides the following table representing a reaction's energy changes: the reactants ha

Medium

Enzyme Catalysis and Reaction Rates

This question explores how various factors affect enzyme activity and reaction rates.

Medium

Enzyme Cofactors and Regulation

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

Easy

Enzyme Inhibition: Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

Using the data provided below, compare the effects of competitive and noncompetitive inhibition on e

Medium

Enzyme Kinetics Analysis

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

Easy

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 Inhibitors on Metabolic Pathways

A researcher analyzes the impact of enzyme inhibitors on a metabolic pathway by examining changes in

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 Temperature and pH on Enzymatic Activity

A lab experiment measures enzyme activity across different temperatures. The data is provided in the

Medium

Integrated Pathways in Cellular Respiration

Cellular respiration is an integration of multiple metabolic pathways that yield ATP. Provide a comp

Extreme

Investigating Energy Transfer through Enzyme Complexes in Cellular Respiration

A researcher studies the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) in mitochondrial preparations to under

Extreme

Investigating the Effects of pH and Temperature on Enzyme Kinetics

A researcher aims to study the combined effects of pH and temperature on the kinetic parameters of a

Extreme

Investigation of Inhibitor Effects on Enzyme Catalysis

A laboratory experiment was performed to assess the effect of a purported noncompetitive inhibitor o

Hard

Kinetic Analysis of Enzyme Inhibition

Enzyme inhibitors can alter reaction rates in various ways. Evaluate the kinetic effects of competit

Hard

Light-Dependent Reactions and Absorption Spectrum

Answer the following questions related to the light-dependent reactions 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

Reaction Coupling and ATP Hydrolysis

Cells drive endergonic reactions by coupling them with exergonic ones such as the hydrolysis of ATP.

Hard

Thermodynamics and Energy Diagrams

Cells follow the laws of thermodynamics to manage energy transformations. The First Law states that

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Bacterial Chemotaxis Investigation

A scientist is investigating the chemotactic behavior of a unicellular bacterium in response to vary

Easy

Catalytic Receptors and Enzyme Activation

Design an experiment to test whether ligand concentration affects the enzymatic activity of a cataly

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Analysis

Checkpoint regulation ensures that errors during the cell cycle do not propagate. Analyze how delays

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Membrane Receptors

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Positive and Negative Feedback in Cellular Regulation

Feedback mechanisms are critical for maintaining homeostasis in biological systems. A researcher is

Medium

Comparing Signal Transduction Pathways

Cellular communication involves various types of membrane receptors that trigger different intracell

Hard

Cyclin and CDK Dynamics in Cell Division

The regulation of the cell cycle depends on periodic fluctuations in cyclin levels, which activate c

Easy

Differential Hormone Signal Transduction

This question examines the differences between steroid and peptide hormone signaling and requires th

Extreme

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

GPCR Dynamics and cAMP Production

This question examines the dynamics of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) activation and its role in

Hard

Integration of Multiple Signaling Pathways

This question addresses how cells integrate signals from multiple pathways to regulate gene expressi

Hard

Interphase and DNA Replication Dynamics

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

Medium

Investigation of Amplification in Signal Transduction Cascades

Signal amplification allows a small initial stimulus to generate a large cellular response. A resear

Hard

Ligand-Gated Ion Channel Function in Neuromuscular Transmission

This question explores the role and quantitative aspects of ligand-gated ion channels at the neuromu

Easy

Mathematical Modeling of Signal Amplification

Cellular signaling pathways often feature amplification steps that magnify the initial signal. Throu

Easy

Mitosis Errors and Genetic Consequences

Errors during mitosis can lead to significant genetic abnormalities. A researcher is studying the fr

Hard

Mitosis Stages Timing and Chromosome Segregation Error

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

Easy

Mitosis: The Dance of the Chromosomes

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

Medium

Oncogene Activation and Cancer Cell Proliferation

A study compares normal cells with cells engineered to overexpress an oncogene. Researchers measure

Hard

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

Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and Cancer Progression

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

Medium

Oxidative Stress Response Measurement

In an experiment to study cellular responses to oxidative stress, researchers expose cultured cells

Hard

Positive Feedback in Signal Amplification

A study investigates the role of positive feedback in the blood clotting cascade. In this experiment

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of Mitotic Spindle Formation

This question evaluates the role of the mitotic spindle in chromosome segregation through quantitati

Hard

Receptor Density and Hormonal Responsiveness

A study examines the effect of varying receptor density on a cell's responsiveness to a specific hor

Medium

Role of Second Messengers in Signal Amplification

Second messengers play a crucial role in amplifying cellular signals. Consider the role of cyclic AM

Easy

S Phase DNA Replication Fidelity

A research lab examines the effects of a cyclin inhibitor on the fidelity of DNA replication during

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

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

Hard

Signal Amplification in Transduction Cascades

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

Medium

Signal Transduction and Metabolic Enzyme Regulation

This question explores the interplay between signal transduction pathways and metabolic regulation,

Medium

Signal Transduction Pathways in Multicellular Organisms

A liver cell is exposed to a hormone that cannot cross the plasma membrane, so it must interact with

Hard

Signal Transduction Pathways: Second Messenger Systems

Second messengers are important components of many signal transduction pathways. A researcher is foc

Medium

Visual Analysis of a Cell Cycle Schematic

A schematic diagram of the cell cycle has been provided. Analyze this diagram in detail.

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

Chromosome Number Analysis in Mitosis and Meiosis

A diploid cell has a chromosome number of $$2n = 6$$. Answer the following:

Easy

Dihybrid Cross and Gene Assortment

A researcher studies a dihybrid cross in pea plants considering two traits: seed shape (round, R; wr

Hard

Dihybrid Cross and Probability Rules

This question examines the use of the product rule from probability in the context of a dihybrid cro

Medium

Dihybrid Cross Experiment Error Analysis

A researcher performed a dihybrid cross using plants with two traits—seed shape and seed color—expec

Medium

Efficiency of Gametogenesis in Different Organisms

Two organisms were studied for the efficiency of gamete production. The table below presents the per

Medium

Environmental Influence on Phenotypic Plasticity

Environmental factors can influence the phenotype even when the genotype remains constant. This phen

Medium

Exploring Meiotic Nondisjunction

Errors during meiosis can have significant impacts on an organism. Answer the following: (a) Define

Hard

Gametogenesis Differences: Spermatogenesis vs. Oogenesis

Gametogenesis is the process by which germ cells develop into mature gametes. This question compares

Easy

Haploid vs. Diploid Cells: Structure and Function

Cells can be categorized based on their chromosome numbers: haploid cells (n) and diploid cells (2n)

Easy

Integration of Genetics and Meiosis Mechanisms

A genetics professor conducts a comprehensive experiment to illustrate how the principles of Mendeli

Extreme

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

Investigating Environmental Effects on Trait Expression

A researcher studies how different light conditions affect leaf size in a particular plant species.

Medium

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

Monohybrid Cross Punnett Square Analysis

Analyze a monohybrid cross between two heterozygous individuals (Tt x Tt) for a trait where T is dom

Easy

Monohybrid Cross: Tall vs Short Pea Plants

This problem explores Mendel's law of dominance through a monohybrid cross between a heterozygous ta

Easy

Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Codominance in Flower Color

A researcher is investigating flower color in a plant species known to have codominant alleles for r

Easy

Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

Describe examples of incomplete dominance and codominance. Then, conduct a genetic analysis of snapd

Easy

Pedigree Chart Analysis

A pedigree chart is provided showing the inheritance of a trait across several generations. Analyze

Medium

Probability in Genetic Crosses

Apply the rules of probability to predict outcomes in genetic crosses. Use both the product rule and

Easy

Recombination Mapping and Gene Order Determination

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

Hard

Synapsis and Crossing-Over: Diagram Analysis

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

Hard
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Applications of Genetic Engineering

This question explores the applications of genetic engineering, including recombinant DNA technology

Medium

Calculating Mutation Frequency in DNA Replication

A DNA polymerase has an error rate of 1 error per 10^7 nucleotides. For an organism with a 3×10^9 ba

Hard

Comparative DNA Replication: Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes

Compare the mechanisms of DNA replication in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, highlighting the diff

Extreme

CRISPR-Mediated Gene Duplication Study with Target Site Error

A researcher employs CRISPR-Cas9 to create gene duplications in yeast cells with the goal of augment

Medium

DNA Structure and Base Pairing

Explain the structure of DNA including the nucleotide composition, the formation of the sugar-phosph

Easy

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 Point Mutations on Protein Synthesis

Mutations in the genetic code can have varying effects on protein synthesis. Consider the following

Hard

Effects of Topoisomerase Inhibition on DNA Replication Fork Dynamics

In an experiment, a researcher uses a topoisomerase inhibitor to study DNA replication. The resultin

Hard

Energy Consumption in DNA Replication by Helicase

Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix during replication. Suppose unwinding 1 kilobase (kb) of DNA r

Hard

Epigenetic Modifications and Gene Expression

This question investigates how epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression via chromatin struc

Hard

Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Modifications

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

Hard

Eukaryotic Gene Regulation Mechanisms

Discuss the complex regulatory mechanisms of gene expression in eukaryotic cells.

Medium

Evolutionary Impact of Gene Rearrangements

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

Extreme

FRQ 6: Central Dogma and Gene Expression Regulation

A university lab investigates gene expression by manipulating transcription factors and measuring su

Easy

FRQ 7: Point Mutations and Protein Function

A bacterial population develops antibiotic resistance after a point mutation in a gene coding for an

Medium

Gel Electrophoresis and RFLP Analysis

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

Medium

Genome Packaging and Chromatin State Effects on Transcription

Researchers are studying how chromatin structure impacts gene expression. In this experiment, cells

Medium

Homeotic Genes and Embryonic Patterning

A developmental biology experiment compared the incidence of segment malformations in embryos with a

Medium

In Vitro Translation of Wild-Type vs. Mutant mRNA with Control Error

A researcher compares the activity of a protein translated from wild-type mRNA to that from a point-

Medium

Investigation of Plasmid Size on Transformation Efficiency

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

Medium

Mutation Types and Protein Function

Point mutations can have varying impacts on protein function. Consider the following mutation types:

Easy

Operon Model in Prokaryotic Gene Regulation

Investigate the regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes with a focus on the operon model.

Easy

Reverse Transcription in Retroviral Life Cycles

Answer the following questions about the process of reverse transcription in retroviruses and its im

Medium

Reverse Transcription in Retroviruses

Retroviruses utilize reverse transcription as a key step in their infection process. Address the fol

Hard
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Adaptations and Fitness in Extreme Environments

Researchers studied a population of plants growing in an environment with extreme temperature variat

Hard

Analyzing Data: Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

A biologist collects data on a population before and after an environmental change and obtains the f

Hard

Artificial Selection and Breeding Experiment

A researcher is designing an experiment to study the effects of artificial selection on a fast-growi

Easy

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 on Genetic Diversity

Examine how artificial selection impacts allele frequencies and genetic diversity in a population. A

Easy

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

This question compares artificial and natural selection. Design an experiment and analyze the evolut

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Morphological Homologies in Vertebrates

Discuss the significance of morphological homologies in understanding evolutionary relationships amo

Easy

Comparing Artificial and Natural Selection

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

Easy

Comparing Evolutionary Theories: Darwin vs. Lamarck

Charles Darwin proposed natural selection while Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed the inheritance of ac

Medium

Constructing and Interpreting Phylogenetic Trees

A phylogenetic analysis yields a graphical representation of evolutionary relationships among severa

Extreme

Darwin's Observations and Natural Selection

A researcher is studying a population of beetles that exhibit different coloration. Over several gen

Medium

Embryology Evidence and Homologous Structures

Examine the role of embryological data and homologous structures as evidence for common ancestry.

Medium

Environmental Pressures and Adaptive Traits

Environmental pressures, both biotic and abiotic, drive the evolution of adaptive traits. Use the fo

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

Environmental Pressures and Genetic Drift in Microorganisms

Evaluate the interplay between rapid environmental changes, genetic drift, and natural selection in

Extreme

Evaluating Experimental Methods in Evolution Research

Evaluate a media claim regarding rapid evolution by analyzing experimental methods used in studying

Extreme

Evaluating Mutation Effects on Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

This FRQ examines how an increase in mutation rates can disturb Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in a popu

Medium

Evidence for Evolution from Fossils, Biogeography, and Embryology

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

Hard

Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance

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

Hard

Evolution of Enzyme Function in Variable Environments

A study examines the catalytic activity of an enzyme extracted from a plant species and how it chang

Extreme

Evolutionary Fitness and Reproductive Success in Amphibians

A biologist studies an isolated amphibian population to determine how differences in habitat affect

Hard

Examining Stabilizing Selection in a Simulated Environment

Using a computer simulation of a bird population with variable beak sizes, design an experiment to d

Medium

Fossil Record Analysis

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

Easy

Gene Flow and Its Effects on Population Genetics

This question investigates gene flow and its quantitative effects on allele frequencies in a subdivi

Medium

Genetic Variability and Population Equilibrium

This question examines genetic variability within a population and its relationship to Hardy-Weinber

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Calculations

Examine the concept of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and perform calculations using observed genotype f

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Experiment in Bacterial Populations

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

Hard

Impact of Mutations on Microbial Populations

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

Hard

Integrative Analysis of Evolutionary Mechanisms

Evolution is driven by multiple mechanisms that can interact simultaneously. Answer the following:

Extreme

Interpreting a Phylogenetic Tree Diagram

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

Hard

Interpreting Hardy-Weinberg Deviations

Using the genotype count data before and after selection provided in the table, analyze deviations f

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

Mechanisms of Speciation

This question evaluates your understanding of speciation processes. Examine different modes of speci

Hard

Mechanisms of Speciation

Speciation is the process by which new species arise. Various mechanisms contribute to the formation

Medium

Mechanisms of Speciation: Geographic Isolation and Beyond

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

Hard

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

Molecular biology provides a compelling line of evidence for evolutionary relationships through comp

Hard

Molecular Evidence for Common Ancestry

Assess how comparing DNA sequences across species provides evidence for common ancestry and helps re

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

Molecular comparisons provide compelling evidence for common ancestry. Answer the following parts:

Medium

Morphological and Embryological Evidence for Evolution

Evidence for evolution is found in both adult anatomy and embryological development. Address the fol

Easy

Morphological Homologies vs. Analogous Structures

Differentiate between morphological homologies and analogous structures and explain their significan

Medium

Mutation and Its Impact on Evolutionary Processes

Mutations are a primary source of genetic variability and can influence evolution in various ways. A

Medium

Natural Selection Under Changing Environmental Conditions

Analyze how environmental changes impact allele frequencies in a population based on provided experi

Hard

Origins of Life and the RNA-World Hypothesis

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

Medium

Peppered Moth and Environmental Change

Environmental pollution has historically influenced the phenotypic ratios of the peppered moth. A da

Medium

Peppered Moth Experiment: Natural Selection in Polluted Environments

Researchers set up a controlled enclosure experiment to simulate a polluted environment and study na

Medium

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 Trees and Common Ancestry

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

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and the Founder Effect

A graph displays a dramatic reduction in population size (a bottleneck event) followed by recovery.

Hard

Punctuated Equilibrium versus Gradualism

Evolutionary change can occur gradually or in rapid bursts. Analyze the models of punctuated equilib

Hard

Reproductive Isolation and Speciation in Island Birds

On a remote island, a subset of a bird species develops a distinctly different mating call, while th

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 Illustrated in Avian Species

Explore the role of sexual selection in driving evolutionary changes in bird species.

Easy

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Reproductive isolation is key to the formation of new species. Discuss reproductive barriers using t

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Examine the data regarding two separated populations and answer the following questions about specia

Hard

Speciation Mechanisms: Allopatric vs. Sympatric Speciation

Speciation involves the emergence of new species through various mechanisms. Consider the processes

Medium

Stabilizing vs. Disruptive Selection: An Experimental Analysis

A researcher conducts an experiment to measure the frequency of a continuous trait (such as beak siz

Hard

The Role of Genetic Variability in Evolution

Researchers measured phenotypic variations in beak size in a finch population across different seaso

Easy

The Role of Sexual Selection in Trait Evolution

Sexual selection is a powerful evolutionary force often driving dramatic trait exaggeration. Using t

Medium

Types of Natural Selection: Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive

Discuss the different modes of natural selection and analyze data to identify the type occurring in

Hard
Unit 8: Ecology

Acid Rain Effects on Aquatic Ecosystems

An aquatic ecosystem experienced acid rain that lowered the pH from 7.0 to 5.5. Corresponding measur

Easy

Altruistic Behavior and Kin Selection

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

Hard

Analysing Plant Flowering Responses

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

Medium

Carrying Capacity and Population Regulation

This final question examines the concept of carrying capacity and how external factors can regulate

Medium

Circadian Rhythm Phase Shift Analysis

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

Hard

Circadian Rhythms in Plants and Animals

Circadian rhythms are internal processes that regulate biological activities on a roughly 24-hour cy

Hard

Climate Change Effects on Population Dynamics and Distribution

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

Extreme

Comparative Analysis of Circadian Rhythms in Plants and Animals

A researcher compared circadian rhythms in roosters and plants by recording their respective activit

Medium

Critical Analysis of Altruistic Behavior in Social Insects

A study on a particular species of ants claims that altruistic behavior, observed during food search

Medium

Ecological Succession in a Post-Volcanic Landscape

Investigate the process of primary ecological succession following a volcanic eruption, focusing on

Medium

Effects of Environmental Toxins

This FRQ addresses how toxins accumulate in ecosystems through biomagnification and the potential im

Hard

Energy Transfer Analysis in Food Chains

Data from an ecosystem study provide the energy content at different trophic levels. Analyze the dat

Medium

Environmental Toxins and Biomagnification

A study assessed the concentration of a toxin at different trophic levels in an aquatic ecosystem. T

Hard

Exponential Growth and Population Dynamics

This FRQ involves modeling population growth using the exponential growth equation and predicting fu

Extreme

Exponential vs. Logistic Growth Models

Researchers compared two populations: one exhibiting exponential growth and the other logistic growt

Extreme

Human Impact: Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

A conservation biologist is examining the effects of deforestation on species diversity in tropical

Extreme

Human Impacts on Ecosystems: A Study of Pollutant Toxins

Analyze the table below that presents pollutant concentrations in various ecosystems. Address the fo

Hard

Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity and Biomass

A region experiencing deforestation was studied and the following data were recorded: Species richne

Hard

Impact of Deforestation on Ecosystem Productivity

An ecologist examines the effect of deforestation on ecosystem productivity in a tropical region by

Hard

Imprinting and Critical Period Sensitivity

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

Medium

Imprinting Behavior in Avian Species

A researcher is studying the imprinting behavior of ducklings. The experimental process involves pla

Easy

Keystone Species and Trophic Cascades

An ecologist studied the impact of removing a keystone predator from an ecosystem. The table below c

Hard

Learning, Imprinting, and Habituation in Avian Species

Bird behavior is shaped by both innate mechanisms and experiences. In many bird species, imprinting

Medium

Logistic Growth and Carrying Capacity

Explore how population growth is limited by the carrying capacity of an environment using the logist

Hard

Photoperiodism and Flowering in Plants

A botanist conducts an experiment to assess the effects of day length on flowering time in a short-d

Medium

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 and Photoperiodism

This FRQ explores how plants respond to various stimuli including light, gravity, and touch, and how

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism and Thigmotropism

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

Medium

Population Ecology: Density-Dependent Factors and Limiting Resources

Using the table below, analyze how population density affects reproductive rate, $$r = \frac{(\text{

Hard

Population Growth and Exponential Models

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

Medium

Population Growth Models and Exponential Growth

This FRQ examines population dynamics under ideal conditions, focusing on exponential growth and the

Medium

Primary Productivity: Gross vs. Net

Primary productivity is central to understanding energy flow in ecosystems. Answer the following:

Hard

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships define the interactions between different species living in close associatio

Hard

Thermoregulation in Endotherms vs. Ectotherms

In many ecosystems, animals use different strategies to regulate their body temperature. Endotherms

Easy

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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.