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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 (26)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (26)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (24)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (35)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (24)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (24)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (58)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (33)
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

Analyzing the Effects of Temperature on Lipid Bilayer Permeability

A researcher investigates the permeability of synthetic lipid bilayers by encapsulating a fluorescen

Hard

Analyzing the Interaction between Organic Molecules and Solvent Polarity

A researcher examines the solubility of a protein in various solvents with differing polarity indice

Medium

Carbohydrate Metabolism and Energy Storage

A biochemist is comparing the metabolism of different polysaccharides involved in energy storage.

Medium

Carbon and the Formation of Organic Molecules

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

Easy

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 Carbohydrate Storage

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

Hard

Comparing Monosaccharides: Glucose vs. Fructose

Examine the structural differences between glucose and fructose, and discuss how these differences m

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis of Disaccharides

In the formation of disaccharides, two monosaccharide molecules (such as glucose) join together via

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis Reactions

Discuss how cells use dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis reactions to build and break down polymer

Easy

Designing a Cellular Component Experiment

A researcher is examining the effect of trace elements on enzyme activity in plant cells. The experi

Medium

FRQ 17: Isotopes in Biological Systems

Isotopes are used extensively in biological research. Discuss their role in metabolic studies and te

Medium

Impact of pH on Biological Molecules

This FRQ examines how pH affects the solubility and function of biological molecules, particularly p

Medium

Impact of pH on Protein Structure and Function

Examine how changes in pH affect protein structure and function. Analyze experimental enzyme activit

Hard

Investigating Water’s Hydrogen Bonding Effects on Surface Tension

A chemistry class compares the surface tension of pure water with that of water-ethanol mixtures. Th

Easy

pH Variations in Aquatic Ecosystems: Impact and Analysis

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

Extreme

Polymerization and Hydrolysis in Biological Systems

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

Medium

Polysaccharides and Their Biological Functions

Examine the structural differences among various polysaccharides and discuss how these differences r

Easy

Quantitative Analysis of Carbohydrate Storage

Examine the role of carbohydrate storage in plants and perform a quantitative analysis based on prod

Easy

Structure and Function of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates such as starch and cellulose are both polymers of glucose but differ in their glycosid

Easy

Structure-Function Relationship in Proteins

A molecular biologist investigates how changes in a protein’s primary structure can lead to alterati

Medium

Subatomic Particles and Elemental Diversity

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

Easy

Synergistic Roles of Organic Molecules in Cellular Function

A molecular biologist is investigating how carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids intera

Extreme

Water Properties and Plant Physiology

Analyze how the unique properties of water contribute to plant physiology, particularly in terms of

Hard

Water’s Heat Capacity and Climate Regulation

Water’s high heat capacity significantly affects environmental and biological temperature regulation

Medium

Water's Role in Homeostasis

Discuss how the unique properties of water contribute to homeostasis in biological systems.

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active Transport: The Sodium-Potassium Pump

The sodium-potassium pump maintains essential ion gradients across the plasma membrane. Answer the f

Hard

Analysis of Exocytosis Process

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

Medium

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 Membrane Signaling and Receptor Function

Signal transduction is initiated at the cell membrane by receptor proteins that interact with extrac

Extreme

Cell Recognition and Communication

A researcher investigates the role of glycoproteins and glycolipids in cell recognition and immune r

Hard

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 Its Effects on Cellular Efficiency

In the study of cell physiology, the relationship between surface area and volume has important impl

Medium

Comparative Function of Ribosomes

Ribosomes play a critical role in protein synthesis, and their structure varies between prokaryotes

Medium

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

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

Medium

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

This FRQ examines the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, using comparative data.

Easy

Cytoskeletal Structure and Function

This question assesses your understanding of the cytoskeleton, its components, and how its structure

Hard

Dialysis and Solute Diffusion Analysis

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

Easy

Endocytosis and Exocytosis: Mechanisms and Functions

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

Easy

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Protein Sorting

A cell biologist examines how the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is involved in protein sorting and how

Hard

Endosymbiotic Theory Evidence Analysis

This FRQ is designed to analyze evidence supporting the endosymbiotic theory regarding the origins o

Hard

Heat Exchange and Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms

Design an experiment to investigate how heat-exchange rates vary in organisms with different surface

Hard

Impact of Cytoskeletal Integrity on Cell Stability

Design an experiment to assess how chemical disruption of microtubules affects cell shape stability

Medium

Mechanisms of Bulk Flow

This question focuses on the concept of bulk flow and its significance in biological transport proce

Medium

Microscopy Techniques in Studying Cell Structure

A scientist uses both light and electron microscopy to study cellular organelles. These techniques o

Medium

Microscopy: Light vs. Electron Resolution and Magnification

A cell with an actual diameter of 10 μm is imaged using a light microscope at 1000× magnification an

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential in Cells

Water potential drives water movement in biological systems. (a) Define water potential and explain

Hard

Protein Synthesis and Ribosomal Activity Experiment

In a study examining protein synthesis, researchers tracked the production of a fluorescently labele

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Function

This question explores how cell size influences diffusive exchange. A researcher studies spherical c

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Cells

This question explores how cell size affects exchange efficiency via the surface area-to-volume rati

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms & Heat Exchange

This FRQ connects the concept of surface area-to-volume ratio with heat exchange in organisms.

Hard

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratios and Cellular Function

A recent study aimed to quantify the relationship between cell size and the efficiency of material e

Medium
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Activation Energy Reduction by Enzymes

Devise an experiment to measure the effect of an enzyme on reducing the activation energy of a react

Hard

Anaerobic Metabolism and Fermentation in Skeletal Muscle

During intense exercise, muscle cells shift from aerobic respiration to anaerobic metabolism, leadin

Easy

Analysis of a Thylakoid Membrane Diagram

Examine the provided schematic diagram of a thylakoid membrane during the light reactions of photosy

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

Assessment of NADH Utilization in the Krebs Cycle

A group of researchers sought to quantify the energy released during the Krebs cycle by measuring NA

Hard

Chloroplast Structure and Efficiency of Photosynthesis

Discuss how the structure of chloroplasts contributes to the efficiency of photosynthesis.

Easy

Coenzymes and their Roles in Enzymatic Reactions

A researcher is investigating the impact of supplementing a coenzyme on the activity of an enzyme in

Medium

Competitive vs. Noncompetitive Inhibition

A study is performed to understand how different types of inhibitors affect enzyme-catalyzed reactio

Hard

Coupling between Light Reactions and Dark Reactions in Photosynthesis

A researcher examines how varying light intensities affect the production of ATP and NADPH in the li

Hard

Effect of pH on Enzyme Structure and Function

A laboratory investigation examines the effect of various pH levels on enzyme activity. The study ai

Medium

Effects of Competitive Inhibition on Enzyme Function

In an experiment, a researcher examines the effect of a competitive inhibitor on an enzyme-catalyzed

Medium

Energy Efficiency in Cellular Metabolism

This question evaluates the efficiency of ATP production through different metabolic pathways and th

Extreme

Fermentation in Muscle Cells: Analysis of Lactate Production

A study measured blood lactate levels under different exercise intensities, as shown in the table be

Hard

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

Inhibition of the Krebs Cycle via Competitive Inhibitors

A researcher investigates the effect of a competitive inhibitor on a key enzyme of the Krebs cycle.

Hard

Investigation of Photosynthesis Efficiency in Isolated Chloroplasts

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

Medium

Krebs Cycle Energy Yield Analysis

A researcher examines the energy yield from the Krebs cycle during cellular respiration.

Medium

Optimal Reaction Conditions and Enzyme Denaturation

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

Easy

Quantitative Analysis of Chemiosmosis

ATP synthesis via chemiosmosis is driven by the flow of protons across a membrane. Analyze this rela

Extreme

Regulation of Metabolic Pathways in Cellular Respiration

This question explores the regulatory mechanisms controlling cellular respiration, including feedbac

Hard

Temperature-Induced Enzyme Denaturation

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

Medium

Testing the Induced-Fit Mechanism in Enzymes

Develop an experiment to test the induced-fit model of enzyme-substrate binding.

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

Analysis of Mitosis: Stages and Regulation

A classroom lab investigation involves detailed observation of cells undergoing mitosis. The claim i

Easy

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Analysis

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

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Regulation

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

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoints

A study claims that increased levels of the p53 protein in response to DNA damage arrest the cell cy

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and Cancer

Proper cell division is ensured by cell cycle checkpoints that monitor and repair errors. Defects in

Hard

Cell Cycle Regulation and Checkpoints

The cell cycle is tightly regulated by checkpoints and specific proteins to ensure that cell divisio

Easy

Chemical Inhibition of Ligand-Gated Ion Channels

Design an experiment to test how a chemical inhibitor affects the functioning of ligand-gated ion ch

Hard

Chemotaxis and Environmental Adaptation in Microorganisms

Some microorganisms use chemotaxis as an adaptive response to environmental changes. A researcher is

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Cell Communication Mechanisms

Cells communicate via different mechanisms. Answer the following questions comparing direct cell-cel

Medium

Cyclin-Dependent Kinases and Cell Cycle Progression

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

Hard

Designing an Experiment: Investigating Feedback Inhibition in Cellular Signaling

Feedback inhibition is a key regulatory mechanism in cellular signaling pathways where the end produ

Hard

Dynamic Range of Ligand-Receptor Binding

Develop an experiment to quantify the dynamic range of ligand-receptor interactions by determining b

Extreme

Environmental Stress and Signal Transduction

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

Medium

Enzyme-Linked Receptor Kinetics and Substrate Conversion

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

Medium

Evolutionary Development of Signal Transduction Mechanisms

This question investigates how the evolution of cell signaling mechanisms has contributed to the dev

Easy

Feedback Control in Hormone Regulation

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

Hard

G-Protein-Linked Receptor Signaling in Sensory Cells

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

Hard

GPCR and Second Messenger Dynamics

Develop an experimental design to investigate how ligand binding to a G-protein-coupled receptor (GP

Hard

Impact of Mutated Receptor Proteins on Signal Transduction

A mutation in a receptor protein significantly reduces its ligand binding affinity. Subsequent exper

Extreme

Integration of Cellular Signals: Crosstalk Between Pathways

This question delves into the interactions between different signal transduction pathways (signal cr

Extreme

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 and Muscle Contraction

A study investigates the role of ligand-gated ion channels at the neuromuscular junction during musc

Easy

Mechanisms of Taxis in Unicellular Organisms

Taxis is crucial for the survival of unicellular organisms. Answer the following questions regarding

Easy

Mechanisms of Toxin Interference with Signal Transduction

An environmental toxin is found to interfere with cellular signal transduction, resulting in decreas

Medium

Mitosis and Chromosome Segregation

This question focuses on the stages of mitosis and the mechanisms that ensure accurate chromosome se

Easy

Mutation Effects on Receptor Function

In a study investigating the structure-function relationship of a plasma membrane receptor, research

Medium

Negative Feedback in Cellular Signaling

A study on hormone regulation claims that negative feedback pathways stabilize hormone levels by red

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

Quantitative Modeling of Cell Cycle Phase Durations in Synchronized Cultures

This question analyzes a synchronized cell culture to determine the average duration of each cell cy

Extreme

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 G-protein Coupled Receptors in Cell Signaling

G-protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) play a crucial role in transmitting external signals into a cell

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 Cell Communication

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

Easy

Signal Transduction Cascades: Ligand-Receptor Binding

Design an experiment to measure the activation of a receptor by a specific ligand and the resulting

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 a Monohybrid Cross: Tall vs. Short Traits in Pea Plants

Utilize a monohybrid cross to analyze the inheritance of plant height (T for tall, t for short) in p

Medium

Analyzing Dihybrid Cross Data

A dihybrid cross involving two traits, plant height (T = tall, t = short) and flower color (Y = yell

Medium

Barr Bodies and X-Chromosome Inactivation Analysis

Using the provided diagram of a female cell nucleus, analyze the process of X-chromosome inactivatio

Medium

Codominance in the ABO Blood Group System

An individual with AB blood type (genotype I^A I^B) mates with an individual with type O blood (geno

Medium

Crossing-Over and Genetic Diversity

Crossing-over is a critical event in meiosis that increases genetic diversity. Discuss the mechanism

Hard

Detection of Nondisjunction in Meiosis

Analyze experimental data to determine the phase of nondisjunction that occurred during meiosis.

Hard

Differences Between Meiosis I and II

Meiosis is divided into two successive divisions, each with unique characteristics. Compare and cont

Hard

Epigenetics: Influence of DNA Methylation on Gene Expression

Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation can significantly affect gene expression without al

Hard

Exploring Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

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

Easy

Gamete Production and Anomalies in Spermatogenesis

In an experiment to study spermatogenesis, a researcher examined testicular tissue from lab animals

Medium

Genetic Variation from Crossing Over

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

Hard

Impact of Crossing-Over on Genetic Variation

Crossing-over during meiosis is an important mechanism for increasing genetic diversity. This questi

Hard

Integration of Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Discuss how different mechanisms during meiosis contribute to genetic variation and compare these so

Hard

Investigating Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

A botanist investigates the inheritance pattern of flower color in snapdragons by crossing a true‐br

Medium

Investigating Meiotic Errors: Nondisjunction Events

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

Medium

Investigating Sex-Linked Inheritance Patterns via Pedigree Analysis

Design an experiment or study to determine the inheritance pattern of a sex-linked trait (e.g., colo

Medium

Mechanisms of Crossing-over and Genetic Recombination

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

Easy

Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Meiosis plays a critical role in generating genetic variation and reducing the chromosome number in

Hard

Recombination Mapping

Linked genes do not assort independently. In this problem, you will use recombination frequencies to

Hard

Studying Polygenic Inheritance: Genetic Influences on Human Height

Design an experiment to study the polygenic inheritance of human height. Your experiment should invo

Hard

Synapsis and Crossing-Over Analysis in Meiosis

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

Extreme

Synapsis and Crossing-Over: Diagram Analysis

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

Hard

Understanding Sex-linked Traits and X Inactivation

Discuss the inheritance patterns of X-linked recessive traits (such as color blindness) and the role

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Bacterial Gene Transfer by Transduction

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

Medium

Chromatin Organization and Genome Structure

Explain how chromatin structure contributes to genome organization and affects gene expression.

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Leading and Lagging Strand Synthesis

Develop a multi-step experimental design to elucidate differences in the synthesis of leading and la

Medium

Comparative DNA Replication: Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes

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

Extreme

DNA Base Pairing and Hydrogen Bond Energy

This question focuses on the quantitative and qualitative aspects of hydrogen bonding in the DNA dou

Medium

DNA Double Helix Structure Interpretation

Examine the attached diagram of a DNA double helix and answer the following parts regarding its stru

Easy

DNA Replication Enzymes Analysis

Using the provided table that lists key enzymes involved in DNA replication, answer the following qu

Medium

Evaluating the Function of Telomeres and Telomerase

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

Medium

Examining the Effects of Histone Modification on Gene Expression

A study examined the relationship between histone acetylation levels and gene activity. The graph be

Medium

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 14: Telomeres and Cellular Aging

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

Easy

FRQ 18: Operon Function and Regulation in Bacteria

The lac operon in E. coli is a classic model for gene regulation in response to environmental cues.

Medium

Impact of Impaired Okazaki Fragment Processing

Okazaki fragments play a critical role in lagging strand synthesis during DNA replication. Evaluate

Hard

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

Interplay of Transcription, RNA Processing, and Translation

Examine the sequential processes from transcription to translation and discuss how errors in RNA pro

Medium

Investigation of DNA Replication Enzyme Activity Error

A researcher is investigating the replication kinetics of a novel DNA polymerase in an in vitro syst

Medium

Mechanism of Translation

Examine the process of translation and the molecular accuracy mechanisms involved in protein synthes

Medium

Mechanisms of RNA Interference (RNAi)

A study explored the effectiveness of different RNAi molecules in silencing a target gene in culture

Medium

Operon Model in Prokaryotic Gene Regulation

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

Easy

Operon Regulation Study with Misinterpretation of Repressor Binding

To understand gene regulation in bacteria, a researcher investigates a mutant strain with an altered

Hard

PCR Amplification and Exponential Growth

In a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a single double-stranded DNA molecule is amplified by a factor

Easy

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Temperature Effects

A researcher uses PCR to amplify a specific DNA fragment and tests how varying the annealing tempera

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

Translation Termination Efficiency Study with Stop Codon Misinterpretation

In a cell-free translation assay, a researcher studies the termination efficiency of protein synthes

Easy
Unit 7: Natural Selection

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 Traits and Finch Beak Variation

A population of finches exhibits variation in beak size that correlates with environmental condition

Easy

Analyzing Different Modes of Natural Selection

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

Hard

Artificial Selection and Breeding Experiments

Artificial selection has played a significant role in shaping species, particularly in agriculture.

Medium

Artificial Selection in Domestic Animals

A livestock breeder aims to increase milk production in cows through selective breeding. Design an e

Medium

Artificial Selection in Drosophila Wing Patterns

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

Medium

Artificial Selection versus Natural Selection

Contrast artificial selection with natural selection, and design an experiment to illustrate mechani

Hard

Biogeography and Evolutionary Relationships

Examine the pattern of species distribution across continents provided in the table and answer the f

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Lamarckian and Darwinian Evolution

Critically compare the theories of Lamarckian evolution and Darwin’s natural selection regarding the

Medium

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

Constructing Phylogenetic Trees to Understand Common Ancestry

This FRQ focuses on how molecular and fossil records are used together to construct phylogenetic tre

Hard

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 Evolutionary Fitness Analysis

This question explores Darwin’s concept of evolutionary fitness through empirical data. A researcher

Medium

Directional Selection in Alpine Plant Populations

In this experiment, a researcher investigates the impact of altitude on the phenotype of alpine plan

Hard

Ecological Interactions Driving Evolution

Population dynamics of predators and prey can exert selective pressures that drive evolutionary chan

Medium

Embryological Analysis of Vertebrate Development

In this experiment, a researcher examines the embryonic development of a range of vertebrate species

Medium

Environmental Influences on Natural Selection

Evaluate how different environmental factors, both biotic and abiotic, drive natural selection in a

Medium

Environmental Pressures and Adaptations

Examine the role of environmental pressures as selective forces in shaping adaptations within popula

Medium

Evaluating Experimental Methods in Evolution Research

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

Extreme

Evidence for Evolution: Phylogenetic Tree Analysis

A cladogram is provided that shows the evolutionary relationships among several vertebrate groups in

Hard

Evidences of Continuing Evolution: Fossils and Molecular Biology

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

Hard

Evolution and Genetic Variability: Allele Frequencies Over Time

A study monitored the frequency of Allele A in a given population over five generations. The followi

Medium

Experimental Evolution: Mutation Rates and Population Dynamics

Analyze how mutation rates contribute to evolutionary dynamics in a microbial population.

Extreme

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

Exploring the RNA-World Hypothesis and the Origins of Life

Discuss the RNA-world hypothesis and its significance in theories of the origins of life on Earth, a

Extreme

Fossil Evidence and Phylogenetic Trees

Paleontologists use fossil records, radiometric dating, and cladistics to study evolutionary relatio

Hard

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

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 and Allele Frequencies

Using Hardy-Weinberg principles, answer the following:

Medium

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Population Genetics

Understanding population genetics relies on the application of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Use t

Hard

Homologous vs. Analogous Structures and Evolution

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

Medium

Impact of Mutations on Population Genetics

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

Hard

Interpreting Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

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

Medium

Laboratory Simulation of Natural Selection

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

Hard

Mechanisms of Speciation: Geographic Isolation and Beyond

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

Hard

Modeling Punctuated Equilibrium vs. Gradualism

This FRQ challenges you to design a simulation experiment to test which pattern of evolutionary chan

Hard

Molecular Biology: DNA Sequencing and Phylogeny

Molecular data has become a crucial tool in constructing phylogenies. Consider the following data on

Hard

Mutation Effects on Allele Frequency: Quantitative Analysis

A table presents initial allele frequencies and mutation rates for a population. Use this data to an

Extreme

Mutation Rates and Environmental Factors

Mutations introduce new genetic variation. Consider a gene with a length of 2000 base pairs and a mu

Extreme

Natural versus Artificial Selection

Compare and contrast natural selection with artificial selection by describing their processes and p

Medium

Origins of Life: The RNA-world Hypothesis

The RNA-world hypothesis suggests that RNA molecules were precursors to modern life forms. Evaluate

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

In a classic study, the population of peppered moths in a region changed phenotype frequencies as th

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

Examine how environmental changes influenced natural selection in peppered moths. Answer the followi

Medium

Population Genetics and Evolutionary Mechanisms

Population genetics utilizes the Hardy-Weinberg principle to model genetic variation. Consider the e

Hard

Selection Patterns: Stabilizing vs. Disruptive Selection

Different types of selection can shape a population’s trait distribution in distinct ways. Consider

Hard

Selective Predation on Peppered Moths

In this experiment, a researcher is investigating the effects of selective predation on peppered mot

Medium

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 Reproductive Fitness

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

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Variation

A study explores the relationship between male tail length and mating success. The graph provided sh

Hard

Speciation and Reproductive Barriers

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

Hard

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

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

Medium

Stabilizing Selection in Bird Beak Sizes

Researchers collected data on the beak sizes of a bird population from the same habitat. The followi

Medium

The RNA World Hypothesis and Origins of Life

The RNA World Hypothesis and experiments simulating early Earth conditions have provided insights in

Medium

The Role of Genetic Drift

Evaluate the role of genetic drift in shaping genetic variation within populations, particularly in

Hard

The Role of Genetic Variability in Evolution

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

Easy

Transitional Fossils and Evolution

Transitional fossils provide snapshots of evolutionary change over time. Analyze the role of transit

Medium

Understanding Convergent Evolution in Desert Plant Species

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

Medium
Unit 8: Ecology

Aggressive Behavior and Dominance Hierarchies in Birds

A researcher studies aggressive behavior in a group of roosters competing for a limited food resourc

Medium

Animal Communication: Pheromones and Agonistic Behaviors

This FRQ focuses on the various ways animals communicate, emphasizing chemical signaling and social

Easy

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

Behavioral Adaptations in Extreme Environments

This FRQ examines how animals adjust their behavior to thrive in extreme environmental conditions.

Medium

Chemical Communication and Aggressive Behavior in Animals

A researcher investigating the role of pheromones on agonistic (aggressive) behavior in rodents hypo

Hard

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

A botanist investigates how different light/dark cycles affect flowering time in a plant species kno

Easy

Climate Change Effects on Population Dynamics and Distribution

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

Extreme

Ecological Succession and Pioneer Species

This FRQ focuses on the process of ecological succession and the role of pioneer species in transfor

Easy

Ecological Succession in Primary Succession Environments

Ecological succession is the process by which the species structure of an ecosystem gradually change

Medium

Experimental Analysis of Habituation and Imprinting

In a controlled experiment, animals were exposed to a repeated stimulus to test habituation, and the

Extreme

Experimental Analysis of Population Growth in Bacterial Cultures

A microbiologist sets up an experiment to observe the exponential growth of a bacterial culture in a

Easy

Experimental Evaluation of Habituation in Rodents

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

Easy

Gravitropism in Plant Roots

A plant biologist studies gravitropism by tilting pots containing pea plants and recording the angle

Medium

Growth Curve Analysis

A graph comparing exponential (J-shaped) and logistic (S-shaped) population growth curves for a part

Hard

Human Impact on Biodiversity

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

Hard

Human Impact: Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

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

Medium

Human Population Dynamics and Environmental Carrying Capacity

A demographer is studying the relationship between human population growth and environmental carryin

Extreme

Imprinting and Instinct: A Case Study

A researcher observed newly hatched chicks exposed to different moving objects during a critical per

Medium

Interactions of Endothermy and Behavior

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

Hard

Investigating Phototropism: Plant Growth Towards Light

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

Medium

Photoperiodism and Plant Flowering

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

Hard

Photosynthetic Response to Light Intensity in Shade Plants

A plant ecologist investigates the photosynthetic response of shade-adapted plants to varying light

Hard

Plant Tropisms and Photoperiodism

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

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Directed Growth Responses

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

Medium

Population Dynamics Under Environmental Stress

An ecologist studies a population of amphibians under different environmental stressors including po

Extreme

Productivity in Ecosystems: Gross vs Net Primary Productivity

A researcher is comparing gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) in a t

Hard

Simpson’s Diversity Index Analysis

Diversity indices provide insight into the variety of species within a community. This FRQ addresses

Hard

Symbiotic Relationship Dynamics

A study examined the interaction between remora fish and their host sharks by measuring host stress

Medium

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

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

Hard

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Examine the chart below summarizing examples of symbiotic relationships. Answer the following:

Medium

Thermoregulation in Endotherms and Ectotherms

A researcher examines the effect of ambient temperature on metabolic rate in two species: an endothe

Easy

Thermoregulation in Endotherms vs. Ectotherms

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

Medium

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Tips from Former AP Students

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