AP Biology FRQ Room

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

Which subject are you taking?

Knowt can make mistakes. Consider checking important information.

Pick your exam

AP Biology Free Response Questions

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

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (27)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (28)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (26)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (36)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (24)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (25)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (58)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (26)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Analyzing Protein Denaturation in Response to pH Variations

A researcher investigates protein denaturation by exposing a protein solution to a pH range from 3 t

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 Impact of Glucose Structural Conformation on Metabolic Reaction Rates

Researchers are investigating whether the structural conformation of glucose (cyclic vs. straight-ch

Medium

Atomic Structure and Isotopes Analysis

Investigate the nature of atomic structure by analyzing a table that summarizes various isotopes of

Medium

Carbohydrate Structure and Monosaccharide Energy Utilization

A nutritionist is investigating the energy yield differences between monosaccharides and disaccharid

Medium

Carbon's Central Role in Biomolecules

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

Easy

Chemical Bonding in Biological Molecules

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

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Its Biological Applications

This FRQ explores the process of dehydration synthesis in the formation of biomolecules. You will de

Easy

Effects of pH and Temperature on Protein Structure

This FRQ examines how protein structure is influenced by pH and temperature. You will describe the m

Hard

FRQ 7: Carbon's Versatility in Organic Molecules

Carbon's unique ability to form stable bonds with many elements is central to organic chemistry. Dis

Easy

FRQ 9: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis of Peptides

Proteins are synthesized and degraded through dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis reactions. Explai

Hard

FRQ 12: Lipid Saturation and Membrane Fluidity

The degree of saturation in fatty acid chains influences the physical properties of lipids and the m

Hard

FRQ 13: Amphipathic Nature of Phospholipids

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

Medium

FRQ 15: Structure and Function of Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. Analyze the structur

Easy

Lipid Saturation and Membrane Fluidity

Evaluate the relationship between fatty acid saturation and the fluidity of cell membranes.

Hard

Lipids and Membrane Structure

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

Medium

Molecular Modeling of the Phospholipid Bilayer and Membrane Fluidity

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

Hard

Nucleic Acid Structure and Function

Compare the structural features of DNA and RNA and discuss how these differences are related to thei

Easy

Nucleic Acids: Structure and Information Storage

A genetics laboratory is studying bacterial DNA mutations following exposure to a mutagen. Answer th

Medium

Protein Denaturation: Heat and pH Effects

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

Extreme

Protein Structure and Mutation Effects

Address the hierarchical structure of proteins and the potential impact of mutations on protein func

Hard

Proteins: Structure, Function, and Denaturation

Proteins display complex structures that are intimately linked with their function. Analyze the fact

Medium

Structure-Function Relationship in Proteins

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

Medium

Subatomic Structure and Isotope Variation in Atoms

This FRQ focuses on atomic structure and isotopic differences. You will describe the arrangement of

Medium

The Role of Electrostatic Interactions in Molecular Function

A study is investigating how electrostatic interactions, such as ionic bonds and polar covalent bond

Easy

Water in Polymer Hydrolysis Reactions

Analyze the role of water in the hydrolysis of polymers.

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 versus Passive Transport Mechanisms

A researcher examines how molecules traverse the cell membrane and distinguishes between passive pro

Easy

Cellular Responses to Environmental Stress: Osmotic Pressure

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

Medium

Cilia and Flagella: Mechanisms of Locomotion

Cilia and flagella facilitate cell movement, but through different structural and functional means.

Easy

Comparative Analysis: Plant Cells vs Animal Cells

Plants and animals have evolved distinct cell structures. (a) Identify three key structural differe

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

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

Easy

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

A researcher investigates how cells internalize and secrete materials through endocytosis and exocyt

Easy

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex in Protein Processing

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

Hard

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Protein Modification

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is crucial for protein processing. (a) Compare and contrast the roug

Hard

Energy Considerations in Passive vs. Active Transport

A physiologist is comparing the energy requirements of passive diffusion and active transport, espec

Hard

Energy Required for Endocytosis

During receptor-mediated endocytosis, a cell forms a vesicle from the plasma membrane. If the energy

Medium

Golgi Complex in Protein Processing and Vesicle Packaging

The table below compares protein modification levels in cells with a functional Golgi complex versus

Hard

Kinetics of Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis

This question integrates data analysis with kinetic concepts to understand receptor-mediated endocyt

Extreme

Lysosomes and Cellular Recycling

Lysosomes contain digestive enzymes that play a key role in cellular degradation and recycling. Answ

Medium

Mechanisms of Endocytosis

This question explores the different types of endocytosis and their functional significance.

Easy

Microscopy Techniques in Studying Cell Structure

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

Medium

Mitochondrial ATP Production and Substrate Availability

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

Extreme

Mitochondrial Function and Cellular Respiration

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

Medium

Mitochondrial Structure and ATP Production Efficiency

An experimental physiologist is studying mitochondria to understand how their structure contributes

Hard

Observing Cell Structures Using Microscopy

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

Medium

Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic Cellular Organization

Answer the following questions comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. (a) List and explain thr

Medium

Protein Processing in the Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex

A scientist is studying the secretory pathway in eukaryotic cells. A simplified diagram of the pathw

Medium

Ribosome Structure and Protein Synthesis

This FRQ focuses on ribosome composition and its role in protein synthesis.

Easy

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Function

A researcher is studying how cell size affects the efficiency of nutrient and waste exchange. Consid

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Cells

A spherical cell’s surface area is given by $$4 * \pi * r^2$$ and its volume by $$\frac{4}{3} * \pi

Medium

Transport Proteins Functionality: Channels vs Pumps

This FRQ examines the differences between passive transport via channel proteins and active transpor

Medium

Vesicle Volume Changes During Neurotransmitter Release

This question examines how small physical changes in vesicle dimensions can influence their volume,

Hard
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Analysis of pH Effect on Enzymatic Reaction Rates with Buffer Concentration Variation

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of pH on the activity of alkaline phosphatase using

Medium

Calculating Energy Yields in Cellular Respiration

A biochemist quantifies the production of electron carriers during cellular respiration. The data fo

Extreme

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

Chloroplast Structure and Efficiency of Photosynthesis

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

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration

Design an experiment to compare ATP yield from muscle cells under aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Medium

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 Temperature and pH on Enzyme Activity

An experiment was performed to assess how temperature and pH influence the activity of a specific en

Hard

Energy Efficiency in Cellular Metabolism

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

Extreme

Enzyme Kinetics Analysis

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

Easy

Enzyme Kinetics and Saturation Analysis

Understanding enzyme kinetics is essential for analyzing reaction rates. Examine the concept of satu

Hard

Enzyme Saturation and Reaction Rate

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

Easy

Enzyme-Substrate Interaction and Reaction Rates

Analyze the enzyme‐catalyzed reaction rates using the data provided and answer the following parts.

Medium

Evolutionary Origins of Photosynthesis and its Impact on Modern Cells

An evolutionary biologist examines evidence suggesting that prokaryotic photosynthesis was a precurs

Extreme

Glycolysis and Pyruvate Metabolism

A biochemist explores glycolysis, the breakdown of glucose, and its initial contribution to cellular

Easy

Impact of Temperature-Induced Denaturation on Enzyme Activity

A study is conducted to examine the effect of high temperatures on a catalase enzyme. Enzyme activit

Medium

Investigating Electron Transport Chain Disruption

A researcher tests the effect of cyanide, an inhibitor of cytochrome c oxidase, on the electron tran

Extreme

Investigating Energy Transfer through Enzyme Complexes in Cellular Respiration

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

Extreme

Proton Gradient and ATP Synthesis

A biologist investigates ATP synthesis via chemiosmosis in mitochondria, focusing on the role of the

Hard

Proton Gradients in Cellular Energy Conversion

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

Hard

Regulation of the Krebs Cycle through Feedback Inhibition

This question explores how feedback inhibition regulates the Krebs cycle.

Medium

Simulation of Anaerobic Glycolysis in Muscle Cells

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

Medium

Temperature and pH Effects on Enzyme Activity

The activity of enzymes is highly dependent on environmental conditions. Using the provided data tab

Easy

Temperature Dependence of Enzyme Activity

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

Medium

Thermodynamics in Cellular Processes

A cellular biologist is studying how cells maintain order despite continuous energy transformations.

Medium

Time-Course Analysis of Glycolysis

The table below presents a time-course study of glycolysis showing changes in concentrations of gluc

Hard
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Advanced G-Protein Signaling Cascade Analysis

Prolonged exposure to a ligand can lead to receptor desensitization in G-protein coupled signaling c

Extreme

Assessment of Mitotic Checkpoint Failures in Cancer Cells

This question evaluates the impact of failure in mitotic checkpoints on chromosomal segregation accu

Extreme

Cell Cycle Checkpoints Analysis

A study using video microscopy captured cells progressing through their cell cycle, highlighting che

Medium

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and DNA Damage Repair

A researcher exposed cultured cells to a DNA damaging agent and observed arrest at specific cell cyc

Hard

Cell Cycle Regulation and Checkpoints

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

Easy

Chemotaxis and Signal Transduction in Unicellular Organisms

This question examines how unicellular organisms use chemotaxis to detect and respond to environment

Medium

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

Examine the data on chemotactic responses of unicellular organisms to varying concentrations of a ch

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Signal Transduction in Neurons vs. Muscle Cells

An experiment compares the signal transduction mechanisms in neurons and muscle cells. In neurons, l

Hard

Cyclins and CDKs in Cell Cycle Regulation

During liver regeneration, proper cell cycle progression is critical. The role of cyclins and cyclin

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

Differences Between Ligand-Gated Ion Channels and Enzyme-Linked Receptors

In a comparative study, cellular response times to stimuli activating ligand-gated ion channels and

Easy

Effects of Environmental Stress on Cell Signaling and Cycle Regulation

A study examines the impact of a high concentration of an environmental toxin on kidney cells, asses

Hard

Evolutionary Development of Signal Transduction Mechanisms

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

Easy

Feedback Loops in Signal Transduction Pathways

Design an experiment to explore both positive and negative feedback loops within a specific cell sig

Extreme

Feedback Regulation in Homeostasis

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

Easy

G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Specificity

Researchers are analyzing the function of a G-protein-linked receptor in mouse cells by treating the

Medium

G-Protein-Coupled Receptors and cAMP Amplification

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

Hard

GPCR and Second Messenger Dynamics

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

Hard

Homeostatic Feedback in Blood Glucose Regulation

Homeostasis in blood glucose levels is maintained by hormonal feedback mechanisms. Refer to the diag

Medium

Impact of Mutated Receptor Proteins on Signal Transduction

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

Extreme

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 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

Mitosis and Its Role in Tissue Repair

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

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

Negative Feedback in Homeostasis: Regulation of Blood Glucose

This question explores homeostatic regulation through negative feedback mechanisms, focusing on bloo

Easy

Pathway Crosstalk Analysis in Fibroblasts

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

Extreme

Positive and Negative Feedback in Cell Signaling

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

Medium

Signal Amplification in Transduction Cascades

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

Medium

Signal Transduction Feedback Mechanisms

Feedback mechanisms are essential in regulating signal transduction pathways. Review the provided di

Medium

Signal Transduction Pathways

A scientist is studying the cascade that converts an extracellular ligand-binding event into an intr

Medium

Signal Transduction Pathways Analysis

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

Medium

Temperature Effects on Chemotactic Movement

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

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

The Role of Centromeres in Chromatid Separation

Researchers are studying mutations that affect centromere function in a model organism. This investi

Medium
Unit 5: Heredity

Analyzing Codominance in Human Blood Type Inheritance

Design an investigation to study codominance in human blood type inheritance. Your experiment or stu

Medium

Chromosomal Behavior in Meiosis

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

Easy

Crossing-Over and Genetic Diversity

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

Hard

Designing a Recombination Mapping Experiment

A geneticist seeks to map the order and distances between three genes on a chromosome. The experimen

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

Environmental Effects on Phenotypic Plasticity

Researchers examined the effect of environmental conditions on the growth of plants with identical g

Medium

Environmental Effects on Trait Expression

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

Medium

Experimental Analysis of Meiotic Nondisjunction in Model Organisms

A research group studied meiotic nondisjunction by examining gametes from a model organism using flu

Hard

Haploid and Diploid Cell Analysis

In many organisms, cells can be either haploid (n) or diploid (2n). This question addresses the diff

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

Impact of Linked Genes on Recombination Rates

Two linked genes, A and B, have a recombination frequency of 10%. Answer the following:

Hard

Interpreting Pedigree Data

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

Medium

Investigating Meiotic Errors: Nondisjunction Events

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

Medium

Investigating X-chromosome Inactivation Patterns

A biology lab conducted an experiment to investigate X-chromosome inactivation in female cells by st

Medium

Linked Genes and Recombination Mapping

Genes that are located close together on the same chromosome can be inherited together due to geneti

Extreme

Maternal Inheritance: Mitochondrial Genetics

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

Easy

Meiosis: Stages and Genetic Variation

This problem explores the stages of meiosis with a focus on Prophase I and its role in generating ge

Medium

Mendelian Inheritance Ratios and the Law of Segregation

In a monohybrid cross between two heterozygous individuals (Tt x Tt), the expected genotype ratio is

Easy

Mendelian Inheritance: Monohybrid Cross Analysis

Using a monohybrid cross between tall pea plants (T) and short pea plants (t), analyze and predict t

Easy

Nondisjunction and Aneuploidy: Analyzing Meiotic Errors

Nondisjunction during meiosis can result in aneuploidy, such as in Down syndrome. Describe the proce

Extreme

Recombination Mapping of Linked Genes

A geneticist studying three linked genes obtains the following recombination frequencies: | Gene Pa

Hard

Recombination Mapping of Linked Genes

Linked genes do not always assort independently. Consider three genes A, B, and C, with recombinatio

Hard

Sex-Linked Traits Inheritance

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

Medium

Test Cross Analysis in Mendelian Inheritance

A tall pea plant exhibits the dominant phenotype, but its genotype is unknown—it could be homozygous

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analyzing DNA Gel Electrophoresis Results

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

Hard

Bacterial Gene Transfer by Transduction

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

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

Central Dogma and Its Exceptions

Discuss the central dogma of molecular biology along with notable exceptions observed in certain org

Easy

Chromatin Structure and Gene Expression

A study examined how the packaging of DNA into chromatin affects gene expression. Refer to the provi

Medium

Chromatin Structure and Transcriptional Regulation

A researcher is investigating how chromatin structure affects gene expression. The study compares tr

Medium

Comparative Analysis of DNA and RNA Structures

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

Easy

Comparative Analysis of 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 Packaging and Histone Modifications

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

Medium

DNA Repair Analysis with Unwarranted Telomere Removal

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

Medium

DNA Replication Enzymes and Semiconservative Mechanism

Discuss the process of DNA replication with special emphasis on enzyme function and the semiconserva

Medium

Exploring the Role of Telomerase in Telomere Length Maintenance

Design an experiment to investigate the effects of telomerase activity on telomere length in culture

Hard

FRQ 8: Gene Rearrangement and Chromosomal Abnormality

During meiosis, errors in homologous chromosome pairing can lead to unequal crossing over, resulting

Hard

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

Gene Duplication and Transposon Insertion: Effects on Evolution

A recent study on a bacterial population revealed frequent events of gene duplication and transposon

Hard

Gene Rearrangements and Phenotypic Outcomes

Discuss the various types of gene rearrangements, their mechanisms, and their possible effects on ph

Hard

Genetic Mutations and Protein Function Analysis

Evaluate the effects of specific genetic mutations on protein function by analyzing sequence data.

Extreme

Genome Packaging and Chromatin State Effects on Transcription

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

Medium

Mutation Frequencies and Genetic Variation

Researchers collected data on mutation frequencies in a population after exposure to environmental s

Hard

PCR Amplification with Flawed Primer Design

A scientist is performing PCR to amplify a specific gene segment. The experiment employs primers des

Medium

PCR Efficiency and Gel Electrophoresis

This question focuses on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequent analysis by gel electrop

Hard

Plasmid Conjugation Efficiency in Bacteria

This question explores the quantitative analysis of plasmid transfer during bacterial conjugation.

Easy

Quantitative Analysis of Gene Expression via qPCR

A study employs quantitative PCR (qPCR) to quantify mRNA levels of a target gene under different env

Hard

Reverse Transcription in Retroviruses

This question explores reverse transcription in retroviruses and its comparison to typical DNA repli

Hard
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Analyzing Fossil Record and Evolutionary Trends

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

Medium

Analyzing Fossil Records for Evolutionary Trends

Design a study using fossil records from two different geological formations with the goal of identi

Medium

Artificial Selection and Its Effects

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

Medium

Biogeography and Evolutionary History

A biogeographical study examines the distribution of species across various regions. The table below

Medium

Climate Change and Evolutionary Pressure

Climate change can impose new selective pressures on populations by altering environmental condition

Hard

Climate Change and Evolutionary Selection

Climate change can act as a powerful selective force. Use the data provided to examine how changing

Hard

Comparing Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

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

Hard

Constructing a Phylogenetic Tree

Explain the process of constructing a phylogenetic tree using molecular data. Answer the following p

Easy

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

Medium

Embryological Evidence for a Common Ancestry

Embryological studies, including the presence of gill slits in vertebrate embryos, have been used as

Hard

Environmental Change and Natural Selection in Lizards

Evaluate how sudden environmental changes can alter selective pressures within a lizard population.

Hard

Environmental Change and Natural Selection in Peppered Moths

This FRQ examines how environmental pollution influences allele frequencies in a peppered moth popul

Medium

Environmental Influences on Natural Selection

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

Medium

Environmental Pressure and Enzyme Activity

A study investigates how enzyme activity in an organism changes with temperature. A graph depicting

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Evolutionary Fitness in Fish Populations

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

Hard

Evidence for Evolution from Fossils, Biogeography, and Embryology

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

Hard

Evidence for Evolution: Fossils Analysis

A paleontologist uses fossil records to chart the evolution of a species over millions of years. Ana

Medium

Evolutionary Impacts of Climate Change on Coral Reefs

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

Hard

Evolutionary Stasis and Punctuated Equilibrium

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

Medium

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

Gene Flow and Adaptation in Populations

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

Medium

Genetic Drift in Small Populations

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

Hard

Genetic Variability and the Peppered Moths

Discuss the importance of genetic variability in evolution, using the peppered moth phenomenon as a

Medium

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Analysis in a Beetle Population

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

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Genetic Variability

Consider a population of beetles with two alleles for shell color. Using the Hardy-Weinberg equation

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Population Genetics

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

Hard

Integrative Evolutionary Synthesis

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

Extreme

Interpreting a Phylogenetic Tree Diagram

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

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: Evaluating Theories of Evolution

The early theories of evolution by Lamarck and Darwin differ significantly in their mechanisms of in

Medium

Lamarckian vs Darwinian Evolution

In a laboratory experiment, a population of unicellular organisms is exposed to a novel stressor. Ov

Medium

Mechanisms of Speciation

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

Hard

Mechanisms of Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Examine the different mechanisms of speciation and the role of reproductive isolation in the evoluti

Medium

Mendelian Inheritance in Populations

In a population of 200 plants, 150 exhibit the dominant red flower phenotype and 50 exhibit the rece

Easy

Modeling Allele Frequencies Using Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Apply the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium model to estimate allele frequencies in a population. Answer th

Medium

Molecular Data and Evolutionary Relationships

A study compared the DNA sequences of homologous genes from four species. The percentages of sequenc

Medium

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

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

Medium

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

Modern molecular biology has provided powerful tools for elucidating evolutionary relationships amon

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

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

Medium

Mutation, Gene Flow, and Genetic Drift in Evolution

Discuss the roles of mutation, gene flow, and genetic drift as mechanisms that generate genetic vari

Medium

Mutations and Evolutionary Change

Mutations serve as the ultimate source of genetic variation. Evaluate the different types of mutatio

Medium

Mutations and Their Evolutionary Impact

Discuss the role of mutations in generating genetic diversity and calculate the expected number of n

Easy

Natural Selection in the Peppered Moth

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

Medium

Non-random Mating and Deviations from Equilibrium

Discuss the concept of non-random mating and analyze data to determine its effect on Hardy-Weinberg

Medium

Origins of Life and the RNA-World Hypothesis

Examine the evidence supporting the RNA-world hypothesis and its significance in understanding the o

Medium

Peppered Moth Case Study: Data Interpretation

A table presents data on the phenotypic ratios of dark and light peppered moths before and after ind

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

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

Hard

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

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

Medium

Population Genetics Simulation: Allele Frequency Change Over Time

A simulation of allele frequency in a population over time is represented by the graph provided.

Hard

Reproductive Isolation and Speciation Mechanisms

Examine the processes that lead to speciation through reproductive isolation, focusing on both pre-z

Medium

Sexual Selection and Reproductive Fitness

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

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Development

A study on male birds measured tail length and mating success. The following table shows correlation

Hard

Sexual Selection and Trait Exaggeration

The table below records data on male bird tail lengths and their corresponding number of mating part

Medium

Sexual Selection: Trade-offs in Peafowl

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

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Barriers

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

Hard

The Bottleneck Effect and Genetic Diversity

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

Hard

Types of Selection and Their Effects

Evolutionary processes include various forms of selection that shape population traits. In the follo

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 Group Fitness in Social Insects

In some social insects, altruistic behavior by individuals can increase overall colony survival desp

Extreme

Altruistic Behaviors in Meerkats

A behavioral ecologist examines altruistic behaviors in a group of meerkats by observing task perfor

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

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

Medium

Circadian Rhythms in Plants

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

Easy

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

Differentiating Gravitropism and Thigmotropism in Climbing Plants

Researchers studied climbing plants’ responses to gravitational and touch stimuli, claiming that gra

Hard

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

Effects of Invasive Species on Biodiversity

Analyze the data in the table below, which shows a decline in species richness over time following t

Hard

Energy Transfer Analysis in Food Chains

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

Medium

Energy Transfer Efficiency and Trophic Dynamics in a Marine Ecosystem

A marine biologist aims to quantify the efficiency of energy transfer between trophic levels in a co

Hard

Energy Transfer Efficiency in an Aquatic Food Web

A marine ecologist aims to quantify energy transfer efficiency across trophic levels in a coastal fo

Extreme

Exponential vs. Logistic Growth Models

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

Extreme

Hierarchy and Behavioral Interactions

Researchers observed a group of birds to study dominance hierarchies and agonistic interactions. Dat

Hard

Human Impact: Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

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

Extreme

Imprinting and Critical Period Sensitivity

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

Medium

Learning and Habituation

This FRQ examines the concept of habituation and its contrast with sensitization in behavioral respo

Easy

Learning and Habituation in Organisms: Experimental Interpretation

Learning can involve a decrease in response to an unimportant stimulus through habituation. Answer t

Medium

Learning and Neural Adaptations: Habituation vs. Sensitization

Review the graph provided, which displays response intensity over multiple trials for two different

Hard

Learning Through Habituation Analysis

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

Medium

Learning, Imprinting, and Habituation in Avian Species

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

Medium

Metabolic Rate in Endotherms vs Ectotherms

A researcher conducts an experiment aiming to compare the metabolic rate of endotherms and ectotherm

Medium

Photoperiodism and Flowering Time in Plants

Photoperiodism regulates flowering in many plant species. Answer the following parts.

Hard

Photoperiodism and Seasonal Behavior in Plants

Examine the graph provided showing variation in day length over the months of a year. Answer the fol

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism, Gravitropism, and Thigmotropism

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

Hard

Trusted by millions

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

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

Need to review before working on AP Biology FRQs?

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

Browse top AP materials

We’ve found the best flashcards & notes on Knowt.

Explore top AP flashcards

No items found, please try again later.

Explore top AP notes

No items found, please try again later.

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.