AP Environmental Science FRQ Room

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AP Environmental Science Free Response Questions

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

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (16)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (22)
  • Unit 3: Populations (23)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (37)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (26)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (23)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (54)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (27)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (22)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Agricultural Runoff and Wetland Degradation

Environmental scientists have studied how agricultural practices affect wetland water quality. The t

Medium

Analysis of Primary Productivity: From GPP to NPP

Primary productivity is a common measure of ecosystem health. A table is provided showing Gross Prim

Easy

Coral Reef Health and Ocean Acidification

A marine biologist studied the effects of changing ocean pH on coral reef health. The table below sh

Medium

Effect of Climate Change on Seasonal Lake Turnover

Climate change can affect the thermal structure of lakes and hence their turnover cycles. A table wi

Extreme

Human Alterations to Nutrient Cycles

Assess how various human activities alter natural nutrient cycles such as carbon, nitrogen, and phos

Extreme

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Ecosystem Populations

The introduction of an invasive species can have dramatic effects on native species populations. Use

Hard

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Plant Biomass

In a grassland ecosystem, an invasive plant species grows at a continuous rate of 15% per year while

Medium

Lake Stratification and Dissolved Oxygen Profiles

A study was conducted on a temperate lake during summer to measure dissolved oxygen concentrations a

Hard

Light Attenuation in Aquatic Ecosystems

Light intensity in a lake decreases exponentially with depth, following the equation $$I(z) = I_{0}*

Medium

Modeling Groundwater Depletion Impact

Propose an experimental or data analysis study to examine the effects of groundwater extraction on a

Medium

Phosphorus Enrichment and Eutrophication in Lakes

Excess phosphorus inputs can lead to eutrophication in lakes. Using the provided data, answer the fo

Medium

Photosynthesis Rate Under Different Water Turbidity Levels

A laboratory experiment was conducted to examine how water turbidity affects the photosynthetic rate

Medium

Predator-Prey Dynamics and Population Cycles

A long-term ecological study in a freshwater lake has produced a graph that illustrates the cyclic r

Hard

River Nutrient Dynamics and Riparian Vegetation

A study along a river examined how varying nutrient concentrations from agricultural runoff impact t

Medium

Role of Keystone Species in Grassland Biodiversity

A report claims that the presence of a keystone species, such as prairie dogs, has a stabilizing eff

Medium

Water Cycle and Aquifer Sustainability

Discuss the processes of the water cycle and examine the factors that lead to aquifer depletion in m

Hard
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Adaptations: Survival Strategies

This question explores various types of adaptations organisms use to survive environmental changes.

Medium

Comparing Primary and Secondary Succession

Compare primary and secondary succession in terms of their initial conditions, species colonization,

Medium

Designing an Experiment to Test the Impact of Flooding on Soil Nutrient Cycling

Flooding events can dramatically influence soil nutrient dynamics. Design a laboratory or field expe

Hard

Ecological Succession: Primary vs. Secondary Processes

Examine the processes of primary and secondary succession and their impacts on ecosystem development

Medium

Ecological Tolerance Evaluation

The table below provides data on the abundance of two species (Species A with narrow pH tolerance an

Easy

Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Balance

This FRQ examines the concept of ecosystem services and their role in maintaining a balance within e

Hard

Effects of Simulated Warming on Plant Growth

In a greenhouse study, researchers placed identical potted plants in warming chambers set to a const

Hard

Equilibrium Species Number and Island Biogeography

Island biogeography theory suggests that the equilibrium number of species on an island is determine

Hard

Flooding and Its Ecological Impact

Flooding has immediate negative effects but can also initiate long-term ecological processes. Evalua

Medium

Impacts of Population Bottlenecks on Species Richness

A forest beetle population experiences a dramatic reduction due to a wildfire, creating a population

Medium

Indicator Species as Signposts for Ecosystem Health

Discuss the role of indicator species in monitoring ecosystem health.

Medium

Invasive Species in Controlled Ecosystems

In a laboratory mesocosm, researchers introduce an invasive plant species into an established native

Extreme

Island Biogeography and Species Richness

Island biogeography theory explores the factors influencing species richness on isolated habitats. A

Hard

Natural Disruption: Fire Impact on Ecological Succession

Following a wildfire in a chaparral ecosystem, researchers design an experiment to assess ecological

Hard

Nutrient Cycling Efficiency and Decomposer Activity

Nutrient cycling in ecosystems is substantially driven by decomposer organisms. In an experiment, th

Easy

Primary vs. Secondary Succession Comparison

The table below outlines key differences between primary and secondary succession. Use this evidence

Easy

Sea Level Rise and Glacial Melting Correlation

A table summarizes changes in average ocean temperatures and corresponding global sea level changes

Easy

Tracking Ecological Succession in a Disturbed Forest

Ecological succession records the recovery of plant communities after a disturbance. Design a long-t

Hard

Trade-Offs Between Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

Discuss the trade-offs between maintaining biodiversity and maximizing ecosystem services in land ma

Hard

Volcanic Eruptions: Destruction and Renewal

Volcanic eruptions cause immediate destruction but can lead to long-term soil fertility improvements

Medium

Water Pollution and Aquatic Biodiversity

Nutrient loading from human activities can lead to water pollution, affecting aquatic biodiversity.

Medium

Wildfires and Biomass Recovery

Wildfires can drastically alter ecosystems. Analyze both the destructive and renewing aspects of wil

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Analyzing Total Fertility Rate (TFR) Trends

Examine the provided table listing TFR values for various countries and interpret the socio-economic

Medium

Assessing Carrying Capacity in a Microcosm Experiment

Design an experiment to measure the carrying capacity (K) in a controlled microcosm environment by v

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Population Growth

Design an experiment to evaluate the effect of varying pollutant concentrations on the population gr

Hard

Climate Change and Population Dynamics

Analyze how global climate change can influence population dynamics and assess its impact on environ

Hard

Demographic Transition Model Analysis

Evaluate the stages of demographic transition using data on birth and death rates, and discuss the s

Hard

Feedback Loops in Ecological Systems

Examine the role of feedback loops in ecosystem dynamics and provide specific examples to illustrate

Easy

FRQ 2: r-Selected vs. K-Selected Species – Reproductive Strategies

This question examines reproductive strategies by comparing r-selected and K-selected species and ap

Medium

FRQ 3: Interpreting Survivorship Curves to Determine Life History Strategies

An experiment recorded survivorship data of three different species. A graph entitled 'Graph of Expe

Hard

FRQ 5: Evaluating Biotic Potential in Annual Plants Under Fertilizer Treatment

A botanist performed an experiment to assess the biotic potential of an annual plant by comparing re

Medium

FRQ 9: Application of Liebig's Law of the Minimum

This question invites you to explain Liebig's Law of the Minimum and translate a quantitative scenar

Medium

FRQ 12: Assessing Urbanization Effects on Biodiversity in Field Plots

Researchers established three types of field plots in an urban environment to study the impact of ur

Medium

FRQ 14: Modeling Population Growth in Fungi on Decaying Logs

A simulation was designed to model the growth of a fungal population on decaying logs over a period

Hard

FRQ 20: Response to Environmental Constraints: Species Distribution Analysis

In a biogeographical study, two species (Alpha and Beta) were compared based on environmental tolera

Extreme

Human Population Dynamics and Ecosystem Impact

Explore the historical trends in human population growth and analyze their environmental implication

Hard

Impact of Biodiversity Loss in Changing Environments

Biodiversity is critical for ecosystem stability. Investigate how the loss of specific species can a

Medium

Impact of Resource Availability on Population Growth

In an ecosystem where resource availability fluctuates seasonally, answer the following:

Medium

Impacts of Population Growth on Natural Resources

Assess the relationship between human population growth and the depletion of natural resources, and

Hard

Interpreting Survivorship Curves

Interpret the provided survivorship curves graph to explain the biological significance of Type I, T

Hard

J-Curve vs S-Curve Population Growth

Differentiate between J-curve and S-curve patterns in population growth and evaluate their ecologica

Medium

Population Growth Models: J-Curves vs. S-Curves

Population growth can follow different models. Consider the two models below and answer the followin

Medium

Species Specialization and Extinction Risk

Evaluate the relationship between species specialization and risk of extinction, and propose conserv

Easy

Survivorship Curve Analysis and Prediction

Analyze the following survivorship function and answer the accompanying questions:

Hard

Urbanization and Demographic Change

Urbanization significantly influences demographic factors such as fertility rates and age structure.

Hard
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Analysis of Seafloor Spreading Data

A geologist examines the age of basaltic rocks at increasing distances from a mid‐ocean ridge. The t

Medium

Assessing the Impacts of ENSO on Marine Biodiversity

The table below summarizes data collected during an El Niño event regarding sea surface temperature

Extreme

Assessing Watershed Pollution Trends

This question examines the impact of agricultural runoff on watershed water quality over time using

Medium

Climate Moderation by Bodies of Water

A climatologist is investigating how large bodies of water influence the climate of adjacent land ar

Medium

CO2 Levels and Plant Growth

A recent report claims that rising atmospheric CO2 levels boost plant growth regardless of other env

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Tornadoes and Hurricanes

Tornadoes and hurricanes are both violent atmospheric phenomena but differ in their formation and ch

Medium

Convergent Boundary Dynamics: Subduction and Orogeny

This question focuses on the dynamics at convergent plate boundaries. A graph depicts the frequency

Hard

Deforestation and Water Cycle: Impact on Runoff and Evapotranspiration

Deforestation can significantly alter the water cycle by affecting the balance between infiltration

Medium

Effect of Urbanization on Soil Erosion Rates

Design an experimental study to examine how increasing urban development, and thus the expansion of

Hard

Evaluating Land Use Impacts on Water Quality in a Watershed

A study of a watershed yields the following data regarding phosphorus levels in different sections c

Extreme

Evidence for Continental Drift and Seafloor Spreading

This question examines the evidence supporting plate tectonics, including both continental drift and

Medium

FRQ 10: Land and Sea Breeze Temperature Study

An environmental scientist seeks to understand the formation of land and sea breezes by measuring te

Easy

FRQ 18: Soil pH and Nitrogen Availability

An agronomist is studying how soil pH affects the availability of nitrogen for plant uptake. Soil sa

Medium

FRQ 19: Upwelling and Coastal Productivity

Marine biologists are investigating how upwelling affects the primary productivity of coastal waters

Hard

Global Climate Change: Impact of Surface Albedo on Absorbed Solar Radiation

Surface albedo affects the amount of solar radiation absorbed by Earth. Using the equation $$Q_{abso

Hard

Global Wind Patterns and Atmospheric Circulation Cells

This question evaluates understanding of atmospheric circulation and the role of the Coriolis effect

Hard

Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar Cells

A meteorologist is examining the structure of atmospheric circulation cells and their effects on cli

Hard

Human Agricultural Practices and Soil Erosion

This question examines how different agricultural practices affect soil erosion rates and what strat

Hard

Human Impacts: Soil Erosion and Sustainable Practices

Discuss how modern agricultural practices contribute to soil erosion and propose sustainable managem

Easy

Human Land Use Practices and Soil Erosion

Human activities such as deforestation and improper plowing can accelerate soil erosion. Assess the

Medium

Impact of Mountain Ranges on Local Climates: The Rain Shadow Effect

This question investigates how mountain ranges influence local climates through the rain shadow effe

Medium

Impacts of Atmospheric Composition Changes on Climate

Changes in Earth's atmospheric composition have profound impacts on climate. Analyze the historical

Hard

Influence of Soil Texture on Water Infiltration and Nutrient Loss

Soil texture significantly affects water infiltration and nutrient leaching. Examine the relationshi

Medium

Integrative Analysis of Land and Water Use Impacts on Ecosystems

This integrative question requires you to synthesize information from multiple environmental systems

Extreme

Investigating La Niña Effects on Regional Precipitation

The table below presents data on sea surface temperatures and rainfall anomalies during a La Niña pe

Extreme

Investigating Urban Air Pollution Effects on Weather Patterns

Design a study to examine the relationship between urban air pollution and local weather patterns, f

Medium

Monsoon Pattern Chart Analysis

Analyze the chart representing seasonal variations in monsoon wind speeds and answer the following q

Medium

Ocean Upwelling and Marine Productivity

The claim under review is that enhanced upwelling invariably results in higher marine biodiversity a

Hard

Plate Boundary Interactions: Convergence, Divergence, and Transform Boundaries

Investigate the interactions at various plate boundaries, and discuss how these interactions contrib

Medium

Predictability of Monsoon Rains

A meteorological report claims that monsoon rains are entirely predictable based solely on seasonal

Medium

Quantitative Projections of Climate Change

The increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere alters Earth’s energy balance. Use

Hard

Soil Formation and Erosion Management

A researcher is investigating soil profiles in an agricultural area experiencing significant soil er

Medium

Soil Formation Rates: Predicting Soil Profile Development

Soil formation can be approximated by the linear relationship $$d = r * t$$, where $$d$$ is the soil

Easy

Soil Formation under Varying Climatic Conditions

A comparative study was conducted on soil profiles in regions with different climatic conditions. Th

Medium

Solar Radiation and its Dependence on the Sunlight Angle

This question explores how the angle at which sunlight strikes the Earth influences the distribution

Easy

Water Holding Capacity and Soil Compaction Calculations

This question involves quantitative reasoning related to soil water holding capacity and compaction.

Hard

Weather Patterns and Heat Energy Transfer

An urban meteorologist is analyzing how heat energy is transferred through the atmosphere and how th

Easy
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Agricultural Revolutions and Crop Yield Improvements

Analyze the progress in agricultural productivity by examining changes in crop yields over time, and

Medium

Analyzing Renewable Energy Implementation in Urban Areas

A city planner runs a simulation study to evaluate the effect of increasing solar panel installation

Medium

Assessing Environmental Impacts of Mining

A researcher examines the environmental impacts of various mining practices, such as mountaintop rem

Extreme

CAFO Wastewater and Nitrogen Loading

A CAFO with 500 animals produces manure with a soluble nitrogen content of 0.15 kg per animal per da

Hard

Case Study on Clear-Cutting and Forest Ecosystems

A recent report claimed that clear-cutting leads to irreversible changes in forest microclimate and

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Irrigation Methods

Different irrigation methods vary in water efficiency and sustainability. Evaluate the claim that dr

Easy

Deforestation and Carbon Emissions

A tropical country is experiencing rapid deforestation for urban development and agriculture, contri

Hard

Ecological Footprint Analysis and Global Sustainability

This question involves analyzing ecological footprints as a measure of sustainability by interpretin

Hard

Ecological Footprint Assessment

Country A has an ecological footprint of 5.2 global hectares (gha) per person with a population of 5

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Effects of Land Use Change on Biodiversity

To assess the impact of land-use conversion on biodiversity, researchers simulated urban expansion i

Hard

Experiment Analysis: Irrigation Methods and Crop Yield Efficiency

Researchers compared the effectiveness of three irrigation methods—drip, flood, and spray—in terms o

Medium

Fossil Fuels and Global Warming

Examine the relationship between fossil fuel consumption and global warming.

Medium

Impact of Overfishing on Marine Biodiversity

The table below compares fish biomass and species count in regions subjected to different levels of

Easy

Impact of Overgrazing on Grassland Ecosystems

The table below shows the relationship between grazing frequency and average grassland biomass.

Easy

IPAT Formula and Sustainability Trends Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram that visually represents the IPAT formula (I = P × A × T) and its influ

Hard

Market Incentives and Environmental Management

This question explores how market forces and private ownership can influence environmental outcomes,

Medium

Pesticide Treadmill and Resistance Trends Graph Interpretation

Using the provided graph that plots trends in pesticide usage alongside rising pest resistance over

Hard

Soil Erosion from Slash-and-Burn Agriculture

Slash-and-burn agriculture is criticized for accelerating soil erosion and diminishing soil fertilit

Hard

Sustainability and the IPAT Equation

Explore the concept of sustainability using the IPAT formula as a framework for understanding human

Hard

Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Socioeconomic Impact

This question addresses sustainable agriculture practices, their environmental benefits, and their e

Medium

The Role of GMOs in Agricultural Sustainability

It is claimed that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can increase crop yields while reducing the

Medium

Tragedy of the Commons: Air Pollution and Global Warming

Discuss the concept of the Tragedy of the Commons and analyze its application to air pollution and f

Medium

Urban Sprawl versus Smart Growth Schematic Comparison

Review the provided diagram that compares the features of urban sprawl with those of smart growth. I

Easy

Urban Sprawl vs. Smart Growth Strategies

A researcher compares the environmental and social outcomes of urban sprawl against smart growth str

Medium

Urbanization and its Environmental Consequences

A researcher investigates the impacts of urbanization on local ecosystems, focusing on issues like u

Medium

Water Extraction and the Tragedy of the Commons

Analyze a scenario involving water extraction from a shared river basin utilized by multiple communi

Medium
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Air Pollution from Fossil Fuel Combustion

Analyze the bar graph titled 'Emissions by Fuel Type' which shows emission levels for coal, oil, and

Hard

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

Biomass offers a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Evaluate the process of biomass energy produ

Medium

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

This question investigates the production of energy from biomass via anaerobic digestion processes.

Easy

Clean Coal Technology Evaluation

The concept of "Clean Coal" involves using advanced technologies such as carbon capture and storage

Medium

Cogeneration and Clean Coal Technology

This question examines cogeneration (combined heat and power) and clean coal technologies. Focus on

Medium

Cogeneration System Energy Balance Experiment

A cogeneration system is tested in a facility that simultaneously generates electricity and recovers

Medium

Cogeneration Systems and Enhanced Energy Recovery

Cogeneration, or combined heat and power (CHP), systems aim to maximize energy recovery. Analyze how

Medium

Economic Analysis of Energy Markets: Supply and Demand Dynamics

The laws of supply and demand play a crucial role in shaping energy markets. Analyze these dynamics

Hard

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Power Plants

A power plant converts thermal energy from the combustion of fossil fuels into electrical energy. An

Medium

Energy Transfer and Efficiency Analysis in a Fossil Fuel Plant

A power plant utilizes coal to generate electricity through multiple energy transformations. Analyze

Medium

Evaluation of Energy Policy and Sustainability

A regional council is evaluating its energy sources. The table below summarizes energy production fr

Extreme

Geothermal Energy Extraction Analysis

A geothermal well's performance was monitored, and a graph was produced showing the relationship bet

Medium

Geothermal Energy Extraction Efficiency Experiment

Scientists simulate geothermal energy extraction by circulating water through heated rock samples in

Medium

Hydraulic Fracturing Process Analysis

Review the diagram describing the hydraulic fracturing (fracking) process. Answer the following:

Hard

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance Experiment

A team of students conducts an experiment to assess the efficiency of a hydrogen fuel cell by measur

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Operation and Energy Conversion

Hydrogen fuel cells offer an efficient conversion of chemical energy to electrical energy. Analyze t

Hard

Impact of Energy Policy on Renewable Energy Adoption

Using the table below that compares renewable energy adoption rates with the presence of subsidies a

Hard

Nuclear Fission Reaction Rate Experiment

A laboratory simulation of a nuclear fission reactor is carried out to study how varying neutron flu

Extreme

Passive Solar Heating Efficiency Experiment

A study is designed to evaluate the efficiency of a building's passive solar heating system by monit

Medium

Passively-Managed Building Energy Efficiency Experiment

A passive solar heating design is implemented in a scaled building model to study its effect on indo

Easy

Pollutant Emission Reduction Technologies Evaluation

Different technologies are employed to reduce particulate emissions from flue gases. The table below

Medium

Wind Energy: Turbine Blade Design Experiment

Researchers conduct an experiment to test various wind turbine blade designs with the goal of optimi

Hard

Wind Turbine Power Output Experiment

In a wind tunnel experiment, researchers test a small wind turbine's power output by measuring its r

Hard
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Deposition: Forest Impact Study

Researchers performed an experiment in a forest where plots were either treated with simulated acid

Hard

Air Pollution Source Classification Experiment

A researcher is investigating differences in primary and secondary pollutants using data collected n

Easy

Analysis of Air Pollution Data from a Power Plant

A study measured daily concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) near an urban power plant. The data we

Medium

Analysis of Lead Exposure and Regulatory Standards

A regulatory study measured lead concentrations in various environments to assess potential exposure

Medium

Analysis of Primary vs. Secondary Pollutants in Urban Air

Discriminate between primary and secondary pollutants using provided atmospheric data and discuss re

Medium

Analyzing Industrial Smog Formation Patterns

Investigate the formation of industrial smog using the graph provided. Answer the following:

Medium

Assessing Indoor Air Pollutants: Case Study of Asbestos and Formaldehyde

Indoor air quality is crucial for health, particularly concerning pollutants like asbestos and forma

Medium

Assessing the Ecological Impact of Acid Rain on Forests

Acid rain can have long-term effects on forest ecosystems. Examine the ecological consequences of ac

Hard

Assessing the Impact of Air Pollutants on Human Respiratory Health

Air pollutants such as particulate matter and ozone have significant effects on respiratory health.

Medium

Calculating Catalytic Converter Efficiency

Catalytic converters are critical in reducing vehicular emissions. Consider a scenario where a vehic

Medium

Carbon Monoxide Sources and Controls

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a common pollutant resulting from incomplete combustion. Identify the primar

Easy

Catalytic Converter Chemical Reactions

Catalytic converters are designed to reduce toxic emissions from vehicles. Answer the following: (a

Medium

Catalytic Converter Efficiency Analysis

A researcher evaluates the performance of catalytic converters by comparing emission reduction perce

Medium

Catalytic Converter Efficiency in Emission Control

Catalytic converters are pivotal in reducing vehicular emissions. Analyze their chemical functions,

Hard

Catalytic Converters and Emission Reductions

Catalytic converters play a critical role in reducing harmful vehicle emissions. Using the informati

Medium

Comparative Study of Indoor vs. Outdoor Air Pollutants

Indoor environments often exhibit different pollutant concentrations compared to outdoors. Use the t

Medium

Effectiveness of Air Quality Regulations on Pollutant Reduction

A policy analyst conducts a longitudinal study to compare pollutant levels in regulated versus unreg

Extreme

FRQ 12: Indoor Air Pollution and Sick Building Syndrome

Assess the causes and impacts of indoor air pollution in relation to sick building syndrome (SBS).

Medium

FRQ 17: Chemical Kinetics in Air Pollution Control

Explore the kinetics involved in the catalytic converter reactions that reduce atmospheric pollutant

Extreme

Human Activities and the Evolution of Air Pollution

Air pollution levels and regulatory responses have evolved significantly since the 19th century. Use

Medium

Impact Assessment of Catalytic Converters on Vehicle Emissions

Catalytic converters can greatly reduce harmful vehicle emissions. Use the table below to analyze th

Easy

Impact of Renewable Energy on Local Air Quality

Design an experiment to assess the impact of transitioning to renewable energy sources on local air

Easy

Impact of Thermal Inversions on Air Quality

A study collected data on temperature profiles and particulate matter (PM) concentrations during dif

Medium

Indoor Air Pollutants and Mitigation Techniques

This question addresses indoor air pollutants, focusing on their identification, quantitative assess

Medium

Indoor Air Pollutants and Remediation Strategies

A commercial office building is experiencing reduced air quality, with occupants reporting symptoms

Medium

Indoor Air Quality and Pollutant Remediation

Analyze the causes and mitigation strategies for indoor air pollution.

Medium

Industrial Emissions and Sulfur Dioxide

This question examines the emission process of sulfur dioxide from industrial sources and evaluates

Medium

Industrial Energy Consumption and Atmospheric CO₂ Trends

A long-term study monitored CO₂ emissions from several power plants over a period of 40 years. The g

Hard

Interpreting Air Pollutant Data and Proposing Solutions

An urban area has been recording ambient concentrations of various air pollutants. The following tab

Medium

Investigating Meteorological Influences on Pollution Dispersion

Weather conditions significantly affect the dispersion of air pollutants in urban settings. Analyze

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Acid Rain on Aquatic Ecosystems

An environmental study monitored the pH of a lake over a 10‐year period during which acid rain depos

Medium

Lead Pollution Sources and Health Effects

Lead pollution poses serious health risks. Using the provided table, analyze the principal sources o

Easy

Mechanisms of Tropospheric Ozone Formation

Tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant formed through photochemical reactions. Using the provid

Medium

Modeling Air Pollutant Dispersion

A researcher models the dispersion of an air pollutant from a point source using the equation $$y =

Extreme

Nitrogen Oxides and Ozone Formation Dynamics

This question explores the chemical interactions between nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and ozone formation,

Medium

Nitrogen Oxides and their Role in Atmospheric Chemistry

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are central to many atmospheric reactions that lead to secondary pollutant for

Medium

Photochemical Reactions in Urban Environments

Detail the chain reactions leading to photochemical smog formation in urban areas, evaluate a study

Extreme

Photochemical Smog Dynamics in Urban Areas

Photochemical smog is influenced by urban traffic and industrial emissions. Use the following prompt

Medium

Photochemical Smog Formation and Control

This question examines the formation of photochemical smog and considers both its chemical kinetics

Hard

Photochemical Smog Formation Dynamics

A graph displays the formation of photochemical smog by tracking NO2 and O3 concentrations over the

Medium

Photochemical Smog: Comprehensive Analysis

This question examines the formation, trends, and mitigation of photochemical smog.

Hard

Precipitation Impact on Suspended Particulate Matter

A study compared PM2.5 levels under different weather conditions. Use the table below to answer the

Easy

Role of Carbon Monoxide in Atmospheric Chemistry

This question focuses on the formation of carbon monoxide and strategies for its mitigation in the a

Medium

Sick Building Syndrome and Indoor Air Pollutants

Indoor environments can sometimes become contaminated, leading to sick building syndrome (SBS). Answ

Easy

Sulfur Dioxide and Acid Rain

Detail the chemical transformation of sulfur dioxide into acid rain and evaluate its environmental i

Extreme

The Role of VOCs in Indoor Air Pollution

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are significant contributors to indoor air pollution and can lead

Medium

Thermal Inversion Effects on Pollutant Trapping Experiment

In this study, a researcher simulates a thermal inversion by cooling the air at the bottom of a tall

Hard

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollutant Concentrations

A researcher conducted a study to assess how urban heat islands affect the concentrations of air pol

Extreme

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollutants

This question examines the formation of urban heat islands and their effect on air pollutant dispers

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Air Quality

Urban heat islands can exacerbate air pollution issues. Analyze the relationship between temperature

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Pollution Concentration

Urban heat islands can exacerbate air pollution issues. Discuss the mechanisms behind urban heat isl

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and their Impact on Air Chemistry

A researcher examines the impact of urban heat islands on air pollution and associated atmospheric c

Medium

VOCs and the Formation of Photochemical Smog

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute significantly to the formation of photochemical smog. I

Medium

Volatile Organic Compounds and Indoor Air Quality

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common indoor pollutants that contribute to 'sick building syn

Easy
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Analysis of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is an accumulation of debris in the North Pacific Ocean driven by oc

Hard

Analyzing Cultural Eutrophication Data

This question addresses the impacts of nutrient enrichment in surface waters leading to cultural eut

Medium

Analyzing Water Pollution Sources

This FRQ examines your understanding of water pollution sources in aquatic ecosystems. Answer the fo

Easy

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification in a Food Chain

A study graphically represents the increase in pollutant concentration across trophic levels in a fo

Extreme

Bioaccumulation Measurement in Fish Tissue

A researcher conducted a 60-day experiment to measure the bioaccumulation of a synthetic pesticide i

Medium

Calculating Biomagnification Factors from Experimental Data

This question involves calculating the biomagnification factor within a simplified food web and inte

Hard

Comparing Sources of Water Pollution

In this question, you will examine various sources of water pollution and their impacts on aquatic s

Medium

Designing an Experiment to Mitigate Cultural Eutrophication Using Buffer Zones

Buffer zones are a recognized method for controlling nutrient runoff into water bodies. Design an ex

Medium

Evaluating Water Testing Methods for Urban Runoff

Urban runoff samples were collected and analyzed for various water quality parameters including pH,

Easy

Evaluating Water Treatment Processes: Filtration and Flocculation Sedimentation

A municipal water treatment facility uses a combination of filtration and flocculation sedimentation

Hard

Evaluation of Point and Non-Point Source Water Pollution

This free-response question investigates the differences between point source and non-point source p

Medium

Examining the Effectiveness of Flocculation Sedimentation as a Water Treatment Method

A controlled laboratory experiment employs flocculation sedimentation to reduce suspended solids and

Easy

FRQ8: Mining-Related Water Pollution

Examine the schematic diagram of a mining operation and its associated wastewater flows. Analyze how

Hard

Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Formation and Effects

A researcher is investigating the formation of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and its ecological co

Hard

Hazardous Waste Isolation Techniques

This FRQ explores methods used to isolate hazardous wastes from the environment, with emphasis on in

Hard

Impact of Waste Incineration on Air Quality

This FRQ examines the environmental trade-offs of waste incineration, focusing on the production of

Easy

Impacts of Biodegradable Wastes on Lake Ecosystems

A study compares areas of a lake receiving different levels of fertilizer runoff containing biodegra

Medium

Impacts of Mining on Water Quality

This FRQ evaluates the environmental impact of mining activities on water quality, focusing on heavy

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Oil Spills on Seabird Health

Oil spills have devastating effects on marine wildlife. Design an experiment to study the relationsh

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Thermal Pollution on Aquatic Life

A local river near an industrial area is suspected to be affected by thermal pollution. Design an ex

Medium

Investigation of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Food Webs

Evaluate how persistent organic pollutants (POPs) biomagnify through food webs by analyzing provided

Extreme

Solid Waste and Landfill Design

This FRQ addresses issues in solid waste management and outlines the design criteria for sanitary la

Medium

Temperature Effects on Dissolved Oxygen and Aquatic Life

This question examines the relationship between water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels, and i

Easy

Urban Runoff and Microclimate Changes

Investigate the effects of urban runoff on local microclimates and water quality by analyzing data c

Medium

Water Pollution Sources and Their Effects

A researcher is investigating different sources of water pollution and their effects on water qualit

Easy

Water Quality Testing and Experimental Design

Evaluate water quality data and design a controlled experiment to test the impact of a specific vari

Medium

Water Quality Testing and Treatment Analysis

This FRQ assesses your understanding of water quality tests and treatment processes by integrating l

Medium
Unit 9: Global Change

Analysis of Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Sector

This question asks you to analyze data on greenhouse gas emissions from various sectors and to desig

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Global Warming on Weather Patterns

This question addresses how global warming influences the frequency and intensity of extreme weather

Medium

Biodiversity and Invasive Species: Field Study Design

Invasive species can significantly alter native ecosystems. This question requires you to first disc

Medium

Case Study: European Green Crabs

Analyze a case study on the environmental impact of European green crabs in a coastal ecosystem.

Medium

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies

This question involves analyzing the impacts of rising global temperatures on precipitation and wate

Medium

Designing Experiments to Study the Effect of UV Radiation on Ozone Formation

This question asks you to design a controlled laboratory experiment to investigate how varying UV ra

Medium

Energy Production and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Discuss how different methods of energy production contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and propos

Medium

Environmental Impact Analysis of Alternative Coolants

The use of HCFCs and CFCs in cooling systems contributes to ozone depletion. Alternative coolants su

Hard

Evaluating International Environmental Agreements

This question requires you to compare major international environmental agreements and to propose im

Extreme

Glacier Melt, Thermal Expansion, and Sea Level Rise

This question addresses the contribution of glacier melt to sea level rise and discusses the combine

Extreme

Global Climate Change and Sea Level Rise

Evaluate the evidence for sea level rise as a consequence of global climate change, and explain the

Hard

Greenhouse Effect Chamber Experiment with Infrared-Opaque Cover

A researcher designs an experiment to measure the greenhouse effect by comparing temperature changes

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Local Ecosystem Function

A biologist conducts a controlled plot study to evaluate how an invasive plant species affects the g

Medium

Impact of Stratospheric Cooling

This question investigates the relationship between ozone depletion and stratospheric cooling, incor

Hard

Invasive Species and Ecosystem Disruption

The introduction of an invasive aquatic plant into a freshwater lake can disrupt the native ecosyste

Hard

Ozone Chemistry Reaction Kinetics

This question explores the kinetics of ozone formation and destruction, including the catalytic role

Hard

Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Energy Production

This question examines the calculation of CO₂ emissions from a coal-fired power plant and involves a

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of UV-Induced Ozone Formation

This question requires you to quantify the rate of ozone formation in the stratosphere based on UV p

Hard

Synergistic Effects of Ozone Depletion and UV Radiation

Explore how the depletion of the ozone layer leads to increased UVB radiation at the Earth's surface

Hard

The Impact of Industrial Processes on the Greenhouse Effect

A researcher studies how various industrial processes contribute to the greenhouse effect, focusing

Medium

Thermal Expansion of the Oceans

This question examines the effect of thermal expansion on sea-level rise by using a provided equatio

Hard

Understanding the Coupled Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity

Climate change alters habitats and disrupts species interactions. Using a case study provided in the

Hard

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Where can I find practice free response questions for the AP Environmental Science 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 Environmental ScienceFree 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 Environmental Science 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 Environmental Science 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 Environmental Science 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 Environmental Science free-response questions?
Answering AP Environmental Science free response questions the right way is all about practice! As you go through the AP AP Environmental Science 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.