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 (20)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (25)
  • Unit 3: Populations (27)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (25)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (30)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (28)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (51)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (25)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (19)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Aquifer Depletion: Rate Analysis and Consequences

Aquifer depletion is a growing concern in many regions. A table is provided showing the groundwater

Hard

Assessing Lake Stratification and Turnover

Design an experiment to assess how seasonal changes affect lake stratification and turnover. Your pr

Medium

Carbon Sink Capacity and Atmospheric CO2 Increase

Understanding carbon sinks is critical to evaluating global climate change. A table of major carbon

Hard

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

FRQ 17: Primary Productivity in Tropical Rainforests – Graph Analysis

Analyze the provided graph showing net primary production (NPP) across different layers (canopy, und

Hard

Human Impact on the Carbon Cycle

Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities have significantly altered the carbon cycle. A gra

Medium

Hydrologic Cycle Dynamics in a Changing Climate

A simulation study of a watershed over a 30-year period examines how climate change alters component

Extreme

Impact of Water Pollution on Fish Diversity

A research team studied a river system to evaluate how increasing levels of pollutants from agricult

Medium

Investigating Phosphorus Runoff Impact on Aquatic Ecosystems

Design an experiment to test the hypothesis that increased phosphate runoff leads to eutrophication

Hard

Nutrient Changes in River Zones

A field study measured nutrient concentrations (mg/L) along a river from its headwaters to the flood

Medium

Phosphorus Limitation and Its Ecological Effects

Phosphorus is often a limiting nutrient in terrestrial ecosystems due to its low concentration and s

Easy

Photosynthesis Rate Under Different Water Turbidity Levels

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

Medium

Photosynthesis Rate Under Varying Light Intensities

A researcher sets up an experiment to measure the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants (Elodea)

Medium

Predator-Prey Dynamics in a Microcosm

A researcher conducts an experiment to observe predator-prey interactions in a controlled microcosm

Hard

Seasonal Turnover in Lakes and Its Impact on Temperature Distribution

A limnologist studied the temperature profiles of a lake during summer and fall. The graph provided

Medium

Species Competition and Population Genetics under Environmental Stress

Environmental stress can impact species competition and genetic diversity. Using the data provided,

Extreme

Symbiotic Relationships and Ecosystem Functioning

A coastal ecosystem study observed multiple symbiotic relationships, including instances of mutualis

Easy

Temperature and Water Density: Lake Stratification

Water has its maximum density at 4°C. In a stratified lake, the epilimnion at 20°C has a density of

Medium

Trophic Cascades

Discuss the concept of trophic cascades and the interrelated effects of changes at one trophic level

Hard

Trophic Energy Transfer in a Forest Ecosystem

A study of a forest ecosystem provided the following measurements of energy (in kJ/m²/day) available

Easy
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Assessing Species Richness and Ecosystem Stability

Researchers conducted an experiment in a tropical forest by designating 10 one-hectare plots with va

Easy

Assessing the Impact of Habitat Restoration on Species Richness and Ecosystem Services

Habitat restoration projects aim to recover both species richness and ecosystem services. Design a s

Medium

Climate Change and Rapid Adaptation

This FRQ addresses how species adapt to rapid environmental changes due to climate change, focusing

Hard

Ecosystem Recovery Rate Calculation

After a severe disturbance, researchers recorded the percentage of biomass recovery over time as sho

Easy

Ecosystem Services in Agricultural vs. Urban Systems

Land-use changes, such as converting agricultural lands to urban areas, affect ecosystem services. C

Hard

FRQ 1: Biodiversity and Ecosystem Resilience

A researcher investigates the relationships among various factors affecting ecosystem biodiversity a

Medium

FRQ 2: Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

A catastrophic event drastically reduces the size of a fish population in a freshwater lake, leading

Hard

FRQ 6: Adaptive Strategies – Generalists vs. Specialists

A researcher investigates how species with different adaptive strategies respond to habitat fragment

Medium

FRQ 14: Role of Keystone Species in Ecosystem Stability

A researcher investigates the role of a keystone predator in a coastal ecosystem. Data indicate that

Hard

Habitat Fragmentation and Species Richness

Habitat fragmentation can result in island-like conditions that affect species richness. Analyze thi

Hard

Impact of Temperature on Ecosystem Productivity

A study measures the effects of temperature increases on an ecosystem’s gross primary productivity (

Hard

Indicator Species and Ecosystem Health

This FRQ examines the concept of indicator species and their application in assessing ecosystem heal

Easy

Island Biogeography

A group of islands at varying distances from a mainland were surveyed for species diversity. The res

Medium

Island Biogeography and Biodiversity

This question investigates the theory of island biogeography and its influence on species diversity

Medium

Island Biogeography and Species Richness

Investigate how island biogeography theory explains patterns of species richness.

Hard

Modeling Species Decline with Increased Isolation

A study models the decline in species number as habitat isolation increases. The graph below shows t

Extreme

Natural Disruptions and Ecosystem Recovery

Analyze how different natural disruptions (flooding, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires) impact ecosy

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

This FRQ examines the concept of population bottlenecks and their effects on genetic diversity withi

Extreme

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

Population bottlenecks drastically reduce the number of individuals and genetic diversity. Explore t

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

In this question, you will explore the concept of population bottlenecks, how they reduce genetic di

Hard

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Variability

Investigate the consequences of population bottlenecks on genetic diversity in a species.

Hard

Primary vs. Secondary Succession Comparison

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

Easy

Responses of Organisms to Environmental Stress

This question examines how organisms respond to environmental stress through various adaptive mechan

Medium

Successional Productivity Trends in Ecosystems

A graph shows changes in gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) over di

Hard

Wildfires and Biomass Recovery

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

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Analyzing Population Dispersal Patterns

An ecologist observes three distinct dispersal patterns (clumped, random, and uniform) in species di

Medium

Analyzing Survivorship Curves

Survivorship curves illustrate the mortality patterns of species over their lifespan. Analyze the gr

Hard

Analyzing the Demographic Transition Model

Using the provided data, explain the demographic transition model and predict future trends for a co

Medium

Biotic Potential: Factors and Impact

Define biotic potential and environmental resistance, and discuss how various factors interact to re

Easy

Calculating Doubling Time from Exponential Growth

A biologist is examining the exponential growth of a rodent population. The growth rate is observed

Easy

Carrying Capacity: Ecological and Human Dimensions

Carrying capacity is a critical concept in both natural ecosystems and human societies. Discuss the

Medium

Climate Change Impacts on Survivorship and Biodiversity

In an alpine ecosystem, climate warming is expected to alter both species' survivorship curves and b

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Generalist and Specialist Species

Discuss the differences between generalist and specialist species and analyze how these differences

Easy

Comparing Adaptability: Generalist vs Specialist Species

A researcher is interested in assessing the adaptability of a generalist species versus a specialist

Medium

Demographic Transition Model Analysis

Discuss the demographic transition model and analyze its implications for future population trends a

Medium

Experimental Analysis of r-Strategists vs. K-Strategists

A researcher is studying differences between r-strategist and K-strategist species in fluctuating en

Medium

Exponential vs Logistic Population Growth

Examine the differences between exponential and logistic population growth, and apply the Rule of 70

Easy

Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Dynamics

Evaluate the role of feedback loops in maintaining or disrupting ecosystem stability.

Medium

Feedback Loops in Population Dynamics

Define positive and negative feedback loops in the context of population dynamics. Analyze how these

Hard

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: Total Fertility Rate and Demographic Implications

This question explores the concept of Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and its impacts on population growt

Hard

FRQ 18: Predictive Models in Population Ecology

This question requires you to compare predictive models used in population ecology and outline a cal

Extreme

FRQ 19: Investigating the Effect of Temperature on Rubisco Activity

In a laboratory experiment, researchers measured the activity of Rubisco extracted from spinach leav

Hard

Generalists vs. Specialists in Changing Environments

Consider the following statements about generalist and specialist species: Generalists utilize a var

Medium

Human Population Dynamics and Technological Change

Discuss how technological and societal advancements have influenced human population growth, using t

Medium

Impact of Environmental Degradation on Carrying Capacity

Environmental degradation can significantly affect a system’s carrying capacity. Answer the followin

Hard

Interpreting Age-Structure Diagrams

Examine age-structure diagrams to evaluate population stability and predict future trends.

Medium

Interpreting Age-Structure Diagrams

Interpret the different shapes of age-structure diagrams and their implications for population dynam

Hard

Interpreting Age-Structure Diagrams

You are provided with age-structure diagrams representing pyramid-shaped, bell-shaped, and urn-shape

Medium

Reproductive Strategies: r-Selected vs K-Selected Species

Analyze the differences between r-selected and K-selected species using the information provided in

Medium

Survivorship Curve Analysis and Prediction

Analyze the following survivorship function and answer the accompanying questions:

Hard

Urbanization Effects on Carrying Capacity

Assess the impact of urbanization on ecosystem carrying capacity and propose sustainable urban plann

Medium
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Atmospheric Circulation and Wind Speed Calculation

This question integrates conceptual understanding of atmospheric pressure systems with quantitative

Medium

Atmospheric Composition: Partial Pressure Calculations

The partial pressure of a gas in the atmosphere is given by the product of its mole fraction and the

Easy

Atmospheric Layer Analysis

Based on the following descriptions: The troposphere contains 75% of the atmosphere's mass and almos

Easy

Climate Moderation by Bodies of Water

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

Medium

Convergent Boundary Dynamics: Subduction and Orogeny

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

Hard

FRQ 2: Continental Drift and Fossil Distribution Analysis

A team of researchers is investigating the hypothesis that the distribution of similar fossils acros

Hard

FRQ 5: Soil Composition and Nutrient‐Holding Capacity

A researcher is interested in how variations in soil composition affect its nutrient-holding capacit

Hard

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 20: Monsoon Dynamics and Land-Sea Temperature Gradient Experiment

To study monsoon dynamics, researchers develop a computational simulation experiment that models the

Extreme

Human Impact on Soil Erosion and Nutrient Cycling

This question examines the impact of human agricultural practices on soil erosion and nutrient cycli

Medium

Hurricane Energy: Estimating Latent Heat Release

Hurricanes release a tremendous amount of energy primarily through the condensation of water vapor.

Hard

Impact of Water Bodies on Local Climate

This question examines the role of large bodies of water in moderating local climate.

Easy

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

Modeling Shoreline Retreat Due to Sea Level Rise

Coastal erosion is influenced by rising sea levels, which can result in significant shoreline retrea

Medium

Monsoon Strength and Rainfall Measurement Experiment

An environmental researcher set out to quantify monsoon wind strength and its correlation with rainf

Hard

Plate Boundary Interactions: Convergence, Divergence, and Transform Boundaries

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

Medium

Seafloor Spreading and Mid-Ocean Ridge Activity Analysis

A marine geologist collects magnetic data along a mid-ocean ridge, resulting in a graph of rock age

Medium

Soil Composition and Crop Suitability

A soil analysis at a particular field shows the following approximate composition: Gravel 20%, Sand

Easy

Soil Composition and Crop Yield

A group of farmers claims that using loam soil leads to significantly higher crop yields compared to

Medium

Soil Composition and Nutrient-Holding Capacity

An agronomist is researching how soil texture and organic matter influence water-holding capacity an

Hard

Soil Formation and Erosion Management

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

Medium

Soil Formation Process and Erosion Impact

This question explores the processes of soil formation and the impacts of erosion on agricultural pr

Medium

Solar Radiation, Energy Balance, and Temperature Regulation

This question integrates the concept of solar radiation with Earth’s energy balance to evaluate temp

Extreme

Urbanization Impact on Localized Precipitation Experiment

An environmental scientist designed an experiment to assess the influence of urbanization on localiz

Hard

Volcanic Aerosol Impact on Stratospheric Temperature Experiment

A team of atmospheric scientists simulated the impact of sulfur-rich volcanic aerosols on stratosphe

Extreme
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Air Pollution and the Tragedy of the Commons

A researcher investigates the relationship between unregulated industrial emissions and air quality

Medium

Analyzing The Tragedy of the Commons

Garrett Hardin’s essay 'The Tragedy of the Commons' suggests that individual self‐interest in exploi

Medium

Assessing Ecological Footprints Across Nations

It is claimed that countries with higher ecological footprints per person are more likely to exceed

Hard

Assessing the Role of GMOs in Sustainable Agriculture

A researcher examines how genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can contribute to food security and

Medium

CAFOs and Their Impact on Water Quality

This question examines the environmental impact of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) on

Medium

Clear-Cutting and Forest Edge Effects

Examine the practice of clear-cutting and its environmental impacts, particularly focusing on habita

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Organic versus Inorganic Fertilizers on Crop Yield

Design an experiment to compare the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on crop yield. Your

Easy

Comparing Tillage vs. No-till Agriculture on Soil Health

The table below compares soil organic matter and erosion rates between conventional tillage and no-t

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

Experiment Analysis: Clear-Cutting and Edge Effects on Soil Moisture

Researchers conducted an experiment to study the impact of clear-cutting on soil moisture and forest

Hard

Experiment Analysis: Deforestation and Soil Erosion

To simulate deforestation effects, researchers clear-cut a 1-hectare plot and measured soil erosion,

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Effects of Tillage on Soil Quality

An experiment was set up to compare no-till agriculture with conventional tillage in terms of their

Medium

Experiment Analysis: GMO vs. Non-GMO Crop Yield Comparison

In a study comparing the yields of GMO and non-GMO corn varieties over a full growing season, resear

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Microbial Decomposition in Soil

Researchers conducted an experiment to compare microbial decomposition rates in soils receiving diff

Medium

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and Biodiversity

This question examines the role of GMOs in modern agriculture and their potential impacts on biodive

Medium

Impact of Overgrazing on Grassland Ecosystems

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

Easy

Impact of Road Building on Forest Fragmentation

Assess how road building affects forest fragment sizes and discuss potential measures to mitigate th

Hard

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies Evaluation

A researcher investigates the ecological and economic effectiveness of Integrated Pest Management (I

Medium

Irrigation Efficiency Analysis

Analyze the water use efficiency of different irrigation methods by calculating the yield per liter

Hard

Measuring Ecological Footprints: Urban vs. Suburban Lifestyles

Design a study to measure and compare the ecological footprints of urban versus suburban lifestyles.

Easy

Mining Methods and Environmental Impacts Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram that outlines various mining methods (including mountaintop removal, op

Extreme

Mining Process Efficiency and Waste Generation

An open-pit mining operation extracts 5000 metric tons of ore with a recovery efficiency of 70%. Ans

Easy

Overfishing, Aquaculture, and Fisheries Management

Analyze the issues surrounding overfishing and examine the potential role of aquaculture in sustaini

Hard

Renewable Energy Integration in Urban Areas: Solar Panel Efficiency and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Design an experiment to evaluate the impact of solar panel installation on a building's energy consu

Medium

Sustainability and Overfishing

A researcher evaluates the sustainability of marine fisheries impacted by overfishing, analyzing fis

Medium

The Tragedy of the Commons and Resource Depletion

Examine how the concept of the Tragedy of the Commons applies to modern environmental challenges. In

Medium

Tragedy of the Commons Analysis

The following table shows data on the extraction rates from a shared resource (e.g., a fishery or fo

Medium

Urban Sprawl vs. Smart Growth Strategies

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

Medium

Urbanization and the IPAT Equation

Apply the IPAT equation to quantify the environmental impact of a major urban population and interpr

Medium
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

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

Easy

Comparison of Energy Storage Systems: Batteries vs. Fuel Cells

This question compares the energy storage mechanisms of batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, focusing

Medium

Energy Conservation in Residential Homes

A residential home initially consumes 12,000 kWh per year. Energy conservation measures are estimate

Easy

Energy Conversion Efficiency Analysis

This question addresses the conversion of energy from fossil fuels to electrical energy. Consider a

Medium

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Power Plants

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

Medium

Environmental Chemistry of Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing is widely used to extract oil and gas but raises environmental concerns. Examin

Hard

Fossil Fuel Combustion and Its Environmental Impact

Fossil fuel combustion is central to modern energy production, but it carries significant environmen

Medium

Fossil Fuel Power Plant Efficiency Calculation

A coal-fired power plant burns 500 tonnes of coal per day. Each kilogram of coal provides 30 MJ of t

Medium

Fossil Fuels and Environmental Impact

Fossil fuels, while economically important, have significant environmental impacts. Examine the form

Hard

Fossil Fuels: Combustion Reactions and Emissions

This question focuses on the combustion of fossil fuels, associated chemical equations, energy relea

Medium

Geothermal Energy and Site Selection

This question explores geothermal energy production and the factors influencing site selection for g

Easy

Geothermal Energy Extraction Analysis

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

Medium

Hydraulic Fracturing and Water Use

This question focuses on hydraulic fracturing ('fracking') processes, particularly examining water u

Medium

Hydroelectric Dam and Ecosystem Impact

Hydroelectric dams alter river ecosystems and can impact aquatic life. Using the table below that su

Hard

Hydroelectric Dam Energy Production Analysis

A dam is used to generate electricity by converting the potential energy of water into electrical en

Medium

Hydroelectric Dam Trade-offs

A study evaluated several dam projects with respect to their energy production and associated social

Hard

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Operation Analysis

A hydrogen fuel cell converts chemical energy into electrical energy. Consider the process as shown

Hard

Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Operation and Comparison with Batteries

Examine the operation of hydrogen fuel cells and compare their advantages and limitations relative t

Medium

Impact of Energy Infrastructure on Local Ecosystems

Energy infrastructure projects can have significant impacts on local ecosystems. Analyze how differe

Medium

Infrastructure Impacts on Ecosystems: Energy Production Facilities

This question explores the ecological impacts of energy infrastructure projects on local ecosystems.

Hard

Lifecycle Environmental Impact Comparison

A lifecycle analysis compares environmental impacts of fossil fuels versus renewable energy sources.

Hard

Nuclear Fission Reaction Rate Experiment

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

Extreme

Nuclear Power Plant Performance Analysis

In a study of a nuclear reactor's performance, data were collected for various reactor conditions. T

Hard

Second Law of Thermodynamics: Energy Quality and Efficiency

The Second Law of Thermodynamics places limits on energy conversion efficiency. Evaluate its implica

Medium

Solar Photovoltaic System Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided diagram of a residential solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The diagram shows sola

Medium

Thermal Energy Transfer and Insulation Effectiveness

This question involves calculating heat loss through a building wall and evaluating the effects of i

Easy

Wind Energy Production and Environmental Impact

Wind energy is an increasingly prominent renewable resource. Evaluate both its technical processes a

Medium

Wind Energy Turbine System Efficiency

Examine the diagram of a wind turbine system. Answer the following:

Medium
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

Acid Rain Remediation Strategies

Acid rain results from atmospheric reactions that produce sulfuric and nitric acids, which in turn c

Hard

Air Pollution Classification and Sources

This question examines your understanding of air pollution classifications. Explain the definitions

Easy

Air Pollution Mitigation Analysis Using Cost-Benefit Assessment

This question requires a cost-benefit analysis of two pollution-control devices used to reduce indus

Hard

Air Pollution Types and Sources Evaluation

This question asks you to evaluate the different types of air pollutants and their sources. You will

Easy

Analysis of Air Quality Data

You have been provided with air quality data from urban and rural locations. Analyze the following d

Hard

Analysis of Carbon Monoxide Trends in Urban Environments

This question examines diurnal trends in carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations as measured near urban

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 Urban Heat Island Effects on Weather

A researcher studies the influence of urban heat islands on local weather patterns. The table below

Extreme

Catalytic Converters: Mechanisms and Limitations

Examine the role of catalytic converters in reducing vehicular emissions and discuss their limitatio

Hard

Comparative Analysis: Outdoor vs. Indoor Air Pollutants

Air quality varies significantly between outdoor and indoor environments. Recent monitoring data hav

Easy

Comparative Study of Diesel vs. Gasoline Emissions Through a Simulated Environment

A researcher conducts an experiment to compare emissions from diesel and gasoline engines within a c

Extreme

Comparison of Point vs Non-Point Source Pollutant Dispersion

A research team uses a grid of sensors to measure the spatial distribution of a specific pollutant i

Hard

Comprehensive Case Study: Reducing Air Pollution in a Major City

Assume the role of an environmental consultant tasked with formulating a comprehensive plan to reduc

Extreme

Developing a Policy Proposal to Reduce Emissions from Non-Point Sources

Non-point source air pollution is challenging to regulate because it originates from a variety of di

Hard

Dynamics of Volatile Organic Compounds in Simulated Atmosphere Experiment

A research team investigates the behavior of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a simulated urban

Extreme

Ecosystem Impacts of Acid Deposition

Acid deposition can have profound effects on aquatic ecosystems. The table below shows measurements

Hard

Effectiveness of Air Purifiers on Indoor VOC Levels

Design an experiment to test the effectiveness of commercially available air purifiers in reducing i

Easy

Effects of VOCs in Indoor Environments

A building manager conducts a study of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a newly built office bui

Medium

Evaluating Air Pollution Control Technology: Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters are used to reduce harmful emissions from internal combustion engines. A study

Medium

Evaluating Indoor Air Purification Technologies

In a controlled laboratory experiment, three different types of air purification filters were tested

Hard

Evaluating Policy and Technological Innovations in Air Pollution Control

Governmental policies and technological innovations are both crucial in reducing air pollution. Crit

Extreme

Evaluating the Efficiency of Pollution-Control Devices

Several pollution-control devices such as baghouse filters, cyclone precipitators, and scrubbers are

Easy

Experimental Design for Air Pollution Mitigation

Design an experiment to test the effectiveness of a new air purification technology intended to redu

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

Graph Analysis of Urban Air Pollutant Concentration Over Time

A city monitors the concentration of a particular air pollutant over time. A graph of pollutant conc

Medium

Impact of VOCs from Building Materials on Indoor Air Quality

Devise an experiment to investigate the impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from bui

Medium

Industrial Noise Pollution Impact Assessment

A study examines noise pollution from various sources in industrial settings. The provided table lis

Medium

Industrial Smog and Emission Control

Industrial smog, primarily associated with sulfur compounds from fossil fuel combustion, poses serio

Hard

Lead Contamination in Urban Air: Experimental Study

An environmental scientist collects airborne particulate samples using air filters over a 24-hour pe

Medium

Lead Exposure and Risk Assessment

This question focuses on the risks associated with lead exposure and the calculation of inhaled lead

Medium

Linking Urban Heat Islands to Pollution Concentrations

Urban heat islands can exacerbate air pollution problems. A graph is provided that shows modeled tem

Hard

Mitigation Strategies for Urban Air Pollution

A researcher is tasked with developing strategies to mitigate urban air pollution. Considering vario

Medium

Modeling Emission Rates from Non-Point Sources

This question involves developing a mathematical model to predict pollutant loads from non-point sou

Extreme

Nitrogen Oxides and Ozone Chemistry

Explore the production of nitrogen oxides in high-temperature combustion and explain their role in t

Hard

Nitrogen Oxides and Ozone in Photochemical Smog

Photochemical smog involves complex interactions between nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and ozone (O₃). A typ

Hard

Noise Pollution and Its Mitigation in Urban Environments

Urban areas are increasingly concerned with the impact of noise pollution on residents. A recent stu

Easy

Noise Pollution Assessment in Urban Areas

Noise pollution can adversely affect health and well‐being. Use the table below to analyze the noise

Easy

Noise Pollution in Urban Environments

This question investigates noise pollution in urban areas by defining the phenomenon and comparing i

Easy

Noise Pollution: Assessment and Mitigation Strategies

Noise pollution is an environmental stressor with significant effects on human health. Answer the fo

Medium

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) and their Impact on Ecosystems

Peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) are secondary pollutants known for their role in damaging vegetation and

Medium

Photochemical Smog Formation in Urban Settings

Design an experimental study to investigate the formation of photochemical smog in relation to traff

Hard

Photochemical Smog Formation Investigation

A researcher investigates the formation of photochemical smog in a metropolitan area. The provided g

Hard

Policy Approaches to Reducing PMx Levels

Particulate matter (PMx) has significant environmental and health impacts. Answer the following: (a

Extreme

Regional Air Pollution Control Strategies

A regional study evaluates multiple remediation steps for reducing air pollution. Based on various a

Hard

Sulfur Dioxide Emissions and Acid Rain Formation

A region with several coal-fired power plants has been experiencing acid rain, which is damaging loc

Hard

Technologies and Strategies for Reducing Air Pollution in Industrial Settings

Industrial activities contribute significantly to air pollution. Evaluate various technologies used

Hard

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 Pollutants

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

Medium

VOCs and the Formation of Photochemical Smog

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

Medium

Volcanic Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Air Quality

This question focuses on volcanic organic compounds (VOCs), their physical properties, and their imp

Medium
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Analysis of Water Pollution Sources

Consider the claim that water pollution is significantly influenced by various sources including poi

Medium

Assessing the Efficacy of Anaerobic Digestion for Wastewater Treatment

A researcher applies anaerobic digestion to sewage sludge to reduce its Biological Oxygen Demand (BO

Medium

Assessment of Endocrine Disruptors in Municipal Water

This FRQ examines the monitoring and treatment efficiency for endocrine disruptors, specifically bis

Medium

Bioaccumulation Measurement in Fish Tissue

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

Medium

Colorimetric Nitrate Concentration Analysis

A researcher aimed to quantify nitrate concentrations in an agricultural runoff water sample using a

Medium

Comparing Sources of Water Pollution

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

Medium

Drinking Water Treatment Methods Comparison

With increasing concerns regarding water safety, a municipal water treatment facility is evaluating

Medium

Evaluating Bioremediation of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

A researcher attempted to evaluate the effectiveness of bioremediation for degrading persistent orga

Extreme

Evaluating Methane Production from Anaerobic Digestion

This FRQ focuses on anaerobic digestion as a renewable energy source by analyzing methane production

Medium

FRQ7: Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification in Food Webs

Review the schematic diagram illustrating a food chain with increasing pollutant concentrations acro

Medium

FRQ8: Mining-Related Water Pollution

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

Hard

FRQ14: Endocrine Disruptor Analysis: BPA Exposure

Examine the schematic diagram depicting BPA exposure pathways in humans. Analyze the diagram and dis

Hard

Global Waste Trade and Hazardous Waste Management

This FRQ examines the international trade of hazardous waste and its implications for developing cou

Hard

Global Waste Trade and Its Environmental Justice Implications

The international trade of hazardous waste raises important environmental justice concerns. Analyze

Extreme

Impact of Human Activity on Wetlands and Mangroves

This FRQ explores how human activities affect wetlands and mangrove ecosystems, integrating data int

Hard

Impact of pH Changes on Aquatic Ecosystem Health

Changes in water pH can have significant consequences for aquatic systems. This question involves qu

Medium

Incineration and Global Waste Trade Impact Assessment

Municipal waste management often involves incineration as a method of energy recovery. A table below

Hard

Investigating the Effects of pH on Heavy Metal Solubility

In a controlled laboratory experiment, a researcher adjusts the pH of water to examine its effect on

Hard

Investigating the Influence of Seasonal Temperature Changes on Dissolved Oxygen in Freshwater Ecosystems

Seasonal temperature variations can affect dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in freshwater bodies. Design

Easy

Investigating the Role of Microorganisms in Degrading Pollutants Through Bioremediation

An experiment is conducted in which a known pollutant is introduced into contaminated water, and the

Hard

Long-term Effects of Landfill Leachate on Water Systems

A landfill in operation for 30 years has been monitored for leachate composition. A graph shows chan

Hard

Mining Impacts on Water Quality

A river flowing through a mining region shows elevated concentrations of heavy metals. The following

Hard

Radioactive Waste: Management and Environmental Challenges

A researcher is analyzing the challenges related to the management of radioactive wastes. Answer the

Hard

Thermal Pollution and Its Impact on Freshwater Ecosystems

This FRQ examines the causes and consequences of thermal pollution in freshwater ecosystems and expl

Medium

Water Quality Testing: Analyzing Data from Multiple Locations

Environmental scientists conducted water quality tests at three different sample sites (A, B, and C)

Medium
Unit 9: Global Change

Chamber Experiment: Quantifying Thermal Absorption due to Greenhouse Gases

In this question, you will design an experiment to quantify how varying concentrations of greenhouse

Hard

Chemical Behavior of Halocarbons in the Stratosphere

Investigate the role of halocarbons in ozone depletion.

Hard

Climate Change and Agricultural Productivity

Global climate change affects agriculture in multiple ways. One of these impacts is the reduction in

Medium

CO2 Absorption by Tree Canopy: Single-Point Measurement Flaw

A researcher studies the carbon dioxide absorption capability of a tree canopy by measuring CO2 conc

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Adaptation vs. Acclimatization

A student studies how organisms adjust to environmental changes and seeks to clarify the difference

Easy

Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species

Conserving endangered species is vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functionality. A r

Hard

Designing an Experiment to Measure Residential Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Develop an experimental design to accurately measure the on-site energy consumption and associated C

Easy

Designing an Experiment: Measuring the Rate of Ozone Repair in the Stratosphere

Ozone in the stratosphere is constantly being formed and repair mechanisms are in place. In this que

Hard

Environmental Legislation: Montreal and Paris Protocol Analysis

This question asks you to compare two major international environmental treaties and evaluate their

Easy

Global Climate Change: Sea Level Rise and Temperature Trends

Examine the relationship between global temperature increases and sea level rise over the past centu

Hard

Global Climate Change: Sea Level Rise Impacts

This question requires an analysis of sea level rise data, an explanation of its causes, and a discu

Hard

Habitat Fragmentation and Endangered Species

This question explores the effects of habitat fragmentation on endangered species, including a geome

Hard

Impact of CFCs on Stratospheric Ozone

This question focuses on how chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) interact with stratospheric ozone and contri

Hard

Investigating Stratospheric Ozone Formation

In a research study, an atmospheric scientist investigates the formation and destruction of ozone in

Medium

Modeling Energy Transfer in Earth's Atmosphere

This question focuses on the modes of energy transfer in Earth’s atmosphere and requires you to perf

Extreme

Quantitative Analysis of Thermal Expansion

Perform a multi-step calculation to determine the temperature increase of the ocean and the subseque

Extreme

Regional Variations in Global Warming

Analyze why polar regions are experiencing faster warming compared to the global average.

Hard

Simulation of Arctic Methane Release and Its Feedback Effect

Arctic researchers conduct a simulation experiment to study how permafrost melting affects methane e

Extreme

Stratospheric Ozone Formation and Depletion Mechanisms

In the stratosphere, ozone is continually formed through reactions induced by ultraviolet radiation

Medium

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FAQ

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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.