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 (13)
  • Unit 3: Populations (29)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (25)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (35)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (33)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (48)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (24)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (23)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Algal Blooms and Dissolved Oxygen Depletion

Algal blooms can cause dramatic drops in dissolved oxygen (DO) in aquatic systems. A graph is provid

Hard

Altered Nitrogen Cycle in Agricultural Landscapes

In an agricultural region with heavy use of nitrogen fertilizers, a study recorded rising soil nitra

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

Analyzing Competition in Ecological Communities

Two species sharing the same limited resource show varying population trends over a period, as recor

Medium

Biomass Disparity in Aquatic Energy Pyramids

An aquatic ecosystem exhibits an unusual biomass pyramid where the consumer biomass exceeds the prod

Medium

Carbon Sink Capacity and Atmospheric CO2 Increase

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

Hard

Developing a Management Plan for Ecosystem Restoration

In many regions, human activities have led to aquifer depletion and wetland degradation. Propose a c

Extreme

Energy Flow and the 10% Rule

Discuss the 10% rule in the context of energy transfer within an ecosystem and perform a simple calc

Medium

Generalists vs. Specialists in Ecological Niches

Discuss the differences between generalist and specialist species regarding their ecological niches

Easy

Generalists vs. Specialists: Adaptation Strategies

A case study in a variable environment describes two species: one that is a generalist capable of ut

Easy

Generalists vs. Specialists: Niche Experiment

Design an experiment to investigate how environmental variability affects populations of generalist

Hard

Invasive Species Effects on Native Plant Diversity

In a grassland ecosystem, researchers conducted a controlled field experiment to determine the impac

Hard

Lake Stratification and Dissolved Oxygen Profiles

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

Hard

Modeling Groundwater Depletion Impact

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

Medium

Nitrogen Cycle Alterations

Analyze the natural nitrogen cycle and the effects of anthropogenic activities on its processes.

Hard

Phosphorus Runoff and Eutrophication in a Lake

Over a period of 5 years, the phosphorus concentration in a shallow lake increased from 0.03 mg/L to

Medium

Predicting Biome Shifts Under Climate Change

A region currently has a mean annual temperature of 15°C and annual precipitation of 800 mm, which c

Medium

Riparian Area Functions

Discuss the importance of riparian areas in maintaining ecosystem health and water quality.

Easy

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

Understanding Global Ocean Circulation

Thermohaline circulation plays a crucial role in regulating global climate by driving deep-water cur

Extreme
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Anthropogenic Impacts on Biodiversity

This question examines how human-induced activities affect biodiversity using data from a provided t

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Wildfires on Ecosystem Recovery and Species Diversity

Wildfires are a natural disturbance that can radically alter ecosystem structure. Design an experime

Hard

Comparative Adaptations for Temperature Extremes

A study compares two species that inhabit extreme temperature regimes. The table below summarizes st

Medium

Comparative Insect Survival under Pesticide Exposure

In an experiment, two populations of insects are exposed to increasing concentrations of pesticides.

Hard

Ecosystem Services Analysis

This question focuses on understanding ecosystem services and how disruptions in one service may cas

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

Genetic Bottlenecks and Minimum Viable Population Size

This FRQ examines the concept of minimum viable population size (MVP) and its relation to genetic bo

Extreme

Impacts of Habitat Fragmentation on Biodiversity Metrics

Habitat fragmentation can lead to significant changes in biodiversity. The table below compares key

Hard

Investigating Behavioral Adaptations in Urban Generalist vs. Specialist Species

Generalist and specialist species exhibit different behavioral adaptations in response to urban envi

Hard

Overfishing and Trophic Cascades

Overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems by reducing the biomass of key species. The logistic growth m

Medium

Role of Genetic Diversity in Succession

This question examines the role of genetic diversity in species’ adaptive responses during ecologica

Extreme

Specialist vs. Generalist Species Adaptations

This question requires you to compare specialist and generalist species, discussing their adaptation

Medium

Volcanic Eruptions: Destruction and Renewal

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

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Analyzing Total Fertility Rates Across Countries

Using the provided table of Total Fertility Rates (TFR) for various countries, analyze how TFR refle

Medium

Assessing Population Growth under Water Stress

A biologist is investigating how water availability affects the exponential growth of an amphibian p

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

Calculating Doubling Time Using the Rule of 70

The Rule of 70 is a useful tool for estimating the doubling time of a population. Answer the followi

Medium

Carrying Capacity and Ecosystem Regulation

Discuss the concept of carrying capacity and its role in regulating population sizes within an ecosy

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Age-Structure Data

Compare age-structure diagrams from developed and developing countries and discuss their long-term i

Hard

Comparing Adaptability: Generalist vs Specialist Species

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

Medium

Comparing J-Curve and S-Curve Population Growth

Analyze the differences between J-curve and S-curve population growth patterns using the provided gr

Medium

Demographic Transition Analysis

The demographic transition model outlines the shift from high birth and death rates to lower rates a

Hard

Evaluating Density-related Factors in Insect Populations

A researcher is studying insect populations in agricultural fields to discern how density-dependent

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

Factors of Environmental Resistance

Environmental resistance factors are crucial in limiting population growth. Answer the following que

Medium

FRQ 11: Assessing Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Population Regulation

Scientists studied predator–prey dynamics in a controlled ecosystem and recorded percentage changes

Hard

FRQ 12: Urbanization and Biodiversity: Analyzing Ecological Data

Researchers examined the relationship between urbanization and species diversity in different areas.

Medium

FRQ 15: Specialist Species and Extinction Risk

This question probes the relationship between specialized ecological niches and extinction risk thro

Medium

FRQ 18: Modeling Family Planning Impact on Population Growth

A computer simulation was developed to model the impact of family planning policies on population gr

Medium

FRQ 20: Assessing Environmental Change on Population Stability

This question asks you to synthesize multiple factors—including carrying capacity reductions, limiti

Extreme

Human Population Dynamics from Agricultural Revolution to Present

Human population growth has undergone dramatic changes from the Agricultural Revolution to the prese

Hard

Impacts of Population Dynamics on Biodiversity

Rapid population growth and high density can have major impacts on biodiversity. Answer the followin

Medium

Implications of Total Fertility Rate

Evaluate the impacts of total fertility rate (TFR) on population dynamics and socioeconomic developm

Medium

Interpreting Age-Structure Diagrams

Analyze an age-structure diagram and propose management strategies based on the population's demogra

Medium

Investigating Density-Dependent Limitations on Population Growth

Design an experiment to study the impact of density-dependent factors on population growth within a

Hard

Limiting Factors and Population Regulation

Populations are regulated by a variety of limiting factors. Answer the following questions:

Easy

Modeling Exponential vs. Logistic Population Growth

Design an experiment to compare exponential (J-curve) and logistic (S-curve) population growth model

Extreme

Population Dispersal Patterns

Population dispersal patterns describe how individuals are distributed within a habitat. Answer the

Easy

Population Dispersal Patterns

Population dispersal patterns significantly influence species interactions and resource utilization.

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

Simulating Demographic Transition Dynamics

A sociologist is using a controlled simulation to study the demographic transition in a population.

Extreme

Total Fertility Rate and Future Population Projections

Discuss the concept of Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and analyze how variations in TFR across nations i

Medium
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Atmospheric CO₂ Trends and Greenhouse Effects

This question assesses your understanding of atmospheric CO₂ trends and their contribution to the gr

Hard

Effect of pH on Nutrient Availability Experiment

A researcher conducted an experiment to determine how soil pH influences nutrient availability to pl

Easy

Effect of Rock Weathering on Soil Permeability

Design an experiment to determine how the degree of rock weathering (as measured by the percentage o

Medium

Effect of Topography on Local Climate: Rain Shadow Effect

Mountain ranges can dramatically influence local climate conditions through the rain shadow effect.

Medium

Effects of Volcanic Activity on Climate and Atmosphere

Volcanic eruptions can have substantial short-term and long-term impacts on the climate. Analyze the

Extreme

Evaluating Soil Erosion Under Different Farming Techniques

Agricultural practices play a significant role in soil erosion. Evaluate the differences in soil los

Easy

FRQ 1: Plate Tectonics and Seafloor Spreading Experiment

In an experiment simulating seafloor spreading, a research team uses a heated mechanical model with

Medium

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 4: Soil Erosion and Slope Experiment

A research group is investigating how soil erosion rates vary with slope steepness. In a laboratory

Hard

Greenhouse Gases and Earth's Atmosphere

This question evaluates your knowledge of atmospheric composition and the role of greenhouse gases.

Easy

Impact of El Niño on Regional Climate and Ecology

This question explores the climatic and ecological effects of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO

Hard

Impacts of Agricultural Practices on Soil Erosion

A study measured soil erosion rates under different agricultural practices. The table below presents

Medium

Impacts of Atmospheric Composition Changes on Climate

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

Hard

Impacts of Glaciation on Soil Formation

The table below compares soil characteristics in glaciated versus non-glaciated regions: | Region T

Hard

Interactions between Agricultural Practices and Watershed Health

This question evaluates the interactions between intensified agricultural practices and watershed he

Extreme

Investigating the Rain Shadow Effect Using a Wind Tunnel Model

Design an experimental study to simulate and analyze the rain shadow effect using a wind tunnel mode

Medium

Ocean Upwelling and Marine Productivity

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

Hard

Quantitative Analysis of Soil Water Infiltration

Soil compaction affects water infiltration and root growth. Analyze how reduced pore space in compac

Easy

Seafloor Spreading Analysis using Magnetic Striping Diagram

Examine the provided diagram that shows mid-ocean ridges with symmetrical magnetic striping and answ

Hard

Seafloor Spreading Data Analysis

This question examines the concept of seafloor spreading through analysis of quantitative data.

Medium

Soil Composition: Water Holding Capacity Calculation

Water holding capacity (WHC) of soil is determined by the ratio of the volume of water in the soil $

Easy

Soil Erosion Data Analysis

The table below presents soil erosion rates for various types of land use: | Land Use |

Medium

Tornado Formation and Wind Shear

A claim has been circulated stating that tornado formation is solely dependent on the intensity of v

Extreme

Water Holding Capacity and Soil Compaction Calculations

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

Hard

Watershed Management and Nutrient Runoff

The following table presents nitrate concentrations (in mg/L) in runoff water from different land ma

Medium
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Acid Mine Drainage and Ecosystem Recovery

A mining region has been affected by acid mine drainage, which has led to the contamination of nearb

Medium

Agricultural Revolutions: Transforming Society and Environment

Examine the transformations in agricultural practices from early domestication to modern biotechnolo

Hard

Analyzing Policy Responses to Overpopulation and Resource Consumption

Consider the role of overpopulation in environmental degradation and evaluate policy responses aimed

Extreme

Assessing Ecological Footprint Dynamics in Urban Areas

A researcher compares the ecological footprint (expressed in global hectares per person) of high-den

Medium

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 Water Quality

Evaluate the impact of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) on water quality by analyzing

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Irrigation Methods

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

Easy

Economic and Environmental Impacts of Agricultural Mechanization

While agricultural mechanization has driven economic growth, it is claimed to have resulted in signi

Extreme

Evaluating Agricultural Revolutions: Productivity vs Sustainability

A researcher examines how technological innovations during the Second and Third Agricultural Revolut

Medium

Evaluating the Sustainability of Forest Management Practices

A forestry research team compares uneven-aged forest management with clear-cutting to assess their i

Hard

Evaluating Urban Runoff and Its Impact on Water Pollution

Researchers simulate urban runoff by using artificial rainfall over different surface types to asses

Medium

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: Microbial Decomposition in Soil

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

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Modeling Ecological Footprints in Simulated Communities

Researchers established a model ecosystem to simulate resource consumption and waste production in c

Hard

Exploring Soil Erosion in Deforestation Areas

A geomorphologist studies soil erosion rates by comparing clear-cut plots with uncut forest plots. T

Medium

Impacts of Mining on Local Ecosystems

Mining operations have been linked to acid mine drainage and associated ecological disruptions. Crit

Medium

Innovative Irrigation in Arid Regions

Develop an irrigation plan tailored for arid regions that maximizes water use efficiency.

Medium

Investigating Overfishing Effects on Marine Ecosystems

A marine ecologist sets up an experimental tank simulating a small marine ecosystem. Different secti

Hard

IPM vs. Conventional Pesticide Use Effects on Crop Damage

The table below presents data comparing field performance between farms using conventional pesticide

Medium

Measuring Ecological Footprints: Urban vs. Suburban Lifestyles

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

Easy

Mitigating Urban Runoff

Assess the causes and mitigation strategies for urban runoff and its impact on water quality.

Medium

Overfishing: Trends and Sustainable Quotas

Assess the long-term impacts of overfishing on fish stocks using trend analysis, and propose sustain

Medium

Overgrazing and Desertification

In a semi-arid region, intensive grazing practices have led to overgrazing, which in turn is acceler

Hard

Pesticide Effects on Non-target Species

The use of certain pesticides is claimed to cause declines in non-target organism populations. Evalu

Hard

Pesticide Treadmill and Integrated Pest Management

Investigate the relationship between pesticide application frequency and the evolution of pest resis

Hard

Pesticide Treadmill: Evaluating Increased Application

A farmer initially applies 5 lbs/acre of pesticide. Due to evolving pest resistance, the required do

Hard

Pesticide Use vs. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Critically assess the drawbacks of traditional pesticide use and compare them to the benefits of Int

Medium

Smart Growth and Urban Land Use Efficiency

An urban redevelopment project plans mixed-use development on a 500,000 m² plot. This plan is expect

Easy

Soil Conservation with No-Till Farming: Carbon Sequestration

No‐till farming is known to increase soil organic carbon by 0.2 tC/ha per year. A farmer converts 10

Hard

Soil Conversion Techniques and Productivity

The table below compares the effectiveness of various soil conservation techniques by showing the pe

Easy

Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Soil Health

A researcher investigates the impact of sustainable agriculture practices on soil health, focusing o

Medium

Sustainable Agriculture Practices Diagram Analysis

Review the provided diagram that compares sustainable agriculture practices with conventional method

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

Transitioning Toward Renewable Energy for Sustainability

Examine the relationship between energy resource consumption and sustainability, and propose a trans

Extreme

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

Anaerobic Digester Temperature Experiment

Design an experiment to determine how temperature affects biogas (methane) production in an anaerobi

Hard

Application of the Laws of Thermodynamics in Energy Production

Thermodynamic principles govern the efficiency of energy production systems. Analyze how both the fi

Hard

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

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

Medium

Clean Coal Technologies and Emission Controls

Clean coal technologies aim to reduce emissions from coal combustion without compromising energy out

Hard

Clean Coal Technology Evaluation

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Resources

Renewable energy resources are naturally replenished on a human time scale, unlike nonrenewable reso

Medium

Comparative Combustion Efficiency Experiment

Design an experiment to compare the combustion efficiency of a fossil fuel (e.g., coal) and a biomas

Hard

Designing a Hybrid Renewable Energy System for a Rural Community

Propose and evaluate a hybrid renewable energy system that integrates solar, wind, and biomass energ

Extreme

Economic and Environmental Impacts of Renewable Energy Investments

A government report investigated the relationship between regional investments in renewable energy a

Easy

Electrical Energy and Mechanical Energy System Efficiency

A system converts electrical energy into mechanical work with some losses due to inefficiencies. Usi

Medium

Energy Conversion and the First Law of Thermodynamics

In many energy conversion systems, energy is transformed from one form to another while obeying the

Medium

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Fossil Fuel Power Plants

A comparative study of several fossil fuel power plants recorded their thermal energy inputs and ele

Easy

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Nuclear Power Plants

Refer to the diagram depicting the nuclear fission process in a power plant. Answer the following:

Hard

Geothermal Energy: Extraction and Efficiency

Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from the Earth’s interior to generate electricity. Analyze the

Medium

Hydroelectric Dam Environmental Impact Analysis

Study the diagram of a hydroelectric dam system. Answer the following:

Hard

Hydroelectric Dam Power Output Analysis

A hydroelectric dam releases water from a height of 50 m at an average flow rate of 500 m³/s. With w

Medium

Insulation and Energy Conservation Experiment

Design an experiment to test how improvements in insulation affect the thermal energy retention in a

Easy

Investigation of Energy Losses During Transmission

A study measured energy losses in power transmission over various distances. Analyze the following t

Easy

Nuclear Fission Chain Reactions and Energy Output

This question examines the nuclear fission process, the concept of half-life, and the associated ris

Hard

Nuclear Fission Reaction Dynamics

Examine the process of nuclear fission in a reactor. A graph depicting the decay of neutron populati

Medium

Nuclear Fission Reaction Efficiency Experiment

A computer simulation is used to model a nuclear fission chain reaction in a reactor core. The simul

Hard

Nuclear Power Plant Performance Analysis

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

Hard

Nuclear Safety and Reactor Design

Study the schematic diagram of a typical nuclear reactor provided below. Answer the following questi

Extreme

Renewable Energy Comparison: Solar vs. Wind

This FRQ focuses on comparing renewable energy sources by analyzing a graph of energy output trends

Medium

Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Energy: Economic and Environmental Trade-offs

This question examines the differences between renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, focusing o

Hard

Residential Energy Conservation Strategies

This question investigates various energy conservation strategies in residential settings and requir

Easy

Second Law of Thermodynamics: Energy Quality and Efficiency

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

Medium

Secondary Effects of Solar Energy Implementation on Ecosystems

Large-scale solar farms have the potential to alter local ecosystems. Answer the following:

Medium

Solar Energy Efficiency Investigation

A group of researchers has constructed a solar panel array and measured its electrical output under

Medium

Solar Energy Systems: Photovoltaic vs. Solar Thermal

This question analyzes two solar energy systems and evaluates their performance using provided data.

Medium

Stoichiometry of Fossil Fuel Combustion and its Role in Global Warming

Examine the stoichiometry of fossil fuel combustion and its environmental implications in terms of C

Hard

Technologies for Emission Control in Fossil Fuel Combustion

Advanced technologies aim to reduce pollutant emissions from fossil fuel power plants. Analyze how t

Hard

Thermodynamics and Energy Conservation in Industrial Processes

Examine the graph titled 'Energy Flow in Industrial Processes' provided below. Answer the following:

Extreme
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Deposition and Ecosystem Impact

This question focuses on the chemical processes of acid deposition and its potential environmental i

Hard

Analysis of Lead Exposure Risk via Inhalation

Lead exposure from airborne particulates is a serious health risk. (a) Convert a measured airborne l

Hard

Analyzing Industrial Smog Formation Patterns

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

Medium

Assessing Industrial Lead Emissions in a Simulated Furnace

In a laboratory simulation of industrial lead emissions, a researcher used a controlled furnace to v

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

Assessing the Impact of Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen oxides play a crucial role in air pollution dynamics. Explain how nitrogen oxides are forme

Medium

Atmospheric CO₂ and Particulates Monitoring Data Interpretation

A study monitored atmospheric CO₂ and particulate matter (PM) levels over a 30-day period in an indu

Medium

Catalytic Converter Reaction Efficiency Calculation

Catalytic converters reduce harmful emissions in vehicles. (a) Using the equation $$CO_{out} = CO_{i

Easy

Catalytic Converters and Pollution-Control Devices

A new design for a three-way catalytic converter is being evaluated to reduce vehicle emissions more

Medium

Comparing Point Source and Non-point Source Pollution

Understanding the differences between point source and non-point source pollution is crucial for eff

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

Effectiveness of Electrostatic Precipitators in Industrial Settings

Electrostatic precipitators are used in industrial settings to remove suspended particulate matter f

Medium

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 Remediation of Indoor Air Pollutants

This question focuses on designing an experiment to assess the efficacy of a new air purification sy

Hard

Evaluating the Impact of Air Pollution on Ecosystem Nutrient Cycling

Air pollution, through acid deposition and particulate matter, can disrupt nutrient cycling in ecosy

Hard

FRQ 1: Characteristics and Types of Air Pollutants

This FRQ deals with understanding the definitions and examples of different air pollutants and their

Easy

Impact of Nitrogen Oxides on Ozone Formation

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) play a significant role in the formation of tropospheric ozone. Use your knowl

Medium

Impact of Temperature on Formation of Industrial Smog

A researcher conducted a set of experiments to monitor the concentration of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emi

Medium

Impacts of VOCs on Urban Air Quality

This question examines the role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in urban air pollution and stra

Hard

Indoor Air Pollutants and Remediation Strategies

Indoor air quality is a major environmental concern affecting human health. Using the provided table

Easy

Indoor Air Quality: ‘Sick Building Syndrome’

Investigate the factors contributing to sick building syndrome (SBS) and evaluate the effectiveness

Medium

Industrial Smog Formation and Catalytic Converter Mechanisms

This question addresses industrial smog formation and the function of catalytic converters.

Hard

Interpretation of Ozone and Photochemical Smog Formation Data

Ozone is a key component of photochemical smog. The concentration of ozone in an urban area shows va

Medium

Investigating Ozone Formation in Urban Settings

A researcher studies ozone formation by exposing a mixture of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic c

Medium

Lead Pollution and Health Impact Analysis

Lead is a hazardous air pollutant with significant health impacts. In urban settings, measurements o

Medium

Legislative Measures for Sulfur Dioxide Control

A policy analyst is tasked with evaluating existing legislation aimed at reducing sulfur dioxide (SO

Hard

Linking Particulate Matter Sizes to Atmospheric Lifetimes

Particulate matter (PM) in the atmosphere poses different risks based on particle size. The table be

Hard

Long-term Trends in Atmospheric Pollutants

This question examines historical trends in atmospheric pollutants and requires you to interpret dat

Medium

Mechanisms of Ozone as a Secondary Pollutant

Tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant formed by the reaction of nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) with vol

Hard

Monitoring Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) Dispersion Experiment

An environmental scientist studies the dispersion of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) by releasing a trace

Hard

Noise Pollution and Community Health Study

Design an experiment to investigate the impact of noise pollution on community health indicators in

Medium

Noise Pollution and Urban Health Study

In a study conducted in various urban neighborhoods, researchers measured ambient noise levels and s

Easy

Peroxyacyl Nitrate (PAN) Pollution Analysis

This question examines the formation, decay, and ecological impacts of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) in

Medium

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) Effects

Investigate the formation and environmental implications of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) in urban atmo

Hard

Photochemical Smog Formation and Effects

In an urban environment, researchers monitored pollutant levels over different times of day. Sensors

Medium

Photochemical Smog Formation: Data Analysis

Photochemical smog forms from complex reactions involving NOx and VOCs in the presence of sunlight.

Hard

Photochemical Smog Kinetics and Urban Air Quality

Photochemical smog formation is influenced by the interactions of NOx, VOCs, and sunlight. Analyze k

Hard

Photochemical Smog: Formation, Components, and Timing

A city's environmental department is studying photochemical smog to better understand its formation

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

Reduction of Air Pollution: Energy and Transportation

This question examines the impact of reducing automobile usage and switching to cleaner energy sourc

Medium

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

Simulation of Acid Rain Formation from Sulfur Dioxide

A researcher set out to simulate acid rain formation by bubbling sulfur dioxide (SO₂) gas through wa

Medium

Suspended Particulate Matter: Behavior and Impact

Analyze the factors influencing the behavior of suspended particulate matter in the atmosphere and a

Hard

Temporal Variations in Air Pollutants

A researcher collects continuous data on air pollutant concentrations over a 24-hour period in an ur

Medium

Thermal Inversions and Air Pollution Accumulation

Thermal inversions can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues in urban env

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Their Contribution to Air Pollution

Urban heat islands, characterized by higher temperatures in metropolitan areas compared to their rur

Medium

Volcanic Organic Compounds and Temperature

Researchers measured VOC (volatile organic compounds) levels near an active volcano at different amb

Hard
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Anaerobic Digestion and Renewable Energy Recovery

Anaerobic digestion is a waste treatment process that also produces renewable energy. Analyze biogas

Hard

Assessing Drinking Water Treatment Methods: Filtration vs. Disinfection

Evaluate and compare the effectiveness of filtration and disinfection as methods for treating drinki

Medium

Assessing Endocrine Disruptor Effects on Aquatic Organisms

A researcher aimed to study the sub-lethal effects of bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, on

Medium

Assessing the Efficiency of Drinking Water Treatments

Drinking water treatment processes are critical to reducing harmful contaminants. This question invo

Medium

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification in a Freshwater Food Web

A pollutant is introduced into a freshwater lake and its concentration is measured across different

Extreme

Comparative Study of Filtration and Adsorption for Drinking Water Purification

Drinking water purification methods like filtration and adsorption are essential for removing contam

Medium

Comparison of Hazardous Waste Isolation Techniques

This FRQ requires a detailed analysis of methods used to isolate hazardous wastes. Address the follo

Extreme

Evaluating Bioremediation of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

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

Extreme

Evaluating Incineration and its Impact on Air Quality

A city implemented incineration for municipal solid waste management, and air quality data have been

Hard

FRQ3: Impact of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

This FRQ addresses the ecological repercussions of oil spills in marine environments. Analyze the pr

Hard

FRQ9: Comparative Analysis of Urban and Agricultural Runoff

Using the provided table comparing urban and agricultural runoff, analyze the differences in polluta

Medium

Hazardous Waste Management Techniques

A researcher is exploring techniques used for managing hazardous wastes. Answer the following parts.

Medium

Impacts of Biodegradable Wastes on Lake Ecosystems

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

Medium

Integrated Management Strategies for Global Water Pollution Challenges

This comprehensive question addresses the cumulative impacts of human activities on water pollution

Extreme

Investigation of Solid Waste Disposal Effects on Soil and Water Quality

Evaluate how different types of solid waste disposal affect soil and water quality by analyzing degr

Extreme

Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Approaches

Municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal is a major environmental challenge. This question evaluates dif

Hard

Nutrient-Driven Algal Growth Experiment

A researcher designed an experiment to investigate the effect of nitrate concentration on the growth

Medium

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Transport and Accumulation

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are chemicals that remain in the environment for extended perio

Extreme

Persistent Organic Pollutants and their Long-Range Effects

This FRQ explores the characteristics and impacts of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) on ecosyst

Hard

Solid Waste and Landfill Design

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

Medium

Thermal Pollution and Its Impact on Freshwater Ecosystems

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

Medium

Urban Runoff and Microclimate Changes

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

Medium

Water Filtration and Adsorption Efficiency Test

A researcher collected water samples from an industrial effluent known to contain pesticide residues

Medium

Water Quality and Testing Analysis

This FRQ explores water quality parameters and their interrelationships through data analysis and ca

Hard
Unit 9: Global Change

Adaptation Strategies in Response to Environmental Change

This question explores biological strategies such as adaptation and acclimatization in response to e

Medium

Agricultural Practices and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Examine the relationship between agricultural practices and the emission of methane and nitrous oxid

Hard

Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Source

This question involves interpreting a table of annual greenhouse gas emissions by different sectors

Medium

Analyzing the Effects of UV Radiation on Biota

A researcher is investigating how different types of UV radiation (UVA, UVB, and UVC) impact both th

Hard

Case Study: Zebra Mussel Invasion

This question uses a case study of zebra mussel invasion to analyze population growth trends and imp

Medium

Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species

Analyze the effectiveness of various conservation strategies in protecting endangered species.

Medium

Correlating Habitat Loss and Species Extinction Rates

In this question, you will explore the relationship between habitat loss and the rate of species ext

Hard

Deforestation Impact on Carbon Sequestration in a Model Ecosystem

A researcher simulates a forest ecosystem using potted trees in a greenhouse to model carbon sequest

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 repair processes are critical to the balance of the stratosphere. This question requires you t

Hard

Evaluating the Effectiveness of International Environmental Agreements

International agreements such as the Montreal Protocol, Kyoto Protocol, and Paris Agreement aim to m

Hard

Evaluation of International Environmental Protocols

International protocols have been established to address both ozone depletion and climate change. Th

Medium

Experimental Evaluation of International Protocols on Climate Change Mitigation

International agreements aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate environmental impacts.

Extreme

Global Climate Change: Sea-Level Rise Analysis

This question addresses global climate change by analyzing sea-level rise data and proposing an obse

Hard

Impact of Halocarbons on Stratospheric Ozone

This question investigates the pathway by which halocarbons contribute to ozone depletion using reac

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Biodiversity

Evaluate the effects invasive species have on native ecosystems and biodiversity.

Medium

Interconnected Influences on Global Climate Change

This question requires a synthesis of multiple factors affecting global climate change and asks you

Extreme

Methane Warming Effect Chamber Experiment

A researcher conducts an experiment to determine the warming effect of methane on ambient air inside

Medium

Policy Responses to Ozone Depletion

This question requires analysis of human-made chemicals linked to ozone depletion and evaluation of

Hard

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion Analysis

This question addresses the formation of stratospheric ozone and its depletion by human-made chemica

Medium

Stratospheric Ozone Formation and Depletion Mechanisms

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

Medium

Sustainable Practices in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

This question focuses on sustainable practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in urban s

Medium

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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Tips from Former AP Students

FAQWe thought you might have some questions...
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.