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 $AP Environmental Science FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (24)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (22)
  • Unit 3: Populations (20)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (23)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (27)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (28)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (47)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (34)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (25)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Analyzing Lake Stratification

A limnologist collected temperature data at various depths in a deep lake and produced a graph showi

Hard

Comparative Study of Desert Plant Adaptations

Design a controlled greenhouse experiment to evaluate water conservation adaptations in desert succu

Easy

Comparative Terrestrial Biomes

A geographical region contains three distinct biomes: a Desert, a Temperate Deciduous Forest, and a

Hard

Coral Bleaching and Ocean Acidification Experiment

An experimental aquarium study was designed to simulate the effects of ocean acidification and incre

Hard

Deforestation and Carbon Emissions

Analyze the relationship between deforestation and carbon emissions, focusing on the disruption of t

Medium

Ecological Succession in a Disturbed Lake Ecosystem

Following a disturbance event, a lake ecosystem undergoes a complete succession. A graph tracks spec

Medium

Ecosystem Dynamics: Limiting Factors and Niches

Researchers conducted a field study in a small forest ecosystem. They collected data from several pl

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

Energy Flow and Biomass Pyramids

Energy transfer within an ecosystem is often visualized through biomass pyramids. Use the provided i

Medium

Energy Transfer and the 10% Rule in a Trophic Pyramid

In a marine ecosystem, the primary producers capture 5000 kcal/m² of energy. According to the 10% ru

Easy

Evaluating Wetland Ecosystem Services

Design an experiment to assess the role of wetlands in nutrient retention and carbon sequestration.

Hard

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

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

Investigating Primary Productivity in a Freshwater Ecosystem

Design an experiment to test how variations in light intensity and nutrient concentration affect the

Medium

Long-Term Effects of Fossil Fuel Combustion on Atmospheric CO₂ Levels

Atmospheric CO₂ concentrations have been rising over the past 150 years, largely due to fossil fuel

Extreme

Measuring Ecosystem Respiration Using an Automated Chamber

A researcher uses an automated chamber system placed over an open-field plot to continuously measure

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 Dynamics and Eutrophication

A freshwater lake has experienced frequent algal blooms attributed to eutrophication. A graph includ

Medium

Seasonal Turnover and Stratification in Lakes

Thermal stratification and seasonal turnover are critical processes in lake ecosystems. Address the

Medium

Temperature Effects on Enzymatic Activity in Respiration

A study examined the respiration rate of an ectothermic organism at different temperatures. The grap

Hard

Temperature Effects on Soil Respiration

A researcher is studying how soil respiration (the production of CO₂ through microbial decomposition

Medium

Trophic Cascades and Food Web Dynamics

In a forest ecosystem, a sudden change in the population of a keystone predator has been observed. T

Hard

Tropical Rainforest Nutrient Cycling and Productivity

A study in a tropical rainforest found that despite rapid nutrient cycling, the soil remains nutrien

Medium
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Analyzing Population Bottlenecks on Genetic Variability

Population bottlenecks can drastically reduce genetic variability and threaten long-term species via

Hard

Assessing pH Tolerance in an Aquatic Invertebrate Species

Researchers conduct an experiment exposing a freshwater invertebrate (Daphnia) to varying pH levels

Easy

Climate Change Effects on Adaptations and Biodiversity

Global warming is impacting adaptation strategies and biodiversity in coastal ecosystems. Using conc

Extreme

Comparing Short-term Adaptations vs. Long-term Evolutionary Adaptations

A study examines populations of a crustacean exposed to rapidly fluctuating salinity conditions vers

Hard

Ecological Succession: Primary vs. Secondary

Ecological succession describes how communities change over time. Both primary and secondary success

Medium

Ecosystem Recovery After Disturbance

An ecosystem's recovery after a disturbance, such as a wildfire, can often be modeled with a logisti

Hard

Ecosystem Services and Their Value

Ecosystems provide numerous services that support human well-being. Evaluate these services and expl

Easy

Ecosystem Services Trade-offs in Urban Development

This question investigates the trade-offs associated with urban development and its impact on variou

Extreme

Ecosystem Stability and Resilience: A Comparative Analysis

Analyze the factors contributing to ecosystem stability and resilience, with a focus on species dive

Extreme

Equilibrium Species Number and Island Biogeography

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

Hard

Evolutionary Adaptation and Natural Selection Over Time

Analyze the process of evolutionary adaptation and natural selection in response to environmental ch

Extreme

Flood Impact on Soil Saturation

During a flood, soil saturation increases over time, which can adversely affect plant root oxygenati

Easy

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 11: Ecological Succession – Primary vs. Secondary

Following a volcanic eruption, a barren landscape begins to be colonized by life. A researcher compa

Medium

Integrating Ecosystem Services in Urban Planning

As urban areas expand, the integration of ecosystem services into planning becomes critical for sust

Hard

Island Biogeography

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

Medium

Natural Disruptions and Ecosystem Stability

This question explores the ecological impacts of natural disruptions such as flooding, volcanic erup

Medium

Plant Density and Water Pollution Breakdown in River Sections

In a field study, scientists measured pollutant concentrations along river sections with varying den

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

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

Medium

Predicting Ecosystem Recovery Post-Disturbance

Ecosystem recovery following a natural disturbance involves changes in net primary productivity (NPP

Hard

Recovery Dynamics in Ecological Succession

Disturbances impact ecosystem recovery dynamics, influencing net primary productivity (NPP). Analyze

Extreme

Regulating Ecosystem Services and Agricultural Systems

This FRQ addresses how regulating ecosystem services, such as natural pest control, influence agricu

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Analyzing Carrying Capacity Fluctuations

Explore the concept of carrying capacity and interpret the fluctuations depicted in the provided gra

Hard

Evaluating Experimental Designs in Population Dynamics

Critically evaluate an experimental study design that measures population growth in response to vary

Extreme

Experimental Analysis of r-Strategists vs. K-Strategists

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

Medium

FRQ 11: Interpretation of Age-Structure Diagrams

This question focuses on age-structure diagrams and their implications for population dynamics.

Medium

FRQ 13: Survivorship Analysis in a Predatory Environment

A study measured the survival proportions of a prey species over time in an environment with high pr

Medium

Generalists vs. Specialists: Adaptation and Survival

Discuss the differences between generalist and specialist species with emphasis on how these differe

Easy

Global Total Fertility Rate (TFR) Analysis

Examine the concept of total fertility rate and analyze its variation across different countries.

Medium

Interpreting Age-Structure Diagrams

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

Medium

Investigating Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Stability

Design an experiment to test how positive and negative feedback loops affect ecosystem stability wit

Hard

Investigating Limiting Factors in Aquatic Ecosystems

Researchers have observed a decline in a fish population in a lake. They hypothesize that certain li

Medium

Limiting Factors and Population Regulation

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

Easy

Population Dispersal Patterns: Clumped, Uniform, and Random

Describe the three population dispersal patterns—clumped, uniform, and random—and explain the ecolog

Easy

Population Growth Models: Exponential and Logistic

Compare and contrast the exponential (J-curve) and logistic (S-curve) growth models in populations,

Extreme

Population Growth Rate Calculations and Implications

Examine the formula for percent rate of change and apply it to calculate population growth. Discuss

Medium

Predicting Urban Population Growth

Urban centers have been growing rapidly over the past decades. Answer the following: 1. Identify an

Hard

Species Adaptability in Changing Environments

The table below summarizes key differences between generalist and specialist species. Using this inf

Medium

Species Specialization and Extinction Risk

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

Easy

Survivorship Curve Analysis

Evaluate the different types of survivorship curves and discuss their implications for species' repr

Hard

Urban Population Policy and Resource Allocation

Examine urban population growth challenges and propose policy interventions to improve resource allo

Extreme

Urbanization Effects on r- and K-Strategists

Examine how urbanization influences species exhibiting r-selected versus K-selected strategies using

Hard
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Assessing the Impact of Landslides on Infrastructure

This question examines the factors triggering landslides in mountainous regions and their potential

Hard

Atmospheric Circulation and Wind Speed Calculation

This question integrates conceptual understanding of atmospheric pressure systems with quantitative

Medium

Atmospheric CO2 Measurement Experiment

A climatologist used an infrared gas analyzer to measure atmospheric CO2 levels at ground level in a

Hard

CO2 Levels and Plant Growth

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

Medium

Continental Drift and Fossil Distribution

A paleontologist is reviewing evidence supporting continental drift based on fossil records found on

Medium

FRQ 11: Watershed Nutrient Run-Off Experiment

In efforts to assess the impact of agricultural practices on watershed nutrient run-off, researchers

Hard

FRQ 19: Upwelling and Coastal Productivity

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

Hard

Global Wind Patterns and Atmospheric Circulation Analysis

Study the provided diagram of Earth's atmospheric circulation cells (Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar) and

Hard

Human Impact on Soil Erosion and Nutrient Cycling

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

Medium

Human Impacts: Soil Erosion and Sustainable Practices

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

Easy

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

Land Use Change and Environmental Impact

An urban planner is assessing the environmental impacts of urban sprawl on local climate, hydrology,

Extreme

Monsoons: Analyzing Seasonal Rainfall Patterns

Monsoonal climates are marked by dramatic seasonal variations in rainfall and temperature. Analyze t

Medium

Plate Tectonics: Analysis of a Plate Boundaries Diagram

Using the provided diagram of Earth's tectonic plates, answer the following questions about plate bo

Medium

Seafloor Spreading and Magnetic Striping Analysis

Evaluate the process of seafloor spreading by analyzing the patterns of magnetic striping on the oce

Hard

Soil Food Web and Nutrient Cycling

The soil food web is essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems. Explore how disruptions in the

Hard

Soil Formation under Varying Climatic Conditions

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

Medium

Soil Nutrient-Holding Capacity

The claim to be evaluated is that soils rich in clay particles always hold nutrients more efficientl

Medium

Soil Texture Impact on Water Holding Capacity Experiment

A soil scientist investigated how different soil textures affect water holding capacity by using sta

Easy

Solar Radiation and Earth's Seasons: Calculating Incident Energy

The amount of solar energy incident on a surface is given by $$Q = I * \cos(\theta)$$, where $$I$$ i

Easy

Solar Radiation and Seasonal Temperature Variation

A hypothesis claims that the tilt of Earth's axis is the only factor causing seasonal variations in

Medium

Urban Expansion and Biodiversity Loss

A claim suggests that urban expansion is the primary driver of local biodiversity loss. Evaluate thi

Hard
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Agricultural Revolutions: From Domestication to Modern Mechanization

Agricultural revolutions have dramatically increased food production but have also contributed to en

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

Analyzing Soil Fertility and Agricultural Input Use

A researcher conducts an experiment to compare the effects of inorganic and organic fertilizers on s

Medium

Analyzing the Effects of Slash-and-Burn Agriculture

A researcher investigates the impacts of slash-and-burn agriculture on soil fertility and atmospheri

Hard

Assessment of Pesticide Treadmill Dynamics through Laboratory Simulation

A researcher simulates the development of pesticide resistance in a pest population by applying a sp

Hard

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

Clear-Cutting and Forest Edge Effects

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Irrigation Methods

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

Easy

Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

Analyze the environmental consequences of deforestation, focusing on habitat fragmentation and biodi

Hard

Environmental Impact of CAFOs

Investigate the environmental issues associated with Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs),

Hard

Environmental Impacts of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)

Studies claim that CAFOs contribute significantly to water pollution through nutrient runoff. Evalua

Medium

Evaluating GMO Crop Performance under Environmental Stress

Design an experiment to evaluate how genetically modified (GMO) crops perform under drought conditio

Medium

Evaluating the Role of Urban Greening in Mitigating the Urban Heat Island Effect

Design an experiment to assess whether urban greening (e.g., parks, green roofs) can mitigate the ur

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Modeling Ecological Footprints in Simulated Communities

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

Hard

Genetic Engineering in Agriculture: A Yield Analysis

Analyze the impact of genetic engineering in agriculture by comparing the yields of GM and non-GM cr

Medium

Green Revolution and GMOs in Modern Agriculture

Analyze the role of the Green Revolution and the introduction of GMOs in modern agriculture with reg

Medium

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Sustainable Agriculture

This question focuses on pest control strategies with an emphasis on sustainable practices through I

Medium

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies in a Citrus Orchard

A citrus orchard has experienced recurring pest outbreaks that have proven resistant to conventional

Hard

Integrated Urban and Agricultural Water Management

An emerging claim argues that integrating urban runoff management with agricultural irrigation strat

Extreme

Investigating Nutrient Runoff from CAFO Operations into Waterways

Design an experiment to investigate nutrient (nitrate) runoff from Concentrated Animal Feeding Opera

Hard

Mitigating Urban Runoff

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

Medium

Overfishing and Its Ecological Consequences

This question focuses on the impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems, including data interpretati

Medium

Overfishing and Marine Ecosystem Restoration

Analyze the effects of overfishing on marine ecosystems and explore management methods to restore ec

Hard

Tragedy of the Commons: Overexploitation Analysis

Analyze how unsustainable exploitation of shared resources can lead to environmental degradation, wi

Medium

Urban Sprawl and Land Use Conversion

Assess the impact of urban expansion on agricultural land through quantitative and qualitative analy

Easy

Urban Sprawl and Land Use Transformation

Urban sprawl is said to drive the conversion of agricultural lands into urban areas. Evaluate this c

Medium

Urbanization and its Effects on Urban Runoff

Rapid urbanization is claimed to lead to increased pollutant concentrations in urban runoff, thus af

Medium
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Advanced Clean Coal Technology

Clean coal technology is designed to reduce the environmental impact of coal combustion. Analyze the

Hard

Application of the First Law of Thermodynamics in Power Systems

The First Law of Thermodynamics is fundamental to understanding energy conservation in power plants.

Medium

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Fossil Fuel Extraction

Examine the regional map provided which shows fossil fuel extraction sites, adjacent urban areas, an

Extreme

Assessment of Carbon Capture and Storage Technologies

A power plant utilizes several carbon capture methods. The table below shows the capture efficiencie

Hard

Battery Storage and Energy Efficiency Experiment

An experiment is designed to evaluate the energy efficiency of a battery storage system over multipl

Medium

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

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

Easy

Biomass Energy: Sustainability and Efficiency

This question examines biomass as a renewable energy source and considers both its energy production

Medium

Cogeneration System Thermal Efficiency Experiment

A researcher tests a cogeneration (combined heat and power) system by varying system load. The syste

Medium

Comparing Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Systems

Solar energy can be harnessed by either solar thermal collectors or photovoltaic cells. Analyze and

Medium

Electric Vehicle Energy Consumption Experiment

A study is performed to analyze the energy consumption of an electric vehicle during a standardized

Extreme

Energy Conservation in Urban Environments

Urban areas face significant energy demands. Explore strategies for reducing energy consumption in c

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 Power Plants

This question requires you to analyze energy conversion from thermal to electrical energy in power p

Extreme

Energy Conversion in Turbine-Generator Systems

Examine the series of energy conversions that occur in a conventional thermal power plant, from fuel

Medium

Energy Output from Combustion Reaction

Consider the combustion of a fossil fuel which releases energy according to the reaction with an ene

Medium

Energy Unit Conversion Calculations

In a lab, energy values must be converted between different units. Given that $$1 \text{ HP} = 746 \

Easy

Geothermal Turbine Experiment

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of water temperature in a simulated geothermal system

Hard

Hydraulic Fracturing and Groundwater Impact

A study investigated the impact of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) on nearby groundwater by measurin

Hard

Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid Efficiency Experiment

An engineering team conducts an experiment to optimize hydraulic fracturing by testing different flu

Hard

Hydroelectric Power and Ecosystem Impact

Dams used for hydroelectric power generation provide renewable energy but also have significant ecol

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cells Performance Analysis

Hydrogen fuel cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy through chemical reactions. Using

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

Long-Term Energy Demand Projection with Conservation Impact

A country's current annual energy demand is 1,000,000 GWh, and it is projected to grow at 2% per yea

Hard

Nuclear Fission and Reactor Safety

Nuclear power generation relies on controlled fission reactions. Analyze the mechanisms of nuclear f

Hard

Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Energy Cost-Benefit Experiment

A computer simulation is used to compare the long-term cost-effectiveness, energy output, and net en

Hard

Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Energy Sources

This question examines the differences between renewable and nonrenewable energy sources and evaluat

Medium

Residential Energy Conservation Strategies

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

Easy

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 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

Analyzing Sources and Types of Air Pollution

This question explores the distinctions among various types of air pollutants. Identify and compare

Easy

Assessing the Air Pollution Impact of Urban Heat Islands

Urban heat islands can exacerbate local air pollution. Analyze the relationship between higher urban

Medium

Calculating Acid Deposition from Sulfur Dioxide Emissions

Acid deposition is a significant environmental concern. A power plant emits 5000 grams of sulfur dio

Extreme

Carbon Footprint and the Trade-Offs in Modern Energy Production

Assess the interplay between combustion of fossil fuels for energy and its impacts on air quality, f

Medium

Carbon Monoxide: Sources, Reactions, and Remediation

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous air pollutant resulting from incomplete combustion. This questio

Medium

Catalytic Converter Reactions

Catalytic converters play a crucial role in reducing harmful vehicular emissions. Explain the chemic

Medium

Catalytic Converters: Mechanisms and Limitations

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

Hard

CO Emissions and Catalytic Converter Efficacy

An experiment measured CO levels at various temperatures with and without a catalytic converter. The

Hard

Comparative Study of Natural vs. Anthropogenic PMx Sources

Design an experiment to compare the concentrations of naturally occurring particulate matter (PMx) v

Hard

Diurnal Variation of Photochemical Smog Components

This question focuses on the daily variation in the concentrations of photochemical smog components.

Hard

Evaluating Emission Reductions from Alternative Transportation

A city is considering policies to reduce vehicular CO2 emissions by promoting alternative transporta

Easy

Evaluating Point Source vs Non-Point Source Air Pollution

City planners are revising pollution control strategies and need to distinguish between point source

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

Evaluation of Air Pollutant Sampling Techniques

Accurate measurement of airborne pollutants is essential for assessing air quality. A study employed

Extreme

FRQ 2: Industrial Smog Formation and Effects

This question addresses the chemical processes involved in the formation of industrial smog and exam

Medium

FRQ 5: Nitrogen Oxides: Formation and Impact

Examine the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) from combustion processes and their environmental con

Hard

FRQ 9: Suspended Particulate Matter Analysis

Evaluate the environmental and health impacts of suspended particulate matter and assess the effecti

Hard

Heat Islands and Urban Air Pollution

This question examines urban heat islands and their relationship to enhanced local precipitation and

Hard

Impact of Industrial Activity on Particulate Matter Levels

Industrial activities are major contributors to particulate matter levels in the atmosphere. Discuss

Medium

Impact of Industrial Air Pollution on Terrestrial Ecosystems

Industrial air pollutants can lead to soil acidification and reduced vegetation diversity. The table

Hard

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

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 Exposure and Public Health Implications

Urban areas often face challenges with lead contamination due to industrial activities, lead-acid ba

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

Multi-Factor Analysis of Urban Air Pollution

A metropolitan area is suffering from severe air pollution problems. Analyze the contributions of pr

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 Soil Nutrient Imbalance

Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) contribute to atmospheric and soil changes. Evaluate their role in altering so

Medium

Nitrogen Oxides Reaction Lab: Formation of Tropospheric Ozone

In a controlled laboratory, a researcher uses UV lamps to simulate the conversion of nitric oxide (N

Hard

Noise Pollution Assessment in Urban Areas

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

Easy

Photochemical Reactions in Urban Environments

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

Extreme

Photochemical Smog and Ozone Formation

Examine the formation mechanisms of photochemical smog and the related health implications.

Hard

Photochemical Smog Dynamics

This question examines the sequence of reactions involved in photochemical smog formation and requir

Extreme

Regulatory Impacts on Industrial Air Pollutants

A regulatory body collected data on industrial pollutant levels before and after the implementation

Extreme

Sulfur Dioxide Reactions and Environmental Impact

This question assesses your understanding of the atmospheric chemistry of sulfur dioxide and its env

Medium

Suspended Particulate Matter and Its Behavior

Analyze the factors influencing the atmospheric behavior of suspended particulate matter.

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

Thermal Inversions and Pollutant Trapping

Thermal inversions can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. A table bel

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollutant Concentrations

Urban heat islands (UHIs) can influence air quality. Consider the following data, which shows urban

Hard

Urban Heat Islands and Their Contribution to Air Pollution

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

Medium

Urban Lead Sources and Health Risks

Lead is a dangerous pollutant particularly in urban environments. Answer the following: (a) Identif

Medium

Volatile Organic Compounds and Indoor Air Quality

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

Easy

Volcanic Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Air Quality

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

Medium

Volcanic VOCs and Health Effects

Volcanic organic compounds (VOCs) can influence air quality during eruptions. Answer the following:

Medium
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Anaerobic Digestion as a Waste Management Strategy

A researcher examines anaerobic digestion as an alternative method for municipal waste management. A

Easy

Anaerobic Digestion for Waste Energy Recovery

This FRQ focuses on anaerobic digestion processes used in converting organic waste into renewable en

Medium

Analysis of a Point-Source Pollution Event in a River

Following a discharge from a chemical plant, water samples were collected upstream and downstream of

Medium

Analyzing Urban Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure

An urban water treatment facility recently upgraded from secondary to tertiary treatment. A graph co

Medium

Analyzing Water Pollution Sources

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

Easy

Assessing Urban Runoff and Its Environmental Effects

This FRQ analyzes urban runoff data with respect to physical parameters and discusses strategies to

Medium

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification Kinetics

This FRQ focuses on the processes of bioaccumulation and biomagnification in food chains and involve

Medium

Calculating Biomagnification Factors from Experimental Data

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

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Waste Treatment Methods

This question requires a comparative evaluation of different waste treatment methods used to manage

Extreme

Designing a Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Strategy

This FRQ challenges you to evaluate various solid waste disposal methods and design an integrated st

Hard

Designing a Remediation Strategy for an Oil-Contaminated Coastal Zone

Oil spills in coastal zones can have long-lasting detrimental effects on local ecosystems. Design an

Hard

Dissolved CO2 Measurement Using pH-Sensitive Indicator

A researcher attempted to measure dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in a freshwater lake using a

Medium

Drinking Water Treatment Methods Comparison

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

Medium

Drinking Water Treatment Processes

A water treatment researcher is comparing different methods used in drinking water treatment. Answer

Easy

Effects of Temperature on Metabolic Rates in Aquatic Organisms

This FRQ explores the relationship between water temperature and the metabolic rate in aquatic organ

Easy

Effects of Urban Development on Wetlands and Mangroves

An environmental monitoring project collected data on biodiversity, water quality, and sediment accu

Medium

Evaluating Methane Production from Anaerobic Digestion

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

Medium

Evaluating Oil Spill Impacts on Marine Ecosystems

Following an oil spill event, researchers collected data to assess its impacts on a coastal ecosyste

Hard

Exploring the Impact of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

After an oil spill, a controlled experiment is conducted to assess its impact on seawater quality. K

Hard

FRQ4: Water Quality Testing Analysis

Analyze water quality data provided from multiple test sites. Use the data to assess the state of th

Medium

Global Impacts of Ocean Dumping and Waste Trade

A decade-long study compiles data on international waste trade and ocean dumping incidents. The tabl

Extreme

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

Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Formation and Effects

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

Hard

Impact of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

This FRQ examines the ecological consequences of oil spills using both data analysis and quantitativ

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

Marine Biodiversity and Oil Spill Recovery Analysis

This FRQ examines the recovery of marine species diversity following an oil spill using longitudinal

Easy

Mining and Water Contamination

A researcher is examining how mining operations contribute to water contamination. Answer the follow

Medium

Municipal Solid Waste Management Analysis

Municipal solid waste (MSW) includes a variety of materials that decompose at different rates. The f

Medium

Solid Waste and Landfill Design

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

Medium

Thermal Pollution Effects on Aquatic Ecosystems

This FRQ explores how thermal pollution from industrial discharges affects aquatic ecosystems, parti

Easy

Urban Runoff and Flooding Effects on Water Quality

Urban areas often experience heavy rainfall events that lead to significant runoff. This runoff can

Hard

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: Field Assessment

A local environmental agency conducted field tests on a nearby lake to assess its water quality. The

Medium
Unit 9: Global Change

Analyzing Climate Feedback Loops

Climate feedback loops can amplify or dampen the effects of climate forcing. In this final problem,

Extreme

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

Assessing the Impact of Global Warming on Weather Patterns

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

Medium

Assessment of Ocean Acidification and Its Impact on Marine Life

Marine scientists are investigating the process of ocean acidification resulting from increased atmo

Hard

Biodiversity Loss: Invasive Species Impact on Ecosystems

This question deals with the impact invasive species can have on native biodiversity and ecosystem s

Hard

Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species

This question deals with the factors leading to species endangerment and explores conservation strat

Medium

Deforestation and Its Impact on Atmospheric CO₂ Levels

Evaluate the relationship between deforestation and rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations.

Hard

Energy Production and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

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

Medium

Experimental Design for Measuring Forest Carbon Sequestration

Forests act as significant carbon sinks. Develop an experimental design to measure the carbon seques

Medium

Global Climate Change: Sea-Level Rise Analysis

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

Hard

Global Policies on Ozone and Climate Change

This question requires you to compare international policies addressing ozone depletion and climate

Hard

Habitat Fragmentation and Endangered Species

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

Hard

Human Health and Climate Change: Heat-Related Illnesses

This question examines the relationship between ambient temperature and the incidence of heat-relate

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Biodiversity

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

Medium

Impacts of Invasive Species on Biodiversity

The following table lists several invasive species along with the regions they have affected and a b

Medium

Impacts of Ozone Depletion on Ecosystem Services

In regions experiencing significant ozone depletion, various ecosystem services are affected. The re

Medium

Invasive Species Monitoring: Data Interpretation

A study tracks the spread of European green crabs in a coastal region over 20 years. Use the data pr

Medium

Invasive Species: Impacts, Management, and Recovery

This question addresses the pathways of invasive species introduction, their impacts, and management

Medium

Methane Warming Effect Chamber Experiment

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

Medium

Modeling Ozone Concentration with UV Radiation

A scientist aims to quantify the rate of ozone production as a function of UV radiation intensity. T

Extreme

Ocean Acidification Impact on Coral Growth

A researcher investigates the effects of ocean acidification on coral growth by placing coral sample

Medium

Oceanic Heat Storage and Thermal Expansion

A climate scientist investigates how the world's oceans absorb and store heat from the atmosphere an

Hard

Population Genetics in Endangered Species

Analyze the genetic challenges faced by endangered species due to small population sizes and propose

Extreme

The Role of International Agreements in Mitigating Climate Change

This question examines the role of international agreements in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and

Easy

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.