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AP Biology Free Response Questions

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

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (25)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (32)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (30)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (26)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (27)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (31)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (52)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (27)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Acid-Base Reactions and pH Calculations

Examine a series of aqueous solutions to understand acid-base behavior. Utilize quantitative calcula

Medium

Analyzing the Impact of Glucose Structural Conformation on Metabolic Reaction Rates

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

Medium

Atomic Structure and Isotopes: Composition of Elements

Discuss the difference between elements and compounds, describing the arrangement of subatomic parti

Medium

Carbohydrates: Structures and Reactions

Compare the different types of carbohydrates and their roles in biological systems.

Easy

Chemical Bonding Analysis: Ionic vs. Covalent

A chemist is examining the differences between ionic and covalent bonds.

Hard

Chemical Bonding in Biological Molecules

Examine the roles of different types of chemical bonds in maintaining the structure of biological mo

Easy

Evaluating the Relationship Between Molecular Structure and Biological Function

This FRQ challenges you to examine how the structure of various organic molecules determines their b

Extreme

FRQ 2: Subatomic Particles and Isotopes

Explain the structure of an atom by discussing the roles of protons, neutrons, and electrons, and il

Medium

FRQ 4: Dehydration Synthesis Reactions

A dehydration synthesis reaction joins two molecules by removing a water molecule. Explain how this

Medium

FRQ 7: Carbon's Versatility in Organic Molecules

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

Easy

FRQ 16: Analyzing a Graph of Enzyme Activity vs. Temperature

The graph provided represents the activity of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction as a function of temperat

Hard

Hydrogen Bonding in Water: A Molecular Perspective

A chemist is investigating the unique properties of water that arise from hydrogen bonding. Answer t

Hard

Integrating Concepts: From Atomic Structure to Macromolecular Function

In an interdisciplinary project, students investigate how the arrangement of subatomic particles in

Extreme

Interconnection Between Organic Molecule Classes

Biological systems rely on the interplay among carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. E

Hard

Investigating Isotopic Effects on Molecular Structures

Researchers are exploring how the substitution of isotopes, such as replacing protium (H) with deute

Hard

Lipids and Membrane Fluidity

A researcher is examining how cholesterol affects the fluidity of cell membranes. Artificial membran

Medium

Macromolecule Diversity in Cells

Compare the major classes of organic molecules found in cells and their functional roles.

Easy

Molecular Composition and Elements in Life

This question asks you to explore how the elements fundamental to life (O, C, H, and N) contribute t

Easy

Nitrogen in Macromolecules

Nitrogen is an essential element in many organic molecules. (a) Explain why nitrogen is important i

Easy

Organic Molecules and Functional Groups

Examine how functional groups in organic molecules influence their chemical reactivity and biologica

Easy

Organic Molecules: Carbohydrates and Dehydration Synthesis

Investigate the formation of complex carbohydrates via dehydration synthesis and discuss the reversi

Medium

Polymerization Reactions: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Discuss the chemical processes involved in polymer formation and breakdown.

Easy

Properties of Water Molecules

This question examines how water's hydrogen bonding leads to its unique properties and how these pro

Medium

Trace Elements and Enzymatic Activity

Discuss the importance of trace elements in cellular metabolism and enzymatic function.

Medium

Trace Elements and Enzyme Activity

Evaluate the importance of trace elements in supporting enzyme function and overall biological activ

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Actin Polymerization and Filament Length

Actin monomers polymerize to form microfilaments in cells. If each actin monomer contributes approxi

Medium

Active vs Passive Ion Transport Experiment

In an effort to differentiate between active and passive ion transport, researchers used ion-selecti

Extreme

Cell Size and Diffusion Experiment

An experiment was designed to study the rate of dye diffusion in cells of varying sizes, using the c

Easy

Comparing Passive and Active Transport under Variable Conditions

A study compares the efficiency of passive (diffusion) and active transport mechanisms under varying

Hard

Cytoskeleton Dynamics in Cell Division

A researcher investigates the role of the cytoskeleton, particularly actin microfilaments, in the pr

Medium

Dialysis and Solute Diffusion Analysis

This FRQ explores how the principles of diffusion are utilized in dialysis to remove solutes from th

Easy

Diffusion through Aquaporins: Rate Calculations

Fick's first law of diffusion is given by $$J = -D * \frac{dC}{dx}$$, where J is the diffusion flux,

Extreme

Effect of Temperature on Diffusion Rates

This question involves the design of an experiment to investigate how temperature affects the rate o

Medium

Endocytosis and Exocytosis Experimental Data Analysis

The table below shows experimental data measuring the rates of endocytosis and exocytosis at various

Hard

Endocytosis and Exocytosis Processes

Cells use vesicular transport to move large particles and bulk materials across the plasma membrane.

Medium

Endocytosis Inhibition Study

An investigation into receptor-mediated endocytosis was carried out by treating cultured cells with

Hard

Endocytosis Processes

This question examines the different mechanisms of endocytosis and requires analysis of a diagram de

Medium

Endosymbiotic Theory Evidence Analysis

This FRQ is designed to analyze evidence supporting the endosymbiotic theory regarding the origins o

Hard

Evaluation of the Fluid Mosaic Model Diagram

This question requires analysis of a provided diagram representing the fluid mosaic model of the pla

Hard

Golgi Complex Function in Protein Secretion

Design an experiment to assess how inhibition of the Golgi complex affects protein processing and se

Easy

Investigating the Effects of Cell Membrane Permeability Changes

The table below presents data from an experiment where chemical treatments altered cell membrane per

Hard

Microscopic Techniques in Cellular Analysis

Compare the capabilities of light microscopy and electron microscopy in studying cellular components

Easy

Mitochondrial ATP Production

A cell oxidizes 0.002 moles of glucose per minute. Given that one mole of glucose yields 36 moles of

Hard

Mitochondrial Function and ATP Production

A study compared the rate of ATP production in cells with altered mitochondrial efficiency. Research

Easy

Mitochondrial Function and ATP Production

Mitochondria are central to energy production in the cell. (a) Outline the structure of the mitocho

Medium

Organelles and Their Functions in Eukaryotic Cells

A cell biologist is examining the functions of several organelles in eukaryotic cells, including the

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential in Plant Cells

A botanist is studying water movement in plant cells. The following table provides experimental data

Hard

Protein Processing in the Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex

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

Medium

Receptor Mediated Endocytosis and Signal Transduction

This question explores receptor-mediated endocytosis and its possible influence on downstream cellul

Hard

Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis Efficiency

Design an experiment to evaluate the efficiency of receptor-mediated endocytosis in cells exposed to

Hard

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms

An experiment was designed to examine how organism size affects heat exchange with the environment u

Easy

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms & Heat Exchange

This FRQ connects the concept of surface area-to-volume ratio with heat exchange in organisms.

Hard

Temperature Effects on Active Transport Mechanisms

Design an experiment to assess how varying temperatures affect the activity of the sodium-potassium

Hard

Temperature Effects on Membrane Fluidity

Temperature plays a key role in determining the fluidity of cellular membranes. Examine the impact o

Medium

Vacuoles in Plant and Animal Cells

Vacuoles play different roles in plant and animal cells. Answer the following:

Easy

Vesicle Volume Changes During Neurotransmitter Release

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

Hard

Vesicular Transport Analysis

Researchers designed an experiment to analyze vesicle formation and release during exocytosis in cul

Medium
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Respiration Comparison

Aerobic and anaerobic respiration differ markedly in their ATP yields and metabolic pathways. Compar

Medium

Allosteric Regulation of Enzymes

Design an experiment to evaluate the effects of an allosteric inhibitor on enzyme activity.

Hard

Anaerobic Glycolysis

Discuss how glycolysis proceeds in the absence of oxygen and explain the importance of NAD+ regenera

Medium

Analysis of Enzyme Denaturation Data

A lab experiment evaluated enzyme activity at different pH levels. The results are summarized in the

Medium

ATP Yield from Cellular Respiration

Aerobic cellular respiration converts glucose into energy. In this problem, you will derive the tota

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Photosynthesis

The table below compares key features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic photosynthesis. Analyze the data

Extreme

Comparative Energy Pathways: Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

Compare the energy conversion processes in photosynthesis and cellular respiration, with a focus on

Medium

Comparing Competitive vs Noncompetitive Inhibition

Answer the following questions regarding enzyme inhibition using the provided data.

Medium

Coupling of Exergonic and Endergonic Reactions

Researchers aim to demonstrate how an exergonic reaction can be coupled to an endergonic reaction us

Medium

Energy Coupling in Metabolic Pathways

Design an experiment to test how coupling an exergonic reaction (ATP hydrolysis) with an endergonic

Hard

Enzyme Catalysis and Reaction Rates

This question focuses on how enzymes catalyze reactions by lowering activation energy and how reacti

Medium

Enzyme Catalysis and Reaction Rates

This question explores how various factors affect enzyme activity and reaction rates.

Medium

Enzyme Kinetics and Temperature Effects

Examine the table below showing enzyme reaction rates measured at different temperatures. Use the da

Hard

Enzyme-Substrate Interactions and Induced Fit

A researcher examines how varying substrate concentrations affect the reaction rate of an enzyme. Th

Medium

Fermentation and Muscle Function

Under strenuous exercise, muscle cells switch to anaerobic respiration (fermentation), leading to la

Medium

Fermentation vs. Aerobic Respiration

Contrast anaerobic fermentation and aerobic respiration in terms of ATP yield, by‐products, and the

Medium

Inhibition of the Krebs Cycle via Competitive Inhibitors

A researcher investigates the effect of a competitive inhibitor on a key enzyme of the Krebs cycle.

Hard

Investigation of Cytochrome c Oxidase Inhibition and Membrane Integrity

A research team designed an experiment to study the effect of increasing concentrations of a cytochr

Hard

Krebs Cycle Energy Yield Analysis

A researcher examines the energy yield from the Krebs cycle during cellular respiration.

Medium

Metabolic Adaptations During Intense Exercise

During intense exercise, muscle cells switch from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism. Analyze the metab

Extreme

Proton Gradients in Cellular Energy Conversion

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

Hard

Reaction Coupling and ATP Hydrolysis

This question addresses the concept of reaction coupling in metabolic processes.

Easy

Reaction Coupling and ATP Hydrolysis Calculations

Cells frequently couple exergonic and endergonic reactions to drive unfavorable processes. Use the p

Hard

Reaction Coupling and ATP Synthesis

Reaction coupling is central to cellular metabolism. Using ATP hydrolysis as an example, explain how

Medium

Role of Cofactors in Enzymatic Activity

In an experiment, the addition of Mg2+ to an enzymatic reaction resulted in an increased reaction ra

Easy

Role of Cofactors in Enzyme Catalysis

A researcher explores how cofactors and coenzymes enhance enzyme activity in biochemical reactions.

Easy

Substrate Concentration and Enzyme Saturation

A researcher studies how varying substrate concentration affects the reaction rate of an enzyme-cata

Hard

Temperature-Induced Enzyme Denaturation

Propose an experiment to investigate the effect of elevated temperatures on enzyme activity and stru

Medium

Testing the Induced-Fit Mechanism in Enzymes

Develop an experiment to test the induced-fit model of enzyme-substrate binding.

Medium

Thermodynamics and Energy Diagrams

Cells follow the laws of thermodynamics to manage energy transformations. The First Law states that

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Analyzing Phototransduction in Retinal Cells

Phototransduction in retinal cells is a prime example of a signal transduction cascade involving rap

Hard

Analyzing Signal Transduction Pathways: Crosstalk and Amplification

An experiment investigates the dynamics of a signal transduction cascade and suggests there may be c

Hard

Bacterial Chemotaxis Investigation

A scientist is investigating the chemotactic behavior of a unicellular bacterium in response to vary

Easy

Cell Cycle Checkpoint Analysis

Checkpoint regulation ensures that errors during the cell cycle do not propagate. Analyze how delays

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Membrane Receptor Classes

Cells utilize various classes of membrane receptors to perceive and respond to external signals. Con

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Positive and Negative Feedback in Cellular Regulation

Feedback mechanisms are critical for maintaining homeostasis in biological systems. A researcher is

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Signal Transduction in Neurons vs. Muscle Cells

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

Hard

Cyclin/CDK Complex Function

A claim posits that the formation of the cyclin/CDK complex is a critical checkpoint event that driv

Medium

Distinguishing Negative and Positive Feedback in Cellular Signaling

A researcher monitors the strength of a cellular signal over time following an initial stimulus. The

Medium

Evaluating Oncogenic Activation Effects on Mitotic Rate

This question examines how oncogenic activation can influence the rate of cell division by altering

Extreme

Exploring Cell Junctions and Direct Cell-to-Cell Communication

Cell junctions play a critical role in maintaining proper cell-to-cell communication in tissues.

Easy

Feedback Inhibition in Hormone Signaling

In an investigation of insulin's role in blood glucose regulation, a researcher treats isolated live

Easy

Feedback Loops in Signal Transduction Pathways

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

Extreme

GPCR Dynamics and cAMP Production

This question examines the dynamics of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) activation and its role in

Hard

Integration of Taxis and Signal Transduction Pathways

Cells integrate external chemical signals and internal signal transduction mechanisms to navigate th

Easy

Investigating the Role of Cell Junctions in Direct Cell Communication

Cells in multicellular organisms communicate directly through specialized structures known as cell j

Easy

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels and Muscle Contraction

A study examines the role of acetylcholine in muscle contraction via ligand-gated ion channels. The

Easy

Mathematical Modeling of Cell Cycle Dynamics

A mathematical model of cyclin accumulation during the cell cycle is described by the differential e

Extreme

Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes

Cancer development is closely linked to genetic alterations in cell cycle regulation. A researcher i

Hard

Oncogenes versus Tumor Suppressor Genes in Cancer Development

Tumor biopsy data reveal overexpression of a proto-oncogene and underexpression of a tumor suppresso

Hard

Pathway Crosstalk Analysis in Fibroblasts

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

Extreme

Role of GTPases in Regulation of Signal Transduction

G-protein linked receptors utilize GTPases as part of their signal transduction mechanism. Consider

Hard

S Phase DNA Replication Fidelity

A research lab examines the effects of a cyclin inhibitor on the fidelity of DNA replication during

Medium

Signal Transduction Cascades: Ligand-Receptor Binding

Design an experiment to measure the activation of a receptor by a specific ligand and the resulting

Hard

Signal Transduction Schematic Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram of a signal transduction pathway. Consider the pathway components illus

Hard

Tumor Suppressor Genes and Apoptotic Response

Researchers compare the response of wild type cells and cells with a mutated p53 gene (a key tumor s

Hard
Unit 5: Heredity

Analysis of Sex-Linked Traits

Sex-linked traits, particularly those associated with the X chromosome, exhibit unique inheritance p

Medium

Analyzing Dihybrid Cross Data

A dihybrid cross involving two traits, plant height (T = tall, t = short) and flower color (Y = yell

Medium

Analyzing Pedigree Data to Determine Inheritance Patterns

A genetic counselor is analyzing a pedigree chart showing the inheritance pattern of a particular tr

Medium

Determining Genotypes through Test Crosses

A test cross was performed by crossing a tall plant of unknown genotype with a short, homozygous rec

Easy

Dihybrid Cross and Probability Rules

This question examines the use of the product rule from probability in the context of a dihybrid cro

Medium

Environmental Effects on Phenotype

Discuss the concept of phenotypic plasticity, explaining how organisms with the same genotype can ex

Medium

Exploring Meiotic Nondisjunction

Errors during meiosis can have significant impacts on an organism. Answer the following: (a) Define

Hard

Gamete Production and Fertilization

Describe the process of gametogenesis in males and females and analyze how these processes contribut

Medium

Genetic Variation Through Independent Assortment During Meiosis

A cell biologist is exploring the mechanisms behind genetic variation during meiosis, focusing on th

Easy

Identifying Conceptual Error in Plant Hybridization Experiment

Researchers conducted a plant hybridization experiment by crossing two species with distinct petal c

Medium

Incomplete Dominance in Flower Color

In some cases, the blending of traits can occur through incomplete dominance, such as in snapdragons

Medium

Investigating Gene Expression and Pedigree Data for Sex-linked Conditions

Analyze the provided pedigree data for a sex-linked condition (e.g., hemophilia) and predict inherit

Hard

Investigating Meiotic Nondisjunction Effects

During a study on meiotic errors, a cytogeneticist examines the occurrence of nondisjunction in game

Hard

Mapping Linked Genes Using Recombination Frequency Data

Design an experiment to map the relative positions of three linked genes in a plant species using re

Hard

Mendel’s Laws: Dominance and Segregation

This question focuses on the fundamental principles of Mendel’s laws. You will describe these laws a

Easy

Mendelian Genetics and Punnett Squares

Mendel’s experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for modern genetics. In this question, you

Medium

Mendelian Inheritance and Test Cross

This question involves using a test cross to determine the genotype of a tall pea plant. A tall plan

Hard

Monohybrid Cross: Tall vs Short Pea Plants

This problem explores Mendel's law of dominance through a monohybrid cross between a heterozygous ta

Easy

Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Codominance vs. Incomplete Dominance

Compare and contrast codominance and incomplete dominance using real-world examples. Then, predict t

Medium

Nondisjunction and Its Consequences

Discuss the process of nondisjunction during meiosis and how it can lead to aneuploidy. Use Down syn

Hard

Pedigree Analysis and Carrier Probability

In a pedigree study of an autosomal recessive trait, individual III-2 has an affected sibling while

Hard

Quantitative Analysis of Crossing-over Frequency

Calculate the recombination frequency using experimental data and discuss how this measurement is us

Hard

Recombination Frequency and Gene Mapping

Consider three linked genes A, B, and C. The recombination frequency between A and B is 15% and betw

Hard

Recombination Mapping of Linked Genes

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

Hard

Role of Crossing Over in Genetic Variation

A geneticist measured the percentage of recombinant offspring arising from crossing over events betw

Medium

Sex-Linked Inheritance in Pedigree Data

A geneticist analyzed a set of pedigree data for a trait suspected to be X-linked. The table below s

Medium

Stages of Meiosis: Analyzing a Diagram

Using the provided diagram of meiotic stages, analyze the key events that contribute to genetic vari

Easy
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analyzing Frameshift Mutations

Frameshift mutations can drastically alter the reading frame of a gene. Given the original mRNA sequ

Extreme

Antiparallel DNA and Replication Dynamics

Discuss how the antiparallel nature of DNA influences the dynamics of replication.

Easy

Applications of Genetic Engineering

This question explores the applications of genetic engineering, including recombinant DNA technology

Medium

Assessing UV Radiation Effects on Mutation Frequency

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of UV exposure on the frequency of point mutations in

Medium

Cell-Free Transcription Assay with Inappropriate Nucleotide Use

A researcher sets up a cell-free system to evaluate RNA transcription efficiency by adding RNA polym

Medium

Cell-Free Translation System: Ribosome Binding Site Error

A researcher develops a cell-free system to study translation by combining purified mRNA, ribosomes,

Medium

DNA Mutation Analysis Experiment

A laboratory sequences DNA from cells exposed to a chemical mutagen and quantifies the types of poin

Hard

DNA Replication Dynamics

A laboratory is studying the DNA replication process in E. coli. The replication fork moves at 1000

Medium

Effects of Mutations on Protein Function

Analyze different types of point mutations and discuss their potential impacts on protein synthesis.

Medium

Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Structure

Gene expression in eukaryotes is influenced by chromatin structure. Analyze the following table and

Medium

Evolutionary Impact of DNA Mutations

Discuss how mutations in DNA contribute to evolutionary change.

Medium

FRQ 2: DNA Replication Mechanism

A researcher uses fluorescent markers to observe replication enzymes in a rapidly dividing eukaryoti

Medium

FRQ 6: Central Dogma and Gene Expression Regulation

A university lab investigates gene expression by manipulating transcription factors and measuring su

Easy

FRQ 10: Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) Analysis

Researchers assess genetic variation in a population by digesting DNA with restriction enzymes and a

Medium

Gel Electrophoresis Analysis of DNA Fragments

After digesting genomic DNA with a restriction enzyme, a scientist uses agarose gel electrophoresis

Medium

Gene Duplication and Transposon Insertion: Effects on Evolution

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

Hard

Genome Packaging and Chromatin State Effects on Transcription

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

Medium

In Vitro Translation of Wild-Type vs. Mutant mRNA with Control Error

A researcher compares the activity of a protein translated from wild-type mRNA to that from a point-

Medium

Investigating Recombinant DNA Technology

A biotechnology experiment involved inserting a eukaryotic gene into a bacterial plasmid to drive ge

Medium

Mechanism of Translation

Examine the process of translation and the molecular accuracy mechanisms involved in protein synthes

Medium

Operon Regulation Under Nutrient Conditions

This question explores how environmental conditions can affect operon-mediated gene regulation in ba

Hard

PCR Amplification and Gel Electrophoresis Analysis

A molecular biology experiment aimed to amplify a specific gene using PCR and analyze the PCR produc

Medium

Plasmid Transformation and Gene Expression in Bacteria

Design an experiment involving bacterial transformation with a plasmid to achieve gene expression an

Extreme

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Efficiency

During PCR, the amount of DNA is amplified exponentially with each cycle. The table below shows the

Easy

Recombinant DNA and Gene Cloning

A biotechnologist is engineering a plasmid to express a human gene (e.g., insulin) in bacteria.

Hard

Reverse Transcription in Retroviruses

Retroviruses utilize reverse transcription as a key step in their infection process. Address the fol

Hard

RNAi Impact on mRNA Quantification with Reverse Transcriptase Specificity Error

A researcher is examining the effects of an RNA interference (RNAi) molecule on the mRNA levels of a

Hard

Semiconservative DNA Replication and Labeling

Examine the semiconservative nature of DNA replication and the experimental evidence supporting it.

Hard

Separation and Analysis of DNA Fragments via Gel Electrophoresis

Design an experiment using gel electrophoresis to distinguish DNA fragments of different sizes.

Easy

Telomere Shortening and Cellular Aging

Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes but gradually shorten with each cell division. Use the giv

Medium

Translation Mechanics and Ribosome Function

Discuss the process of translation and the roles of key molecular players involved in protein synthe

Easy
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Adaptations and Fitness in Extreme Environments

Researchers studied a population of plants growing in an environment with extreme temperature variat

Hard

Adaptive Change in Response to Climate Alteration

In this long-term study, a researcher monitors a population of lizards over a 10-year period to asse

Extreme

Adaptive Traits in Arctic Plants Under Climate Change

Researchers are investigating how an Arctic plant species adapts to rising temperatures and changes

Hard

Artificial Selection and Crop Improvement

Agricultural scientists use artificial selection to improve traits such as yield in wheat crops. Dat

Medium

Artificial Selection and Genetic Variation

Artificial selection is an intentional process in which humans select for desirable traits. Consider

Hard

Comparing Evolutionary Theories: Darwin vs. Lamarck

Answer the following questions comparing two evolutionary theories:

Medium

Comparing Theories: Darwin vs. Lamarck

Discuss the differences between Darwin’s theory of natural selection and Lamarck’s theory of acquire

Easy

Constructing a Phylogenetic Tree

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

Easy

Convergent vs. Divergent Evolution

This question examines the differences between convergent and divergent evolution. Use your understa

Medium

Critical Evaluation of a Media Report on Evolutionary Claims

A recent media report claims that the 'sudden appearance of complex life forms in the fossil record

Extreme

Darwin's Observations: Differential Survival in Changing Environments

In a forest environment, a population of beetles exhibits two distinct color morphs: light and dark.

Medium

Directional Selection in Alpine Plant Populations

In this experiment, a researcher investigates the impact of altitude on the phenotype of alpine plan

Hard

Embryological Evidence for a Common Ancestry

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

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Adaptive Traits

Selective pressures from an organism’s environment influence the development of adaptive traits. Use

Medium

Environmental Pressures and Genetic Drift in Microorganisms

Evaluate the interplay between rapid environmental changes, genetic drift, and natural selection in

Extreme

Evaluating Experimental Methods in Evolution Research

Evaluate a media claim regarding rapid evolution by analyzing experimental methods used in studying

Extreme

Evaluating the Bottleneck Effect in a Mammal Population

After a natural disaster, a mammal population experiences a dramatic reduction in size. Researchers

Hard

Evidence for Evolution: Phylogenetic Tree Analysis

A cladogram is provided that shows the evolutionary relationships among several vertebrate groups in

Hard

Evolution and Genetic Variability: Allele Frequencies Over Time

A study monitored the frequency of Allele A in a given population over five generations. The followi

Medium

Evolutionary Adaptation in Polluted Environments

Researchers studying a fish population in a river heavily affected by industrial pollution have noti

Medium

Evolutionary Dynamics in Peppered Moths

A population of peppered moths in an industrial area experienced a dramatic shift in phenotype frequ

Medium

Experimental Design in Artificial Selection: Domestication Traits

This FRQ examines the principles of artificial selection in the context of domestication. Consider h

Easy

Experimental Design: Bacterial Evolution under Antibiotic Pressure

Design an experiment to study directional selection in a bacterial population exposed to an antibiot

Extreme

Experimental Design: The Impact of Genetic Variation on Survival

A researcher hypothesizes that populations with higher genetic variation have a better chance of sur

Hard

Genetic Drift and the Bottleneck Effect

Using the data provided in the table, explain how a bottleneck event can impact genetic diversity an

Hard

Genetic Variability and Evolutionary Potential

Explain the importance of genetic variability in evolution and estimate the impact of mutation rate

Easy

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium in Populations

The Hardy-Weinberg principle provides a framework for understanding genetic variation in populations

Medium

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Violation

This question focuses on the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and how factors like gene flow disturb genet

Hard

Homologous vs. Analogous Structures and Evolution

Differentiate between homologous and analogous structures and explain how each provides insights int

Medium

Impact of Mutation on Genetic Diversity

In an experiment, scientists tracked the frequency of a new mutant allele in a bacterial population

Medium

Interpreting Morphological Homologies in Vertebrates

Morphological homologies, such as similarities in bone structures among vertebrates, are used as evi

Medium

Interpreting Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

Analyze a simplified phylogenetic tree to infer evolutionary relationships among vertebrate species

Medium

Investigating Natural Selection in a Laboratory Insect Population

A researcher is investigating the effect of an insecticide on a genetically variable population of i

Hard

Investigating the Founder Effect in Isolated Populations

A small group of individuals colonizes an isolated island, which may lead to a reduction in genetic

Hard

Lamarck vs Darwin: Mechanisms of Evolution

Compare and contrast the mechanisms of evolution as proposed by Lamarck and Darwin. Answer the follo

Easy

Miller-Urey Experiment and the Origins of Life

Analyze the design and outcomes of the Miller-Urey experiment, including its relevance to the RNA-wo

Medium

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

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

Medium

Molecular Phylogenetics: Constructing Trees Using DNA Sequences

Scientists compare DNA sequences of a specific gene from several species to infer evolutionary relat

Medium

Origins of Life and the Miller–Urey Experiment

The Miller–Urey experiment simulated early Earth’s atmospheric conditions by combining gases (CH4, N

Medium

Paleontological Evidence and Evolutionary Analysis

Paleontology provides a vital window into Earth’s past and the evolutionary history of life. Fossils

Medium

Peppered Moth and Directional Selection

Due to industrial pollution, the frequency of dark-colored peppered moths increased in a population

Medium

Peppered Moth and Environmental Change

Environmental pollution has historically influenced the phenotypic ratios of the peppered moth. A da

Medium

Peppered Moths: Directional Selection in Polluted Environments

Prior to industrial pollution, peppered moths exhibited a 1:1 ratio of light to dark morphs. Followi

Medium

Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

Discuss the construction and interpretation of phylogenetic trees, and explain how they provide evid

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Founder Effects

Examine how population bottlenecks and founder effects can dramatically alter allele frequencies in

Hard

Sexual Selection and its Effects

Sexual selection is a distinct evolutionary process. Explore the differences between sexual and natu

Easy

Sexual Selection and Trait Development

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

Hard

Sexual Selection and Trait Exaggeration

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

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Reproductive isolation is key to the formation of new species. Discuss reproductive barriers using t

Medium

The Bottleneck Effect and Genetic Diversity

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

Hard

The Peppered Moth Case Study: Directional Selection

Examine the classic case of the peppered moth and answer the following questions:

Medium

Types of Selection: Navigating Trait Distributions

Different types of natural selection result in distinct changes to trait distributions in population

Hard
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruism in Animal Groups

Data from behavioral studies on a social species indicate variations in the frequency of altruistic

Medium

Altruistic Behavior and Group Dynamics

Altruistic behavior, in which an individual benefits another at a cost to itself, poses interesting

Medium

Altruistic Behavior and Group Dynamics in Meerkats

Researchers are investigating altruistic behavior in meerkat populations by recording the frequency

Hard

Altruistic Behaviors in Meerkats

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

Hard

Animal Communication: Pheromones and Dominance Hierarchies

A study on social insects investigates how pheromones influence agonistic behavior and the establish

Hard

Assessment of Greenhouse Effect on Animal Behavior

A recent media article claims that increasing levels of greenhouse gases are altering the behavior o

Extreme

Carrying Capacity and Population Limitation Factors

Carrying capacity is a key ecological concept that represents the maximum number of individuals an e

Hard

Circadian Clock Genes: Oscillatory Patterns in Gene Expression

Investigate the oscillatory behavior of circadian clock genes in mammals using a mathematical model.

Hard

Comparing Instinct and Learned Altruistic Behavior in Birds

Behavioral studies in birds show that certain behaviors such as warning calls can be either instinct

Easy

Critical Periods and Imprinting

Examine the diagram provided, which illustrates the imprinting response of hatchling birds over time

Medium

Energy Flow in Ecological Pyramids

This FRQ examines the concept of energy transfer in ecosystems through the ecological pyramid.

Medium

Evaluating Biodiversity with Simpson’s Diversity Index

Assess community biodiversity by calculating Simpson's Diversity Index using species count data.

Medium

Experimental Evaluation of Habituation in Rodents

An experiment was conducted in which a rodent was repeatedly exposed to a harmless sound. Over time,

Easy

Exponential vs. Logistic Growth Models

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

Extreme

Gravitropism in Plant Roots

A plant biologist studies gravitropism by tilting pots containing pea plants and recording the angle

Medium

Gravitropism: Plant Response to Gravity

A student is investigating how plant roots and shoots respond to gravity – roots exhibit positive gr

Medium

Human Impact on Biodiversity

Environmental scientists compared two regions—one with significant human-induced deforestation and o

Hard

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Dynamics

This FRQ addresses the concept of keystone species and their role in ecosystem stability.

Hard

Learning and Neural Adaptations: Habituation vs. Sensitization

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

Hard

Modeling Population Growth: Exponential vs Logistic

A bacterial culture is observed under two conditions. Under ideal conditions, it grows exponentially

Extreme

Pheromonal Communication and Reproductive Behaviors

This question explores the role of chemical signals in reproductive behavior, and asks you to compar

Hard

Pheromone Communication in Insects

An entomologist conducts an experiment to examine the effect of pheromones on the mating behavior of

Hard

Photoperiodism and Flowering in Plants

Photoperiodism is a critical factor influencing the reproductive cycle in many plants. This FRQ expl

Medium

Plant Tropism Responses

An experiment was conducted to examine plant tropisms by measuring the bending angle of stems over t

Hard

Productivity in Ecosystems: Gross vs Net Primary Productivity

A researcher is comparing gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) in a t

Hard

Symbiotic Relationship Dynamics

A study examined the interaction between remora fish and their host sharks by measuring host stress

Medium

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships define the interactions between different species living in close associatio

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 Biology exam?
The free response section of each AP exam varies slightly, so you’ll definitely want to practice that before stepping into that exam room. Here are some free places to find practice FRQs :
  • Of course, make sure to run through College Board's past FRQ questions!
  • Once you’re done with those go through all the questions in the AP BiologyFree Response Room. You can answer the question and have it grade you against the rubric so you know exactly where to improve.
  • Reddit it also a great place to find AP free response questions that other students may have access to.
How do I practice for AP AP Biology Exam FRQs?
Once you’re done reviewing your study guides, find and bookmark all the free response questions you can find. The question above has some good places to look! while you’re going through them, simulate exam conditions by setting a timer that matches the time allowed on the actual exam. Time management is going to help you answer the FRQs on the real exam concisely when you’re in that time crunch.
What are some tips for AP Biology free response questions?
Before you start writing out your response, take a few minutes to outline the key points you want to make sure to touch on. This may seem like a waste of time, but it’s very helpful in making sure your response effectively addresses all the parts of the question. Once you do your practice free response questions, compare them to scoring guidelines and sample responses to identify areas for improvement. When you do the free response practice on the AP Biology Free Response Room, there’s an option to let it grade your response against the rubric and tell you exactly what you need to study more.
How do I answer AP Biology free-response questions?
Answering AP Biology free response questions the right way is all about practice! As you go through the AP AP Biology Free Response Room, treat it like a real exam and approach it this way so you stay calm during the actual exam. When you first see the question, take some time to process exactly what it’s asking. Make sure to also read through all the sub-parts in the question and re-read the main prompt, making sure to circle and underline any key information. This will help you allocate your time properly and also make sure you are hitting all the parts of the question. Before you answer each question, note down the key points you want to hit and evidence you want to use (where applicable). Once you have the skeleton of your response, writing it out will be quick, plus you won’t make any silly mistake in a rush and forget something important.