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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 Biology FRQs to get ready for the big day.

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (22)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (30)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (43)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (25)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (23)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (25)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (54)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (28)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Acid-Base Reactions in Biological Systems

A researcher is investigating the effect of pH on enzyme activity in a metabolic pathway. By adjusti

Easy

Analyzing the Effects of Temperature on Lipid Bilayer Permeability

A researcher investigates the permeability of synthetic lipid bilayers by encapsulating a fluorescen

Hard

Analyzing the Role of Water's Cohesion and Adhesion in Capillary Action

A researcher is investigating the unique properties of water by measuring the height to which water

Medium

Carbohydrates: Structure and Function

Investigate the structural differences and roles of monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysacchari

Easy

Chemical Bonding in Biological Molecules

Investigate the different types of chemical bonds that are critical to biological molecules. Conside

Medium

Effects of pH and Temperature on Protein Structure

This FRQ examines how protein structure is influenced by pH and temperature. You will describe the m

Hard

Elemental Tracers in Ecosystems

Environmental scientists are studying the distribution of trace elements in various organisms to und

Hard

Experimental Design: Enzyme Kinetics Under Acidic Conditions

A researcher tests the effect of pH on the kinetics of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction.

Hard

Exploring the Role of Water as a Solvent in Acid-Base Reactions

A chemist is interested in water's role as a solvent in facilitating acid-base reactions. An experim

Medium

Impact of pH on Biological Molecules

This FRQ examines how pH affects the solubility and function of biological molecules, particularly p

Medium

Investigating Polymer Hydrolysis via Enzymatic Degradation

A researcher studies the hydrolysis of a polysaccharide by adding a specific enzyme and monitoring t

Medium

Isotope Labeling in Metabolic Pathways

This question focuses on the application of isotopic labeling to study metabolic processes such as t

Hard

Isotopic Tracers in Metabolic Pathways

Analyze the use of isotopes as tracers in the study of metabolic pathways.

Extreme

Lipids and Membrane Structure

Discuss the roles of phospholipids and cholesterol in maintaining membrane fluidity and integrity, a

Medium

Phospholipids and Capillary Action

Analyze the properties of phospholipids and their role in biological systems.

Medium

Protein Denaturation: Heat and pH Effects

Investigate how environmental conditions such as temperature and pH lead to protein denaturation.

Extreme

Proteins: Structure, Function, and Denaturation

Proteins display complex structures that are intimately linked with their function. Analyze the fact

Medium

Role of Trace Elements in Biological Systems

Explore the significance of trace elements in biological systems by analyzing their impact on enzyme

Medium

Role of Trace Elements in Enzymatic Reactions

This FRQ explores the importance of trace elements as cofactors in enzymatic reactions. You will def

Hard

Structural Variations in Fatty Acids

This question examines differences between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and their impact on

Hard

Subatomic Structure and Isotope Variation in Atoms

This FRQ focuses on atomic structure and isotopic differences. You will describe the arrangement of

Medium

Trace Elements and Enzymatic Activity

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

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active versus Passive Transport Mechanisms

A researcher examines how molecules traverse the cell membrane and distinguishes between passive pro

Easy

Active vs Passive Ion Transport Experiment

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

Extreme

Analyzing Protein Synthesis: The Role of Ribosomes

A molecular biologist is investigating protein synthesis by examining the role and structure of ribo

Easy

Cell Diffusion Efficiency Based on Radius

A researcher measured the diffusion rates of a solute in cells of varying radii. The theoretical rel

Medium

Cilia and Flagella in Cell Motility

Cilia and flagella are specialized structures that enable movement in many cells. Delve into the str

Medium

Cilia and Flagella: Mechanisms of Locomotion

Cilia and flagella facilitate cell movement, but through different structural and functional means.

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Plant and Animal Cells

Plant and animal cells exhibit distinct structural features that reflect their functions. Answer the

Easy

Cytoskeleton and Cellular Dynamics

Cell shape, division, and movement are critically dependent on the cytoskeleton. (a) Compare the ro

Medium

Cytoskeleton Dynamics in Cell Division

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

Medium

Endocytosis and Exocytosis in Cellular Transport

Cells use various mechanisms to transport materials. Answer the following parts:

Hard

Endocytosis and Exocytosis: Mechanisms and Functions

A researcher is exploring the mechanisms by which cells internalize and expel substances. The proces

Easy

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex in Protein Processing

Protein synthesis is closely coordinated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi complex. Exam

Hard

Energy Required for Endocytosis

During receptor-mediated endocytosis, a cell forms a vesicle from the plasma membrane. If the energy

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Cell Membrane Permeability Changes

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

Hard

Mechanisms of Endocytosis

This question explores the different types of endocytosis and their functional significance.

Easy

Microscopy Techniques in Studying Cell Structure

A scientist uses both light and electron microscopy to study cellular organelles. These techniques o

Medium

Mitochondrial ATP Production

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

Hard

Osmosis and Water Potential in Plant Cells

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

Hard

Passive Transport: Simple and Facilitated Diffusion

Passive transport in cells occurs via simple diffusion or facilitated diffusion. Answer the followin

Hard

Peroxisome Detoxification Experiment

A study was undertaken to evaluate the detoxification efficiency of peroxisomes in liver cells by me

Medium

Plant Cell Organelles: Functions and Adaptation

A botanist studies the unique features of plant cells by comparing them with animal cells.

Easy

Plant Cell Osmotic Behavior in Different Solutions

A plant cell is placed in three different solutions whose solute concentrations are listed in the ta

Medium

Plant Cell versus Animal Cell

This question asks you to compare and contrast plant and animal cells, focusing on structural differ

Easy

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

A cell biologist investigates how the composition of the plasma membrane affects its transport funct

Medium

Protein Synthesis and Ribosomal Activity Experiment

In a study examining protein synthesis, researchers tracked the production of a fluorescently labele

Medium

Ribosome Protein Synthesis Efficiency

A prokaryotic cell contains approximately 10,000 ribosomes, with each ribosome synthesizing proteins

Hard

Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis

This question focuses on the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis and how their localization influ

Medium

Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis Evidence Interpretation

A graph shows the relationship between the number of ribosomes in a cell and its protein production

Medium

Solute Potential and Osmosis in Cells

In an experiment, the water (solute) potential of a solution is calculated using the equation $$\Psi

Medium

Vacuoles in Plant and Animal Cells

Vacuoles serve important roles in both plant and animal cells. (a) Identify and compare the functio

Easy
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Activation Energy Reduction by Enzymes

Devise an experiment to measure the effect of an enzyme on reducing the activation energy of a react

Hard

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Inhibition

This question focuses on enzyme regulation via inhibitors and allosteric effects.

Hard

Allosteric Regulation of Enzymes

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

Hard

Analysis of Light Reactions in Photosynthesis

This question focuses on the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, emphasizing the roles of t

Medium

Analysis of Substrate Concentration Impact on Enzyme Kinetics

An undergraduate student designed an experiment to measure amylase activity by evaluating the rate o

Medium

CAM vs C4 Pathways under Drought Stress

A biologist compares CO2 uptake efficiency and water-use efficiency between CAM and C4 plants under

Medium

Chemiosmosis and Proton Gradient-Driven ATP Synthesis

Chemiosmosis links the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis via the proton gradient. Using the

Medium

Chloroplast Structure and Function

A plant biologist is investigating how the structural organization of chloroplasts enhances photosyn

Easy

Coenzymes and their Roles in Enzymatic Reactions

A researcher is investigating the impact of supplementing a coenzyme on the activity of an enzyme in

Medium

Cofactors and Coenzymes in Enzyme Function

Discuss the roles of cofactors and coenzymes in enzyme-catalyzed reactions and provide an example hi

Easy

Comparative ATP Production in Cellular Respiration vs Photosynthesis

A researcher compares energy production in heterotrophic cells via cellular respiration and in autot

Extreme

Coupled Reactions and ATP Synthesis

A researcher investigates how cells couple exergonic and endergonic reactions to drive ATP synthesis

Medium

Coupling between Light Reactions and Dark Reactions in Photosynthesis

A researcher examines how varying light intensities affect the production of ATP and NADPH in the li

Hard

Effect of pH on Enzyme Conformation and Activity

A laboratory experiment measured the activity of an enzyme at various pH levels. The following table

Medium

Effect of pH on Enzyme Structure and Function

A laboratory investigation examines the effect of various pH levels on enzyme activity. The study ai

Medium

Effects of Temperature and pH on Enzyme Activity

An experiment was performed to assess how temperature and pH influence the activity of a specific en

Hard

Electron Transport Chain (ETC) and Oxidative Phosphorylation

This question explores the mechanism of the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation i

Hard

Energy Conversion Comparisons: Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

Design an experiment to compare the energy conversion efficiency of photosynthesis and cellular resp

Hard

Energy Coupling in Metabolic Pathways

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

Hard

Energy Transfer and Thermodynamics in Cellular Reactions

Cells harness energy through exergonic reactions to drive endergonic processes. In this FRQ, you wil

Medium

Enzyme Catalysis and Reaction Rates

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

Medium

Enzyme Catalysis and Specificity

Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering activation energy and forming specific enzyme‐sub

Medium

Enzyme Inhibition and Kinetic Analysis

A biochemist is studying the effects of different inhibitors on an enzyme's activity and how these i

Hard

Enzyme Inhibition: Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

Using the data provided below, compare the effects of competitive and noncompetitive inhibition on e

Medium

Enzyme Kinetics and Temperature Effects

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

Hard

Fermentation in Muscle Cells: Analysis of Lactate Production

A study measured blood lactate levels under different exercise intensities, as shown in the table be

Hard

Impact of Temperature-Induced Denaturation on Enzyme Activity

A study is conducted to examine the effect of high temperatures on a catalase enzyme. Enzyme activit

Medium

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 Stoichiometry

The Krebs cycle plays a vital role in cellular respiration. In this problem, analyze the stoichiomet

Medium

Light Reactions vs. Calvin Cycle in Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis comprises two major phases: the light reactions and the Calvin cycle. A researcher is

Easy

Metabolic Adaptations During Intense Exercise

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

Extreme

Metabolic Regulation via Feedback Inhibition

Feedback inhibition is a key regulatory mechanism in metabolism. Discuss its role and provide an exa

Medium

Optimal Reaction Conditions and Enzyme Denaturation

Enzyme activity is highly sensitive to temperature. Analyze the relationship between enzyme activity

Easy

Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration: Interconnected Processes

This question explores the interdependent relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respirati

Medium

Photosynthesis: C3, C4, and CAM Pathways

Compare and contrast the three photosynthetic pathways (C3, C4, and CAM) in terms of their mechanism

Hard

Pyruvate to Acetyl-CoA Conversion

The conversion of pyruvate into acetyl-CoA is a crucial step between glycolysis and the Krebs cycle.

Easy

Reaction Coupling and Energy Transfer

Cells use reaction coupling to power endergonic reactions by pairing them with exergonic processes.

Medium

Regulation of Enzyme Activity

A biochemist studies how enzyme activity is regulated by environmental factors and allosteric effect

Easy

Regulation of the Krebs Cycle through Feedback Inhibition

This question explores how feedback inhibition regulates the Krebs cycle.

Medium

Role of Electron Transport Chain and Chemiosmosis

Oxidative phosphorylation involves both the electron transport chain (ETC) and chemiosmosis to synth

Hard

Role of Photosystems in Light Reactions

A diagram (described in the stimulus) depicts the electron flow in the light reactions of photosynth

Hard

Simulation of Anaerobic Glycolysis in Muscle Cells

An experiment was conducted using cultured muscle cells to simulate the anaerobic conditions typical

Medium

Thermodynamics in Coupled Metabolic Reactions

This question challenges you to integrate thermodynamic principles with the concept of reaction coup

Extreme
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Catalytic Receptor Activity in Initiating Cell Division

An experiment is designed to study the effect of an enzyme-linked (catalytic) receptor on cell proli

Hard

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and DNA Damage Repair

A researcher exposed cultured cells to a DNA damaging agent and observed arrest at specific cell cyc

Hard

Cell Cycle Regulation and Checkpoints

The cell cycle is tightly regulated by checkpoints and specific proteins to ensure that cell divisio

Easy

Cell Cycle Regulation through Cyclins and CDKs

A cell biologist studies the concentration of cyclins over time during the cell cycle. The table bel

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Membrane Receptors

Various classes of membrane receptors differ in structure and function. A researcher is comparing li

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Mitosis and Cytokinesis

A study compares the process of mitosis in two different cell types—one with rapid division and anot

Hard

Effect of Ligand Concentration on Receptor Occupancy

This question examines receptor-ligand interactions using the binding equation and requires calculat

Medium

Effects of Environmental Stimuli on Taxis Behavior

A team of researchers analyzes how different environmental stimuli influence the movement directions

Medium

Experimental Design to Investigate Chemotaxis

A researcher is designing an experiment to study bacterial chemotaxis in response to a nutrient grad

Hard

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

G-Protein Coupled Receptor Dynamics

Researchers are investigating the impact of a single amino acid mutation in a G-protein coupled rece

Hard

Interaction Between Cancer and Cell Cycle Regulation

A genetic mutation affecting a key checkpoint protein has been identified in certain cells, disrupti

Extreme

Interphase Dynamics and DNA Replication

It is claimed that the S phase of interphase is critical for accurate DNA replication and that error

Medium

Investigation of Amplification in Signal Transduction Cascades

Signal amplification allows a small initial stimulus to generate a large cellular response. A resear

Hard

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels and Muscle Contraction

A physiologist is studying neuromuscular signaling, focusing on how acetylcholine binding at the neu

Medium

Misregulation in the Cell Cycle and Cancer

A study investigates the role of mutations in tumor suppressor genes and overactive cyclin/CDK compl

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

Positive Feedback Mechanisms in Biological Systems

This question analyzes positive feedback systems by comparing them with negative feedback, using the

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of Mitotic Spindle Formation

This question evaluates the role of the mitotic spindle in chromosome segregation through quantitati

Hard

Receptor Binding and Signal Specificity

A research group examines signal transduction through enzyme-linked receptors in cultured fibroblast

Hard

Signal Amplification in Cellular Communication

A cell receives a low concentration of a signaling molecule, yet the resulting intracellular respons

Medium

Signal Transduction Pathways in Multicellular Organisms

A liver cell is exposed to a hormone that cannot cross the plasma membrane, so it must interact with

Hard

Time-Course Analysis of cAMP Response to Hormonal Stimulation

This question involves analyzing a time-course graph for cAMP concentration following hormonal stimu

Hard

Visual Analysis of a Cell Cycle Schematic

A schematic diagram of the cell cycle has been provided. Analyze this diagram in detail.

Hard
Unit 5: Heredity

Analyzing Meiotic Errors: Nondisjunction Effects

In an experiment, two groups of cells undergo meiosis. Group A experiences nondisjunction during ana

Extreme

Analyzing Monohybrid Cross Results in Pea Plants

In an experiment inspired by Mendel, a researcher crosses true‐breeding tall pea plants (TT) with tr

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

Application of Mendelian Principles in Plant Breeding

A plant breeder performs a cross between a heterozygous tall, yellow-flowered plant (TtYy) and a sho

Medium

Codominance in the ABO Blood Group System

An individual with AB blood type (genotype I^A I^B) mates with an individual with type O blood (geno

Medium

Designing a Mendelian Genetics Experiment

Design an experiment using pea plants to test the Law of Segregation. Answer the following: (a) Dev

Hard

Epistatic Interactions: Modifiers of Mendelian Ratios

This question challenges you to analyze epistatic interactions where one gene masks the expression o

Extreme

Exploring Meiotic Nondisjunction

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

Hard

Gamete Production and Anomalies in Spermatogenesis

In an experiment to study spermatogenesis, a researcher examined testicular tissue from lab animals

Medium

Gametogenesis: Comparing Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis

Compare and contrast the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis. In your response, outline the d

Medium

Gene-Environment Interactions in Expression

A molecular biologist is investigating how environmental factors influence gene expression levels in

Hard

Genetic Variation from Crossing Over

During prophase I of meiosis, crossing over can lead to recombinant chromosomes. Assume the probabil

Hard

Haploid vs Diploid Analysis and Gamete Formation

A researcher is investigating the fundamentals of cell division and gametogenesis. The study compare

Easy

Haploid vs. Diploid Cells: Structure and Function

Cells can be categorized based on their chromosome numbers: haploid cells (n) and diploid cells (2n)

Easy

Independent Assortment and Genetic Variation

Independent assortment during meiosis contributes significantly to genetic diversity. Answer the fol

Medium

Meiosis Observation Lab

A laboratory group conducted an experiment to observe meiosis using fixed slides of onion root tip c

Medium

Meiosis: Stages and Their Significance

Meiosis is critical for gamete formation and genetic diversity. Describe the key differences between

Medium

Mendelian Inheritance: Monohybrid Cross Analysis

Using a monohybrid cross between tall pea plants (T) and short pea plants (t), analyze and predict t

Easy

Pedigree Analysis: Charting Inheritance in a Family

Analyze the provided pedigree data to infer the mode of inheritance for a trait observed in the fami

Hard

Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium model uses probability to predict genotype frequencies in a large pop

Extreme

Probability in Genetic Crosses

Apply the rules of probability to predict outcomes in genetic crosses. Use both the product rule and

Easy

Punnett Square Analysis of Sex-Linked Crosses

Consider a cross between a carrier female (X^N X^n) and a normal male (X^N Y) for an X-linked recess

Medium

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
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analysis of DNA Replication Enzymes

A researcher measured the relative activities of several enzymes involved in DNA replication under p

Medium

Antiparallel DNA and Replication Dynamics

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

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Translation

Discuss the translation process in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, noting key differences and

Medium

DNA Damage and Repair Mechanisms

This question examines the causes of DNA damage and the cellular mechanisms that repair such damage.

Hard

DNA Mutation Analysis Experiment

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

Hard

DNA Polymerase Proofreading and Replication Fidelity

An in vitro experiment compares DNA replication by polymerases with and without proofreading activit

Easy

DNA Replication Process and Mechanisms

Examine the mechanisms of DNA replication and the roles of key enzymes involved in the process.

Medium

Effects of DNA Mutations on Protein Structure

An enzyme activity assay is conducted on proteins translated from genes harboring different point mu

Medium

Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Modifications

Answer the following questions about epigenetics and how chromatin modifications influence gene expr

Hard

Eukaryotic Gene Regulation Mechanisms

Discuss the complex regulatory mechanisms of gene expression in eukaryotic cells.

Medium

Impact of DNA Mutations on Protein Synthesis

This question addresses various types of DNA mutations and their effects on the synthesis of protein

Hard

Investigating Promoter Mutations on mRNA Synthesis

Design a controlled experiment to determine how promoter mutations affect transcription efficiency i

Hard

mRNA Translation and Ribosome Function

This question focuses on both quantitative and descriptive aspects of mRNA translation.

Easy

Operon Function and Regulation

Using the provided operon diagram, answer the following questions concerning the regulation of gene

Medium

Operon Regulation Under Nutrient Conditions

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

Hard

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technique

Analyze the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) as a method for DNA amplification and its applications i

Hard

Recombinant DNA Techniques and Applications

Discuss the methodology of creating recombinant DNA and analyze its real-world applications.

Hard

Regulation of Gene Expression in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Compare the mechanisms of gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, highlighting both shared pr

Medium

Retroviruses and Reverse Transcription Dynamics

A study following retroviral infection measured the production of DNA from viral RNA over time throu

Medium

RNA Processing and mRNA Splicing

A laboratory study is conducted to analyze pre-mRNA processing in eukaryotic cells. Researchers obse

Easy

Telomere Shortening and Cellular Aging

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

Medium

Transcription Rates and mRNA Production

In an experiment, the transcription rate is measured at 5 nucleotides per second per gene. For an mR

Easy

Translation Efficiency and Codon Usage

A laboratory study examined how codon usage affects translation efficiency in eukaryotic cells using

Hard

Translation Mechanics and Ribosome Function

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

Easy

Translation Termination Efficiency Study with Stop Codon Misinterpretation

In a cell-free translation assay, a researcher studies the termination efficiency of protein synthes

Easy
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Analyzing Fossil Record and Evolutionary Trends

Paleontologists use the fossil record to trace evolutionary history. A timeline graph (provided) sho

Medium

Artificial Selection: Methods and Implications

Artificial selection is a process driven by human choice. Answer the following:

Hard

Biogeographical Patterns and Evolution

Biogeography provides key evidence for evolution by examining the distribution of species across geo

Medium

Biogeography and Evolutionary Relationships

Examine the pattern of species distribution across continents provided in the table and answer the f

Easy

Biogeography and Phylogenetic Trees

Biogeographical data and phylogenetic trees provide insights into evolutionary history. Answer the f

Hard

Cladograms and Evolutionary Relationships

Cladograms are visual representations of the evolutionary relationships among organisms. Use the pro

Medium

Comparative Anatomy and Homologous Structures

This question addresses the role of homologous structures in comparative anatomy as evidence for com

Easy

Darwin's Observations and Natural Selection

A researcher is studying a population of beetles that exhibit different coloration. Over several gen

Medium

Darwin’s Observations and Reproductive Success

This question investigates Darwin's observations regarding reproductive excess and the resulting dif

Hard

Darwin's Observations: Population Dynamics

A researcher gathers data on a population of beetles under conditions of limited resources. The foll

Easy

Directional Selection in Alpine Plant Populations

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

Hard

Ecological Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

In a study on a species of insects, researchers observed that a previously contiguous population bec

Hard

Effects of Environmental Pollution on Population Genetics

Using the example of the peppered moth, this question examines the impact of environmental pollution

Extreme

Effects of Genetic Drift: The Bottleneck Effect

After a natural disaster, a population of rodents underwent a severe reduction in size. The followin

Medium

Embryological Analysis of Vertebrate Development

In this experiment, a researcher examines the embryonic development of a range of vertebrate species

Medium

Embryology and Evolutionary Development

Explore how embryological evidence supports common ancestry among vertebrates. Answer the following

Easy

Environmental Pressures and Adaptive Traits

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

Medium

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: Fossils and Morphological Homologies

This question explores two lines of evidence for evolution: the fossil record and morphological homo

Easy

Evolutionary Dynamics in Peppered Moths

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

Medium

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

Fossil Dating and Paleontological Evidence

Fossil dating is a critical tool in understanding evolutionary timelines. The table below summarizes

Hard

Genetic Drift in a Bottleneck Event

Genetic drift, particularly in the form of a bottleneck effect, can drastically alter allele frequen

Medium

Genetic Variability and the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Genetic variability is a foundation for evolution and is described mathematically by the Hardy-Weinb

Easy

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Population Dynamics

A population is examined for its allele frequencies regarding a particular gene. Assume the initial

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Population Genetics

A biologist studies a large, randomly mating population under conditions presumed to follow Hardy-We

Medium

Impact of Mutation on Genetic Diversity

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

Medium

Impact of Population Bottlenecks on Genetic Drift

Population bottlenecks can greatly influence genetic drift. Suppose a species experiences a bottlene

Extreme

Investigating Embryological Evidence for Evolution

Design an experiment to compare gene expression patterns during embryogenesis in different vertebrat

Hard

Investigating Genetic Drift and the Founder Effect

This FRQ examines the roles of genetic drift and the founder effect in altering allele frequencies i

Medium

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

Evaluate the differences between Lamarck’s theory of acquired traits and Darwin’s theory of natural

Medium

Lamarckian vs Darwinian Evolution

In a laboratory experiment, a population of unicellular organisms is exposed to a novel stressor. Ov

Medium

Linking Evolutionary Theory to Modern Genomics in Human Populations

Geneticists analyze a set of molecular markers across diverse human populations to study genetic var

Extreme

Measuring Evolutionary Fitness in Lizards

A researcher studying a desert lizard population records variations in tail length and associated re

Easy

Miller-Urey Experiment and the Origin of Organic Molecules

In an experiment simulating early Earth conditions, scientists introduced a mixture of gases, applie

Medium

Modes of Natural Selection: Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive

Examine the different modes of natural selection based on the frequency distribution data provided i

Medium

Molecular Evidence and Common Ancestry

Molecular biology offers compelling evidence for evolution. Discuss how molecular data supports the

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

This question appraises molecular evidence for evolution. Combine a qualitative explanation with an

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

Molecular comparisons among species can help illustrate common ancestry. The table below shows perce

Medium

Morphological Homologies: Evidence of Common Ancestry

Using examples of homologous structures, explain how similarities in anatomical features support the

Hard

Mutation and Genetic Drift: Population Dynamics

In populations, both mutations and genetic drift can alter allele frequencies independently of natur

Hard

Natural Selection Under Changing Environmental Conditions

Analyze how environmental changes impact allele frequencies in a population based on provided experi

Hard

Peppered Moth and Environmental Change

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

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Founder Effects

Genetic drift, particularly through population bottlenecks and founder effects, can significantly im

Extreme

Selection Patterns: Stabilizing vs. Disruptive Selection

Different types of selection can shape a population’s trait distribution in distinct ways. Consider

Hard

Sexual Selection and Mate Choice in Peafowl

A long-term field study on peafowl examines the relationship between male tail length and mating suc

Hard

Sexual Selection and Trait Variation

A study explores the relationship between male tail length and mating success. The graph provided sh

Hard

Sexual Selection in Peafowl: The Role of Tail Plumage

Researchers are studying a population of peafowl to determine if the size and brightness of tail plu

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

A biologist observes two populations of frogs that have become geographically isolated. Over time, t

Hard

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Examine the data regarding two separated populations and answer the following questions about specia

Hard

Speciation Mechanisms: Allopatric vs. Sympatric

Speciation is a key component of evolutionary theory. Evaluate the mechanisms by which new species a

Medium

Testing Differential Reproductive Success

This FRQ challenges you to design a rigorous experiment investigating how variation in a specific tr

Extreme

Trade-offs in Evolutionary Fitness: A Quantitative Model

In many populations, trade-offs exist between traits such as predator avoidance and reproductive out

Extreme
Unit 8: Ecology

Agonistic Behavior and Competition in Animal Populations

Agonistic behaviors, which include aggressive interactions, are common in populations competing for

Hard

Altruistic Behaviors in Meerkats

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

Hard

Behavioral Thermoregulation in Ectotherms

Examine the diagram description showing a lizard moving from a sunlit area to a shaded area in respo

Medium

Carrying Capacity and Population Limitation Factors

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

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Population Regulation

This final question examines the concept of carrying capacity and how external factors can regulate

Medium

Chemical Communication and Aggressive Behavior in Animals

A researcher investigating the role of pheromones on agonistic (aggressive) behavior in rodents hypo

Hard

Circadian Rhythms in Organisms

Investigate the mechanisms of circadian rhythms and their implications for both plant and animal beh

Easy

Designing an Experiment to Determine Carrying Capacity

A researcher aims to determine the carrying capacity of a freshwater lake for a particular fish spec

Medium

Dominance Hierarchies and Territoriality in Social Animals

Social animals often establish dominance hierarchies and territories that structure interactions wit

Medium

Ecological Succession in a Post-Volcanic Landscape

Investigate the process of primary ecological succession following a volcanic eruption, focusing on

Medium

Effects of Environmental Toxins

This FRQ addresses how toxins accumulate in ecosystems through biomagnification and the potential im

Hard

Gravitropism in Plant Roots

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

Medium

Human Impact on Biodiversity

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

Hard

Human Impact on the Environment: Pollution

This FRQ addresses the effects of pollution in ecosystems, with a focus on toxin bioaccumulation and

Medium

Human Impact: Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

A conservation biologist examines the relationship between deforestation rates and species richness

Medium

Imprinting Behavior and Critical Period Analysis

A study on imprinting behavior collected data on the critical period durations (in hours) for severa

Medium

Learning and Habituation in Organisms: Experimental Interpretation

Learning can involve a decrease in response to an unimportant stimulus through habituation. Answer t

Medium

Learning Behavior: Habituation in Animals

Consider the table below showing the response intensity of an animal to a repeated auditory stimulus

Easy

Plant Tropism: Phototropism vs. Gravitropism

A plant physiologist compared two directional growth responses: one in response to light (phototropi

Medium

Plant Tropisms in Reproductive Structures

A plant physiologist investigates how tropic responses in the positioning of reproductive structures

Extreme

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism and Gravitropism

In an experiment, a researcher exposes seedlings to directional light and altered gravitational cond

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism vs Thigmotropism

A botanist is interested in determining whether the signaling pathways involved in phototropism (res

Medium

Population Growth Models and Exponential Growth

This FRQ examines population dynamics under ideal conditions, focusing on exponential growth and the

Medium

Primary vs. Net Productivity in Ecosystems

Gross productivity refers to the total amount of organic material produced via photosynthesis; howev

Hard

Symbiosis in Ecosystems

This question examines the different types of symbiotic relationships and analyzes real-world exampl

Easy

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships come in different forms. Answer the following parts.

Easy

Territoriality and Mating Success in Amphibians

A herpetologist hypothesizes that territorial behavior in male frogs directly correlates with their

Medium

Territoriality and Resource Abundance in Lizards

Researchers studied how territory size in a population of lizards is influenced by resource abundanc

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.