AP Biology FRQ Room

Ace the free response questions on your AP Biology exam with practice FRQs graded by Kai. Choose your subject below.

Which subject are you taking?

Knowt can make mistakes. Consider checking important information.

Pick your exam

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 (18)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (29)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (26)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (28)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (28)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (25)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (62)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (34)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

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

Atomic Structure and Isotopes Analysis

A researcher is studying isotopes in carbon samples to trace metabolic pathways in mammalian cells.

Easy

Atomic Structure and Isotopes Analysis

Investigate the nature of atomic structure by analyzing a table that summarizes various isotopes of

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis of Disaccharides

In the formation of disaccharides, two monosaccharide molecules (such as glucose) join together via

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis Reactions

Discuss how cells use dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis reactions to build and break down polymer

Easy

DNA Structure and Effects of Point Mutations

Examine the structure of nucleic acids and the consequences of genetic mutations.

Hard

Elemental Composition and Isotopes in Biological Molecules

You are presented with information about the elements that form biological molecules and the occurre

Hard

Evaluating the Impact of pH on Carbohydrate Structures

A biologist is investigating how pH changes affect the stability of carbohydrate polymers, focusing

Medium

Hydrolysis of Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides can be broken down into their constituent monosaccharides via hydrolysis reactions.

Hard

Interactions Among Biomolecules: A Case Study

This question examines the variety of non-covalent interactions that underlie the assembly of comple

Extreme

Lipids and Membrane Structure

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

Medium

Organic Molecules: Carbohydrates and Dehydration Synthesis

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

Medium

Organic Molecules: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Examine the processes of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in the formation and breakdown of poly

Medium

Polymerization and Hydrolysis of Organic Molecules

Explore the reversible processes of polymerization and depolymerization in organic molecules and how

Medium

Role of Polysaccharides in Organismal Structure and Energy Storage

A botanist examines the roles of various polysaccharides in plants and animals. Answer the following

Easy

Roles of Ionic, Covalent, and Hydrogen Bonds in Molecular Structure

This FRQ examines the different types of chemical bonds that are crucial to the structure of biologi

Medium

Trace Elements in Ecosystem Function

An ecologist is researching the role of trace elements (e.g., iron, iodine, copper) in the health of

Medium

Trace Mineral Deficiency and Metabolic Health

Medical researchers are investigating how deficiencies in trace minerals impact metabolic health.

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Active Transport and the Sodium-Potassium Pump

The sodium-potassium pump actively transports ions by moving 3 Na⁺ ions out of the cell and 2 K⁺ ion

Hard

Analyzing the Role of Ribosomes in Protein Synthesis and Cellular Stress

A recent study claims that under cellular stress conditions, cells compensate for increased protein

Medium

Cell Recognition and Communication

A researcher investigates the role of glycoproteins and glycolipids in cell recognition and immune r

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Plant and Animal Cells

A biologist is comparing plant and animal cells to understand how structural differences relate to t

Easy

Comparative Function of Ribosomes

Ribosomes play a critical role in protein synthesis, and their structure varies between prokaryotes

Medium

Cytoskeleton and Cellular Division

A cell biologist is investigating the role of the cytoskeleton in maintaining cell shape and facilit

Medium

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 Protein Sorting

A cell biologist examines how the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is involved in protein sorting and how

Hard

Endosymbiotic Theory Evidence Analysis

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

Hard

Evaluating the Fluid Mosaic Model under Varying Temperature Conditions

A study investigates the effect of temperature on the fluidity of the plasma membrane to test predic

Medium

Evaluation of the Fluid Mosaic Model Diagram

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

Hard

Graphical Analysis of Osmosis in Plant Cells

This question involves analyzing a graph that displays water potential in plant cells under hyperton

Medium

Impact of Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio on Cellular Function

Design an experiment to determine how variations in cell shape (e.g., spherical vs. elongated) affec

Medium

Impact of Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio on Organismal Physiology

The concept of the surface area-to-volume ratio is critical not only at the cellular level but also

Hard

Light vs. Electron Microscopy Analysis

A researcher is using microscopy techniques to study cell structures and needs to understand the adv

Medium

Mechanisms of Bulk Flow

This question focuses on the concept of bulk flow and its significance in biological transport proce

Medium

Microscopy Techniques Comparison

A researcher compared observations of eukaryotic cells using both light microscopy and electron micr

Medium

Microscopy: Light vs. Electron Resolution and Magnification

A cell with an actual diameter of 10 μm is imaged using a light microscope at 1000× magnification an

Medium

Mitochondrial Function and ATP Production

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

Easy

Mitochondrial Structure and ATP Production

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, and their structure is closely related to their functio

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential in Cells

This question assesses understanding of osmosis, water potential, and the consequences of solute con

Hard

Peroxisome Detoxification Experiment

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

Medium

Peroxisomes: Detoxification in Cells

Peroxisomes play a major role in detoxifying harmful substances in cells. Answer the following:

Easy

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

The plasma membrane is critical for maintaining cellular integrity and regulating exchange. (a) Des

Hard

Protein Synthesis and Ribosomal Activity Experiment

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

Medium

Role of Cell Surface Markers in Immune Recognition

A recent report asserts that variations in glycoprotein expression on cell surfaces directly influen

Hard

Solute Potential and Osmosis in Cells

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

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Function

The table below lists measurements of spherical cells with varying diameters and their corresponding

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio in Organisms

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

Easy
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Aerobic Respiration and ATP Yield

A researcher studies aerobic respiration to understand the contributions of different stages of gluc

Medium

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Activity

Examine the concept of allosteric regulation in enzymes and analyze its effects on enzyme activity u

Hard

Allosteric Regulation of Enzymes

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

Hard

Assessment of NADH Utilization in the Krebs Cycle

A group of researchers sought to quantify the energy released during the Krebs cycle by measuring NA

Hard

ATP Yield in Cellular Respiration Processes

Refer to the table below listing ATP and electron carrier yields from different stages of cellular r

Medium

Chemiosmosis and Proton Gradient-Driven ATP Synthesis

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Energy Conversion in Photosynthesis and Respiration

Compare the mechanisms of ATP synthesis in photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and evaluate how

Extreme

Comparative Analysis of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

A flow diagram is provided comparing the overall processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiratio

Medium

Comparative Energy Pathways: Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

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

Medium

Effect of Light Intensity on Photosynthesis

The table below presents data on oxygen production by leaves at different light intensities. Analyze

Medium

Energy Coupling in Metabolic Pathways

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

Hard

Enzyme Denaturation and Reversibility

Enzyme function is highly dependent on environmental conditions. Investigate the causes of enzyme de

Medium

Enzyme Kinetics and Saturation Analysis

Understanding enzyme kinetics is essential for analyzing reaction rates. Examine the concept of satu

Hard

Enzyme Saturation and Reaction Rate

A researcher examines how increasing substrate concentration affects an enzyme's reaction rate. Data

Easy

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

Glycolysis Pathway and ATP Yield

This question focuses on glycolysis, the pathway that breaks down glucose to yield ATP and NADH.

Easy

Impact of Temperature and pH on Enzymatic Activity

A lab experiment measures enzyme activity across different temperatures. The data is provided in the

Medium

Investigation of the Induced-Fit Mechanism in Enzyme-Substrate Binding

A researcher designed an experiment to examine the induced-fit mechanism of an enzyme using a fluore

Hard

Light Intensity Effects on Photosynthesis

Propose a controlled experiment to determine how varying light intensities affect the rate of photos

Medium

Metabolic Regulation via Feedback Inhibition

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

Medium

Photosystem Function and Pigment Absorption

Photosystems I and II are integral to the light-dependent reactions in photosynthesis. Discuss their

Medium

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 Calculations

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

Hard

Temperature Effects on Enzyme Kinetics

This question explores how temperature influences enzyme kinetics and reaction rates.

Medium

The Calvin Cycle and Light-Independent Reactions

The Calvin Cycle is critical for carbon fixation in photosynthesis. Explain the steps of the Calvin

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Bacterial Chemotaxis Investigation

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

Easy

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and DNA Damage Response

This question examines the role of cell cycle checkpoints in monitoring DNA integrity and responding

Hard

Cell Cycle Checkpoints and DNA Damage Response

A laboratory study exposes cultured cells to a DNA-damaging agent and measures checkpoint protein le

Hard

Cell Division Regulation: Unicellular vs. Multicellular Organisms

Cell division is regulated differently in unicellular and multicellular organisms. Part a: Compare

Medium

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A researcher is investigating the chemotactic response of a bacterial species to an attractant. The

Medium

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A researcher investigates the chemotactic response of a bacterial species to increasing concentratio

Medium

Comparative Study of Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes

Researchers compare mutation frequencies in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes across several canc

Medium

Comparing Signal Transduction Pathways

Cellular communication involves various types of membrane receptors that trigger different intracell

Hard

Effects of Environmental Stress on Cell Signaling and Cycle Regulation

A study examines the impact of a high concentration of an environmental toxin on kidney cells, asses

Hard

Evaluating Signal Transduction in Multicellular Organisms

Cells use different signaling strategies based on the distance over which signals need to travel. Re

Medium

Experimental Analysis of Signal Pathways

The table below shows experimental data relating ligand concentration to the relative production of

Hard

G-Protein-Coupled Receptors and cAMP Amplification

An endocrinologist studies the effect of adrenaline on heart cells, focusing on its interaction with

Hard

GPCR Dynamics and cAMP Production

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

Hard

Homeostasis and Hormonal Regulation

It is claimed that insulin and glucagon work via feedback mechanisms to maintain blood glucose level

Easy

Impact of Environmental Stimuli on Unicellular Organisms

Unicellular organisms rely on taxis to navigate their environments. Answer the following questions r

Easy

Interphase Dynamics and DNA Replication

Interphase is a critical period during which the cell grows and duplicates its genetic material. A r

Easy

Kinetic Analysis of Cell Cycle Phases

This question focuses on the temporal regulation of the cell cycle and requires the analysis of kine

Medium

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels and Muscle Contraction

A study investigates the role of ligand-gated ion channels at the neuromuscular junction during musc

Easy

Mitosis Stages and Chromosome Segregation

The following table describes the duration of each stage of mitosis in a cultured cell.

Easy

Mutations Impacting Cell Communication

A researcher is investigating the consequences of a point mutation in the kinase domain of a catalyt

Extreme

Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes

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

Hard

Receptor Binding and Signal Specificity

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

Hard

Regulation of Blood Glucose via Hormonal Signaling

This question explores how hormonal signaling regulates blood glucose levels via insulin and glucago

Medium

Role of Second Messengers in Signal Amplification

Second messengers play a crucial role in amplifying cellular signals. Consider the role of cyclic AM

Easy

Signal Amplification in Cell Communication

Signal transduction cascades allow cells to amplify a small external signal. Using the concept of si

Easy

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

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

Barr Bodies and X-Inactivation

X-inactivation is a process that equalizes gene dosage in female mammals. Answer the following: (a)

Easy

Comparative Analysis: Spermatogenesis versus Oogenesis

Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are two distinct processes of gamete formation in animals. Each proces

Easy

Comparing Mitosis and Meiosis

Cell division occurs via mitosis and meiosis, each serving distinct purposes. Answer the following:

Medium

Comprehensive Analysis Integrating Meiotic Processes, Test Crosses, and Inheritance Patterns

A comprehensive study was conducted integrating data from meiotic analysis, test crosses, and phenot

Extreme

Designing a Test Cross Experiment

Design a test cross experiment to determine if a tall pea plant is homozygous dominant (TT) or heter

Medium

Dihybrid Cross and Independent Assortment

The dihybrid cross is a key experiment illustrating the Law of Independent Assortment. In this scena

Medium

Dihybrid Cross and Independent Assortment

A dihybrid cross was performed to study the inheritance of two distinct traits. The table below show

Medium

Examining Meiotic Nondisjunction and Its Consequences in Model Organisms

Design an experiment using a model organism (e.g., fruit flies or yeast) to study the effects of non

Extreme

Exploring Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

Design an experiment using snapdragon flowers to demonstrate incomplete dominance. Cross true-breedi

Easy

Gamete Formation and Fertilization

Gametes are essential for sexual reproduction. Answer the following questions: (a) Describe the rol

Easy

Gamete Production and Anomalies in Spermatogenesis

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

Medium

Gametogenesis and Genetic Disorders

Gamete formation is a critical process for maintaining the proper chromosome number in sexually repr

Medium

Haploid vs Diploid and Gamete Formation

Explain the differences between haploid and diploid cells and describe the significance of haploid g

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

Impact of Linked Genes on Recombination Rates

Two linked genes, A and B, have a recombination frequency of 10%. Answer the following:

Hard

Integrative Inheritance: Combining Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Traits

Design an experiment in which you cross organisms that exhibit both Mendelian (e.g., dominant/recess

Hard

Interplay Between Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Inheritance

A series of crosses were performed demonstrating both Mendelian traits and non-Mendelian inheritance

Medium

Maternal Inheritance Patterns: Mitochondrial Genes

Explain the principles of mitochondrial inheritance and how they differ from classical Mendelian inh

Medium

Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Codominance in Flower Color

A researcher is investigating flower color in a plant species known to have codominant alleles for r

Easy

Polygenic Inheritance in Quantitative Traits

A population genetics study focuses on a quantitative trait, such as human height, which is influenc

Hard

Probability Calculations in Genetics

Probability rules are often used to predict outcomes in genetic crosses. Using the provided probabil

Medium

Probability in Genetic Crosses

Apply the rules of probability to analyze multi-event genetic scenarios.

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

Sex-Linked Traits Inheritance

This question explores the unique pattern of inheritance for X-linked traits using color blindness a

Medium

Studying Polygenic Inheritance: Genetic Influences on Human Height

Design an experiment to study the polygenic inheritance of human height. Your experiment should invo

Hard

Synapsis and Crossing-Over Analysis in Meiosis

A researcher conducts an experiment to quantify the frequency of crossing-over events during synapsi

Extreme

Synapsis and Crossing-Over: Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram illustrating synapsis and crossing-over during prophase I of meiosis. I

Hard

Test Cross Analysis in Pea Plants

A tall pea plant has an ambiguous genotype. Describe how a test cross with a homozygous recessive (t

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Analyzing DNA Gel Electrophoresis Results

A researcher runs gel electrophoresis on DNA fragments produced by a restriction enzyme. Three bands

Hard

Comparative DNA Replication: Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes

Compare the mechanisms of DNA replication in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, highlighting the diff

Extreme

DNA Damage from UV Radiation and Repair Mechanisms

Cells exposed to UV radiation exhibit specific types of DNA damage. A researcher examines the repair

Medium

DNA Structure and Base Pairing Analysis

This question focuses on the fundamental structure of DNA and how complementary base pairing ensures

Medium

DNA Topology and Supercoiling

This question focuses on the concept of DNA supercoiling and the enzymes involved in managing DNA to

Hard

Effects of DNA Mutations on Antiparallel Structure

A diagram provided in the stimulus shows a segment of a double-stranded DNA molecule, with one stran

Easy

Effects of Inducers on the lac Operon Expression

Design a controlled experiment to assess the impact of varying lactose concentrations on the express

Medium

Effects of Point Mutations on Protein Synthesis

Mutations in the genetic code can have varying effects on protein synthesis. Consider the following

Hard

Energy Consumption in DNA Replication by Helicase

Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix during replication. Suppose unwinding 1 kilobase (kb) of DNA r

Hard

Evaluating Methods for Enhancing Bacterial Transformation

Design an experiment to compare different methods for introducing a recombinant plasmid into E. coli

Hard

Exploring the Role of Telomerase in Telomere Length Maintenance

Design an experiment to investigate the effects of telomerase activity on telomere length in culture

Hard

FRQ 1: DNA Structure and Base Pairing

An experiment using X‐ray crystallography reveals images that support the double helix model of DNA.

Easy

FRQ 9: PCR Amplification in a Diagnostic Laboratory

A diagnostic laboratory utilizes PCR to amplify a gene segment associated with a hereditary disorder

Hard

FRQ 10: Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) Analysis

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

Medium

FRQ 14: Telomeres and Cellular Aging

A study tracks telomere length in human fibroblasts over several passages and correlates these measu

Easy

Impacts of Genetic Mutations on Protein Synthesis

Considering different types of genetic mutations, answer the following questions regarding their eff

Medium

Interplay of Transcription, RNA Processing, and Translation

Examine the sequential processes from transcription to translation and discuss how errors in RNA pro

Medium

Leading versus Lagging Strand Synthesis Analysis

Examine the schematic diagram of a DNA replication fork provided and answer the following questions

Medium

PCR Amplification Experiment

A researcher employs PCR to amplify a specific gene fragment, varying the number of cycles to observ

Medium

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Efficiency

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

Easy

Quantitative Analysis of DNA Polymerase Proofreading Mechanisms

Design an experiment to evaluate the role of DNA polymerase proofreading in maintaining replication

Hard

Recombinant DNA Technology

Discuss the process of creating recombinant DNA and its application in genetic engineering.

Medium

RNA Interference (RNAi) and Post-Transcriptional Regulation

This question explores the mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) and its application in regulating ge

Medium

Transcription Regulation Experiment Using Promoter Mutations

A researcher introduces point mutations into the promoter region of a eukaryotic gene and measures m

Medium

Viral Replication Cycles: Lytic vs Lysogenic

This question examines the differences between the lytic and lysogenic cycles in bacteriophages and

Hard
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Adaptive Traits and Environmental Pressures

Consider a scenario where two populations of the same species are subjected to different environment

Medium

Analysis of Natural Selection in Peppered Moths

A study records the frequency of dark and light-colored Peppered moths before and after the industri

Medium

Analyzing Phylogenetic Relationships Through Molecular Data

A comparative study of DNA sequence divergence among species is represented by the graph provided. T

Hard

Artificial Selection and Breeding Experiments

Artificial selection has played a significant role in shaping species, particularly in agriculture.

Medium

Artificial Selection in Domesticated Animals

A breeder is selectively mating dogs to enhance certain physical traits such as size and coat color.

Medium

Artificial Selection: Methods and Implications

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

Hard

Comparing Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

A graph displays a frequency distribution for a particular trait within a population. Using the grap

Hard

Comparison of Lamarckian and Darwinian Theories

Compare and contrast Lamarck’s theory of the inheritance of acquired traits with Darwin’s theory of

Medium

Convergent vs. Divergent Evolution

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

Medium

Darwin's Observations on Natural Selection

Charles Darwin’s early observations provided the groundwork for the theory of evolution by natural s

Easy

Designing an Experiment on Environmental Impact on Evolution

Design a controlled experiment to test how a specific abiotic factor influences the rate of evolutio

Hard

Directional Selection in Alpine Plant Populations

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

Hard

Directional Selection Under Environmental Stress

A bacterial population is exposed to an antibiotic. Initially, most bacteria are susceptible, but ov

Medium

Effects of Gene Flow on Subpopulation Divergence

Two subpopulations of the same species are separated by a mountain range, but occasional migration (

Medium

Evaluating Inheritance Theories: Lamarck vs Darwin

In a laboratory simulation, two populations of snails were observed over 10 generations. One populat

Hard

Evaluating Lamarckian Inheritance Versus Darwinian Natural Selection

Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck proposed that acquired traits can be inherited, while Darwin’s theory empha

Medium

Evidence for Evolution: Interpreting Phylogenetic Relationships

Using the information provided in the table below, interpret the evolutionary relationships between

Medium

Evidence of Evolution: Fossils and Biogeography

Discuss how fossil records and biogeographical patterns serve as robust evidence for evolution and c

Medium

Evidences of Continuing Evolution: Fossils and Molecular Biology

Continuing evolution is supported by multiple lines of evidence. Answer the following:

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 Consequences of Non-Random Mating in a Fish Population

In a coastal fish population, individuals preferentially choose mates with brighter coloration. Answ

Medium

Exploring the RNA World Hypothesis in a Prebiotic Chemistry Experiment

The RNA world hypothesis suggests that early life was based on RNA molecules. Design an experiment t

Extreme

Exploring the RNA-World Hypothesis and the Origins of Life

Discuss the RNA-world hypothesis and its significance in theories of the origins of life on Earth, a

Extreme

Gene Flow and Genetic Drift in Small Populations

Examine the influences of gene flow and genetic drift on small populations:

Medium

Gene Flow and Its Impact on Population Genetics

Gene flow plays a critical role in shaping genetic diversity within populations. Examine how migrati

Medium

Gene Flow, Immigration, and the Founder Effect

The founder effect describes how a new population started by a few individuals can have a significan

Hard

Genetic Drift: Bottleneck Effect in a Small Population

A study tracked the frequency of a specific allele in a small population over 10 generations. A grap

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Calculation

Using Hardy-Weinberg principles, perform the calculations and interpretation regarding genotype freq

Easy

Impact of Environmental Changes on Evolutionary Fitness

This question explores how sudden environmental changes, such as temperature increases, impact evolu

Hard

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 Mutation, Genetic Drift, and Gene Flow

Mutations, genetic drift, and gene flow are non-selective mechanisms that can alter allele frequenci

Medium

Interpreting the Fossil Record

Analyze how the fossil record contributes to our understanding of evolutionary history.

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

Contrast Darwin's theory of natural selection with Lamarck’s hypothesis of the inheritance of acquir

Easy

Measuring the Impact of Gene Flow in Plant Populations

Design an experiment to investigate how migration between previously isolated plant populations affe

Medium

Molecular Analysis of DNA Sequences in Evolutionary Studies

In this experiment, a researcher analyzes DNA sequences from various bacterial strains to infer thei

Extreme

Molecular Evidence and Common Ancestry

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

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

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

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution: Cladistic Analysis

Analyze the molecular data provided in the table to construct a cladogram and explain how DNA sequen

Extreme

Molecular Evidence for Evolution: Comparative DNA Analysis

This FRQ focuses on how molecular data, such as DNA sequence comparisons, provide compelling evidenc

Hard

Multiple Lines of Evidence for Evolution

Evaluate how different types of evidence—fossil records, morphological homologies, and molecular dat

Medium

Mutation and Genetic Drift: Population Dynamics

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

Hard

Mutation and Genetic Variation

Discuss the role of mutation in generating genetic variation within a population and the implication

Easy

Mutation Rates and Environmental Factors

Mutations introduce new genetic variation. Consider a gene with a length of 2000 base pairs and a mu

Extreme

Mutation, Genetic Drift, and Bottlenecks

A population experienced a severe bottleneck, reducing its size dramatically. The following table pr

Hard

Mutations and Evolutionary Change

Analyze the role of mutations in creating genetic diversity and driving evolutionary change in popul

Easy

Peppered Moth Evolution and Natural Selection

Investigate the impact of natural selection on the phenotypic shift in peppered moth populations due

Medium

Peppered Moth Experiment: Natural Selection in Polluted Environments

Researchers set up a controlled enclosure experiment to simulate a polluted environment and study na

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

The following table shows the frequency of dark-colored and light-colored peppered moths observed du

Hard

Phylogenetics and Cladistics: Inferring Evolutionary Relationships

Consider a simplified phylogenetic scenario in which species A and B form a clade based on shared de

Medium

Population Genetics and Genetic Drift

Examine the role of genetic drift in shaping genetic diversity within a population. Answer the follo

Hard

Reproductive Isolation and Speciation

Examine how reproductive isolation contributes to the formation of new species.

Easy

Selection Pressures in Peppered Moth Populations

The case of the peppered moth is a classic example of natural selection, where environmental changes

Medium

Selective Forces: Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

Natural selection can take different forms. Evaluate the types of selection and interpret data from

Hard

Selective Predation on Peppered Moths

In this experiment, a researcher is investigating the effects of selective predation on peppered mot

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Propagation

Analyze the role of sexual selection in driving the evolution of secondary sexual traits. Answer the

Medium

Sexual Selection: Trade-offs in Peafowl

Studies of peafowl indicate that males with larger and more colorful tails are more attractive to fe

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Barriers

Discuss how reproductive barriers can lead to speciation, focusing on the roles of pre-zygotic and p

Easy

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Speciation often results from the development of reproductive barriers. Evaluate the roles of pre-zy

Medium

Testing Non-Random Mating Patterns

This FRQ focuses on the concept of non-random mating and explores its effects on genetic diversity a

Medium

Testing the Effects of Mutations on Population Genetics Using Microorganisms

Using a controlled microbial system with a known rate of spontaneous mutation, design an experiment

Hard

The Role of Sexual Selection

Examine the role of sexual selection in the evolution of secondary sexual characteristics.

Medium
Unit 8: Ecology

Analyzing Population Growth Using the r Equation

A researcher studying an insect population collected data on births and deaths over one generation a

Easy

Animal Behavior: Altruism vs. Aggression

This FRQ focuses on contrasting altruistic and aggressive behaviors in animals, and their evolutiona

Hard

Assessing Biodiversity Using Simpson's Diversity Index

A researcher uses Simpson's Diversity Index, given by $$D = 1 - \sum (n_i/N)^2$$, to assess biodiver

Extreme

Assessing Simpson’s Diversity Index in a Forest Ecosystem

An ecologist collects data on tree species abundance within a 1-hectare plot in a temperate forest t

Extreme

Calculating and Interpreting Simpson’s Diversity Index in a Forest Ecosystem

Researchers collected species data from a forest and used Simpson's Diversity Index $$D = 1 - \Sigma

Hard

Chemical Communication: Pheromones and Agonistic Behavior

Chemical signals such as pheromones play a role in mediating behavior. Answer the parts below.

Hard

Circadian Clock Genes: Oscillatory Patterns in Gene Expression

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

Hard

Circadian Rhythms in Organisms

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

Easy

Circadian Rhythms in Plants: Photoperiodism and Flowering Time

Examine the graph provided that relates day length to the probability of flowering in a plant specie

Medium

Critical Evaluation of Acid Rain Effects on Ecosystems

An environmental report asserts that acid rain has severely affected plant growth and aquatic life i

Hard

Differentiating Gravitropism and Thigmotropism in Climbing Plants

Researchers studied climbing plants’ responses to gravitational and touch stimuli, claiming that gra

Hard

Ecological Succession: Primary Succession

Ecological succession describes the process of change in species composition over time following a d

Medium

Ecosystem Analysis of Keystone Species

An ecosystem study involved the experimental removal of a keystone species. Data on species populati

Extreme

Evaluating the Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity

A recent study suggests that deforestation in a tropical rainforest has led to a significant reducti

Hard

Evaluation of Pheromone-Based Communication in Mammals

A researcher claims that pheromones are the primary mode of communication for establishing dominance

Medium

Exponential Growth and Population Dynamics

This FRQ involves modeling population growth using the exponential growth equation and predicting fu

Extreme

Human Impact on Ecosystems: Greenhouse Effect and Biodiversity Loss

Human activities have substantial impacts on ecosystems. Answer the following parts.

Extreme

Human Impact on the Environment: Pollution

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

Medium

Human Population Dynamics and Environmental Carrying Capacity

A demographer is studying the relationship between human population growth and environmental carryin

Extreme

Impact of Deforestation on Ecosystem Function

Analyze the long-term effects of deforestation and subsequent desertification on ecosystem structure

Extreme

Imprinting and Critical Period Sensitivity

A biologist studying imprinting behavior in waterfowl wishes to examine how the timing of exposure t

Medium

Imprinting and Critical Periods in Avian Species

A developmental biologist examines imprinting in ducklings during their sensitive period.

Medium

Investigating Energy Transfer in a Terrestrial Ecosystem

The 10% rule in energy flow suggests that only 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level t

Medium

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Dynamics

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

Hard

Keystone Species and Trophic Cascades

An ecologist studied the impact of removing a keystone predator from an ecosystem. The table below c

Hard

Learning and Neural Adaptations: Habituation vs. Sensitization

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

Hard

Learning, Imprinting, and Habituation in Avian Species

Bird behavior is shaped by both innate mechanisms and experiences. In many bird species, imprinting

Medium

Modeling Population Growth: Exponential Growth Analysis

Populations in ideal conditions often exhibit exponential growth. Answer the following parts.

Extreme

Photoperiodism and Flowering in Plants

A botanist studied the flowering response of long-day and short-day plants by varying the length of

Easy

Photosynthesis Rate Under Variable Conditions

Investigate how changes in light intensity and temperature affect the rate of photosynthesis in plan

Hard

Population Growth and Exponential Growth

A biologist observes that a bacterial colony in a nutrient-rich environment exhibits exponential gro

Hard

Population Growth Dynamics and Carrying Capacity

A population ecologist monitored the growth of a species over time and recorded population sizes. Th

Medium

Population Growth Dynamics: Exponential vs Logistic Growth

A biologist studying a closed bacterial culture observes that the population initially grows exponen

Hard

Species Interactions and Keystone Species

Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem. This FRQ examine

Hard

Trusted by millions

Everyone is relying on Knowt, and we never let them down.

3M +Student & teacher users
5M +Study notes created
10M + Flashcards sets created
Victoria Buendia-Serrano
Victoria Buendia-SerranoCollege freshman
Knowt’s quiz and spaced repetition features have been a lifesaver. I’m going to Columbia now and studying with Knowt helped me get there!
Val
ValCollege sophomore
Knowt has been a lifesaver! The learn features in flashcards let me find time and make studying a little more digestible.
Sam Loos
Sam Loos12th grade
I used Knowt to study for my APUSH midterm and it saved my butt! The import from Quizlet feature helped a ton too. Slayed that test with an A!! 😻😻😻

Need to review before working on AP Biology FRQs?

We have over 5 million resources across various exams, and subjects to refer to at any point.

Explore Top AP Biology Notes

123
Updated 706d ago
note Note
123
Updated 706d ago
note Note
View all top notes

Tips from Former AP Students

FAQ

We 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.