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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 (18)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (30)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (27)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (30)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (25)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (30)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (61)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (29)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, and Polysaccharides

Analyze the structural differences and functional roles of carbohydrates in biological systems. Use

Medium

Carbon's Versatility in Organic Molecules

This question explores why carbon's tetravalency is crucial for the diversity of organic molecules a

Extreme

Comparative Analysis of DNA and RNA

This question addresses the structural and functional distinctions between DNA and RNA. You will com

Easy

Dehydration Synthesis in Polymer Formation

Dehydration synthesis (or condensation) reactions are used to form polymers such as proteins from mo

Easy

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 Role of Trace Elements in Enzyme Cofactor Function

A biochemical investigation examines the role of copper (Cu) in enzymes that facilitate redox reacti

Hard

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 19: Comparative Analysis of Bonding in Biological Systems

Contrast hydrogen bonds and covalent bonds in terms of their strength, stability, and roles in biolo

Medium

Macromolecule Synthesis and Breakdown

In a biology laboratory, scientists are exploring how large biomolecules are built and degraded. Ans

Medium

Molecular Polarity and Intermolecular Forces

This question focuses on the concept of molecular polarity, the resulting intermolecular forces, and

Medium

Organic Molecule Synthesis: Dehydration Synthesis

A biochemist investigates the formation of polysaccharides from monosaccharides through dehydration

Easy

pH Variations in Aquatic Ecosystems: Impact and Analysis

An environmental team is monitoring pH fluctuations in a river affected by industrial pollution. Ans

Extreme

Polymerization Reactions: Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Discuss the chemical processes involved in polymer formation and breakdown.

Easy

Structure-Function Relationship in Proteins

A molecular biologist investigates how changes in a protein’s primary structure can lead to alterati

Medium

Subatomic Particles and Elemental Diversity

Discuss the fundamental components of atoms and explain the significance of isotopic variation in bi

Easy

Water in Polymer Hydrolysis Reactions

Analyze the role of water in the hydrolysis of polymers.

Medium

Water's Anomalous Properties and Ecological Impact

This question explores the unusual properties of water, particularly its expansion upon freezing, an

Extreme

Water's Unique Properties: Cohesion, Adhesion, and Capillary Action

Investigate the unique physical properties of water related to cohesion, adhesion, and capillary act

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Calculation of Surface Area and Volume: Cubical Cell Model

This question involves calculating the surface area and volume of a cell modeled as a cube and discu

Easy

Cell Membrane Signaling and Receptor Function

Signal transduction is initiated at the cell membrane by receptor proteins that interact with extrac

Extreme

Cell Signaling: Receptor-Ligand Dynamics

This FRQ examines receptor-ligand binding data to infer receptor affinity and specificity in cell si

Medium

Cell Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio

A spherical cell has radius r. Using the standard geometric formulas for a sphere, derive expression

Easy

Chloroplast Photosynthesis Efficiency Experiment

An experiment was established to study the effect of light intensity on photosynthetic efficiency in

Medium

Cilia and Flagella: Structural Differences and Locomotion

A researcher investigates the specialized structures responsible for cell movement, focusing on cili

Easy

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 Analysis: Plant Cells vs Animal Cells

Plants and animals have evolved distinct cell structures. (a) Identify three key structural differe

Easy

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

This FRQ examines the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, using comparative data.

Easy

Critically Evaluating Cellular Storage: Vacuoles in Plant Cells

A research paper claims that central vacuoles in plant cells are essential for maintaining turgor pr

Medium

Cytoskeletal Disruption and Its Impact on Exocytosis

Design an experiment to determine how disruption of actin filaments affects the rate of exocytosis i

Extreme

Cytoskeletal Elements and Vesicle Transport

In a study of intracellular transport, researchers examined the effect of cytoskeletal inhibitors on

Hard

Endocytosis and Exocytosis: Mechanisms and Functions

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

Easy

Endocytosis Inhibition Study

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

Hard

Energy Conversion in Mitochondria vs. Peroxisomes

This question contrasts energy conversion efficiencies between mitochondria and peroxisomes and disc

Extreme

Function of Transport Proteins

A researcher examines the role of transport proteins in maintaining ion gradients across the cell me

Medium

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

Design an experiment to investigate how heat-exchange rates vary in organisms with different surface

Hard

Intracellular Vesicular Transport Along Microtubules

This question investigates the dynamics of vesicular transport along microtubules and requires desig

Medium

Lysosomal Enzyme Kinetics

Lysosomal enzymes often follow Michaelis-Menten kinetics, described by $$v = \frac{V_{max} * S}{K_m

Extreme

Mitochondrial Function and Energy Conversion

Mitochondria convert energy from nutrients into ATP. Answer each part of the question below:

Medium

Nuclear Organization and Function

The nucleus is central to eukaryotic cell function. (a) Explain the role of the nucleus in gene reg

Medium

Observing Cell Structures Using Microscopy

A research laboratory has access to two principal types of microscopes: a light microscope (which ma

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential in Cells

Water potential drives water movement in biological systems. (a) Define water potential and explain

Hard

Peroxisomes and Detoxification Processes

Peroxisomes detoxify harmful substances in the cell. Answer the following parts:

Medium

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

The plasma membrane exhibits a fluid mosaic structure that is crucial for cell function. Explore how

Medium

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

This FRQ focuses on the structure of the plasma membrane and its role in regulating the movement of

Easy

Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis Efficiency

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

Hard

Ribosome Protein Synthesis Efficiency

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

Hard

Ribosome Structure and Protein Synthesis

A biologist investigates the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis, as well as the effects of ribos

Medium

Temperature Effects on Enzyme-Mediated Transport

This question uses the Q10 coefficient to analyze the impact of temperature changes on enzyme-mediat

Medium
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Advanced Enzyme Energy Diagrams under Variable Conditions

This advanced problem examines how enzyme-catalyzed energy diagrams are altered under different temp

Extreme

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 Modulation

Investigate the impact of allosteric inhibitors on enzyme kinetics by analyzing the provided graph w

Extreme

ATP Yield in Cellular Respiration

This question integrates knowledge of cellular respiration to explore ATP production.

Medium

Calvin Cycle and Reaction Coupling

Detail the Calvin Cycle and explain how it is coupled to the products of the light-dependent reactio

Hard

Chloroplast Structural Influence on Photosynthetic Efficiency

Chloroplast structure, particularly the organization of thylakoids into grana, affects photosyntheti

Hard

Chloroplast Structure and Function

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

Easy

Chloroplast Structure and Function

Examine the provided diagram of a chloroplast and identify key structures involved in photosynthesis

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Photosynthesis

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

Extreme

Competitive and Noncompetitive Inhibition

A researcher examines an enzyme's kinetics in the presence and absence of inhibitors. Reaction rate

Hard

Competitive Inhibition Mechanism

Design an experiment to examine the impact of a competitive inhibitor on enzyme kinetics using a Mic

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

Coupling of Exergonic and Endergonic Reactions

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

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 Reactions

Consider a scenario where an exergonic reaction (ATP hydrolysis with a free energy change of $$-30*k

Medium

Enzyme Kinetics: Substrate Concentration and Reaction Rate

In this FRQ, you will analyze how substrate concentration affects enzyme activity as depicted in an

Medium

Enzyme Regulation and Inhibition Mechanisms

Cells tightly regulate enzyme activity to maintain metabolic balance. Evaluate the mechanisms of enz

Medium

Enzyme Specificity and Active Site Dynamics

Enzymes are highly specific catalysts in biological reactions. Their function depends on precise int

Medium

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

Investigating the Rate of Photosynthesis

Using experimental data, analyze how light intensity affects the rate of oxygen production in aquati

Hard

Metabolic Regulation via Feedback Inhibition

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

Medium

pH Effects on Enzyme Function

This question investigates how pH influences enzyme structure and function.

Easy

Photosynthesis Electron Transport Analysis

Analyze the electron transport process during the light reactions of photosynthesis using the provid

Medium

Reaction Coupling and Free Energy Calculations

Cells couple exergonic and endergonic reactions to drive necessary processes. In this problem, analy

Extreme

Regulation of Metabolic Pathways in Cellular Respiration

This question explores the regulatory mechanisms controlling cellular respiration, including feedbac

Hard

Simulation of Anaerobic Glycolysis in Muscle Cells

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

Medium

Substrate Concentration and Enzyme Saturation

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

Hard
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Activation of Cell Cycle Checkpoints Following DNA Damage

When cells encounter DNA damage, such as from UV radiation, cell cycle checkpoints become activated

Hard

Analysis of Tumor Suppressor Gene Function in the Cell Cycle

Tumor suppressor genes play a critical role in preventing uncontrolled cell division. Analyze a scen

Medium

Bacterial Chemotaxis and Movement Patterns

A microbiologist studies the movement of a bacterium in response to varying concentrations of a nutr

Easy

Catalytic Receptors and Enzymatic Activation

A researcher investigates a class of catalytic receptors that possess intrinsic enzymatic activity a

Medium

Cell Cycle Dysregulation and Apoptosis Triggering

The decision between cell cycle progression, DNA repair, and apoptosis is critical for preventing th

Easy

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

Cyclins and CDKs in Cell Cycle Regulation

During liver regeneration, proper cell cycle progression is critical. The role of cyclins and cyclin

Hard

Experimental Analysis of S Phase Duration

A researcher uses a thymidine analog to monitor DNA replication over time in asynchronously dividing

Hard

Experimental Analysis of Signal Pathways

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

Hard

Feedback Inhibition in Hormone Signaling

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

Easy

Feedback Mechanisms in Cellular Stress Responses

Following a heat shock, cells exhibit changes in the expression levels of stress proteins. A graph t

Hard

G-Protein-Linked Receptor Signaling in Sensory Cells

This question examines the mechanism by which G-protein-linked receptors activate secondary messenge

Hard

GPCR and Second Messenger Dynamics

Develop an experimental design to investigate how ligand binding to a G-protein-coupled receptor (GP

Hard

Impact of Environmental Stimuli on Unicellular Organisms

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

Easy

Integration of Multiple Signaling Pathways

This question addresses how cells integrate signals from multiple pathways to regulate gene expressi

Hard

Interphase Dynamics and DNA Replication

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

Medium

Investigating the Role of Cell Junctions in Direct Cell Communication

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

Easy

Investigation of Amplification in Signal Transduction Cascades

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

Hard

Mathematical Modeling of Signal Amplification

Cellular signaling pathways often feature amplification steps that magnify the initial signal. Throu

Easy

Mitosis and Chromosome Segregation

A researcher uses live cell imaging to study mitosis in a population of dividing cells. Some observe

Medium

Mitosis Process and Chromosomal Dynamics

Mitosis is the process by which a cell divides its genetic material into two daughter cells. A resea

Easy

Mutations in Signal Transduction Pathways

A research article reports that a mutation in the extracellular domain of a membrane receptor signif

Extreme

Receptor Specificity and Drugs Targeting Signal Transduction Pathways

Pharmaceutical agents can target receptor signaling pathways to modulate cellular responses. Evaluat

Easy

Regulation of Blood Glucose via Hormonal Signaling

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

Medium

Regulation of the Cell Cycle: Cyclins and CDKs

This question focuses on cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and their roles in regulating t

Medium

Signal Transduction Cascades and Secondary Messengers

G-protein coupled receptor activation results in the rapid production of secondary messengers that a

Easy

Signal Transduction Pathways

A scientist is studying the cascade that converts an extracellular ligand-binding event into an intr

Medium

Signal Transduction via G-Protein Coupled Receptors

A study investigates a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) mediated signaling pathway leading to cAMP

Medium

Temperature Effects on Chemotactic Movement

Design an experiment to determine how variations in temperature affect chemotaxis in unicellular org

Medium

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 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

Assessing Genetic Variation through Test Cross Design

A researcher conducted a test cross by mating a dominant phenotype plant with a recessive phenotype

Easy

Barr Bodies and X Inactivation

This question examines the process of X-inactivation in female mammals and the role of Barr bodies.

Easy

Chromosomal Behavior in Meiosis

Compare the behavior of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis with regard to their arrangement, occ

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

Experimental Design: Test Cross for Genetic Analysis

Design an experiment using a test cross to determine whether a plant exhibiting a dominant phenotype

Medium

Exploring Meiotic Nondisjunction

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

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: Cell Comparison

This question asks you to compare haploid and diploid cells and to calculate the number of chromosom

Easy

Incomplete Dominance in Flower Color

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

Medium

Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

When a red-flowered snapdragon (genotype RR) is crossed with a white-flowered snapdragon (genotype W

Easy

Independent Assortment and Genetic Variation

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

Medium

Inheritance Patterns: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

Not all traits follow purely dominant-recessive inheritance. Consider cases of incomplete dominance

Medium

Investigating Incomplete Dominance in Snapdragon Flowers

A botanist investigates the inheritance pattern of flower color in snapdragons by crossing a true‐br

Medium

Linked Genes and Recombination Mapping

Genes that are located close together on the same chromosome can be inherited together due to geneti

Extreme

Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Meiosis is a crucial process for generating genetic diversity. This question focuses on the mechanis

Medium

Meiosis Observation Lab

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

Medium

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

Pedigree Analysis: Modes of Inheritance

Pedigree charts are useful tools for understanding inheritance patterns. Analyze the mode of inherit

Hard

Recombinant Frequencies and Genetic Map Construction

Using recombination frequencies is a standard method for constructing genetic maps. In this scenario

Extreme

Recombination Frequency and Gene Mapping

Gene mapping relies on the analysis of recombination frequencies observed during meiosis. Answer the

Hard

Recombination Mapping

Linked genes do not assort independently. In this problem, you will use recombination frequencies to

Hard

Test Cross Analysis for Determining Genotype

A researcher designs an experiment to determine whether several tall pea plants are homozygous (TT)

Easy
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

Antiparallel Structure of DNA and Its Functional Implications

The antiparallel orientation of DNA strands is a key feature of the double helix. Answer the followi

Easy

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

Comparative Analysis of Leading and Lagging Strand Synthesis

Develop a multi-step experimental design to elucidate differences in the synthesis of leading and la

Medium

DNA Double Helix Structure Interpretation

Examine the attached diagram of a DNA double helix and answer the following parts regarding its stru

Easy

DNA Replication Dynamics Analysis

A researcher studies DNA replication kinetics by tracking the advancement of replication forks in is

Medium

DNA Sequencing Accuracy Analysis

This question addresses the impact of sequencing errors on genetic analysis.

Hard

DNA Topology and Supercoiling

Investigate the challenges posed by DNA supercoiling during replication and the role of topoisomeras

Medium

DNA Topology and the Function of Topoisomerases

In an experiment, researchers measured changes in DNA supercoiling when treated with varying concent

Hard

Eukaryotic Gene Regulation Mechanisms

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

Medium

Evaluating Base Pairing Fidelity Under UV Exposure

A lab investigates the effect of UV radiation on DNA integrity. Samples are exposed to varied UV dos

Medium

FRQ 4: RNA Processing and Mature mRNA Formation

A mutation in a critical spliceosomal protein causes unprocessed pre-mRNA to accumulate in the nucle

Hard

FRQ 11: Transcription Factor Binding and Promoter Efficiency

Researchers have engineered a synthetic promoter to enhance gene expression in cultured cells. A rep

Hard

Gel Electrophoresis and RFLP Analysis

Answer the following questions related to gel electrophoresis and restriction fragment length polymo

Medium

Genomic Organization and Chromatin Structure

Discuss how genomic organization affects gene expression.

Easy

Homeotic Genes and Embryonic Patterning

A developmental biology experiment compared the incidence of segment malformations in embryos with a

Medium

Impact of Chromatin Condensation on Gene Expression

Develop an experimental design to compare gene expression levels in euchromatin versus heterochromat

Hard

Investigating Recombinant DNA Technology

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

Medium

Investigation of Plasmid Size on Transformation Efficiency

Propose an experimental design to assess how plasmid size affects transformation efficiency in bacte

Medium

mRNA Splicing Investigation with Intron Retention Misconception

A researcher is studying splicing efficiency in eukaryotic cells treated with a novel drug. The expe

Easy

Mutation Frequencies and Genetic Variation

Researchers collected data on mutation frequencies in a population after exposure to environmental s

Hard

Operon Model and Gene Regulation

Gene regulation in prokaryotes often occurs via operons. Answer the following in relation to the ope

Easy

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Temperature Effects

A researcher uses PCR to amplify a specific DNA fragment and tests how varying the annealing tempera

Medium

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

RNA Interference (RNAi) and Post-Transcriptional Regulation

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

Medium

RNA Splicing and Transcript Variability

This question examines the impact of alternative RNA splicing on mRNA structure and protein diversit

Hard

Telomere Dynamics and Cellular Aging

An experiment tracked telomere length over successive cell divisions. Refer to the provided graph an

Medium

Transcription Regulation Experiment Using Promoter Mutations

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

Medium

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

Adaptive Radiation and Speciation

Adaptive radiation is a process in which a single ancestral species diversifies into multiple distin

Hard

Adaptive Radiation in Island Ecosystems

On an archipelago, a single ancestral species of bird has diversified into several distinct species,

Hard

Analyzing Data: Directional, Stabilizing, and Disruptive Selection

A biologist collects data on a population before and after an environmental change and obtains the f

Hard

Analyzing Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

A biologist collected data from a population to assess if it is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The f

Hard

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

Cladogram Analysis: Divergent vs Convergent Evolution

Examine the provided cladogram illustrating evolutionary relationships among various organisms.

Extreme

Convergent Evolution in Aquatic and Terrestrial Species

Scientists observe that dolphins and ichthyosaurs (an extinct group of marine reptiles) both possess

Medium

Darwin’s Natural Selection Observations

Analyze Darwin’s observations, including the production of excess offspring, competition, and differ

Easy

Darwin's Observations and Natural Selection

A researcher reviews historical data and observations that contributed to Darwin's formulation of na

Medium

Darwin’s Observations and Reproductive Success

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

Hard

Designing a Study on Multiple Evolutionary Mechanisms

Given a scenario of rapid climate change affecting a species' habitat, design a multi-factorial stud

Extreme

Disruptive Selection in Flower Color Variation

A study investigated flower color variation in a population of plants. The following table displays

Hard

Embryological Evidence for a Common Ancestry

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

Hard

Environmental Impact on Allele Frequency: A Simulation Study

An ecologist plans to simulate the impact of temperature on allele frequency. In this model, the sel

Hard

Environmental Pressure and Enzyme Activity

A study investigates how enzyme activity in an organism changes with temperature. A graph depicting

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Evolutionary Fitness in Fish Populations

Researchers are studying fish populations in an estuary with varying salinity and pollution levels t

Hard

Evolutionary Adaptation in Polluted Environments

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

Medium

Experimental Design: Bacterial Evolution under Antibiotic Pressure

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

Extreme

Factors Disrupting Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Discuss the factors that can disrupt Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in a population:

Medium

Gene Flow and Genetic Drift in Isolated Populations

Evaluate how gene flow and genetic drift influence allele frequencies in small isolated populations.

Hard

Gene Flow, Genetic Drift, and Speciation Mechanisms

Examine how gene flow and genetic drift contribute to genetic variation and the speciation process,

Medium

Genetic Variability and Adaptation in a Laboratory Plant Study

Researchers are investigating a plant species that displays extensive genetic variability. In contro

Medium

Genetic Variability and Evolutionary Potential

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

Easy

Genetic Variability and Population Equilibrium

This question examines genetic variability within a population and its relationship to Hardy-Weinber

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium in a Fish Population

In a lake, a fish population is assumed to be in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Researchers observe tha

Medium

Impact of Environmental Temperature on Lizard Reproductive Rates

An environmental scientist examines the effects of a gradual temperature increase on a lizard popula

Hard

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Genotypes

In this experiment, a researcher assesses the impact of an invasive species on the genetic diversity

Extreme

Integrative Analysis of Evolutionary Mechanisms

Analyze how various evolutionary forces interact to shape genetic variation and lead to non-linear p

Extreme

Interactions Among Evolutionary Forces

Evolutionary processes do not act in isolation. Gene flow, natural selection, genetic drift, and mut

Extreme

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

Lamarckism vs. Darwinian Evolution

Critically compare Lamarck's theory of evolution with Darwin's theory of natural selection.

Easy

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

Mechanisms of Speciation

This question evaluates your understanding of speciation processes. Examine different modes of speci

Hard

Modeling Punctuated Equilibrium vs. Gradualism

This FRQ challenges you to design a simulation experiment to test which pattern of evolutionary chan

Hard

Molecular Evidence and Evolutionary Relationships

Modern molecular biology has provided powerful tools for elucidating evolutionary relationships amon

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

Examine how molecular biology provides compelling evidence for evolution.

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

Molecular comparisons provide compelling evidence for common ancestry. Answer the following parts:

Medium

Molecular Evidence for Evolution

A table provides the percentages of DNA sequence similarity among various species. Use this molecula

Medium

Molecular Phylogenetics: Constructing Trees Using DNA Sequences

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

Medium

Natural Selection and Environmental Pressures

This question examines how environmental pressures drive natural selection in a population. Using da

Medium

Non-random Mating and Deviations from Equilibrium

Discuss the concept of non-random mating and analyze data to determine its effect on Hardy-Weinberg

Medium

Paleontological Evidence and Evolutionary Analysis

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

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Drift

Population bottlenecks can profoundly influence genetic diversity through genetic drift. Consider th

Hard

Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

A biologist studied a population's genotype frequencies over 10 generations. The table below shows t

Medium

Population Genetics Simulation: Allele Frequency Change Over Time

A simulation of allele frequency in a population over time is represented by the graph provided.

Hard

Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Analysis

Using the genotype count data provided in the table, calculate allele frequencies and predict expect

Medium

Reproductive Isolation and Speciation

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

Easy

Sexual Selection and Trait Exaggeration

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

Medium

Sexual Selection Illustrated in Avian Species

Explore the role of sexual selection in driving evolutionary changes in bird species.

Easy

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

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

Hard

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation Mechanisms

Examine the mechanisms of speciation and the role of reproductive isolation in the formation of new

Hard

Speciation Mechanisms: Allopatric vs. Sympatric Speciation

Speciation involves the emergence of new species through various mechanisms. Consider the processes

Medium

Stabilizing Selection in Bird Beak Sizes

Researchers collected data on the beak sizes of a bird population from the same habitat. The followi

Medium

Stress-induced Mutations in Drought-Stressed Plant Populations

In this experiment, a researcher exposes a population of plants to controlled drought conditions in

Medium

Studying Allopatric Speciation in a Natural Setting

Design a research study to investigate allopatric speciation in a species inhabiting fragmented habi

Medium

Temperature Effects on Enzyme Activity and Evolutionary Adaptation

In an experiment, enzyme activity was measured at various temperatures to assess adaptive responses

Extreme

The Peppered Moth Case Study: Directional Selection

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

Medium

The Role of Genetic Variation in Evolution

Genetic variation is fundamental to evolution, serving as the substrate upon which natural selection

Easy
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruistic Behavior and Group Dynamics

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

Medium

Analyzing Population Growth Using the r Equation

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

Easy

Behavioral Adaptations in Extreme Environments

This FRQ examines how animals adjust their behavior to thrive in extreme environmental conditions.

Medium

Biomagnification of Toxins in Food Chains

A study investigates the accumulation of toxins in a freshwater ecosystem and its impact on organism

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

Carrying capacity limits population size in an environment. Answer the following parts.

Medium

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 Plants

A botanist investigates how different light/dark cycles affect flowering time in a plant species kno

Easy

Circadian Rhythms in Plants and Animals

Circadian rhythms are internal processes that regulate biological activities on a roughly 24-hour cy

Hard

Ecological Succession in Primary Succession Environments

Ecological succession is the process by which the species structure of an ecosystem gradually change

Medium

Ecological Succession: Primary Succession

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

Medium

Effects of Environmental Toxins

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

Hard

Effects of Keystone Species on Ecosystem Dynamics

A study comparing forest ecosystems with and without a keystone predator yielded the following obser

Hard

Examining Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

A hypothesis proposes that ecosystem stability depends on the balance between mutualistic, commensal

Hard

Human Impacts on Ecosystems: A Study of Pollutant Toxins

Analyze the table below that presents pollutant concentrations in various ecosystems. Address the fo

Hard

Learning Behavior: Habituation in Animals

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

Easy

Mechanisms of Imprinting and Its Consequences

In many species, offspring exhibit an innate behavior called imprinting in which they soon after bir

Medium

Modeling Exponential Population Growth

Examine the dynamics of exponential population growth in an ideal environment and discuss its limita

Hard

Parasitism and Host Response

This FRQ investigates the dynamics between parasites and their hosts, including the detrimental effe

Hard

Pheromones and Social Communication in Insect Colonies

A study investigates the role of pheromones in ant colony communication. In this experiment, synthet

Hard

Phototropism: Light's Influence on Plant Growth

A botanist is studying phototropism in a climbing plant species. The objective is to determine how v

Easy

Plant Behavior: Phototropism vs. Gravitropism

This FRQ explores the underlying mechanisms of two key plant responses: phototropism and gravitropis

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism vs Thigmotropism

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

Medium

Population Dynamics Calculation

A monitored animal population provided data on births, deaths, and total population size over time.

Medium

Population Growth and Carrying Capacity

This FRQ examines population dynamics with a focus on exponential growth and carrying capacity.

Hard

Population Growth Dynamics and Carrying Capacity

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

Medium

Primary vs. Net Productivity in Ecosystems

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

Hard

Succession Dynamics Analysis

A study of ecological succession in a barren landscape recorded the types of pioneer species and sub

Medium

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Examine the chart below summarizing examples of symbiotic relationships. Answer the following:

Medium

The Role of Keystone Species in Ecosystem Stability

Keystone species have an outsized influence on their ecosystems, often maintaining the structure and

Hard

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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.