AP Environmental Science FRQ Room

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AP Environmental Science Free Response Questions

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

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  • Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (22)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (22)
  • Unit 3: Populations (24)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (30)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (27)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (25)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (51)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (24)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (25)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Biomass Disparity in Aquatic Energy Pyramids

An aquatic ecosystem exhibits an unusual biomass pyramid where the consumer biomass exceeds the prod

Medium

Carbon Dioxide Absorption in Aquatic Systems

A researcher designs an experiment to measure the absorption rate of carbon dioxide in seawater. In

Hard

Ecological Interactions and Competition

This question examines species interactions, focusing specifically on competition within ecological

Medium

Ecological Niche Differentiation: Generalists vs. Specialists

A field observation in a diverse ecosystem noted that Species A (a generalist) maintained stable pop

Easy

Ecosystem Dynamics: Limiting Factors and Niches

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

Medium

Ecosystem Response to Limiting Factors

A researcher is investigating the effect of nitrate concentration on the growth rate of a particular

Medium

Effect of Salinity on Coral Polyp Growth

A researcher investigates how different salinity levels affect the growth of coral polyps. Small cor

Hard

Energy Flow and the 10% Rule in Ecosystems

Energy transfer in ecosystems follows the 10% Rule, where only about 10% of energy is passed between

Medium

Energy Flow in Food Webs and the 10% Rule

A researcher is investigating the flow of energy through a terrestrial food web. Measurements have b

Easy

Evaluating Ecosystem Services of Riparian Zones

Design an experimental study to quantify the benefits of riparian vegetation on water quality. Your

Easy

Evaluating Methods for Measuring Net Primary Productivity in Tropical Rainforests

A recent study claims that current methods for measuring net primary productivity (NPP) in tropical

Extreme

FRQ 9: Ecological Niches – Generalists vs. Specialists Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided table comparing traits of generalist and specialist species. Explain how these

Easy

Groundwater Depletion and Aquifer Recharge

Long‐term groundwater extraction can lead to significant declines in aquifer water levels. Answer th

Hard

Human Alterations to Nutrient Cycles

Assess how various human activities alter natural nutrient cycles such as carbon, nitrogen, and phos

Extreme

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Plant Communities

A researcher sets up controlled field plots to study the impact of an invasive plant species on nati

Medium

Impact of Soil pH on Plant Growth in Relation to Nutrient Levels

A researcher collects soil samples from various agricultural fields to study the influence of nitrog

Easy

Modeling Groundwater Depletion Impact

Propose an experimental or data analysis study to examine the effects of groundwater extraction on a

Medium

Nutrient Changes in River Zones

A field study measured nutrient concentrations (mg/L) along a river from its headwaters to the flood

Medium

Resource Partitioning and Interspecific Competition

In a forest ecosystem, two bird species share similar fruit resources but exhibit behavioral differe

Medium

Understanding Global Ocean Circulation

Thermohaline circulation plays a crucial role in regulating global climate by driving deep-water cur

Extreme

Water Cycle Alterations and Climate Regulation

Climate change is altering precipitation and evaporation patterns, thereby affecting the water cycle

Extreme

Water Cycle and Aquifer Sustainability

Discuss the processes of the water cycle and examine the factors that lead to aquifer depletion in m

Hard
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Adaptation Strategies in Changing Environments

Organisms adapt to changes in their environment through various strategies. This question explores b

Easy

Analyzing Biodiversity: Genetic, Species, and Ecosystem Diversity

Examine the various levels of biodiversity and analyze how each level contributes to ecosystem stabi

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Overfishing on Aquatic Biodiversity

Overfishing can disrupt marine ecosystems and reduce aquatic biodiversity. Design a field experiment

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Urbanization on Air Quality and Indicator Species

Urban air pollution can be assessed indirectly by monitoring the health of indicator species such as

Medium

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Stability Analysis

A researcher collected data from several ecosystems to examine the relationship between species rich

Medium

Biodiversity Metrics and Anthropogenic Impacts

This FRQ focuses on understanding the three levels of biodiversity and assessing the impact of anthr

Medium

Climate Change and Rapid Adaptation

This FRQ addresses how species adapt to rapid environmental changes due to climate change, focusing

Hard

Comparing Primary and Secondary Succession

Ecosystems can recover from disturbances via succession. Compare and contrast primary and secondary

Medium

Ecological Succession and Productivity

Ecosystem productivity changes during succession. Consider the changes in gross primary productivity

Hard

Ecosystem Stability and Resilience: A Comparative Analysis

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

Extreme

Effects of Genetically Modified Organisms on Ecosystem Biodiversity

A study compares agricultural plots planted with genetically modified (GMO) crops to those with non-

Hard

Effects of Natural Disruptions on Ecosystem Recovery

Natural disruptions such as flooding, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions affect ecosystems’ biomass a

Medium

Fragmented Habitats and Island Biogeography

Fragmentation of terrestrial habitats creates isolated 'islands' in a landscape. Apply island biogeo

Hard

FRQ 6: Adaptive Strategies – Generalists vs. Specialists

A researcher investigates how species with different adaptive strategies respond to habitat fragment

Medium

FRQ 11: Ecological Succession – Primary vs. Secondary

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

Medium

Impact of Flooding on Ecosystem Stability

After a major flooding event, researchers collected data on the population densities of aquatic plan

Medium

Impact of Urbanization on Pollinator Diversity and Ecosystem Services

Urbanization can affect the diversity and abundance of pollinators, which are critical for ecosystem

Medium

Keystone and Indicator Species Roles in Ecosystems

The table below lists several species along with their roles and sensitivity indicators. Answer the

Easy

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Stability

A graph showing ecosystem species diversity over time was generated for two scenarios: one where a k

Hard

Sea Level Change due to Thermal Expansion

Global sea level rise can partly be attributed to the thermal expansion of seawater as temperatures

Hard

Trophic Interactions and Energy Flow

Energy flows through ecosystems in a pyramidal fashion, and trophic interactions determine the struc

Extreme

Wildlife Migration Triggers

This question focuses on understanding the triggers for wildlife migrations in the context of enviro

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Adaptability in Species: Generalists vs Specialists

Examine the traits of generalist and specialist species as provided in the stimulus table. Answer th

Medium

Analyzing Survivorship Curves

Survivorship curves illustrate the mortality patterns of species over their lifespan. Analyze the gr

Hard

Assessing the Role of Limiting Factors in Ecosystem Regulation

Limiting factors, both density-dependent and density-independent, play important roles in regulating

Extreme

Calculating Doubling Time from Exponential Growth

A biologist is examining the exponential growth of a rodent population. The growth rate is observed

Easy

Comparing Adaptability: Generalist vs Specialist Species

A researcher is interested in assessing the adaptability of a generalist species versus a specialist

Medium

Comparing Strategies: Generalists vs. Specialists and r/K Selection

Compare and contrast the adaptations of generalists versus specialists with the reproductive strateg

Extreme

Ecosystem Management under Human Pressure

Assess the impact of urbanization on ecosystem services and propose a sustainable management strateg

Extreme

Evaluating the Sustainability of Agricultural Practices

Increased population pressures have significant effects on agricultural practices. Answer the follow

Medium

Feedback Loops and Limiting Factors in Ecosystems

Feedback loops are essential mechanisms in ecosystem regulation. Evaluate the role of positive and n

Hard

Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Regulation

Examine the roles of positive and negative feedback loops in regulating ecosystem populations and fu

Medium

FRQ 1: Effects of Environmental Change on Generalist and Specialist Species

Researchers examined two populations – one consisting of a generalist species and the other of a spe

Medium

FRQ 1: Evaluating Algal Growth Under Variable Nutrient Conditions

An experiment was designed to investigate algal growth under different nutrient conditions. In this

Easy

FRQ 2: Investigating Survivorship Curves in a Laboratory Insect Population

An experiment was conducted to study the survivorship curve of a laboratory insect population. Two h

Medium

FRQ 5: Population Doubling Time Using the Rule of 70

This question requires you to apply the Rule of 70 to determine population doubling time and to disc

Extreme

FRQ 6: Feedback Loops in Ecosystems

This question focuses on feedback loops in ecosystems, asking you to define them and apply your unde

Medium

FRQ 7: Analyzing Biotic Potential Adjustments

This question examines biotic potential by having you list influencing factors and apply a numerical

Medium

FRQ 7: Interpreting Total Fertility Rate Data Across Countries

Using the table below, examine the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) for several countries and answer the f

Medium

FRQ 15: Analyzing Tree Survivorship Under Controlled Irrigation

An ecologist set up experimental forest plots to study tree survivorship over a period of five years

Medium

Interaction of Population Density with Resource Availability

Population density is a critical factor influencing resource competition. Answer the following: 1.

Hard

Population Dispersal Patterns: Clumped, Uniform, and Random

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

Easy

Population Growth Models: J-Curves vs. S-Curves

Population growth can follow different models. Consider the two models below and answer the followin

Medium

Predictive Models of Population Growth

Utilize predictive models and mathematical formulas to forecast future population growth and its eco

Hard

Survivorship Curve Analysis and Prediction

Analyze the following survivorship function and answer the accompanying questions:

Hard

Total Fertility Rate and Demographic Implications

Evaluate the significance of total fertility rate (TFR) in shaping population dynamics using the pro

Easy
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Analyzing Seasonal Wind Patterns in Monsoon Climates

Monsoon systems are characterized by dramatic seasonal changes in wind patterns and rainfall. Analyz

Easy

Assessing Plant Species Response to Simulated Temperature Increases

Design an experimental study to investigate how increasing ambient temperatures, simulating climate

Extreme

Assessing the Impact of Landslides on Infrastructure

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

Hard

Comparing Tornadoes and Hurricanes

This question involves a comparison of tornadoes and hurricanes using provided data to illustrate di

Easy

Convergent Boundary Dynamics: Subduction and Orogeny

This question focuses on the dynamics at convergent plate boundaries. A graph depicts the frequency

Hard

FRQ 3: Effect of Organic Matter on Soil Formation

Researchers seek to understand how the addition of organic matter affects soil formation rates. In a

Medium

Global Wind Patterns and the Coriolis Effect

A climatologist is investigating the role of the Coriolis Effect in shaping global wind patterns.

Medium

Human Impact on Soil Erosion and Nutrient Cycling

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

Medium

Human Impacts: Soil Erosion and Sustainable Practices

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

Easy

Hurricane Energy: Estimating Latent Heat Release

Hurricanes release a tremendous amount of energy primarily through the condensation of water vapor.

Hard

Land and Water Use: Agricultural Impacts on Water Quality

Different land use practices affect nutrient runoff into nearby water bodies. The table below provid

Medium

Monsoon Pattern Chart Analysis

Analyze the chart representing seasonal variations in monsoon wind speeds and answer the following q

Medium

Monsoonal Dynamics and Seasonal Variability

This question explores the dynamics of monsoonal winds and their impact on seasonal precipitation pa

Medium

Rain Shadow Effects of Mountain Ranges

A claim states that the mere presence of a mountain range guarantees a rain shadow, ensuring arid co

Medium

Seafloor Spreading and Magnetic Stripes

A geologist investigates seafloor spreading by studying the symmetrical patterns of magnetic stripes

Hard

Seafloor Spreading and Magnetic Striping Analysis

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

Hard

Simulation of Tropical Cyclone Formation and Intensification

Design a simulation-based experiment to study the conditions that lead to the formation and intensif

Extreme

Soil Compaction and Water Infiltration Experiment

An investigator set up an experiment to study water infiltration in compacted soils. Identical soil

Medium

Soil Erosion Graph Analysis

Analyze the provided graph depicting soil erosion rates as influenced by rainfall intensity and answ

Medium

Soil Formation Process and Erosion Impact

This question explores the processes of soil formation and the impacts of erosion on agricultural pr

Medium

Soil Formation under Varying Climatic Conditions

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

Medium

Soil Profile Dynamics and Erosion Impact

Soil formation and erosion have significant impacts on ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Ana

Medium

Solar Radiation, Angle of Sunlight, and Energy Distribution

Solar energy received at Earth’s surface depends on the angle of sunlight. The graph provided illust

Medium

Transform Boundaries and Earthquake Prediction

A seismologist is studying transform plate boundaries and their association with earthquake generati

Extreme

Understanding Polar Vortex Formation and Impact

The polar vortex is a key feature of polar meteorology, influencing winter weather patterns. Analyze

Easy

Watershed Dynamics and Nutrient Runoff

Evaluate how watershed management strategies influence nutrient runoff and overall water quality in

Hard

Watershed Management and Nutrient Runoff

The following table presents nitrate concentrations (in mg/L) in runoff water from different land ma

Medium

Watershed Management and Pollutant Control

This question focuses on watershed definition, management practices, and the reduction of agricultur

Medium

Watershed Management and Water Quality

An environmental scientist is evaluating the role of watersheds in regulating water quality and redu

Hard

Wind Speed and Pressure Gradient Analysis

Wind patterns are driven by pressure gradients and modified by the Coriolis force. Analyze the relat

Hard
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Acid Mine Drainage and Ecosystem Recovery

A mining region has been affected by acid mine drainage, which has led to the contamination of nearb

Medium

Agricultural Revolutions: Transforming Society and Environment

Examine the transformations in agricultural practices from early domestication to modern biotechnolo

Hard

Agricultural Revolutions: Yield Comparison

Use the provided data table to compare agricultural yields from the First, Second, and Third Agricul

Medium

Analyzing Renewable Energy Implementation in Urban Areas

A city planner runs a simulation study to evaluate the effect of increasing solar panel installation

Medium

CAFO Wastewater and Nitrogen Loading

A CAFO with 500 animals produces manure with a soluble nitrogen content of 0.15 kg per animal per da

Hard

CAFOs and Their Impact on Water Quality

This question examines the environmental impact of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) on

Medium

Case Study on Clear-Cutting and Forest Ecosystems

A recent report claimed that clear-cutting leads to irreversible changes in forest microclimate and

Hard

Clear-cutting and Edge Effects Analysis

The table below provides data on forest area and biodiversity index for areas managed through differ

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Organic versus Inorganic Fertilizers on Crop Yield

Design an experiment to compare the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on crop yield. Your

Easy

Deforestation Process Flowchart Analysis

Examine the provided flowchart that outlines the deforestation process and its resulting environment

Hard

Desertification and Overgrazing Effects

Analyze the processes of desertification and the role of overgrazing in accelerating land degradatio

Medium

Ecological Footprints and Sustainable Limits

Discuss the concept of ecological footprints and evaluate whether current resource consumption level

Medium

Environmental Impacts of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)

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

Medium

Green Revolution and Pesticide Resistance

During the Green Revolution, the widespread adoption of high-yield crops was accompanied by intensiv

Hard

Impacts and Mitigation of Deforestation

Consider the multifaceted impacts of deforestation on natural systems.

Medium

Investigating Nutrient Runoff from CAFO Operations into Waterways

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

Hard

Irrigation Methods Efficiency and Water Usage

This question explores various irrigation methods, their efficiency, and implications for water cons

Medium

Irrigation Methods Process Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided schematic diagram that illustrates various irrigation methods (including drip,

Medium

Mining Methods and Environmental Consequences

Evaluate various mining techniques and analyze their environmental impacts with a focus on remediati

Extreme

Mining Practices and Environmental Degradation

This question explores different mining techniques and their environmental impacts, including an ana

Hard

Pesticide Effects on Non-target Species

The use of certain pesticides is claimed to cause declines in non-target organism populations. Evalu

Hard

Pesticide Use Impact on Biodiversity

Evaluate the effects of high pesticide usage on insect biodiversity, and propose alternative pest ma

Medium

Soil Conservation with No-Till Farming: Carbon Sequestration

No‐till farming is known to increase soil organic carbon by 0.2 tC/ha per year. A farmer converts 10

Hard

Synthetic vs. Organic Fertilizers Trade-offs

Evaluate the trade-offs between using synthetic and organic fertilizers in terms of crop yield impro

Medium

Urban Runoff and Water Quality: An Experimental Investigation

Design an experiment to investigate how urban surfaces influence runoff quality and water pollutant

Medium

Urban Sprawl versus Smart Growth Schematic Comparison

Review the provided diagram that compares the features of urban sprawl with those of smart growth. I

Easy

Urbanization and the IPAT Equation

Apply the IPAT equation to quantify the environmental impact of a major urban population and interpr

Medium
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Advanced Clean Coal Technology

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

Hard

Air Pollution from Fossil Fuel Combustion

Analyze the bar graph titled 'Emissions by Fuel Type' which shows emission levels for coal, oil, and

Hard

Analysis of Solar Energy Heating Systems

A homeowner compares passive and active solar heating systems. The table below compares installation

Easy

Biomass Combustion and Energy Yield Experiment

Engineers design an experiment to measure the energy yield from the combustion of biomass. A fixed q

Medium

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion Efficiency

A study was conducted to evaluate the methane yield from different biomass feedstocks used in anaero

Medium

Biomass Energy Conversion Process

Study the flowchart outlining the biomass energy conversion process. Answer the following:

Medium

Clean Coal Technology Evaluation

The concept of "Clean Coal" involves using advanced technologies such as carbon capture and storage

Medium

Cogeneration System Energy Balance Experiment

A cogeneration system is tested in a facility that simultaneously generates electricity and recovers

Medium

Cogeneration Systems and Enhanced Energy Recovery

Cogeneration, or combined heat and power (CHP), systems aim to maximize energy recovery. Analyze how

Medium

Combustion Efficiency and Emission Analysis

A power plant burns fossil fuels following the reaction $$C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2$$. The table belo

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Compare renewable energy sources (such as wind, solar, and geothermal) with nonrenewable sources (su

Medium

Designing a Sustainable Community Energy Plan

This question requires you to design a sustainable energy portfolio for a small community by integra

Extreme

Energy Conversion in Turbine-Generator Systems

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

Medium

Fossil Fuels and Environmental Impact

Fossil fuels, while economically important, have significant environmental impacts. Examine the form

Hard

Heat Engine Efficiency Determination

A heat engine operates between a high-temperature reservoir at 600 K and a low-temperature reservoir

Medium

Hydroelectric Dam and Ecosystem Impact

Hydroelectric dams alter river ecosystems and can impact aquatic life. Using the table below that su

Hard

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Membrane Experiment

Design an experiment to compare the performance of hydrogen fuel cells made with different membrane

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Principles and Applications

Hydrogen fuel cells operate by converting chemical energy directly into electrical energy. Analyze t

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Energy Conversion

This question focuses on the technology behind hydrogen fuel cells and compares them to traditional

Easy

Impact of Energy Infrastructure on Local Ecosystems

Energy infrastructure projects can have significant impacts on local ecosystems. Analyze how differe

Medium

Investigation of Energy Losses During Transmission

A study measured energy losses in power transmission over various distances. Analyze the following t

Easy

Life Cycle Analysis of Energy Production Methods

This question engages you in a life cycle analysis (LCA) of different energy production methods, foc

Extreme

Photovoltaic Efficiency and Material Limitations

This question examines the efficiency of photovoltaic cells and the material properties that limit t

Hard

Solar Energy System Analysis

A residential photovoltaic system converts solar energy into electrical energy. A table below shows

Easy

Solar Photovoltaic System Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided diagram of a residential solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The diagram shows sola

Medium
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Deposition and Its Ecological Effects

This question focuses on the processes that lead to acid deposition and its effects on ecosystems.

Hard

Air Pollution and Urban Heat Islands

A study investigates the relationship between urban heat islands and air pollutant concentrations. A

Medium

Air Pollution Mitigation Analysis Using Cost-Benefit Assessment

This question requires a cost-benefit analysis of two pollution-control devices used to reduce indus

Hard

Aircraft Noise Reduction Technologies

This question explores technological advancements aimed at reducing aircraft noise and involves quan

Hard

Analysis of Lead Exposure Risk via Inhalation

Lead exposure from airborne particulates is a serious health risk. (a) Convert a measured airborne l

Hard

Analyzing Noise Pollution Levels in Urban Settings

Noise pollution in urban areas can adversely affect human health and productivity. (a) Given a table

Easy

Assessing Health Risks from Heavy Metal Air Pollutants

Heavy metals like lead (Pb) in the atmosphere can pose significant health risks. Consider the follow

Hard

Catalyst Efficiency in Oxidizing Unburned Hydrocarbons

A researcher evaluated a new catalyst designed to oxidize unburned hydrocarbons in engine emissions

Extreme

Catalytic Converter Efficiency Analysis

A researcher evaluates the performance of catalytic converters by comparing emission reduction perce

Medium

Comparative Policy Analysis: Urban vs Rural Air Pollution

Air quality challenges can differ greatly between urban industrial areas and rural agricultural regi

Medium

Comparative Study of Diesel vs. Gasoline Emissions Through a Simulated Environment

A researcher conducts an experiment to compare emissions from diesel and gasoline engines within a c

Extreme

Comprehensive Air Pollution Reduction Strategy

Air pollution arises from a multitude of sources and through various chemical processes that yield b

Extreme

Dynamics of Volatile Organic Compounds in Simulated Atmosphere Experiment

A research team investigates the behavior of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a simulated urban

Extreme

Effectiveness of Air Purifiers on Indoor VOC Levels

Design an experiment to test the effectiveness of commercially available air purifiers in reducing i

Easy

Effectiveness of Air Quality Regulations on Pollutant Reduction

A policy analyst conducts a longitudinal study to compare pollutant levels in regulated versus unreg

Extreme

Evaluating Air Pollution Remediation Techniques

Different technological solutions are employed to reduce air pollution. Evaluate various remediation

Medium

Evaluating Emission Reductions from Alternative Transportation

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

Easy

Evaluating the Effects of Noise Pollution on Health

A study has compiled data on noise levels (in decibels) and the frequency of reported health issues

Easy

Examining the Relationship between Fossil Fuel Combustion and Acid Deposition

A study investigated the link between fossil fuel combustion and acid deposition. The table below pr

Medium

FRQ 2: Industrial Smog Formation and Effects

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

Medium

Graph Analysis of Urban Air Pollutant Concentration Over Time

A city monitors the concentration of a particular air pollutant over time. A graph of pollutant conc

Medium

Impact of Nitrogen Oxides on Ozone Formation

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) play a significant role in the formation of tropospheric ozone. Use your knowl

Medium

Impact of Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) on Agriculture

A study investigates the influence of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) on agricultural crop yields. The ta

Hard

Indoor Air Pollution and Sick Building Syndrome

This question explores the phenomenon of sick building syndrome, common indoor air pollutants, and p

Hard

Industrial Noise Pollution Impact Assessment

A study examines noise pollution from various sources in industrial settings. The provided table lis

Medium

Industrial vs. Non-Point Source Pollution Analysis

A researcher examines various air pollution sources. The provided table categorizes examples of poin

Medium

Introduction to Air Pollution Classification

This question examines fundamental concepts in air pollution, focusing on definitions and classifica

Easy

Investigating the Effects of Acid Rain on Aquatic Ecosystems

An environmental study monitored the pH of a lake over a 10‐year period during which acid rain depos

Medium

Lead Exposure and Risk Assessment

This question focuses on the risks associated with lead exposure and the calculation of inhaled lead

Medium

Lead Pollution in Air

Analyze the sources and health impacts of lead pollution in the atmosphere, and critically assess a

Medium

Modeling Industrial Smog Formation: SO₂ to Sulfuric Acid Conversion

A researcher set up a laboratory simulation to replicate industrial smog formation by combining sulf

Hard

Monitoring Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) Dispersion Experiment

An environmental scientist studies the dispersion of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) by releasing a trace

Hard

Nitrogen Oxides and Ozone Chemistry

Explore the production of nitrogen oxides in high-temperature combustion and explain their role in t

Hard

Nitrogen Oxides and Ozone in Photochemical Smog

Photochemical smog involves complex interactions between nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and ozone (O₃). A typ

Hard

Noise Pollution in Urban Environments

This question investigates noise pollution in urban areas by defining the phenomenon and comparing i

Easy

Photochemical Reactions in Smog Formation: The Role of Nitrogen Oxides

A controlled experiment using a UV light chamber was conducted to investigate photochemical reaction

Extreme

Photochemical Smog Formation Analysis

Photochemical smog formation involves a series of reactions influenced by sunlight and pollutant con

Hard

Policy Approaches to Reducing PMx Levels

Particulate matter (PMx) has significant environmental and health impacts. Answer the following: (a

Extreme

Primary vs. Secondary Pollutants Analysis

A mid-sized city is experiencing both visible smog and ground-level ozone formation. An emissions in

Medium

Primary vs. Secondary Pollutants: Sources and Formation

A researcher examines the formation of air pollutants. Answer the following questions to differentia

Easy

Regional Air Pollution Control Strategies

A regional study evaluates multiple remediation steps for reducing air pollution. Based on various a

Hard

Remediation Strategies for Air Quality Improvement

Facing worsening air quality, a large city is considering an array of interventions ranging from tec

Hard

Sick Building Syndrome: Indoor Air Quality Analysis

This question targets 'sick building syndrome' (SBS) by examining indoor air quality issues, specifi

Medium

Sulfur Dioxide: Emissions and Air Quality Control

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is a major atmospheric pollutant from fossil fuel combustion. Answer the follow

Hard

Thermal Inversions and Air Quality

Discuss the phenomenon of thermal inversions and their implications for pollutant concentration near

Medium

Thermal Inversions and Pollutant Trapping

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

Medium

Urban Heat Island Effect: Analysis and Mitigation

Urban heat islands result in higher temperatures in cities compared to rural areas. The graph below

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollutant Concentrations

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

Hard

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollution Interaction

This question explores the concept of urban heat islands and their impact on air pollution, requirin

Extreme

Volcanic Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Air Quality

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

Medium

Volcanic Organic Compounds and Temperature

Researchers measured VOC (volatile organic compounds) levels near an active volcano at different amb

Hard
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Anaerobic Digestion Efficiency in Organic Waste Treatment

A researcher investigated the efficiency of anaerobic digestion for decomposing organic waste from m

Hard

Analysis of Water Pollution Sources

A regional water quality study is being conducted on a river subject to both point and non-point sou

Easy

Analysis of Water Pollution Sources and Impacts

This FRQ focuses on understanding water pollution sources, including point source and nonpoint sourc

Medium

Analysis of Water Pollution Sources in a River Ecosystem

A mid-sized city situated along a river experiences several forms of water pollution. Some industrie

Medium

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification Kinetics

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

Medium

Bioaccumulation Measurement in Fish Tissue

A researcher conducted a 60-day experiment to measure the bioaccumulation of a synthetic pesticide i

Medium

Cultural Eutrophication and Nutrient Accumulation

This FRQ examines cultural eutrophication and its effects on water quality, focusing on the accumula

Hard

Evaluating Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Aquatic Food Webs

Many pollutants such as heavy metals bioaccumulate in organisms and biomagnify through food webs. De

Hard

Evaluating Heavy Metal Toxicity Under Different pH Conditions

A researcher examined the toxicity of heavy metals on aquatic organisms by exposing them to metal so

Hard

Evaluating Oil Spill Impacts on Marine Ecosystems

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

Hard

FRQ10: Solid Waste Disposal and Landfill Design

Evaluate the design of a sanitary landfill based on the provided schematic diagram. Analyze its stru

Hard

FRQ16: Great Pacific Garbage Patch Dynamics

Examine the schematic diagram illustrating ocean gyres and the formation of the Great Pacific Garbag

Hard

FRQ18: Household Water Treatment Design

Evaluate the schematic diagram of a household water treatment system that uses adsorption, filtratio

Medium

Hazardous Waste Management Techniques

A researcher is exploring techniques used for managing hazardous wastes. Answer the following parts.

Medium

Impact of Cultural Eutrophication on Lake Ecosystems

A rural lake has been experiencing frequent algal blooms and fish kills, likely resulting from cultu

Medium

Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Aquatic Organism Reproduction

Examine how endocrine disruptors affect the reproductive rates of aquatic organisms by interpreting

Extreme

Influence of pH on Water Quality and Heavy Metal Mobility

This question explores how water pH influences the solubility of heavy metals and overall water qual

Medium

Mining and Water Contamination

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

Medium

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Long-Range Transport

This question examines the properties of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and involves interpret

Extreme

Predicting Climate Change Effects on Stream Temperature and DO Levels

Recent data collected from a stream over a one-year period show variations in temperature and dissol

Medium

Solid Waste and Landfill Design

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

Medium

Thermal Pollution and Its Impact on Freshwater Ecosystems

This FRQ examines the causes and consequences of thermal pollution in freshwater ecosystems and expl

Medium

Urban Runoff and DO Dynamics

This FRQ examines the impact of urban runoff on water quality, with a focus on dissolved oxygen (DO)

Medium

Urban Runoff and Its Impact on Water Quality

A city is experiencing water quality issues due to urban runoff. Answer the following parts using th

Medium
Unit 9: Global Change

Analyzing Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Legislation Effects

A government has enacted legislation banning the use of CFCs in various consumer products. Analyze t

Medium

Analyzing the Effects of UV Radiation on Biota

A researcher is investigating how different types of UV radiation (UVA, UVB, and UVC) impact both th

Hard

Assessing Alternatives to CFCs for Ozone Protection

Read the following description: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are chemically stable compounds that allo

Hard

Deforestation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Deforestation significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. Examine the relationship

Medium

Deforestation and Its Impact on Atmospheric CO₂ Levels

Evaluate the relationship between deforestation and rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations.

Hard

Designing an Experiment to Measure Residential Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Develop an experimental design to accurately measure the on-site energy consumption and associated C

Easy

Effects of Ozone Depletion on Human Health and Ecosystems

In this question, you will investigate the biological and ecological consequences of stratospheric o

Medium

Endangered Species Monitoring: Designing a Conservation Study

This question addresses the challenges of monitoring endangered species. You will first explain the

Hard

Energy Consumption and Renewable Transition

Explore the environmental and economic implications of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable

Medium

Experimental Investigation of UV Radiation and Ozone Formation

A researcher investigates how different types of UV radiation affect ozone formation. In a controlle

Medium

Global Policies on Ozone and Climate Change

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

Hard

Graphical Analysis of Thermal Expansion

A graph illustrates the relationship between time (in years) and sea temperature as a proxy for ther

Medium

Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change: Data Analysis

A researcher examines a graph that displays global temperature anomalies over the period from 1900 t

Hard

Greenhouse Effect: Radiative Forcing and Energy Balance

When sunlight strikes Earth's surface, part of the energy is reflected and the remainder is absorbed

Medium

Greenhouse Gas Atmospheric Concentration Trends Analysis

This question involves analyzing trends in atmospheric $$CO_2$$ concentrations and designing an expe

Medium

Health Impacts of Ozone Depletion

Ozone depletion leads to an increase in ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the Earth's surface, whi

Easy

Health Impacts of Ozone Depletion

This question looks at the health implications of ozone depletion due to increased UV exposure.

Medium

Human Health Impacts of UV Radiation Exposure

Analyze the potential health effects of increased ultraviolet radiation due to ozone depletion.

Medium

International Environmental Policy and Its Impact

Discuss the role of international agreements in mitigating environmental issues such as ozone deplet

Medium

Invasive Plant Impact on Native Species Growth

A researcher investigates the impact of an invasive plant species on the growth of a native plant in

Easy

Invasive Species and Ecosystem Disruption

The introduction of an invasive aquatic plant into a freshwater lake can disrupt the native ecosyste

Hard

Invasive Species Impact Assessment

Invasive species can disrupt native ecosystems by rapidly increasing in population. This problem exp

Easy

Ocean Acidification Impact Analysis

Analyze the chemical and ecological impacts of increased ocean acidification resulting from higher a

Hard

Temperature Effects on Ozone Formation Dynamics

Temperature can influence the rates of ozone formation and breakdown in the stratosphere. Answer the

Hard

UV Radiation and Ozone Formation

Evaluate the roles of different forms of ultraviolet radiation—UVA, UVB, and UVC—in both promoting a

Easy

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