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 $AP Environmental Science FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (14)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (25)
  • Unit 3: Populations (22)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (18)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (25)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (28)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (46)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (36)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (36)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Analyzing the Effect of Deforestation on Carbon Emissions

A region is experiencing deforestation, losing 5000 hectares of old-growth forest annually. If old-g

Easy

Aquifer Depletion and Consequences

This question explores the structure and function of aquifers and the consequences of their depletio

Hard

Biomass Pyramid Analysis in a Temperate Forest

A temperate forest has been surveyed, and the following biomass data were obtained: primary producer

Easy

Biomes: Adaptations in Terrestrial Environments

This question investigates how species adapt to extreme terrestrial biomes such as deserts and tundr

Medium

Carbon Sequestration in Forest Ecosystems

Researchers are comparing net carbon uptake in two forest ecosystems over a 120-day growing season:

Hard

Effect of Temperature on Decomposition Rate

Decomposition rate in soils can be modeled using an Arrhenius equation: $$k(T) = A*e^{-\frac{E}{R*T}

Hard

Eutrophication and Algal Bloom Simulation

A researcher simulates eutrophication by adding controlled amounts of fertilizer to a series of fres

Medium

Groundwater Depletion and Aquifer Recharge

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

Hard

Human Impact on Nutrient Cycles

Examine how anthropogenic activities are altering the global nitrogen and carbon cycles. A table is

Hard

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Plant Biomass

In a grassland ecosystem, an invasive plant species grows at a continuous rate of 15% per year while

Medium

Predator-Prey Dynamics in a Microcosm

A researcher conducts an experiment to observe predator-prey interactions in a controlled microcosm

Hard

Restoration Effectiveness in Mangrove Ecosystems Post Oil Spill

A study claims that restoration efforts in mangrove ecosystems following an oil spill have significa

Hard

Seasonal Turnover and Lake Stratification

A limnologist collected temperature data at various depths in a temperate lake during summer stratif

Medium

Temperature Effects on Enzymatic Activity in Respiration

A study examined the respiration rate of an ectothermic organism at different temperatures. The grap

Hard
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Adaptations: Survival Strategies

This question explores various types of adaptations organisms use to survive environmental changes.

Medium

Analyzing Biodiversity: Genetic, Species, and Ecosystem Diversity

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

Medium

Analyzing Population Bottlenecks on Genetic Variability

Population bottlenecks can drastically reduce genetic variability and threaten long-term species via

Hard

Anthropogenic Impacts on Biodiversity: Analysis and Remediation

This question explores the impact of human activities on biodiversity and requires analysis of a pro

Medium

Comparing Intercropping Versus Monoculture Systems on Soil Fertility and Biodiversity

Intercropping is often proposed as a sustainable agricultural practice that may enhance soil fertili

Medium

Comparing Primary and Secondary Succession

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

Medium

Comparing Short-term Adaptations vs. Long-term Evolutionary Adaptations

A study examines populations of a crustacean exposed to rapidly fluctuating salinity conditions vers

Hard

Ecological Succession and Productivity

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

Hard

Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Balance

This FRQ examines the concept of ecosystem services and their role in maintaining a balance within e

Hard

FRQ 4: Ecosystem Services Valuation

A researcher evaluates the ecosystem services provided by different land uses in a region, including

Medium

Island Biogeography Model Analysis

A graph representing species richness on islands at varying distances from the mainland is provided.

Medium

Keystone and Indicator Species Analysis

This question focuses on the roles of keystone and indicator species in ecosystems.

Easy

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Balance

Keystone species play critical roles in maintaining ecosystem stability. Analyze their function and

Medium

Monitoring Indicator Species for Water Quality

A researcher evaluated water quality in several pond ecosystems by monitoring the presence and abund

Easy

Nutrient Cycling Efficiency and Decomposer Activity

Nutrient cycling in ecosystems is substantially driven by decomposer organisms. In an experiment, th

Easy

Pioneer Species and Population Doubling

Pioneer species are key players in early ecological succession. Examine their role in ecosystem deve

Easy

Population Bottleneck and Genetic Diversity

A population of organisms underwent a catastrophic bottleneck event, drastically reducing its number

Hard

Regulating Ecosystem Services and Agricultural Systems

This FRQ addresses how regulating ecosystem services, such as natural pest control, influence agricu

Medium

Soil Nutrient Cycling under Different Fertilizer Treatments

Researchers established experimental plots to study the impact of organic versus synthetic fertilize

Hard

Specialist vs. Generalist Species Adaptations

This question requires you to compare specialist and generalist species, discussing their adaptation

Medium

Successional Productivity Trends in Ecosystems

A graph shows changes in gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) over di

Hard

Trophic Interactions and Energy Flow

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

Extreme

Wildfires and Ecosystem Dynamics

Wildfires can both devastate and stimulate ecological renewal. Evaluate the dual nature of wildfires

Hard

Wildlife Migration Triggers

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

Medium

Wildlife Migrations and Energy Expenditure

Wildlife migrations are critical responses to environmental changes. Investigate the energetic costs

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Carrying Capacity and Environmental Constraints

Analyze a graph showing fluctuations in population size around the carrying capacity of an environme

Medium

Climate Change and Shifts in Human Population Distribution

Analyze the relationship between climate change and human migration patterns using the provided grap

Extreme

Evaluating Biotic Potential and Environmental Resistance

Discuss the concepts of biotic potential and environmental resistance using the provided table, and

Medium

Evaluating Population Dispersal Patterns

A researcher collected data on the dispersal patterns of various animal species. Refer to the provid

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 9: Simulating Predator-Prey Dynamics with Feedback Loop Errors

A researcher used a computer simulation to model predator-prey interactions in a closed ecosystem ov

Extreme

FRQ 12: Assessing Urbanization Effects on Biodiversity in Field Plots

Researchers established three types of field plots in an urban environment to study the impact of ur

Medium

Generalists vs. Specialists: Adaptation and Survival

Discuss the differences between generalist and specialist species with emphasis on how these differe

Easy

Interpreting Survivorship Curves

Examine the graph provided in the stimulus which depicts three types of survivorship curves (Type I,

Hard

Interpreting Survivorship Curves

Interpret the provided survivorship curves graph to explain the biological significance of Type I, T

Hard

Modeling Exponential vs. Logistic Population Growth

Design an experiment to compare exponential (J-curve) and logistic (S-curve) population growth model

Extreme

Modeling Population Doubling Time

The Rule of 70 is a useful tool for estimating population doubling time. Answer the following: 1. D

Easy

Modeling Population Growth with Mathematical Equations

Using provided data, model the growth of a population mathematically and interpret the results in an

Medium

Population Dispersal Patterns

Population dispersal patterns describe how individuals are distributed within a habitat. Answer the

Easy

Population Dispersal Patterns: Clumped, Uniform, and Random

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

Easy

Population Growth Rate Calculations and Analysis

Using the provided data, perform calculations to determine the Crude Birth Rate, Crude Death Rate, a

Medium

Population Growth Rate: Application of Formulas

Apply the formulas of population growth rate to analyze given demographic data. Discuss how immigrat

Medium

Simulating Demographic Transition Dynamics

A sociologist is using a controlled simulation to study the demographic transition in a population.

Extreme

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

Understanding Carrying Capacity and Logistic Growth

Examine the provided graph showing population size fluctuations around the carrying capacity. Answer

Hard
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Albedo Measurement Experiment to Study Urban Heat Islands

An environmental scientist performed an experiment to investigate the role of albedo in influencing

Medium

Climate Change Emissions and Temperature Trends Graph Assessment

Using the provided graph that shows greenhouse gas emissions and global temperature anomalies over s

Extreme

Comparing Loam and Clay Soil for Agriculture

This question explores the physical properties of different soil types and their implications for ag

Easy

Convergent Boundary Dynamics: Subduction and Orogeny

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

Hard

Divergent Boundaries: Earthquake Dynamics at Fault Zones

Divergent boundaries create fault zones that can result in earthquake activity. Analyze the characte

Medium

FRQ 5: Soil Composition and Nutrient‐Holding Capacity

A researcher is interested in how variations in soil composition affect its nutrient-holding capacit

Hard

Greenhouse Gases and Global Temperature Trends

Examine the relationship between increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases and global temperatur

Hard

Impact of Deforestation on Watershed Hydrology

Deforestation can profoundly alter watershed hydrology, leading to increased flooding and soil erosi

Easy

Impact of El Niño on Regional Climate and Ecology

This question explores the climatic and ecological effects of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO

Hard

Impact of Land Use Changes on Local Climate Experiment

A researcher conducted an experiment to study the effects of urban expansion on local temperature an

Medium

Seafloor Spreading Analysis using Magnetic Striping Diagram

Examine the provided diagram that shows mid-ocean ridges with symmetrical magnetic striping and answ

Hard

Soil Erosion and Agricultural Practices

A local news article claims that improper plowing techniques are the primary cause of soil erosion i

Medium

Soil Food Web and Nutrient Cycling

The soil food web is essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems. Explore how disruptions in the

Hard

Solar Radiation and Sunlight Angle Chart Interpretation

Analyze the diagram that illustrates the effect of the angle of sunlight on solar intensity across d

Easy

Urban Expansion and Biodiversity Loss

A claim suggests that urban expansion is the primary driver of local biodiversity loss. Evaluate thi

Hard

Volcanic Aerosol Impact on Stratospheric Temperature Experiment

A team of atmospheric scientists simulated the impact of sulfur-rich volcanic aerosols on stratosphe

Extreme

Watershed Dynamics and Nutrient Runoff

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

Hard

Wind Pattern and the Coriolis Effect

A table below summarizes observed wind patterns in different regions: | Region | Observ

Medium
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Biodiversity and Land Use Conversion Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided diagram that illustrates the relationship between deforestation/land conversion

Extreme

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

Clear-cutting and Edge Effects Analysis

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

Medium

Climate Change Impacts on Water Resources

This question addresses how climate change affects water availability and quality, and asks you to p

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Conventional and Organic Farming

Interpret data comparing the responses of conventional and organic farms to increased nitrogen input

Hard

Desertification and Overgrazing Effects

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

Medium

Desertification and Soil Erosion: Quantifying Soil Loss

Overgrazing in a 200-hectare field leads to soil erosion at a rate of 5 tons per hectare per year ov

Medium

Ecological Footprints and Sustainable Limits

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

Medium

Evaluating Desertification in Overgrazed Rangelands

A researcher assesses the process by which overgrazing leads to desertification in rangelands.

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Fertilizer Effects on Crop Yield

In an experiment designed to determine the effect of high-nitrogen inorganic fertilizer on maize yie

Hard

Experiment Analysis: Overgrazing Impact on Common Pastures

Researchers designed an experiment to analyze the impacts of communal grazing on pasture regrowth. T

Medium

Genetic Engineering in Agriculture: A Yield Analysis

Analyze the impact of genetic engineering in agriculture by comparing the yields of GM and non-GM cr

Medium

Impact of Overfishing on Marine Biodiversity

The table below compares fish biomass and species count in regions subjected to different levels of

Easy

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Cycle Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided cycle diagram that compares Integrated Pest Management (IPM) with conventional

Medium

Integrated Urban and Agricultural Water Management

An emerging claim argues that integrating urban runoff management with agricultural irrigation strat

Extreme

Mining Process Efficiency and Waste Generation

An open-pit mining operation extracts 5000 metric tons of ore with a recovery efficiency of 70%. Ans

Easy

Overfishing Impact Graph Analysis

Interpret the provided graph which illustrates the decline in fish populations relative to overfishi

Medium

Overgrazing and Desertification

In a semi-arid region, intensive grazing practices have led to overgrazing, which in turn is acceler

Hard

Pesticide Treadmill and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Investigate the concept of the pesticide treadmill and evaluate the potential of Integrated Pest Man

Medium

Sustainability and the IPAT Equation

Explore the concept of sustainability using the IPAT formula as a framework for understanding human

Hard

Sustainable Agriculture and Nitrogen Runoff

A sustainable farm applies 1000 kg of organic fertilizer per hectare, which contains 2% nitrogen. Ho

Easy

Sustainable Irrigation Methods and Water Use Efficiency

An agricultural region is comparing several irrigation methods to improve water use efficiency and r

Medium

Synthetic vs. Organic Fertilizers Trade-offs

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

Medium

Urban Sprawl vs. Smart Growth Strategies

A researcher compares the environmental and social outcomes of urban sprawl against smart growth str

Medium

Urban Sustainability Energy Usage Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram comparing sustainable energy usage with conventional energy usage in ur

Hard
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

This question investigates the production of energy from biomass via anaerobic digestion processes.

Easy

Biomass Energy and Anaerobic Digestion

Biomass offers a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Evaluate the process of biomass energy produ

Medium

Biomass Energy Conversion

Biomass energy harnesses energy from organic materials. Investigate the process and implications of

Medium

Combined Heat and Power Systems (Cogeneration)

This question focuses on cogeneration systems, exploring their operational principles, energy calcul

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Thermal and Nuclear Energy

A government agency is evaluating the merits of generating energy via combustion of fossil fuels (th

Extreme

Designing a Sustainable Community Energy Plan

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

Extreme

Energy Conservation and Thermodynamics

This question explores the principles of energy conservation and thermodynamics. Answer all parts.

Medium

Energy Conservation in Residential Buildings

A recent study compared energy consumption and operating costs between conventional residential buil

Easy

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Power Plants

This question requires you to analyze energy conversion from thermal to electrical energy in power p

Extreme

Energy Density Comparison between Coal and Biomass

Coal has an energy density of 24 MJ/kg while biomass has 18 MJ/kg. Answer the following:

Easy

Fossil Fuel Power Plant Efficiency Calculation

A coal-fired power plant burns 500 tonnes of coal per day. Each kilogram of coal provides 30 MJ of t

Medium

Fossil Fuels and Environmental Impact

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

Hard

Geothermal Energy and Heat Extraction

Geothermal energy is harnessed from the Earth’s internal heat. Evaluate the methods used for energy

Hard

Geothermal Turbine Experiment

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of water temperature in a simulated geothermal system

Hard

Greenhouse Gases and Energy Production

Evaluate the impact of different energy production methods on greenhouse gas emissions and propose s

Medium

Hydroelectric Dam Trade-offs

A study evaluated several dam projects with respect to their energy production and associated social

Hard

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance

A set of experiments were conducted to assess the performance of a hydrogen fuel cell under differen

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Voltage Calculation

A hydrogen fuel cell produces 0.7 V per cell. In a system where 100 cells are connected in series, a

Easy

Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing on Water Quality

A study measured contaminant levels in water samples from sites near hydraulic fracturing operations

Hard

Nuclear Criticality: Chain Reaction and Control Rod Analysis

Maintaining a controlled chain reaction is crucial in nuclear reactors. Analyze the concept of criti

Hard

Nuclear Fission and Reactor Control

This question investigates nuclear fission, reactor control, and associated risks. Consider the proc

Hard

Nuclear Fission Energy Release Calculation

When a nucleus of U-235 undergoes fission, approximately 200 MeV of energy is released per event. Gi

Hard

Photovoltaic Efficiency and Material Limitations

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

Hard

Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Energy: Economic and Environmental Trade-offs

This question examines the differences between renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, focusing o

Hard

Secondary Effects of Solar Energy Implementation on Ecosystems

Large-scale solar farms have the potential to alter local ecosystems. Answer the following:

Medium

Thermal Efficiency Improvement in Buildings

A study measured the monthly energy consumption of a building before and after improvements in insul

Easy

Wind Energy Production and Efficiency Calculation

Analyze how wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy and perform a ca

Hard

Wind Energy Turbine System Efficiency

Examine the diagram of a wind turbine system. Answer the following:

Medium
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Rain and Aquatic Ecosystem Impact

A researcher examines the impacts of acid deposition on freshwater ecosystems. The provided table sh

Hard

Acid Rain Deposition Experimental Simulation

In a laboratory experiment, acid rain is simulated to study its effects on plant growth and soil nut

Medium

Acid Rain Formation and Ecological Effects

Discuss the chemical processes leading to acid rain and its impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

Hard

Acid Rain: Formation Process and Ecological Effects

A forested region downwind of industrial centers is experiencing significant ecological changes due

Hard

Air Pollutant Source Analysis

This question addresses sources and levels of various air pollutants measured in parts per million (

Easy

Air Quality During Urban Heat Islands

Examine the relationship between urban heat islands and air pollution, and critically assess studies

Hard

Air Quality Trends in Urban Area

A researcher collects data on PM2.5 concentrations over a week from an urban monitoring station. The

Easy

Assessing Indoor Air Pollutants: Case Study of Asbestos and Formaldehyde

Indoor air quality is crucial for health, particularly concerning pollutants like asbestos and forma

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Air Pollutants on Human Respiratory Health

Air pollutants such as particulate matter and ozone have significant effects on respiratory health.

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen oxides play a crucial role in air pollution dynamics. Explain how nitrogen oxides are forme

Medium

Assessment of Noise Pollution in Urban Areas

An environmental scientist collects data on noise pollution in various urban areas. The table below

Medium

Carbon Monoxide Production and Mitigation

Incomplete combustion in engines produces carbon monoxide (CO). Answer the following: (a) Write the

Hard

Catalytic Converter Efficiency Analysis

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

Medium

Comparative Study of Natural vs. Anthropogenic PMx Sources

Design an experiment to compare the concentrations of naturally occurring particulate matter (PMx) v

Hard

Derivation of Reaction Pathways in Industrial Smog Formation

Industrial smog is formed by a series of chemical reactions, starting from the combustion of fossil

Extreme

Designing an Experiment to Test Indoor Air Pollution Remediation Methods

Indoor air pollution can pose serious health risks. Considering pollutants such as formaldehyde, rad

Hard

Evaluating Air Purification Technologies

A study is conducted to compare the effectiveness of two air purification technologies in reducing i

Medium

Evaluating Air Quality Trends: Carbon Monoxide Data Analysis

A study tracked the concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) in an urban area over time. The graph belo

Medium

Evaluation of Emission Control Devices in Different Environments

A study assesses the performance of emission control devices in various climate zones. The table pro

Hard

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

Impact of Acid Rain on Aquatic Ecosystems

A laboratory experiment simulated acid rain effects on a small stream ecosystem containing fish. The

Medium

Impact of Noise Pollution on Plant Growth

An experiment was conducted to determine whether chronic exposure to low-frequency noise from roadwa

Easy

Indoor Air Quality and Sick Building Syndrome

Indoor air pollution can lead to sick building syndrome (SBS). Explore the factors contributing to S

Medium

Indoor Air Quality: Focus on VOCs and Radon

Indoor air quality can be significantly compromised by pollutants like volatile organic compounds (V

Medium

Industrial Noise Pollution Impact Assessment

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

Medium

Interconnected Effects of Air Pollution and Climate Change

A long-term study tracks atmospheric concentrations of CO2 and tropospheric ozone over several decad

Extreme

Investigating the Relation between Industrial Emissions and Particulate Matter

A monitoring study was conducted at various power plants to assess particulate matter (PMₓ) emission

Easy

Lead (Pb) in Urban Environments

This question addresses the exposure risks of lead (Pb) in urban areas and requires both quantitativ

Hard

Lead Pollution Sources and Health Effects

Lead pollution poses serious health risks. Using the provided table, analyze the principal sources o

Easy

Long-Term Trends in Atmospheric CO2 and Air Quality

Design a comprehensive experimental study to analyze long-term trends in atmospheric CO2 levels and

Extreme

Multi-Pollutant Interaction: CO, SO2, and Particulate Matter in Urban Environments

Multiple air pollutants often interact in urban environments, leading to complex secondary pollutant

Hard

Nitrogen Oxides and Their Environmental Impact

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are significant air pollutants produced during combustion and play a crucial r

Hard

Nitrogen Oxides Formation and Impact

Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) are generated during high-temperature combustion. Answer the following: (a) E

Medium

Nitrogen Oxides in Combustion Processes

The following table presents the results of two combustion experiments showing concentrations of nit

Medium

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) – Movement and Impact

Peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) are secondary pollutants capable of long-range transport. Analyze their m

Hard

Photochemical Reactions and Ozone Dynamics

Explore the chemical processes leading to ground-level ozone formation and their dependence on UV li

Hard

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

Analyze the formation of photochemical smog, considering the role of traffic patterns and sunlight i

Hard

Photochemical Smog Formation Dynamics

A graph displays the formation of photochemical smog by tracking NO2 and O3 concentrations over the

Medium

Suspended Particulate Matter Analysis

This question examines the characteristics, sources, and mitigation strategies of suspended particul

Medium

Temporal Variations in Air Pollutants

A researcher collects continuous data on air pollutant concentrations over a 24-hour period in an ur

Medium

Testing a Multi-Pollutant Air Quality Monitoring Device

An engineering team developed a new air quality monitoring device intended to simultaneously measure

Hard

Thermal Inversions and Air Quality

This question investigates the impact of thermal inversions on air pollution dispersion and analyzes

Medium

Thermal Inversions and Weather-Driven Pollution

Thermal inversions can trap pollutants near the Earth's surface, affecting air quality. Evaluate the

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Their Contribution to Air Pollution

Urban heat islands, characterized by higher temperatures in metropolitan areas compared to their rur

Medium

VOCs and the Formation of Photochemical Smog

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute significantly to the formation of photochemical smog. I

Medium
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Analysis of Water Pollution Sources

Consider the claim that water pollution is significantly influenced by various sources including poi

Medium

Analyzing Dissolved Oxygen Variations in Urban Runoff

A researcher collected water samples from urban runoff areas at different times of the day to measur

Hard

Analyzing Endocrine Disruptors in Urban Water Systems

This FRQ requires analysis of endocrine disruptors present in urban water systems and their potentia

Hard

Analyzing Urban Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure

An urban water treatment facility recently upgraded from secondary to tertiary treatment. A graph co

Medium

Assessing Water Quality Changes Due to Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disruptors in water can affect the development of aquatic organisms. Design an experiment

Hard

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification in Aquatic Food Chains

Bioaccumulation and biomagnification can lead to toxic concentrations of pollutants in top predators

Extreme

Case Study: Oil Spill Effects on Marine Ecosystems

Oil spills have immediate and long-term detrimental effects on marine ecosystems. This question requ

Medium

Colorimetric Nitrate Concentration Analysis

A researcher aimed to quantify nitrate concentrations in an agricultural runoff water sample using a

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Drinking Water Treatment Technologies

A water treatment facility is evaluating several technologies for drinking water purification. The f

Hard

Comparing Sources of Water Pollution

In this question, you will examine various sources of water pollution and their impacts on aquatic s

Medium

Drinking Water Treatment Processes

A water treatment researcher is comparing different methods used in drinking water treatment. Answer

Easy

Dynamics of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

This FRQ investigates the processes that contribute to the formation of the Great Pacific Garbage Pa

Hard

Effects of Temperature on Dissolved Oxygen in Aquatic Ecosystems

A researcher conducts an experiment in which water temperature is gradually increased in laboratory

Hard

Effects of Temperature on Dissolved Oxygen in Aquatic Environments

Investigate how changes in water temperature affect dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in aquatic environm

Medium

Endocrine Disruptor Impacts on Human Health

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with hormonal systems and can have wide-ranging ef

Extreme

Evaluating Hazardous Waste Landfill Effectiveness

A study evaluates the performance of a hazardous waste landfill. The provided materials include a ta

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

Evaluation of Hazardous Waste Management and Isolation Methods

Examine the effectiveness of hazardous waste management strategies with a focus on landfill capping

Hard

FRQ4: Water Quality Testing Analysis

Analyze water quality data provided from multiple test sites. Use the data to assess the state of th

Medium

FRQ15: Urban Stormwater and Pollutant Transport

Analyze the data from various storm events to understand urban stormwater pollutant transport. Use t

Medium

Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Formation and Effects

A researcher is investigating the formation of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and its ecological co

Hard

Hazardous Waste Isolation and Storage Techniques

Proper isolation and storage of hazardous wastes are critical for protecting human health and the en

Extreme

Impact of Agricultural Runoff on Nutrient Levels

A researcher is studying the impact of agricultural runoff on nutrient levels in a nearby stream. Th

Medium

Impact of Disinfectant Use on Waterborne Pathogens

A study compared the effectiveness of two disinfectants in reducing coliform counts in a water sampl

Hard

Impacts of Endocrine Disruptors on Animal Populations

A study on endocrine disruptors recorded the concentration of BPA and the incidence of developmental

Hard

Investigating the Effects of Thermal Pollution on Aquatic Life

A local river near an industrial area is suspected to be affected by thermal pollution. Design an ex

Medium

Investigating the Role of Microorganisms in Degrading Pollutants Through Bioremediation

An experiment is conducted in which a known pollutant is introduced into contaminated water, and the

Hard

Marine Biodiversity and Oil Spill Recovery Analysis

This FRQ examines the recovery of marine species diversity following an oil spill using longitudinal

Easy

Mining and its Contribution to Water Pollution

Mining activities frequently result in significant water pollution. This question explores the proce

Medium

Oil Spill Environmental Impact Analysis

An accidental oil spill has occurred near a coastal wetland. This incident poses risks to both marin

Hard

Risks and Management of Radioactive Wastes

Radioactive wastes pose significant long-term hazards. This question analyzes the differences betwee

Hard

Urban Runoff and its Multiple Impacts

This FRQ investigates the environmental repercussions of urban runoff on aquatic ecosystems and micr

Medium

Urban Runoff and Local Water Quality

A city study measured the concentration of nitrates and turbidity levels in local streams at regular

Easy

Water Quality Testing and Pollutant Identification

This question involves interpreting water quality test results to assess contamination issues and th

Medium

Water Quality Testing: Field Assessment

A local environmental agency conducted field tests on a nearby lake to assess its water quality. The

Medium

Water Quality Testing: pH and Buffering Capacity

This FRQ explores the role of buffering capacity in aquatic systems and how changes in bicarbonate c

Hard
Unit 9: Global Change

Agricultural Practices, Methane Emissions, and Soil Health

Agricultural activities, including livestock management and fertilizer application, are major source

Medium

Analysis of Thermal Expansion and Sea Level Rise

Researchers conduct an experiment to measure the thermal expansion of water, simulating ocean warmin

Medium

Analyzing Climate Policy Outcomes

International agreements have been established to address environmental challenges related to ozone

Extreme

Analyzing Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions

This question examines the sources of greenhouse gas emissions and asks you to analyze emission data

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 the Impact of Deforestation on Carbon Sinks

Analyze how deforestation affects carbon sinks and thereby influences atmospheric CO₂ levels. Discus

Medium

Chemical Behavior of Halocarbons in the Stratosphere

Investigate the role of halocarbons in ozone depletion.

Hard

Climate Change and Extreme Weather

This question evaluates the link between global warming and the frequency and severity of extreme we

Hard

Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species

Conserving endangered species is vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functionality. A r

Hard

Deforestation and Climate Change Feedbacks

Assess the role of deforestation in the increase of atmospheric \(CO_2\) levels and its implications

Hard

Deforestation and its Impact on Carbon Dioxide Levels

This question examines the relationship between deforestation and increases in atmospheric CO2 level

Hard

Effects of Ozone Depletion on Human Health and Ecosystems

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

Medium

Evaluating the Effectiveness of International Environmental Agreements

International agreements such as the Montreal Protocol, Kyoto Protocol, and Paris Agreement aim to m

Hard

Examining the Role of Ocean Acidification

Ocean acidification occurs when atmospheric $$CO_{2}$$ dissolves in seawater, leading to the formati

Hard

Experimental Design for Measuring Forest Carbon Sequestration

Forests act as significant carbon sinks. Develop an experimental design to measure the carbon seques

Medium

Experimental Evaluation of International Protocols on Climate Change Mitigation

International agreements play a crucial role in climate change mitigation. This question involves in

Extreme

Global Climate Change: Sea Level Rise and Temperature Trends

Examine the relationship between global temperature increases and sea level rise over the past centu

Hard

Human Health Impacts of UV Radiation Exposure

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

Medium

Impact of CFCs on Stratospheric Ozone

This question focuses on how chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) interact with stratospheric ozone and contri

Hard

Impact of Increasing Greenhouse Gases on Global Temperature

Many climate models relate global temperature change to the concentration of CO₂. Consider the logar

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Local Ecosystem Function

A biologist conducts a controlled plot study to evaluate how an invasive plant species affects the g

Medium

Impact of UV Radiation Intensity on Ozone Layer Dynamics

UV radiation plays a critical role in both the formation and degradation of ozone. In this question,

Extreme

Invasive Plant Competition in a Controlled Garden

A researcher examines the competitive interactions between an invasive plant species and a native pl

Easy

Invasive Species Impact Assessment

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

Easy

Modeling Ozone Concentration with UV Radiation

A scientist aims to quantify the rate of ozone production as a function of UV radiation intensity. T

Extreme

Ocean Acidification and Marine Ecosystems

This question focuses on the chemical processes involved in ocean acidification and asks for an anal

Hard

Protected Areas and Endangered Species Recovery

This question evaluates the effectiveness of protected areas on the recovery of endangered species t

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of Thermal Expansion

Perform a multi-step calculation to determine the temperature increase of the ocean and the subseque

Extreme

Renewable Energy and CO₂ Reduction Analysis

This question involves analyzing the impact of renewable energy adoption on CO₂ emissions and discus

Easy

Simulation of Arctic Methane Release and Its Feedback Effect

Arctic researchers conduct a simulation experiment to study how permafrost melting affects methane e

Extreme

Simulation of Glacier Melt and Sea Level Rise

A glaciologist conducts a laboratory experiment to simulate glacier melt. Small ice samples are subj

Hard

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion Analysis

This question examines the mechanisms of ozone formation and depletion in the stratosphere, includin

Medium

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion: Formation and Destruction

This question investigates the chemical processes involved in the formation of ozone in the stratosp

Medium

Sustainable Practices in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

This question focuses on sustainable practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in urban s

Medium

UV Radiation and Ozone Formation

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

Easy

UV Radiation Intensity and Ozone Shielding

Examine the relationship between altitude and the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. Use the provid

Medium

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Tips from Former AP Students

FAQWe thought you might have some questions...
Where can I find practice free response questions for the AP 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.