AP Environmental Science FRQ Room

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

Which subject are you taking?

Knowt can make mistakes. Consider checking important information.

Pick your exam

AP 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.

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems (23)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (31)
  • Unit 3: Populations (36)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (13)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (27)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (17)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (51)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (30)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (22)
Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Adaptations in Desert and Tundra Ecosystems

This question examines the physical and behavioral adaptations of organisms living in extreme enviro

Medium

Analyzing Invasive Species Effects on Community Structure

Design an experiment to assess how an introduced invasive species affects native plant community div

Medium

Biodiversity and Trophic Level Dynamics

This question explores the relationship between ecosystem biodiversity, food web complexity, and tro

Medium

Biomes: Adaptations in Terrestrial Environments

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

Medium

Carbon Dioxide Absorption in Aquatic Systems

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

Hard

Coral Bleaching and Ocean Acidification Experiment

An experimental aquarium study was designed to simulate the effects of ocean acidification and incre

Hard

Deforestation Impact on Terrestrial Carbon Sinks

A recent study claims that deforestation significantly reduces the carbon storage capacity of forest

Hard

Effect of Climate Change on Seasonal Lake Turnover

Climate change can affect the thermal structure of lakes and hence their turnover cycles. A table wi

Extreme

Effect of Seasonal Turnover on Lake Oxygen Levels

In a lake experiencing seasonal turnover, the oxygen concentrations are 8 mg/L in the epilimnion and

Easy

Energy Transfer Efficiency in Trophic Levels

Energy transfer efficiency in ecosystems is typically low. A table provides energy values (in joules

Easy

Food Web Complexity and Stability

A detailed food web diagram of a terrestrial forest is provided. The diagram includes producers, var

Medium

FRQ 2: Food Web Diagram Analysis – Predator–Prey Dynamics

Analyze the food web diagram provided for a temperate forest ecosystem. Your response should include

Hard

FRQ 11: Anthropogenic Impacts on the Nitrogen Cycle Diagram Analysis

Critically analyze the provided diagram of the nitrogen cycle that includes human influences. In you

Hard

Generalists vs. Specialists: Adaptation Strategies

A case study in a variable environment describes two species: one that is a generalist capable of ut

Easy

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

Invasive Species Effects on Native Plant Diversity

In a grassland ecosystem, researchers conducted a controlled field experiment to determine the impac

Hard

Investigating Phosphorus Runoff Impact on Aquatic Ecosystems

Design an experiment to test the hypothesis that increased phosphate runoff leads to eutrophication

Hard

Lake Stratification and Dissolved Oxygen Profiles

A study was conducted on a temperate lake during summer to measure dissolved oxygen concentrations a

Hard

Land Use Change and Ecosystem Water Dynamics

A study comparing deforested regions with nearby intact forests shows significant differences in wat

Hard

Predicting Biome Shifts Under Climate Change

A region currently has a mean annual temperature of 15°C and annual precipitation of 800 mm, which c

Medium

Primary Productivity: GPP vs. NPP

This question focuses on understanding primary productivity in ecosystems by comparing Gross Primary

Easy

Restoration Effectiveness in Mangrove Ecosystems Post Oil Spill

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

Hard

Temperature Effects on Soil Respiration

A researcher is studying how soil respiration (the production of CO₂ through microbial decomposition

Medium
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Adaptations: Behavioral, Physiological, and Structural

Adaptations enable organisms to survive in challenging environments. Answer the following:

Easy

Adaptations: Short-Term vs. Long-Term

Investigate the differences between short-term and long-term adaptations in organisms in response to

Hard

Adaptations: Survival Strategies

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

Medium

Algae Oxygen Production as Measure of Primary Productivity

In a controlled laboratory experiment, a researcher measured the oxygen production of algal cultures

Medium

Analyzing Population Bottlenecks on Genetic Variability

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

Hard

Animal Adaptations: Behavioral, Physiological, and Structural

This FRQ focuses on the various types of animal adaptations and their roles in survival and ecologic

Medium

Assessing Genetic Diversity in Isolated Populations

A researcher investigates the effect of habitat fragmentation on genetic diversity among isolated fr

Medium

Assessing Long-term Recovery After Natural Disasters

After a severe flood in a riparian ecosystem, researchers monitor the recovery of native plant commu

Medium

Cost-Effectiveness of Remediation Strategies

A table lists several anthropogenic activities along with their remediation costs and the estimated

Medium

Deforestation and Its Long-term Impacts on Biodiversity

A researcher examines the effects of deforestation on biodiversity in a tropical forest by comparing

Medium

FRQ 7: Natural Disruptions – Impact on Ecosystems

A study examines how natural disruptions, such as flooding, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions, affec

Easy

FRQ 12: Succession and Species Richness Dynamics

A researcher follows an ecosystem recovering from a forest fire, tracking changes in species richnes

Medium

Genetic Diversity in Bottlenecked Populations

Population bottlenecks can drastically reduce genetic diversity. One model for estimating the loss o

Medium

Global Sea Level Rise: Experimental Simulation of Melting Ice Impact

Scientists simulate sea level rise in coastal mesocosm tanks by gradually introducing melted glacial

Extreme

Habitat Fragmentation and Species Richness

Habitat fragmentation can result in island-like conditions that affect species richness. Analyze thi

Hard

Impacts of Habitat Fragmentation on Biodiversity Metrics

Habitat fragmentation can lead to significant changes in biodiversity. The table below compares key

Hard

Island Biogeography and Biodiversity

This question investigates the theory of island biogeography and its influence on species diversity

Medium

Island Size and Species Richness Relationship

Island biogeography theory suggests a relationship between island area and species richness. A graph

Hard

Migratory Patterns and Temperature

Recent studies suggest that wildlife migration distances can be influenced by average temperature. A

Easy

Modeling Species Decline with Increased Isolation

A study models the decline in species number as habitat isolation increases. The graph below shows t

Extreme

Plant Density and Water Pollution Breakdown in River Sections

In a field study, scientists measured pollutant concentrations along river sections with varying den

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

This FRQ examines the concept of population bottlenecks and their effects on genetic diversity withi

Extreme

Primary vs. Secondary Succession: Comparative Analysis

This question requires the comparison of primary and secondary succession with a focus on difference

Easy

Regulating Ecosystem Services and Agricultural Systems

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

Medium

Species Richness and Environmental Heterogeneity

This question involves analyzing species richness in relation to environmental heterogeneity using p

Medium

Succession Processes in Disturbed Ecosystems: Comparing Primary and Secondary Succession

Compare primary and secondary succession processes in disturbed ecosystems.

Hard

Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Fertility

Sustainable agricultural practices can improve soil fertility and enhance biodiversity. This questio

Easy

Urban Green Spaces and Air Quality Improvement

A study was conducted at several urban sites to evaluate the impact of green space density on local

Medium

Urbanization Impact on Biodiversity

A study evaluated the impact of urbanization on biodiversity by comparing habitat fragmentation scor

Easy

Volcanic Eruptions: Destruction and Renewal

Volcanic eruptions cause immediate destruction but can lead to long-term soil fertility improvements

Medium

Wildlife Migrations and Energy Expenditure

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

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Age-Structure Diagrams and Demographic Trends

Analyze age-structure diagrams to determine population trends and propose policy interventions based

Hard

Age-Structure Diagrams Interpretation

Interpret age-structure diagrams to infer population dynamics and possible future trends.

Medium

Analysis of Age-Structure Diagrams

A demographer studies different age-structure diagrams to understand population dynamics in various

Hard

Analysis of Population Dispersal Patterns

Discuss the different patterns of population dispersal and their ecological implications, particular

Easy

Analyzing Global Fertility Trends and Policy Implications

Consider the following table presenting Total Fertility Rates (TFR) for various world regions. Answe

Medium

Analyzing Survivorship Curves

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

Hard

Applying the Rule of 70 to Population Growth Rates

Utilize the Rule of 70 to calculate population doubling times and interpret the ecological implicati

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Population Growth

Design an experiment to evaluate the effect of varying pollutant concentrations on the population gr

Hard

Biotic Potential: Factors and Impact

Define biotic potential and environmental resistance, and discuss how various factors interact to re

Easy

Demographic Transition Analysis

The demographic transition model outlines the shift from high birth and death rates to lower rates a

Hard

Evaluating Biotic Potential and Environmental Resistance

Assess the roles of biotic potential and environmental resistance in population growth. Use the prov

Medium

Evaluating Experimental Designs in Population Dynamics

Critically evaluate an experimental study design that measures population growth in response to vary

Extreme

FRQ 6: Analyzing Age-Structure Diagrams and Their Implications for Population Growth

A demographer provided data for three countries showing the distribution of age groups in their popu

Medium

FRQ 7: Simulating Age-Structure Diagrams with a Demographic Model

A computer simulation was developed to generate age-structure diagrams using preset parameters for b

Medium

FRQ 17: Ecological Impact of Overpopulation

This question examines how overpopulation can affect resource distribution and ecosystem stability,

Extreme

FRQ 17: Impact of Environmental Stress on R-Selected Life History Traits

In an experiment on an r-selected species, researchers compared reproductive output and juvenile sur

Hard

FRQ 18: Predictive Models in Population Ecology

This question requires you to compare predictive models used in population ecology and outline a cal

Extreme

Generalists vs Specialists in Variable Environments

Discuss how the adaptations of generalist and specialist species affect their ability to cope with r

Medium

Historical Milestones in Human Population Growth

Summarize the key historical milestones in human population growth and discuss how these milestones

Easy

Human Activity and Biodiversity Loss

Human activities are a major driver of biodiversity loss, particularly in sensitive ecosystems. Answ

Medium

Identifying Limiting Factors in Population Growth

Design an experiment to test the effect of nutrient availability as a limiting factor on the growth

Easy

Interpreting Survivorship Curves

Examine the survivorship curves in the provided graph and discuss their implications for species' re

Medium

Interpreting Survivorship Curves

Examine the attached graph depicting survivorship curves and interpret the implications for populati

Medium

Investigating Density-Dependent Limitations on Population Growth

Design an experiment to study the impact of density-dependent factors on population growth within a

Hard

Investigating Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Stability

Design an experiment to test how positive and negative feedback loops affect ecosystem stability wit

Hard

Investigating Reproductive Strategies: r-Selected vs K-Selected Species

Design an experiment to compare reproductive strategies between an r-selected species and a K-select

Medium

Investigating Socioeconomic Factors on Total Fertility Rate (TFR)

Design an experiment to investigate the effects of socioeconomic factors, such as education and urba

Hard

Population Dispersal Patterns

Using the concept of population dispersal patterns, analyze how organisms distribute themselves in h

Easy

Population Dispersal Patterns and Their Ecological Implications

Examine various population dispersal patterns such as clumped, random, and uniform. How do these pat

Easy

Simulating Demographic Transition Dynamics

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

Extreme

Species Specialization and Extinction Risk

Evaluate the relationship between species specialization and risk of extinction, and propose conserv

Easy

Survivorship Curve Interpretation

The graph provided shows three survivorship curves representing different species' life history stra

Hard

Sustainability of Ecosystem Services Amid Deforestation

Assess the impact of deforestation on ecosystem services and propose management strategies to sustai

Hard

Total Fertility Rate (TFR) Analysis

Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is a key demographic indicator. Using the table provided, answer the foll

Medium

Understanding Demographic Transitions

Discuss the concept of demographic transition, outlining the characteristics of each stage. Using ex

Hard

Urbanization Effects on r- and K-Strategists

Examine how urbanization influences species exhibiting r-selected versus K-selected strategies using

Hard
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Assessing the Impacts of ENSO on Marine Biodiversity

The table below summarizes data collected during an El Niño event regarding sea surface temperature

Extreme

Assessing Watershed Pollution Trends

This question examines the impact of agricultural runoff on watershed water quality over time using

Medium

Climate Moderation by Bodies of Water

A climatologist is investigating how large bodies of water influence the climate of adjacent land ar

Medium

Delineating the Impacts of Urbanization on Local Climate

The table below presents average temperatures (in °C) for urban and rural areas in two different cit

Hard

Effects of Volcanic Activity on Climate and Atmosphere

Volcanic eruptions can have substantial short-term and long-term impacts on the climate. Analyze the

Extreme

FRQ 19: Upwelling and Coastal Productivity

Marine biologists are investigating how upwelling affects the primary productivity of coastal waters

Hard

Influence of Soil Texture on Water Infiltration and Nutrient Loss

Soil texture significantly affects water infiltration and nutrient leaching. Examine the relationshi

Medium

Monsoonal Dynamics and Seasonal Variability

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

Medium

Mountain Rain Shadow Effect

A diagram (see description below) illustrates the rain shadow effect: "A diagram shows moist air ap

Easy

Rain Shadow Effect and Mountainous Regions

This question investigates the rain shadow effect caused by mountain ranges and its ecological impli

Medium

Seafloor Spreading Rate Measurement Experiment

A marine geologist conducted an experiment to measure seafloor spreading by sampling rock magnetic a

Medium

Transform Boundaries and Earthquake Prediction

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

Extreme

Urbanization Impact on Localized Precipitation Experiment

An environmental scientist designed an experiment to assess the influence of urbanization on localiz

Hard
Unit 5: Land and Water Use

Agricultural Revolutions: Transforming Society and Environment

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

Hard

Analyzing Policy Responses to Overpopulation and Resource Consumption

Consider the role of overpopulation in environmental degradation and evaluate policy responses aimed

Extreme

Analyzing Soil Fertility and Agricultural Input Use

A researcher conducts an experiment to compare the effects of inorganic and organic fertilizers on s

Medium

Analyzing The Tragedy of the Commons

Garrett Hardin’s essay 'The Tragedy of the Commons' suggests that individual self‐interest in exploi

Medium

Assessing Environmental Impacts of Mining

A researcher examines the environmental impacts of various mining practices, such as mountaintop rem

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 Bird Populations

A researcher examines the impact of clear-cutting on bird species diversity in forest ecosystems.

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Conventional and Organic Farming

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

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Irrigation Methods on Water Efficiency

A study measured the water use efficiency (WUE) of two irrigation methods over time. The graph provi

Medium

Deforestation and Carbon Emissions

A tropical country is experiencing rapid deforestation for urban development and agriculture, contri

Hard

Environmental Impact of CAFOs

Investigate the environmental issues associated with Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs),

Hard

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: Irrigation Methods and Crop Yield Efficiency

Researchers compared the effectiveness of three irrigation methods—drip, flood, and spray—in terms o

Medium

Impact of Overfishing on Marine Biodiversity

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

Easy

Impact of Road Building on Forest Fragmentation

Assess how road building affects forest fragment sizes and discuss potential measures to mitigate th

Hard

Integrated Urban and Agricultural Water Management

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

Extreme

Investigating Mechanized Farming and Energy Efficiency

A study compares mechanized farming with traditional practices to determine their energy efficiency.

Medium

Irrigation Efficiency: Comparing Water Delivery Methods

Three irrigation methods—ditch, drip, and flood—have efficiencies of 60%, 90%, and 50% respectively.

Medium

Mining Methods and Environmental Impacts Diagram Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram that outlines various mining methods (including mountaintop removal, op

Extreme

Pesticide Treadmill and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

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

Medium

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

Sustainability and the IPAT Equation

This question uses the IPAT formula to explore the components of environmental impact and the implic

Medium

Sustainability and the IPAT Equation

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

Hard

Sustainable Agriculture: No-Till and Crop Rotation Benefits

A farming community has recently transitioned from conventional tillage methods to sustainable pract

Easy

Tragedy of the Commons: Visual Analysis

Examine the provided diagram representing the Tragedy of the Commons. The diagram depicts how multip

Medium

Water Quality Impacts of CAFOs

A researcher analyzes the effects of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) on downstream wa

Hard
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Fossil Fuel Extraction

Examine the regional map provided which shows fossil fuel extraction sites, adjacent urban areas, an

Extreme

Clean Coal Technologies and Emission Controls

Clean coal technologies aim to reduce emissions from coal combustion without compromising energy out

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Resources

Renewable energy resources are naturally replenished on a human time scale, unlike nonrenewable reso

Medium

Comparing Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Discuss the distinctions between renewable and nonrenewable energy resources, and analyze the trade-

Medium

Energy Conservation and Thermodynamics

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

Medium

Energy Conversion Efficiency in Nuclear Power Plants

Refer to the diagram depicting the nuclear fission process in a power plant. Answer the following:

Hard

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

Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid Efficiency Experiment

An engineering team conducts an experiment to optimize hydraulic fracturing by testing different flu

Hard

Hydroelectric Dam Energy Production Analysis

A dam is used to generate electricity by converting the potential energy of water into electrical en

Medium

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance

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

Medium

Life Cycle Analysis of Energy Production Methods

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

Extreme

Life Cycle Analysis of Energy Sources

Perform a life cycle analysis comparing fossil fuels with a renewable energy source of your choice t

Hard

Passively-Managed Building Energy Efficiency Experiment

A passive solar heating design is implemented in a scaled building model to study its effect on indo

Easy

Solar Energy Systems: Photovoltaic vs. Solar Thermal

This question analyzes two solar energy systems and evaluates their performance using provided data.

Medium

Stoichiometry of Fossil Fuel Combustion and its Role in Global Warming

Examine the stoichiometry of fossil fuel combustion and its environmental implications in terms of C

Hard

Supply and Demand Dynamics in Fossil Fuel Markets

Study the graph depicting fossil fuel market dynamics. Answer the following:

Medium

Wind Turbine Performance Experiment

A researcher studies the performance of a small-scale wind turbine in a controlled wind tunnel. The

Medium
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Rain and Ecosystem Impacts

Acid deposition, commonly known as acid rain, can have serious impacts on forests and aquatic system

Hard

Analysis of Air Pollutant Classifications

Examine the table below and answer the following questions about the classification of air pollutant

Easy

Assessment of Pollution Reduction Policies

Government policies and technological innovations play crucial roles in reducing air pollution. Cons

Easy

Assessment of Suspended Particulate Matter (PMx) Behavior

The behavior of suspended particulate matter (PMx) in the atmosphere is influenced by particle size,

Hard

Calculating Acid Deposition from Sulfur Dioxide Emissions

Acid deposition is a significant environmental concern. A power plant emits 5000 grams of sulfur dio

Extreme

Carbon Monoxide Emissions and Health Impacts

This question examines the formation of carbon monoxide (CO) and its implications for human health,

Medium

Carbon Monoxide Pollution: Sources and Mitigation Strategies

This question explores sources of carbon monoxide pollution and evaluates mitigation methods.

Medium

Catalytic Converter Efficiency Experiment

Design an experiment to assess the efficiency of catalytic converters in reducing toxic emissions fr

Medium

Comparative Study of Natural vs. Anthropogenic PMx Sources

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

Hard

Comparing Point Source and Non-point Source Pollution

Understanding the differences between point source and non-point source pollution is crucial for eff

Medium

Comparison of Point vs Non-Point Source Pollutant Dispersion

A research team uses a grid of sensors to measure the spatial distribution of a specific pollutant i

Hard

Comprehensive Air Pollution Mitigation Strategies

This comprehensive question requires you to integrate various air pollution remediation techniques,

Extreme

Distinguishing Air Pollution Types

Air pollution encompasses various types of pollutants and sources. Using the information provided, d

Easy

Effects and Mitigation of Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is an environmental concern affecting both humans and wildlife. Answer the following

Easy

Evaluating Indoor Air Purification Technologies

In a controlled laboratory experiment, three different types of air purification filters were tested

Hard

Evaluating Particulate Matter Effects on Environment and Human Health

Suspended particulate matter (PM) poses risks to both human health and ecosystem integrity. Analyze

Hard

Evaluating Primary and Secondary Pollutant Transformations

Air pollutants can be classified as primary (emitted directly) or secondary (formed in the atmospher

Medium

Evaluating Remediation of Indoor Air Pollutants

This question focuses on designing an experiment to assess the efficacy of a new air purification sy

Hard

Experimental Evaluation of Nitrogen Oxides in a Traffic Simulation

A researcher develops an automated traffic simulation to evaluate nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions fro

Medium

FRQ 2: Industrial Smog Formation and Effects

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

Medium

FRQ 16: Acid Deposition Effects on Aquatic Systems

Analyze the impact of acid deposition on freshwater ecosystems, focusing on changes in pH and associ

Hard

Fundamental Concepts of Air Pollution and Data Conversion

This question requires you to convert pollutant concentrations from ppm to mg/m³ using a provided fo

Easy

Impact of Urban Vegetation on Air Quality

Design an experiment to test the hypothesis that increased urban vegetation reduces ambient levels o

Easy

Impact of VOCs from Building Materials on Indoor Air Quality

Devise an experiment to investigate the impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from bui

Medium

Indoor Air Purification System Efficiency

Design an experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of indoor air purification systems in reducing le

Medium

Industrial Energy Consumption and Atmospheric CO₂ Trends

A long-term study monitored CO₂ emissions from several power plants over a period of 40 years. The g

Hard

Industrial Smog and Soot Formation

A study analyzed emissions from several industrial sites to understand the formation of industrial s

Hard

Industrial Smog Chemical Reactions Analysis

A researcher is studying the chemical reactions involved in the formation of industrial smog, focusi

Medium

Integrated Assessment of Air Pollutants and Climate Change

Air pollutants not only affect human health but also contribute to climate change. Analyze the provi

Extreme

Interpreting Air Pollutant Data and Proposing Solutions

An urban area has been recording ambient concentrations of various air pollutants. The following tab

Medium

Introduction to Air Pollution Classification

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

Easy

Investigating Ozone Formation in Urban Settings

A researcher studies ozone formation by exposing a mixture of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic c

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Combustion Processes on Air Pollutants

Incomplete combustion in industrial settings can lead to the formation of carbon monoxide and partic

Hard

Mechanism of Industrial Smog Formation

Industrial smog results from a series of chemical reactions during the combustion of fossil fuels. T

Hard

Mechanisms of Catalytic Converter Reactions

The following table provides data on pollutant concentrations before and after passing through a cat

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 Their Environmental Impact

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

Hard

Noise Pollution and Its Societal Impact

Explore the causes, effects, and potential solutions for noise pollution in urban environments.

Easy

Noise Pollution and Public Health: Data Evaluation

Numerous studies link noise pollution from transportation sources to adverse health effects. A table

Hard

Noise Pollution: Effects and Mitigation Strategies

With urban expansion, noise pollution has become a growing concern, especially in areas adjacent to

Easy

Particulate Matter (PMx) Deposition Analysis

A study investigates the relationship between particle size and deposition time for particulate matt

Medium

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) and their Impact on Ecosystems

Peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) are secondary pollutants known for their role in damaging vegetation and

Medium

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

Policy Approaches to Reducing PMx Levels

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

Extreme

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 Pollutant Trapping

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

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 Air Pollution

Urban areas often exhibit higher temperatures and pollutant concentrations than rural areas. Refer t

Hard

Volcanic Organic Compounds and Indoor Air Quality

Investigate the characteristics of volcanic organic compounds (VOCs) and their impact on indoor air

Medium

Volcanic Organic Compounds and Temperature

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

Hard

Wind Tunnel Simulation of Particulate Dispersion

An environmental scientist designed a wind tunnel experiment to study how varying wind speeds affect

Medium
Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

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

Assessing the Role of Vegetative Buffer Zones in Nutrient Runoff Reduction

A study evaluated how different types of vegetative buffer zones reduce nutrient runoff by comparing

Easy

Assessment of Endocrine Disruptors on Wildlife

Examine the effects of endocrine disruptors on wildlife populations by analyzing chemical concentrat

Hard

Assessment of Urban Runoff on Water Quality

Urban runoff has significant impacts on local water quality through pollutants like heavy metals, ni

Medium

Colorimetric Nitrate Concentration Analysis

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

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Waste Solutions and Global Waste Trade

Evaluate global waste management practices by analyzing data on waste exports and recycling rates, a

Extreme

Comparative Impacts of Industrial and Agricultural Pollution

A comparative study evaluated water pollution from industrial and agricultural sources. The table be

Extreme

Cultural Eutrophication and Nutrient Accumulation

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

Hard

Effects of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

This FRQ examines the environmental impacts of oil spills. Analyze both immediate and long-term effe

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

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Environmental Regulations on Point Source Pollution

This FRQ assesses your understanding of how environmental regulations can control point source pollu

Easy

Evaluating Water Conductivity as an Indicator of Metal Ion Concentration

A researcher collected water samples from various urban runoff sites and measured conductivity to in

Medium

Evaluating Water Treatment Processes: Filtration and Flocculation Sedimentation

A municipal water treatment facility uses a combination of filtration and flocculation sedimentation

Hard

Evaluation of Hazardous Waste Storage Methods

Proper hazardous waste management is essential to prevent environmental contamination. Analyze radia

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

FRQ14: Endocrine Disruptor Analysis: BPA Exposure

Examine the schematic diagram depicting BPA exposure pathways in humans. Analyze the diagram and dis

Hard

Global Waste Trade and Hazardous Waste Management

This FRQ examines the international trade of hazardous waste and its implications for developing cou

Hard

Great Pacific Garbage Patch: Dynamics and Impact

Analyze the formation and environmental impact of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch by interpreting da

Hard

Hazardous Waste Isolation Techniques

This FRQ explores methods used to isolate hazardous wastes from the environment, with emphasis on in

Hard

Impacts of Human Activities on Wetland and Mangrove Ecosystems

Wetlands and mangroves are highly productive ecosystems that are severely impacted by human activiti

Medium

Investigating Biomagnification in a Food Chain

A researcher designed a laboratory experiment to study the biomagnification of a contaminant through

Hard

Measurement and Implications of Total Hardness in Drinking Water

Total hardness in water is an important parameter for water quality and treatment. This question inv

Easy

Mechanisms of Bioaccumulation in a Food Web

A researcher studies an aquatic food chain consisting of algae, small fish, and large fish to invest

Hard

Mining Impacts on Water Quality

A river flowing through a mining region shows elevated concentrations of heavy metals. The following

Hard

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Food Chains

This FRQ centers on the accumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) through food chains, ex

Medium

Radioactive Waste: Management and Environmental Challenges

A researcher is analyzing the challenges related to the management of radioactive wastes. Answer the

Hard

Thermal Pollution and Its Impact on Freshwater Ecosystems

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

Medium

Thermal Pollution Effects on Aquatic Ecosystems

This FRQ explores how thermal pollution from industrial discharges affects aquatic ecosystems, parti

Easy

Water Filtration and Adsorption Efficiency Test

A researcher collected water samples from an industrial effluent known to contain pesticide residues

Medium

Water Treatment and Drinking Water Safety

This FRQ examines water treatment processes aimed at ensuring safe drinking water, focusing on adsor

Easy
Unit 9: Global Change

Analyzing Climate Feedback Loops

Climate feedback loops can amplify or dampen the effects of climate forcing. In this final problem,

Extreme

Analyzing Climate Policy Outcomes

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

Extreme

Assessing the Impact of Global Warming on Weather Patterns

This question addresses how global warming influences the frequency and intensity of extreme weather

Medium

Climate Change Effects on Polar Regions

Polar regions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Analyze the environmenta

Hard

Deforestation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

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

Medium

Endangered Species: An Investigation into Population Dynamics

A table summarizes various factors affecting the status of endangered species, including breeding su

Medium

Evaluating Genetic Diversity Loss in Small Populations

Examine how small population sizes in endangered species lead to a loss of genetic diversity and dis

Medium

Examining Endangered Species Population Trends

This question focuses on analyzing population trends of an endangered species and evaluating potenti

Hard

Experimental Design: Ocean Acidification and its Impact on Marine Life

Ocean acidification, driven by increased atmospheric $$CO_2$$, can affect marine organisms, particul

Medium

Global Climate Change: Sea-Level Rise Analysis

This question addresses global climate change by analyzing sea-level rise data and proposing an obse

Hard

Integrated Assessment of Invasive Species Management Strategies

A schematic diagram is provided showing the spread of an invasive species over time. Answer the foll

Hard

Interactions Between UV Radiation and Urban Air Quality

This question explores the interplay between UV radiation, ozone depletion, and the formation of pho

Hard

Interpreting Data on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

A researcher examines greenhouse gas emissions from different sectors to understand the major contri

Extreme

Invasive Species Impact on Native Biodiversity

Examine how invasive species can disrupt native ecosystems and affect biodiversity.

Medium

Investigating the Effects of Global Warming on Weather Patterns

Analyze how global temperature increases influence weather patterns, particularly storm frequency an

Hard

Modeling Energy Transfer in Earth's Atmosphere

This question focuses on the modes of energy transfer in Earth’s atmosphere and requires you to perf

Extreme

Modeling the Positive Feedback Loop of Arctic Methane Release

Develop a comprehensive explanation of the positive feedback loop associated with Arctic methane rel

Extreme

Policy Responses to Ozone Depletion

This question requires analysis of human-made chemicals linked to ozone depletion and evaluation of

Hard

Population Dynamics of Endangered Species

This problem examines the population decline of endangered species and uses exponential decay models

Medium

Population Genetics in Endangered Species

Analyze the genetic challenges faced by endangered species due to small population sizes and propose

Extreme

Role of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs) in Ozone Depletion

This question examines the formation of polar stratospheric clouds and their importance in accelerat

Medium

Thermal Expansion of the Oceans

Thermal expansion is a significant contributor to sea level rise as the oceans warm. Consider the eq

Hard

Trusted by millions

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

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

Need to review before working on AP Environmental Science FRQs?

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

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.