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 (29)
  • Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity (27)
  • Unit 3: Populations (28)
  • Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources (17)
  • Unit 5: Land and Water Use (29)
  • Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption (24)
  • Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution (43)
  • Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution (25)
  • Unit 9: Global Change (28)
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: Rate Analysis and Consequences

Aquifer depletion is a growing concern in many regions. A table is provided showing the groundwater

Hard

Assessing Lake Stratification and Turnover

Design an experiment to assess how seasonal changes affect lake stratification and turnover. Your pr

Medium

Carbon Cycle Processes

Examine the processes that constitute the carbon cycle and evaluate the impact of human activities o

Medium

Climate Change and Shifts in Terrestrial Biomes

Climate change is affecting the distribution and boundaries of terrestrial biomes. Use the graph pro

Hard

Comparing Terrestrial and Aquatic Biomass Pyramids

Design an analytical study to compare biomass distribution between a terrestrial forest ecosystem an

Hard

Deforestation Effects on Atmospheric CO₂

A long-term study in a tropical region documented changes in atmospheric CO₂ levels before and after

Medium

Deforestation Impact on Terrestrial Carbon Sinks

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

Hard

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

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

FRQ 16: Effects of Climate Change on Coral Reef Health Diagram Analysis

Examine the provided diagram that depicts the impacts of climate change on coral reef health. In you

Extreme

Gross and Net Primary Productivity Sensitivity Analysis

A grassland ecosystem has a Gross Primary Production (GPP) of 1500 g C/m² and respiration (R) of 800

Easy

Human Alterations to Nutrient Cycles

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

Extreme

Human Impacts on Wetlands

Examine the ecological functions of wetlands and evaluate the impacts of human activities on these e

Medium

Impact of Invasive Species on Native Ecosystem Populations

The introduction of an invasive species can have dramatic effects on native species populations. Use

Hard

Impact of Light Intensity on Photosynthetic Rate in Aquatic Plants

In an experiment, aquatic plants were exposed to varying levels of light intensity and their photosy

Medium

Impact of Urbanization on Nitrogen Oxides Levels

A study compared nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) concentrations in different locations: an urban center, a subu

Medium

Modeling Groundwater Depletion Impact

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

Medium

Niche Differentiation: Generalists vs. Specialists

The adaptation of organisms to their ecological niches can influence their survival in changing envi

Hard

Nitrogen Cycle Alterations Due to Agriculture

Intensive agriculture increases the input of fixed nitrogen into nearby water bodies. A table accomp

Hard

Phosphorus Cycle: Weathering and Soil Availability

Phosphorus availability in ecosystems largely depends on geologic and chemical processes such as wea

Medium

Phosphorus Runoff and Eutrophication in a Lake

Over a period of 5 years, the phosphorus concentration in a shallow lake increased from 0.03 mg/L to

Medium

Photosynthesis Rate and Light Intensity Experiment

A researcher is investigating the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in the aqu

Medium

Population Growth and Carrying Capacity in a Woodland Ecosystem

A population of deer in a forest follows logistic growth. The logistic growth model is given by $$P(

Medium

Resource Partitioning in Communities

Explain the concept of resource partitioning and its role in reducing competition among species with

Medium

Seasonal Turnover in Lake Stratification

A temperate lake exhibits clear seasonal changes in thermal stratification. A graph provided shows t

Medium

Seasonal Turnover in Lakes and Its Impact on Temperature Distribution

A limnologist studied the temperature profiles of a lake during summer and fall. The graph provided

Medium

Trophic Levels and Energy Transfer Efficiency

A study of an ecosystem recorded the biomass at several trophic levels. The data is summarized in a

Hard

Using Isotope Ratios to Track Nitrogen Sources in a Watershed

A watershed is influenced by both agricultural runoff and atmospheric deposition. Agricultural nitro

Medium
Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

Adaptations: Behavioral, Physiological, and Structural

Species adopt various adaptations to survive in different environments. Compare and contrast behavio

Easy

Animal Adaptations: Behavioral, Physiological, and Structural

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

Medium

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Stability Analysis

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

Medium

Cost-Effectiveness of Remediation Strategies

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

Medium

Ecological Succession and Community Dynamics

This FRQ explores the processes of ecological succession and how they affect community dynamics over

Medium

Ecosystem Services and Their Value

Ecosystems provide numerous services that support human well-being. Evaluate these services and expl

Easy

Ecosystem Services Dependency on Biodiversity

The following table lists various ecosystem services and their dependency on biodiversity on a scale

Easy

Ecosystem Services Valuation in Coastal Mangroves

Coastal mangrove forests provide both provisioning and regulating ecosystem services. The value of t

Medium

Effects of Natural Disruptions on Ecosystem Recovery

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

Medium

Evaluating the Effect of Genetic Modification on Crop Biodiversity

Modern agricultural practices often involve the use of genetically modified crops, which can influen

Hard

FRQ 20: Predicting Future Trends in Biodiversity – A Modeling Approach

A researcher employs computational models to predict future trends in biodiversity under varying env

Extreme

Indicator and Keystone Species in Ecosystems

Understanding the roles of indicator and keystone species is vital for monitoring ecosystem health.

Medium

Indicator Species as Environmental Monitors

This question examines the concept of indicator species and their use in assessing environmental hea

Easy

Indicator Species as Signposts for Ecosystem Health

Discuss the role of indicator species in monitoring ecosystem health.

Medium

Island Biogeography and Biodiversity

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

Medium

Island Biogeography and Habitat Fragmentation Effects

This question applies the principles of island biogeography to habitat fragmentation in continental

Hard

Island Biogeography: Species Richness and Isolation

Island biogeography theory explains patterns of species richness on isolated land masses. Analyze th

Medium

Keystone Species and Food Web Stability

This question focuses on the role of keystone species in maintaining food web stability and requires

Medium

Modeling Ecological Succession in Disturbed Ecosystems

Researchers simulate ecological succession in an experimental plot that was initially set up to mimi

Medium

Population Bottleneck and Genetic Diversity Analysis

A catastrophic event causes a population bottleneck in a species resulting in altered allele frequen

Hard

Population Bottlenecks and Genetic Diversity

Population bottlenecks drastically reduce the number of individuals and genetic diversity. Explore t

Medium

Population Dynamics and Logistic Growth Models

This question examines population dynamics by comparing the logistic growth model with exponential g

Hard

Regulating Ecosystem Services and Agricultural Systems

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

Medium

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Adaptations

Organisms exhibit both short-term and long-term adaptations to environmental changes. Contrast these

Medium

The Role of Keystone Species in Ecosystem Stability

Evaluate the significance of keystone species in maintaining ecosystem stability.

Hard

Thermal Adaptation of Ectotherms

A researcher studied the effects of temperature on lizard activity by housing individuals in control

Medium

Wildfire Recovery and Nutrient Cycling

A wildfire drastically affected a forest ecosystem. Over the subsequent years, scientists monitored

Medium
Unit 3: Populations

Analyzing Survivorship Curves

The following graph represents three types of survivorship curves from different species. Using the

Hard

Biotic Potential and Environmental Resistance

Consider a population with a high biotic potential that is curtailed by environmental resistance. An

Medium

Biotic Potential and Environmental Resistance

Investigate the interplay between biotic potential and environmental resistance in determining popul

Easy

Carrying Capacity and Population Fluctuations

Investigate the concept of carrying capacity and its implications for population dynamics, specifica

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Total Fertility Rate (TFR)

Review the table provided in the stimulus which shows the Total Fertility Rates (TFR) for several co

Medium

Comparing r-selected and K-selected Reproductive Strategies

Discuss the differences between r-strategists and K-strategists in terms of their reproductive strat

Medium

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

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

Extreme

Evaluating Population Dispersal Patterns

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

Medium

Evaluating Survivorship Patterns in Species

Design an experiment to determine the survivorship curve of a species under varying environmental co

Hard

Feedback Loops in Ecosystem Regulation

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

Medium

FRQ 1: Generalists vs. Specialists – Resource Utilization

This question explores the differences in resource use between generalist and specialist species, an

Medium

FRQ 2: K-Selected and r-Selected Reproductive Strategies in Variable Environments

An ecologist compared two species: one known to be an r-strategist and the other a K-strategist. The

Medium

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 12: Total Fertility Rate and Demographic Implications

This question explores the concept of Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and its impacts on population growt

Hard

FRQ 12: Urbanization and Biodiversity: Analyzing Ecological Data

Researchers examined the relationship between urbanization and species diversity in different areas.

Medium

FRQ 13: Survivorship Analysis in a Predatory Environment

A study measured the survival proportions of a prey species over time in an environment with high pr

Medium

FRQ 16: Population Dispersal Patterns and Resource Distribution

A field study observed the dispersal patterns of organisms in three different plots. The following t

Easy

Generalist vs Specialist under Environmental Change

A rapidly changing environment due to climate change has led to unpredictable resource availability.

Easy

Human Population Dynamics and Historical Growth Patterns

Human population growth has experienced several surges throughout history. Answer the following ques

Medium

Human Population Dynamics and Technological Change

Discuss how technological and societal advancements have influenced human population growth, using t

Medium

Influence of Biotic Potential on Ecosystem Management

Biotic potential is a measure of an organism's capacity to reproduce. Discuss how understanding this

Medium

Integrated Analysis of Earth Systems and Resource Management

A multidisciplinary study has been conducted to understand the complex interactions between human po

Extreme

Measuring Biotic Potential Under Optimal Conditions

Design an experiment to measure the biotic potential (maximum reproductive capacity) of two differen

Easy

Population Dispersal Patterns

Explore the types of population dispersal patterns and interpret observational data to determine the

Medium

Population Growth Rate Calculations and Analysis

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

Medium

r-Selected and K-Selected Strategies: Life History Trade-offs

Analyze the differences between r-selected and K-selected species by evaluating their life history s

Medium

Reproductive Strategies: r-Selected vs K-Selected Species

Analyze the differences between r-selected and K-selected species using the information provided in

Medium

Survivorship Curve Interpretation

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

Hard
Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Atmospheric Composition: Partial Pressure Calculations

The partial pressure of a gas in the atmosphere is given by the product of its mole fraction and the

Easy

Carbon Cycle Disruptions Due to Deforestation

Deforestation has significant impacts on the carbon cycle. Analyze the interrelationships between fo

Hard

Comparing Loam and Clay Soil for Agriculture

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

Easy

Correlation between Water Vapor and Weather Patterns

The table below summarizes average relative humidity and monthly rainfall for different regions: |

Medium

Effect of Land Use on Watershed Functionality

A watershed in a mixed-use region is being impacted by both urban expansion and intensive agricultur

Hard

Effect of Urbanization on Soil Erosion Rates

Design an experimental study to examine how increasing urban development, and thus the expansion of

Hard

ENSO Conditions Impact on Marine Food Web Experiment

A marine ecologist implemented a comprehensive experiment to study the impacts of ENSO (El Niño-Sout

Extreme

Evaluating Soil Erosion Under Different Farming Techniques

Agricultural practices play a significant role in soil erosion. Evaluate the differences in soil los

Easy

FRQ 2: Continental Drift and Fossil Distribution Analysis

A team of researchers is investigating the hypothesis that the distribution of similar fossils acros

Hard

Global Warming and its Effects on Coral Reefs

Rising ocean temperatures due to global warming are threatening coral reef ecosystems. Analyze the i

Extreme

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

Impact of Water Bodies on Local Climate

This question examines the role of large bodies of water in moderating local climate.

Easy

La Niña and Hurricane Activity

It has been claimed that La Niña conditions inevitably lead to an increase in Atlantic hurricane act

Hard

Plate Tectonics: Movement and Seismic Energy

A table of tectonic plate velocities is provided below (in cm/year). Use the table and the formula $

Medium

Soil Erosion Data Analysis

The table below presents soil erosion rates for various types of land use: | Land Use |

Medium

Tornado Formation and Mesocyclone Dynamics

This question examines the formation of tornadoes stemming from severe thunderstorms and the develop

Medium

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

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

Clear-Cutting Effects on Forest Ecosystems

A forested region has undergone extensive clear-cutting to meet the demands for timber and farmland

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 Organic versus Inorganic Fertilizers on Crop Yield

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

Easy

Comparing Tillage vs. No-till Agriculture on Soil Health

The table below compares soil organic matter and erosion rates between conventional tillage and no-t

Easy

Crop Rotation vs. Monoculture: Effects on Soil Quality and Yield Stability

Design an experiment to compare the effects of crop rotation and monoculture on soil nutrient levels

Medium

Effects of Deforestation on Ecosystem Services

A researcher examines how deforestation affects ecosystem services, including biodiversity maintenan

Hard

Efficiency of Irrigation Methods on Crop Production and Water Use

Design an experiment to compare the efficiency of three irrigation methods—drip, furrow, and flood—o

Hard

Evaluating the Effects of Overfishing on Marine Food Web Dynamics

Design an experimental simulation to examine how different levels of fishing pressure affect marine

Extreme

Evaluating the Sustainability of Forest Management Practices

A forestry research team compares uneven-aged forest management with clear-cutting to assess their i

Hard

Evaluating Urban Runoff and Its Impact on Water Pollution

Researchers simulate urban runoff by using artificial rainfall over different surface types to asses

Medium

Experiment Analysis: Effects of Solar Panel Installations on Local Ecosystems

Researchers simulated a renewable energy project by installing scaled-down solar panels in a test fi

Hard

Experiment Analysis: Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Fertility Over Time

An experiment was conducted to compare conventional farming with sustainable practices such as cover

Extreme

Experiment Analysis: Urban Runoff Mitigation Techniques

An experiment was conducted to evaluate different urban runoff mitigation techniques. Researchers se

Medium

Forest Management Practices: Clear-Cutting vs. Uneven-Aged Management on Biodiversity

Design an experiment to compare the long-term effects of clear-cutting versus uneven-aged (selective

Hard

Green Revolution and Pesticide Resistance

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

Hard

Impact of Road Building on Forest Fragmentation

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

Hard

Integrated Pest Management Effectiveness Over Conventional Methods

The table below compares crop yield, pest damage, and pest control costs for fields managed using co

Medium

Irrigation Methods Efficiency Analysis

A researcher conducted a study comparing water use efficiency for drip and flood irrigation methods

Medium

Mining and Soil Erosion

An open-pit mining operation in a mountainous region has led to increased soil erosion due to the re

Extreme

Mining Methods and Environmental Consequences

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

Extreme

Overfishing Quota Modeling

A fishery has an estimated stock of 50,000 tons. The sustainable harvest rate is 5% per year, and th

Medium

Pesticide Degradation Rate Analysis

A pesticide degrades via first‐order kinetics with a half‐life of 5 days and an initial concentratio

Medium

Pesticide Effects on Non-target Species

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

Hard

Soil Erosion and Agricultural Practices

Assess the impact of different agricultural practices on soil erosion and discuss the long-term impl

Medium

Sustainable Irrigation Methods and Water Use Efficiency

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

Medium

The Tragedy of the Commons and Resource Depletion

Examine how the concept of the Tragedy of the Commons applies to modern environmental challenges. In

Medium

Transitioning Toward Renewable Energy for Sustainability

Examine the relationship between energy resource consumption and sustainability, and propose a trans

Extreme
Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

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

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

Medium

Clean Coal Technologies and Emission Controls

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

Hard

Cogeneration System Thermal Efficiency Experiment

A researcher tests a cogeneration (combined heat and power) system by varying system load. The syste

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 Energy Consumption Trends

The table below shows data for fossil fuel consumption and renewable energy consumption (in billion

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Resources

A researcher is comparing renewable and nonrenewable energy resources to evaluate their sustainabili

Medium

Comparison of Energy Storage Systems: Batteries vs. Fuel Cells

This question compares the energy storage mechanisms of batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, focusing

Medium

Energy Conservation Behavior Experiment in Households

Researchers conduct a field experiment to assess the impact of energy conservation measures on house

Easy

Energy Conversion Efficiency Analysis

This question addresses the conversion of energy from fossil fuels to electrical energy. Consider a

Medium

Energy Output from Combustion Reaction

Consider the combustion of a fossil fuel which releases energy according to the reaction with an ene

Medium

Environmental Impacts of Fossil Fuel Extraction

Fossil fuel extraction methods can have various environmental impacts. Using the table below, answer

Medium

Experimental Design: Measuring Efficiency of Cogeneration Plants

Review the schematic of a cogeneration (combined heat and power) plant. Answer the following:

Hard

Fuel Type Comparison: Renewable vs Nonrenewable

A policymaker is comparing various fuel types to determine their long‐term sustainability and enviro

Medium

Hydraulic Fracturing Efficiency and Environmental Impact Experiment

A simulation is conducted to study hydraulic fracturing. The experiment varies injection pressure an

Extreme

Hydroelectric Dam Trade-offs

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

Hard

Impact of Carbon Capture on CO2 Emissions

A coal power plant produces 1000 tonnes of CO₂ per day. With the implementation of Carbon Capture an

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

Nuclear Criticality: Chain Reaction and Control Rod Analysis

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

Hard

Passive vs. Active Solar Energy Systems

Solar energy can be harnessed through both passive and active systems. Compare these two approaches

Easy

Second Law of Thermodynamics: Energy Quality and Efficiency

The Second Law of Thermodynamics places limits on energy conversion efficiency. Evaluate its implica

Medium

Solar Photovoltaic System Diagram Analysis

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

Medium

Wind Energy Growth Analysis

A graph displays the growing installed capacity of wind energy in a region over a decade. Answer the

Hard

Wind Energy: Turbine Blade Design Experiment

Researchers conduct an experiment to test various wind turbine blade designs with the goal of optimi

Hard
Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Acid Rain and Its Effects on Aquatic Ecosystems

A set of pH measurements from a lake over several years following acid deposition is provided. Analy

Easy

Air Pollution Classification and Sources

This question examines your understanding of air pollution classifications. Explain the definitions

Easy

Air Pollution Definitions and Differences

A mid-sized town has been experiencing frequent smog events and elevated levels of air pollutants. I

Easy

Carbon Footprint and the Trade-Offs in Modern Energy Production

Assess the interplay between combustion of fossil fuels for energy and its impacts on air quality, f

Medium

Catalytic Converters and Emission Control

This question evaluates the role of catalytic converters in emission control and involves both chemi

Medium

Detection and Impact of Gas Leaks: Carbon Monoxide Monitoring

A residential complex employed a fixed CO detection system to monitor CO levels throughout the day.

Easy

Developing a Remediation Strategy for Industrial Air Pollution

Given the variety of methods available to reduce industrial air pollutants (such as switching to low

Hard

Diurnal Variation of Photochemical Smog Components

This question focuses on the daily variation in the concentrations of photochemical smog components.

Hard

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 Electrostatic Precipitators in Industrial Settings

Electrostatic precipitators are used in industrial settings to remove suspended particulate matter f

Medium

Efficacy of Pollution-Control Devices

Devise an experimental procedure to test the efficacy of various pollution-control devices (e.g., sc

Medium

Evaluating Air Pollution Mitigation Technologies in Developing Countries

Developing countries often face severe air pollution issues due to rapid urbanization, reliance on t

Extreme

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

Evaluating Effects of Noise Pollution in Urban Areas

A noise monitoring study was conducted in both urban and suburban areas to assess the impact of huma

Easy

Evaluating Impact of Non-Point Source Pollution on Ecosystem Health

A watershed study measured nitrogen oxide (NOx) deposition across sub-catchments subject to non-poin

Extreme

Evaluating the Efficiency of Pollution-Control Devices

Several pollution-control devices such as baghouse filters, cyclone precipitators, and scrubbers are

Easy

Evaluation of Air Quality Monitoring Techniques

This question requires a discussion of various air quality monitoring methods and a critique based o

Extreme

Experimental Design on Air Pollutant Dispersion in Forested vs. Urban Areas

A research team compares pollutant dispersion in two controlled chambers: one simulating a forested

Medium

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 3: Carbon Monoxide Sources and Mitigation Strategies

Examine the sources, formation processes, and mitigation strategies related to carbon monoxide (CO)

Easy

FRQ 5: Nitrogen Oxides: Formation and Impact

Examine the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) from combustion processes and their environmental con

Hard

Indoor Air Pollution and Remediation Strategies

Indoor air pollution can pose significant health risks. Analyze the data provided on indoor pollutan

Medium

Indoor Air Quality Assessment

A researcher investigates common indoor air pollutants and their health effects. The provided table

Easy

Indoor Air Quality: Experiment on VOC Removal

A study was conducted to assess the effect of indoor plants on the concentration of volatile organic

Easy

Interpreting Table Data on Particulate Matter

Environmental agencies have collected data on particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) across several cit

Medium

Lead Pollution and Its Impact on Human Health

This question requires analysis of lead pollution sources, trends, and health impacts.

Medium

Lead Pollution: Industrial Sources and Health Impacts

Lead pollution originates from various industrial activities and poses significant health risks. Eva

Medium

Mathematical Modeling of Particulate Matter Settling

The settling velocity of particulate matter in the atmosphere can be estimated using Stokes’ Law, gi

Hard

Mitigation Strategies for Urban Air Pollution

A researcher is tasked with developing strategies to mitigate urban air pollution. Considering vario

Medium

Monitoring Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) Dispersion Experiment

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

Hard

Noise Pollution Impact Assessment

A city council is assessing the impact of traffic noise on community health by measuring ambient sou

Easy

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) – Movement and Impact

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

Hard

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs) and Their Environmental Implications

In a heavily industrialized urban area, elevated levels of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) have been dete

Hard

Photochemical Reactions in Urban Environments

Detail the chain reactions leading to photochemical smog formation in urban areas, evaluate a study

Extreme

Photochemical Smog Dynamics in Urban Areas

Photochemical smog is influenced by urban traffic and industrial emissions. Use the following prompt

Medium

Reduction Strategies for Urban Air Pollution

This question examines various strategies for reducing air pollution in urban areas and their multi-

Medium

Sulfur Dioxide and Acid Deposition

A research group measured sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels at various distances from an industrial plant

Medium

Sulfur Dioxide and its Secondary Reactions

This question involves the chemical transformation of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) into sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄

Medium

Suspended Particulate Matter and Its Behavior

Analyze the factors influencing the atmospheric behavior of suspended particulate matter.

Hard

Suspended Particulate Matter: Behavior and Impact

Analyze the factors influencing the behavior of suspended particulate matter in the atmosphere and a

Hard

Trade-offs in the Use of Catalytic Converters

A study evaluates the effectiveness of catalytic converters in reducing harmful vehicular emissions.

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Air Pollutants

This question examines the formation of urban heat islands and their effect on air pollutant dispers

Medium

Urban Heat Islands and Local Climate Effects

A city study recorded temperature data for urban and rural areas over the day to assess the impact o

Medium
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 Industrial Waste Discharge on Water Bodies

Industrial wastewater can severely affect water quality if not properly treated. This question invol

Hard

Analysis of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is an accumulation of debris in the North Pacific Ocean driven by oc

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

Analyzing the Impact of Acid Rain on Freshwater Ecosystems

A simulation experiment applies acid rain to a freshwater pond to study its effects on water quality

Hard

Assessing the Impact of Mining on Freshwater Quality

Mining activities can introduce significant pollutants into freshwater systems. Design an experiment

Hard

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification Kinetics

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

Medium

Comparative Study of Filtration and Adsorption for Drinking Water Purification

Drinking water purification methods like filtration and adsorption are essential for removing contam

Medium

Designing a Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Strategy

This FRQ challenges you to evaluate various solid waste disposal methods and design an integrated st

Hard

Designing an Experiment to Mitigate Cultural Eutrophication Using Buffer Zones

Buffer zones are a recognized method for controlling nutrient runoff into water bodies. Design an ex

Medium

Evaluating Geologic Repositories for Radioactive Waste

This FRQ assesses the suitability of geologic repositories for the long-term storage of radioactive

Extreme

Evaluating the Impact of Industrial Activity on Wetland Biodiversity

Two wetlands are studied: one adjacent to an industrial zone and one located in a protected area. Bi

Extreme

Evaluating Water Treatment Processes: Filtration and Flocculation Sedimentation

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

Hard

FRQ3: Impact of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

This FRQ addresses the ecological repercussions of oil spills in marine environments. Analyze the pr

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

FRQ8: Mining-Related Water Pollution

Examine the schematic diagram of a mining operation and its associated wastewater flows. Analyze how

Hard

FRQ9: Comparative Analysis of Urban and Agricultural Runoff

Using the provided table comparing urban and agricultural runoff, analyze the differences in polluta

Medium

Hazardous Waste Isolation Techniques

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

Hard

Impact of Oil Spills on Marine Ecosystems

This FRQ examines the ecological consequences of oil spills using both data analysis and quantitativ

Hard

Long-Term Environmental Impacts of Ocean Dumping

This FRQ evaluates the ecological and human health risks associated with ocean dumping of hazardous

Hard

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Food Chains

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

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 Environmental Consequences

Urban runoff is a critical issue affecting water quality in cities. This question focuses on the env

Easy

Water Quality and Testing Analysis

This FRQ explores water quality parameters and their interrelationships through data analysis and ca

Hard

Wetlands and Mangroves Ecosystem Services

Wetlands and mangroves provide a wide array of ecosystem services including water purification, floo

Medium
Unit 9: Global Change

Assessing Energy Supply and its Impact on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

This question explores the significant impact of fossil fuel combustion for energy supply on greenho

Medium

Assessing the Effects of Invasive Species on Marine Ecosystems

A marine ecologist is studying the impact of invasive species on coastal ecosystems, with a focus on

Medium

Assessing the Impact of Global Warming on Weather Patterns

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

Medium

Black Carbon and Atmospheric Warming

This question investigates the contribution of black carbon (soot) to atmospheric warming and outlin

Medium

Captive Breeding and Habitat Simulation for Endangered Amphibians

A researcher evaluates a captive breeding program for an endangered amphibian species by monitoring

Medium

Case Study: European Green Crabs

Analyze a case study on the environmental impact of European green crabs in a coastal ecosystem.

Medium

CO2 Absorption by a Model Forest Ecosystem

A researcher creates a controlled model forest using potted trees inside a greenhouse to measure the

Hard

Deforestation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

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

Medium

Designing an Experiment: Measuring the Rate of Ozone Repair in the Stratosphere

Ozone in the stratosphere is constantly being formed and repair mechanisms are in place. In this que

Hard

Endangered Species Conservation Strategies

Many species are now classified as endangered due to various human-induced pressures. Evaluate conse

Easy

Evaluating Strategies to Protect the Ozone Layer

This question asks you to evaluate the effectiveness of various regulatory and market-based strategi

Easy

Experimental Analysis of Stratospheric Ozone Depletion

A researcher designs an experiment to study the effect of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) concentration on

Medium

Experimental Design for Controlling Invasive Species

A researcher aims to control the spread of water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant, by testing var

Hard

Experimental Design: Impact of Legislative Policies on Environmental Chemical Controls

International environmental policies have played a significant role in reducing the release of ozone

Extreme

Global Climate Change: Analysis of Temperature and Sea-Level Graphs

Examine the graphs depicting global temperature anomalies and sea-level rise from 1900 to 2020. Use

Hard

Greenhouse Effect and Energy Absorption

Discuss the role of greenhouse gases in trapping infrared radiation and how changes in atmospheric c

Easy

Greenhouse Effect Mechanisms and Energy Balance

In this question you will analyze the mechanisms of the greenhouse effect and its role in regulating

Medium

Greenhouse Gas Feedback Loops and Methane Emissions

This question investigates the concept of positive feedback in the context of methane emissions from

Extreme

Health Impacts of Ozone Depletion

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

Easy

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 is a key factor in controlling the balance of the ozone layer. In this question, you wi

Extreme

Invasive Fish Impact on Aquatic Plankton

A researcher sets up an experiment to assess the impact of an invasive fish species on native plankt

Medium

Invasive Species Impact on Native Biodiversity

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

Medium

Ocean Acidification and Carbonate Chemistry

This question examines how increased atmospheric carbon dioxide leads to ocean acidification and its

Hard

Ozone Layer Chemistry Investigation

Examine the chemical processes involved in the formation and depletion of the stratospheric ozone la

Medium

Role of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs) in Ozone Depletion

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

Medium

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion and CFCs

This question examines the chemical mechanism of ozone depletion in the stratosphere due to CFCs and

Medium

Thermal Expansion in Saltwater: Modeling Sea-Level Rise

A researcher sets out to simulate sea-level rise due to thermal expansion by heating a sealed contai

Medium

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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.