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AP Biology Free Response Questions

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

  • View all (250)
  • Unit 1: Chemistry of Life (13)
  • Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function (29)
  • Unit 3: Cellular Energetics (35)
  • Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle (30)
  • Unit 5: Heredity (31)
  • Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (31)
  • Unit 7: Natural Selection (47)
  • Unit 8: Ecology (34)
Unit 1: Chemistry of Life

Analyzing the Interaction between Organic Molecules and Solvent Polarity

A researcher examines the solubility of a protein in various solvents with differing polarity indice

Medium

Atomic Structure and Isotopes Analysis

This question asks you to analyze the fundamental components of atoms and examine isotopic variation

Medium

Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, and Polysaccharides

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

Medium

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis of Disaccharides

In the formation of disaccharides, two monosaccharide molecules (such as glucose) join together via

Medium

Investigating the Role of Trace Elements in Enzyme Catalysis

A researcher investigates the effect of trace elements, such as copper and iron, on the catalytic ra

Medium

Investigating Trace Elements on Photosynthesis Efficiency in Aquatic Plants

A researcher hypothesizes that trace elements, particularly iron (Fe), are critical for efficient ph

Medium

Lipid Saturation and Membrane Fluidity

Evaluate the relationship between fatty acid saturation and the fluidity of cell membranes.

Hard

Nucleic Acid Formation and Hydrogen Bonding in DNA

DNA is synthesized through dehydration reactions that form phosphodiester bonds, and its double-heli

Hard

Nucleic Acid Polymerization and Base Pairing

Examine the molecular processes involved in DNA replication, focusing on polymerization and base pai

Extreme

pH and Enzyme Activity

Examine the influence of pH on enzyme structure and activity.

Hard

Protein Structure and Folding

Proteins have a complex hierarchy of structure that is critical to their function. (a) Describe the

Easy

Role of Trace Elements in Enzymatic Reactions

This FRQ explores the importance of trace elements as cofactors in enzymatic reactions. You will def

Hard

The Versatility of Carbon in Organic Chemistry

This FRQ explores why carbon is the central element in organic chemistry. You will discuss the uniqu

Medium
Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function

Assessing Osmosis and Tonicity in Plant Cells

A research study examined how plant cells respond to changes in external solute concentration. The c

Medium

Bulk Flow and Dialysis: Mechanisms of Material Movement

Bulk flow and dialysis represent two different mechanisms of material movement across membranes. Ans

Extreme

Cell Recognition and Communication

A researcher investigates the role of glycoproteins and glycolipids in cell recognition and immune r

Hard

Cell Size and Diffusion Experiment

An experiment was designed to study the rate of dye diffusion in cells of varying sizes, using the c

Easy

Comparative Structure of Plant and Animal Cells

Plant and animal cells exhibit several distinct structural differences. Use the provided table to he

Easy

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cell Structures

The table below compares several structural and functional characteristics of prokaryotic and eukary

Easy

Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Cells can be broadly classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types. This question asks you to com

Easy

Cytoskeleton Structural Stability Experiment

Researchers conducted an experiment to determine the role of the cytoskeleton in maintaining cell sh

Medium

Endocytosis and Exocytosis Experimental Data Analysis

The table below shows experimental data measuring the rates of endocytosis and exocytosis at various

Hard

Energy Considerations in Passive vs. Active Transport

A physiologist is comparing the energy requirements of passive diffusion and active transport, espec

Hard

Energy Required for Endocytosis

During receptor-mediated endocytosis, a cell forms a vesicle from the plasma membrane. If the energy

Medium

Golgi Complex: Processing and Packaging Proteins

The Golgi complex is essential for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for transport. Answer

Medium

Impact of Cytoskeletal Disruption on Cell Morphology

This question assesses how disruption of the cytoskeleton alters cell shape by analyzing quantitativ

Hard

Investigating the Efficiency of Lipid Bilayers in Facilitating Diffusion

A study utilizes artificial lipid bilayers to test their permeability to various solutes. The claim

Easy

Ion Gradients and Cell Membrane Potential

This question uses the principles underlying the Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz (GHK) equation to analyze the

Extreme

Microscopy Techniques: Light vs Electron Microscopy

This FRQ compares the resolving power and usability of light microscopes versus electron microscopes

Medium

Microscopy: Light vs. Electron Resolution and Magnification

A cell with an actual diameter of 10 μm is imaged using a light microscope at 1000× magnification an

Medium

Nuclear Organization and Function

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

Medium

Osmosis and Water Potential Calculations

Osmosis is critical for maintaining cellular water balance. Answer the following parts:

Hard

Peroxisome Detoxification Experiment

A study was undertaken to evaluate the detoxification efficiency of peroxisomes in liver cells by me

Medium

Plasma Membrane Structure and Function

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

Medium

Protein Processing in the Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex

A scientist is studying the secretory pathway in eukaryotic cells. A simplified diagram of the pathw

Medium

Receptor Mediated Endocytosis and Signal Transduction

This question explores receptor-mediated endocytosis and its possible influence on downstream cellul

Hard

Sodium-Potassium Pump: Active Transport and Energy Consumption

A biochemist is investigating the sodium-potassium pump in animal cells. The pump moves 3 Na+ ions o

Medium

Solute Potential and Osmosis in Cells

In an experiment, the water (solute) potential of a solution is calculated using the equation $$\Psi

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and Cell Function

The table below lists measurements of spherical cells with varying diameters and their corresponding

Medium

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratios and Cellular Function

A recent study aimed to quantify the relationship between cell size and the efficiency of material e

Medium

The Fluid Mosaic Model and Membrane Proteins

This question examines the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane and the impact of lipid composi

Medium

Transport Mechanisms: Diffusion, Facilitated Diffusion, and Active Transport

A series of experiments were performed to compare the uptake rates of various molecules via differen

Medium
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Inhibition

This question focuses on enzyme regulation via inhibitors and allosteric effects.

Hard

Allosteric Regulation and Enzyme Kinetics

This question examines how allosteric regulation influences enzyme kinetics and metabolic control.

Medium

ATP and Reaction Coupling

This question examines how cells use ATP to couple exergonic and endergonic reactions in metabolism.

Medium

ATP Synthesis Efficiency in Different Organisms

This question investigates variations in ATP synthesis efficiency among different organisms and the

Hard

ATP Yield Variation with Electron Carrier Molecules

Examine the ATP yield from different electron carrier molecules during cellular respiration. Use the

Hard

Cellular Respiration Stages and Energy Production

Describe the four stages of cellular respiration, detailing the key reactions and net production of

Hard

Chloroplast Structure and Function

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

Easy

Comparative Analysis of Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration

Design an experiment to compare ATP yield from muscle cells under aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Medium

Comparing Competitive vs Noncompetitive Inhibition

Answer the following questions regarding enzyme inhibition using the provided data.

Medium

Competitive Inhibition Mechanism

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

Medium

Energy Changes in Reaction Coupling Under Variable Conditions

Propose an experiment to analyze the efficiency of reaction coupling under varying substrate concent

Extreme

Energy Transfer and Thermodynamics in Cellular Reactions

Cells harness energy through exergonic reactions to drive endergonic processes. In this FRQ, you wil

Medium

Enzyme Catalysis and Activation Energy

Enzymes accelerate reactions by lowering the activation energy. Analyze this effect quantitatively u

Medium

Enzyme Cofactors and Regulation

This question examines the role of enzyme cofactors and their effects on enzyme activity.

Easy

Enzyme Inhibition: Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

An enzyme’s activity may be modulated by inhibitors. Analyze the effects of competitive and noncompe

Extreme

Enzyme Inhibition: Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

Using the data provided below, compare the effects of competitive and noncompetitive inhibition on e

Medium

Enzyme Saturation and Michaelis-Menten Kinetics

A biochemist studies how substrate concentration affects the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction us

Medium

Enzyme Specificity and the Induced-fit Model

This question investigates enzyme specificity and the induced-fit model of enzyme action.

Easy

Enzyme-Substrate Interaction and Induced-Fit

A researcher investigates enzyme kinetics to understand how the enzyme-substrate complex forms and h

Medium

Fermentation vs. Aerobic Respiration

Contrast anaerobic fermentation and aerobic respiration in terms of ATP yield, by‐products, and the

Medium

Impact of Allosteric Inhibitors on Enzyme Regulation

A table below shows enzyme reaction rates in the presence of various concentrations of an inhibitor.

Hard

Impact of Temperature-Induced Denaturation on Enzyme Activity

A study is conducted to examine the effect of high temperatures on a catalase enzyme. Enzyme activit

Medium

Inhibition Kinetics: Competitive vs Noncompetitive Inhibition

This question examines the kinetic differences between competitive and noncompetitive inhibitors.

Hard

Light-Dependent Reactions and Absorption Spectrum

Answer the following questions related to the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

Medium

Mechanism of Induced-Fit in Enzymatic Reactions

Experimental evidence suggests that an enzyme undergoes a conformational change upon substrate bindi

Medium

Photosystem Function and Pigment Absorption

Photosystems I and II are integral to the light-dependent reactions in photosynthesis. Discuss their

Medium

Proton Gradient and Chemiosmosis

This question examines the formation of the proton gradient and its role in ATP synthesis.

Hard

Quantitative Analysis of ATP Production

A researcher is quantifying ATP production from cellular respiration and wants to analyze the energe

Hard

Reaction Coupling and Energy Transfer

Cells use reaction coupling to power endergonic reactions by pairing them with exergonic processes.

Medium

Reaction Coupling in Metabolic Pathways

Reaction coupling enables cells to drive endergonic processes. Analyze a coupled reaction scenario.

Extreme

Role of Cofactors in Enzyme Catalysis

A researcher investigates how varying concentrations of the cofactor Mg2+ affect the activity of an

Hard

Substrate Concentration and Enzyme Saturation

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

Hard

Temperature and pH Effects on Enzyme Activity

The activity of enzymes is highly dependent on environmental conditions. Using the provided data tab

Easy

Thermodynamics in Cellular Metabolism

Explain how the laws of thermodynamics apply to cellular metabolism and discuss the role of reaction

Hard

Thermodynamics in Cellular Processes

A cellular biologist is studying how cells maintain order despite continuous energy transformations.

Medium
Unit 4: Cell Communication and Cell Cycle

Analyzing the Effects of Mutations in CDKs on Cell Cycle Progression

A study compares wild-type cells to cells with mutations in cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), assessi

Hard

Bacterial Chemotaxis and Movement Patterns

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

Easy

Catalytic Receptor Activity Experiment

A study investigates enzyme-linked (catalytic) receptors which possess an extracellular ligand-bindi

Medium

Catalytic Receptor Activity in Initiating Cell Division

An experiment is designed to study the effect of an enzyme-linked (catalytic) receptor on cell proli

Hard

Catalytic Receptors and Enzymatic Activation

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

Medium

Chemotaxis in Unicellular Organisms

A recent study claims that chemotaxis in unicellular organisms is primarily controlled by the intera

Easy

Designing an Experiment: Investigating Feedback Inhibition in Cellular Signaling

Feedback inhibition is a key regulatory mechanism in cellular signaling pathways where the end produ

Hard

Experimental Analysis of Signal Pathways

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

Hard

Feedback Loops and Homeostatic Regulation

Feedback systems in biological organisms help maintain homeostasis. Evaluate a negative feedback loo

Medium

Feedback Mechanisms in Hormonal Regulation

Hormonal regulation, such as the maintenance of blood glucose levels, often relies on feedback mecha

Medium

G-Protein Coupled Receptor Dynamics

Researchers are investigating the impact of a single amino acid mutation in a G-protein coupled rece

Hard

Impact of CDK Inhibition on Cell Cycle Progression

Design an experiment to analyze the effect of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors on cell cycle

Extreme

Impact of Environmental Stimuli on Unicellular Organisms

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

Easy

Interphase Dynamics and DNA Replication

A scientist measures the DNA content of a population of fibroblast cells over time during interphase

Medium

Investigating the Role of Cell Junctions in Direct Cell Communication

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

Easy

Kinetic Analysis of Cell Cycle Phases

This question focuses on the temporal regulation of the cell cycle and requires the analysis of kine

Medium

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels and Muscle Contraction

A study investigates the role of ligand-gated ion channels at the neuromuscular junction during musc

Easy

Misregulation in the Cell Cycle and Cancer

A study investigates the role of mutations in tumor suppressor genes and overactive cyclin/CDK compl

Extreme

Negative Feedback in Cellular Signaling

A study on hormone regulation claims that negative feedback pathways stabilize hormone levels by red

Medium

Oncogene Activation Analysis

A researcher investigates oncogene activation in epithelial cells by exposing them to a suspected ca

Medium

Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes

Cancer development is closely linked to genetic alterations in cell cycle regulation. A researcher i

Hard

Pathway Crosstalk Analysis in Fibroblasts

A researcher explores potential crosstalk between the MAP kinase pathway and the PI3K/Akt pathway in

Extreme

Plasma Membrane Receptor Specificity

Researchers test the specificity of plasma membrane receptors by exposing a cultured cell line to a

Medium

Quantitative Analysis of Mitotic Spindle Formation

This question evaluates the role of the mitotic spindle in chromosome segregation through quantitati

Hard

Receptor Mutation: Effects on Signal Transduction

Mutations in receptors can drastically alter signal transduction. Part a: Explain how a mutation i

Hard

Regulation of Cell Division in Response to DNA Damage

Cells possess mechanisms to respond to DNA damage, ensuring genomic integrity. A researcher is inves

Hard

Signal Amplification in Cellular Communication

A cell receives a low concentration of a signaling molecule, yet the resulting intracellular respons

Medium

Signal Transduction Pathways

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

Medium

Signal Transduction Schematic Analysis

Analyze the provided diagram of a signal transduction pathway. Consider the pathway components illus

Hard

Temperature Effects on Signal Transduction in Yeast

A group of students investigates a signal transduction pathway in yeast by measuring cAMP levels aft

Medium
Unit 5: Heredity

Advanced Probability in Dihybrid Crosses

In a dihybrid cross involving two heterozygous traits, a geneticist requires precise probability cal

Extreme

Analysis of Linked Genes and Recombination Frequency Data

A researcher investigates three linked genes (A, B, and C) on the same chromosome. The recombination

Hard

Analysis of X-Inactivation Using Barr Body Data

In studies of female cells, researchers have counted the number of Barr bodies present. The table be

Easy

Analyzing Dihybrid Cross Data

A dihybrid cross involving two traits, plant height (T = tall, t = short) and flower color (Y = yell

Medium

Assessing Recombination Frequency in Linked Genes

A geneticist designed an experiment to determine the recombination frequency among three linked gene

Hard

Barr Bodies and X-Inactivation

X-inactivation is a process that equalizes gene dosage in female mammals. Answer the following: (a)

Easy

Comparing Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis vs Oogenesis

This question asks you to compare the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, focusing on both t

Medium

Comprehensive Analysis Integrating Meiotic Processes, Test Crosses, and Inheritance Patterns

A comprehensive study was conducted integrating data from meiotic analysis, test crosses, and phenot

Extreme

Designing a Test Cross Experiment

Design a test cross experiment to determine if a tall pea plant is homozygous dominant (TT) or heter

Medium

Dihybrid Cross and Probability Analysis

Consider a dihybrid cross where two independent traits are controlled by two genes with complete dom

Hard

Environmental Effects on Phenotype

The phenotype of an organism is not solely determined by its genotype; environmental factors can als

Medium

Evaluating Environmental Effects on Phenotypic Plasticity in Plants

Design an experiment to assess the impact of environmental conditions on the phenotype of geneticall

Hard

Evidence for Haploid and Diploid States

A researcher conducted an experiment to determine chromosome numbers in various cell types. The foll

Medium

Integration of Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Discuss how different mechanisms during meiosis contribute to genetic variation and compare these so

Hard

Interpreting Pedigree Data for Inherited Disorders

A pedigree analysis was conducted for a genetic disorder. The table below summarizes information fro

Hard

Mapping Linked Genes Using Recombination Frequency Data

Design an experiment to map the relative positions of three linked genes in a plant species using re

Hard

Meiosis: Stages and Genetic Variation

This problem explores the stages of meiosis with a focus on Prophase I and its role in generating ge

Medium

Mendelian Genetics and Punnett Squares

Mendel’s experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for modern genetics. In this question, you

Medium

Mendelian Genetics and the Law of Dominance

Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants provided the foundation for classical genetics. Consider

Medium

Mendelian Inheritance Ratios and the Law of Segregation

In a monohybrid cross between two heterozygous individuals (Tt x Tt), the expected genotype ratio is

Easy

Mendelian Inheritance: Monohybrid Cross Analysis

Using a monohybrid cross between tall pea plants (T) and short pea plants (t), analyze and predict t

Easy

Non-Mendelian Genetics: Incomplete Dominance and Codominance

In some cases, inheritance does not follow strict Mendelian patterns. This question asks you to prov

Medium

Polygenic Inheritance and Environmental Influences on Phenotype

Polygenic traits, such as human height, are influenced by multiple genes as well as environmental fa

Hard

Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium model uses probability to predict genotype frequencies in a large pop

Extreme

Product and Sum Rule Application in Dihybrid Crosses

Given that in a dihybrid cross the probability of expressing a recessive phenotype for a single trai

Medium

Revisiting Mendel's Laws

Review Mendel's three principles of inheritance—the Law of Dominance, the Law of Segregation, and th

Easy

Sex-Linked Inheritance in Pedigree Data

A geneticist analyzed a set of pedigree data for a trait suspected to be X-linked. The table below s

Medium

Sex-Linked Trait Inheritance: Color Blindness

In humans, color blindness is an X-linked recessive trait. A color-blind male (genotype X^cY) mates

Medium

Sex-Linked Traits Inheritance

This question explores the unique pattern of inheritance for X-linked traits using color blindness a

Medium

Stages of Meiosis: Analyzing a Diagram

Using the provided diagram of meiotic stages, analyze the key events that contribute to genetic vari

Easy

Test Cross for Determining Genotype

A test cross is a common method used to determine the genotype of an individual displaying the domin

Medium
Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation

Chromatin Structure and Gene Expression

A study examined how the packaging of DNA into chromatin affects gene expression. Refer to the provi

Medium

Codon-Anticodon Interaction and Wobble Pairing

Answer the following questions related to the interactions between codons and anticodons during tran

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Translation

Discuss the translation process in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, noting key differences and

Medium

CRISPR-Mediated Gene Duplication Study with Target Site Error

A researcher employs CRISPR-Cas9 to create gene duplications in yeast cells with the goal of augment

Medium

DNA Sequencing Accuracy Analysis

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

Hard

Effects of Mutations on Protein Function

Analyze different types of point mutations and discuss their potential impacts on protein synthesis.

Medium

Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Modifications

Answer the following questions about epigenetics and how chromatin modifications influence gene expr

Hard

Epigenetic Regulation via Chromatin Modification

A research study examined the correlation between histone acetylation levels and gene expression. Re

Hard

Evaluating Base Pairing Fidelity Under UV Exposure

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

Medium

FRQ 2: DNA Replication Mechanism

A researcher uses fluorescent markers to observe replication enzymes in a rapidly dividing eukaryoti

Medium

FRQ 10: Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) Analysis

Researchers assess genetic variation in a population by digesting DNA with restriction enzymes and a

Medium

Investigation of Plasmid Size on Transformation Efficiency

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

Medium

Mechanism of Translation

Examine the process of translation and the molecular accuracy mechanisms involved in protein synthes

Medium

Mechanisms of DNA Replication Enzyme Functions

A researcher performs an in vitro study to elucidate the roles of key enzymes in DNA replication, in

Medium

Mechanisms of RNA Interference (RNAi)

A study explored the effectiveness of different RNAi molecules in silencing a target gene in culture

Medium

Mechanisms of Translation

A researcher investigates ribosome assembly and translation efficiency using several experimental ap

Medium

Mutation Detection and the Central Dogma

Using the central dogma as a framework, analyze how mutations in DNA can affect protein synthesis an

Hard

Operon Function in Bacterial Gene Regulation

This question examines the structure and function of bacterial operons and the consequences of regul

Easy

Operon Model and Gene Regulation

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

Easy

PCR Amplification with Flawed Primer Design

A scientist is performing PCR to amplify a specific gene segment. The experiment employs primers des

Medium

Plasmid Transformation and Gene Expression in Bacteria

Design an experiment involving bacterial transformation with a plasmid to achieve gene expression an

Extreme

Retroviral Reverse Transcription with Inhibitor Timing Error

A researcher examines the efficiency of reverse transcription in a retroviral system by applying a r

Medium

RNAi Impact on mRNA Quantification with Reverse Transcriptase Specificity Error

A researcher is examining the effects of an RNA interference (RNAi) molecule on the mRNA levels of a

Hard

Role of Hox Genes in Embryonic Development

Answer the following questions addressing the regulation of gene expression during embryonic develop

Hard

Semiconservative Replication and DNA Parental Strands

Semiconservative replication results in daughter DNA molecules that each contain one parental strand

Medium

Semiconservative Replication: The Meselson-Stahl Experiment

The Meselson-Stahl experiment provided key evidence for semiconservative DNA replication. Answer the

Extreme

Studying the Efficiency of Pre-mRNA Splicing

Outline an experimental approach to investigate splicing efficiency in eukaryotic cells.

Medium

Telomeres, Replication, and Cellular Aging

Discuss the structure and function of telomeres, and analyze their impact on cellular aging.

Medium

Topoisomerase Function Analysis

Topoisomerases relieve supercoiling during DNA replication. In an experiment, a cell's DNA has 10,00

Medium

Transcription and RNA Processing

Analyze the process by which DNA is transcribed into mRNA and subsequently processed in eukaryotic c

Easy

Transcription Factor Binding and Promoter Strength

In a study, the rate of transcription (R) is modeled as a function of transcription factor concentra

Easy
Unit 7: Natural Selection

Antibiotic Resistance Evolution in Bacterial Populations

In this experiment, a researcher investigates the evolution of antibiotic resistance in a bacterial

Hard

Artificial Selection Versus Natural Selection

Contrast the processes of artificial selection and natural selection.

Easy

Cladogram Analysis: Divergent vs Convergent Evolution

Examine the provided cladogram illustrating evolutionary relationships among various organisms.

Extreme

Constructing and Interpreting Phylogenetic Trees

A phylogenetic analysis yields a graphical representation of evolutionary relationships among severa

Extreme

Constructing Phylogenetic Trees to Understand Common Ancestry

This FRQ focuses on how molecular and fossil records are used together to construct phylogenetic tre

Hard

Convergent Evolution in Aquatic Ecosystems

In an aquatic ecosystem, cephalopods and fish have evolved similar streamlined body shapes despite t

Easy

Critical Evaluation of a Media Report on Evolutionary Claims

A recent media report claims that the 'sudden appearance of complex life forms in the fossil record

Extreme

Disruptive Selection in Flower Color Variation

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

Hard

Effects of Gene Flow on Allele Frequencies in Populations

Gene flow can alter allele frequencies within a population by introducing new alleles from immigrant

Medium

Effects of Gene Flow on Subpopulation Divergence

Two subpopulations of the same species are separated by a mountain range, but occasional migration (

Medium

Effects of Genetic Drift: The Bottleneck Effect

After a natural disaster, a population of rodents underwent a severe reduction in size. The followin

Medium

Environmental Influences on Natural Selection

Evaluate how different environmental factors, both biotic and abiotic, drive natural selection in a

Medium

Environmental Pollutants and Adaptive Change in Amphibians

Environmental pollutants, such as acid rain, can impose strong selective pressures on local populati

Hard

Environmental Pressures and Speciation of Frogs

Two subpopulations of frogs become geographically isolated by a mountain range. One group inhabits s

Medium

Evaluating Mutation Effects on Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

This FRQ examines how an increase in mutation rates can disturb Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in a popu

Medium

Evidence of Evolution: Fossils and Biogeography

Discuss how fossil records and biogeographical patterns serve as robust evidence for evolution and c

Medium

Experimental Design in Artificial Selection: Domestication Traits

This FRQ examines the principles of artificial selection in the context of domestication. Consider h

Easy

Experimental Design to Test Natural Selection

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of a specific environmental variable on the reproduct

Hard

Exploring the RNA World Hypothesis in a Prebiotic Chemistry Experiment

The RNA world hypothesis suggests that early life was based on RNA molecules. Design an experiment t

Extreme

Gene Flow and Local Adaptation in Fragmented Populations

Discuss the role of gene flow in shaping local adaptation in geographically fragmented populations.

Medium

Graphical Comparison of Selection Types

A graph displays three curves representing the effects of directional, stabilizing, and disruptive s

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and Genetic Variability

Consider a population of beetles with two alleles for shell color. Using the Hardy-Weinberg equation

Hard

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium in a Fish Population

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

Medium

Integrative Analysis of Evolutionary Mechanisms

Evolution is driven by multiple mechanisms that can interact simultaneously. Answer the following:

Extreme

Interpreting Phylogenetic Data Through Cladograms

Cladograms and phylogenetic trees help illustrate evolutionary relationships and common ancestry amo

Hard

Investigating Genetic Drift and the Founder Effect

This FRQ examines the roles of genetic drift and the founder effect in altering allele frequencies i

Medium

Investigating the RNA-World Hypothesis

A team of researchers performed experiments to test the catalytic properties of RNA molecules under

Hard

Long-Term Trends in Evolution: Punctuated Equilibrium vs. Gradualism

Fossil records of a mammalian lineage reveal long periods of little morphological change followed by

Hard

Measuring Evolutionary Fitness in Frog Populations

In this experiment, a researcher investigates evolutionary fitness within a frog population by quant

Easy

Molecular Evidence for Common Ancestry

Molecular biology provides significant evidence supporting the concept of common ancestry among dive

Medium

Mutation Effects on Allele Frequency: Quantitative Analysis

A table presents initial allele frequencies and mutation rates for a population. Use this data to an

Extreme

Mutations and Evolutionary Change

Analyze the role of mutations in creating genetic diversity and driving evolutionary change in popul

Easy

Non-Random Mating and Its Evolutionary Consequences

Non-random mating can significantly influence the genetic structure of populations. Answer the follo

Medium

Peppered Moth Experiment: Natural Selection in Polluted Environments

Researchers set up a controlled enclosure experiment to simulate a polluted environment and study na

Medium

Peppered Moths and Directional Selection

A long-term study on peppered moth populations recorded changes in allele frequency as air pollution

Medium

Phylogenetic Analysis Error in Cladogram Construction

In this experiment, a researcher aims to determine the evolutionary relationships among various rept

Hard

Phylogenetic Trees and Common Ancestry

A cladogram is provided as a graphical representation of evolutionary relationships among several sp

Medium

Population Bottlenecks and Founder Effects

Examine how population bottlenecks and founder effects can dramatically alter allele frequencies in

Hard

Population Genetics and Genetic Drift

Examine the role of genetic drift in shaping genetic diversity within a population. Answer the follo

Hard

Reproductive Isolation and Speciation Mechanisms

Examine the processes that lead to speciation through reproductive isolation, focusing on both pre-z

Medium

RNA-World Hypothesis and the Origins of Life

Examine the RNA-world hypothesis and its relevance to the origin of life on Earth. Answer the follow

Easy

Sexual Selection and Evolutionary Trade-Offs

Examine the role of sexual selection in evolution and its potential trade-offs:

Medium

Sexual Selection and Trait Inheritance

This question explores the role of sexual selection in driving the evolution of secondary sexual tra

Medium

Speciation and Reproductive Isolation

Speciation involves the evolution of reproductive isolation. Answer the following:

Hard

The Miller-Urey Experiment and the Origin of Life

Explore the experiments and hypotheses related to the origin of life:

Medium

The Role of Genetic Variability in Evolution

Researchers measured phenotypic variations in beak size in a finch population across different seaso

Easy

The Role of Genetic Variation in Evolution

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

Easy
Unit 8: Ecology

Altruistic Behavior and Group Dynamics in Meerkats

Researchers are investigating altruistic behavior in meerkat populations by recording the frequency

Hard

Altruistic Behaviors in Meerkats

A behavioral ecologist examines altruistic behaviors in a group of meerkats by observing task perfor

Hard

Assessing Agonistic Behavior and Dominance Hierarchies

An observational study on a flock of birds provides data on aggressive interactions and shows that t

Hard

Carrying Capacity and Density-Dependent Factors

A researcher studies a rabbit population within a confined habitat that follows a logistic growth pa

Easy

Circadian Rhythm Phase Shift Analysis

Researchers are studying circadian rhythms in roosters and plants. The activity level of the organis

Hard

Circadian Rhythms in Plants: Photoperiodism and Flowering Time

Examine the graph provided that relates day length to the probability of flowering in a plant specie

Medium

Critical Analysis of Imprinting Mechanisms in Avian Species

A media report states that all chicks imprint on the first moving object they perceive after hatchin

Hard

Ecological Succession and Pioneer Species

This FRQ focuses on the process of ecological succession and the role of pioneer species in transfor

Easy

Ecological Succession and Pioneer Species

Ecological succession describes the gradual process of change in an ecosystem. Answer the following

Medium

Ecological Succession and Pioneer Species

A researcher investigates the progression of primary succession in a recently disturbed area where p

Medium

Effects of Environmental Toxins

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

Hard

Energy Flow in Ecological Pyramids

This FRQ examines the concept of energy transfer in ecosystems through the ecological pyramid.

Medium

Exponential vs. Logistic Growth Models

Researchers compared two populations: one exhibiting exponential growth and the other logistic growt

Extreme

Genetic and Behavioral Adaptation

This question investigates the relationship between genetically encoded instincts and behavior that

Medium

Gravitropism and Plant Reorientation

A plant that was placed horizontally was observed for its response to gravitropic stimulus. The foll

Easy

Habituation in Laboratory Rodents

In a laboratory setting, a researcher studies the habituation process in a group of rats by exposing

Medium

Habituation to Non-threat Stimuli in Roosters

A researcher investigates habituation in roosters by repeatedly exposing them to a harmless moving o

Easy

Human Impact on Biodiversity

Environmental scientists compared two regions—one with significant human-induced deforestation and o

Hard

Instinct, Learning, and Imprinting in Birds

A researcher studies the behavior of ducklings with respect to imprinting. In the absence of their m

Medium

Keystone Species and Ecosystem Dynamics

Investigate how the presence of a keystone species affects overall ecosystem dynamics and stability.

Medium

Modeling Population Growth: Exponential Growth Analysis

Populations in ideal conditions often exhibit exponential growth. Answer the following parts.

Extreme

Pheromonal Communication and Reproductive Behaviors

This question explores the role of chemical signals in reproductive behavior, and asks you to compar

Hard

Photoperiodism and Flowering in Plants

Photoperiodism is a critical factor influencing the reproductive cycle in many plants. This FRQ expl

Medium

Plant Tropisms: Phototropism vs Thigmotropism

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

Medium

Population Growth and Exponential Models

Populations can grow exponentially under ideal conditions. The reproductive rate is given by the for

Medium

Primary Ecological Succession on Barren Rock

In a study of primary succession, a barren rock is initially colonized by lichens. Over time, the de

Medium

Primary Productivity: Gross vs. Net

A researcher measured both the gross productivity and respiration rate of a photosynthetic community

Extreme

Role of Keystone Species in Ecosystem Dynamics

Review the diagram description of a food web where a particular predator is highlighted as a keyston

Medium

Simpson’s Diversity Index Analysis

Diversity indices provide insight into the variety of species within a community. This FRQ addresses

Hard

Symbiotic Relationships in Ecosystems

A researcher studies various symbiotic relationships within a coral reef ecosystem.

Easy

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships define the interactions between different species living in close associatio

Hard

Symbiotic Relationships: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism

Symbiotic relationships come in different forms. Answer the following parts.

Easy

Thermoregulation in Endotherms and Ectotherms

A researcher examines the effect of ambient temperature on metabolic rate in two species: an endothe

Easy

Thermoregulation in Endotherms vs. Ectotherms

A biologist compared two groups of animals—endotherms and ectotherms—by measuring their body tempera

Medium

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