---
title: "Every AP Environmental Sciences (APES) FRQ Sorted By Unit"
description: "Every AP Environmental Science FRQ sorted by unit and topic. Master the APES FRQ types, practice skills, and see 2026 predictions."
featured_image: "https://nerd-notes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/earth-globe-apes-nerd-notes-1.png"
url: "https://nerd-notes.com/every-ap-environmental-sciences-apes-frq-sorted-by-unit/"
date_modified: "2026-02-27T03:22:13+00:00"
---

# Every AP Environmental Sciences (APES) FRQ Sorted By Unit

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UPDATED FOR 2026. Below is every single AP Environmental Science FRQ from 2015-2025 sorted by topic.

At the end is the **predicted** FRQs for the upcoming 2026 exam. Good luck!

PRO TIP: Links open in [FRQ Atlas](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/) — You find the FRQ and upload your working for **free**, instant AI grading based on scoring guidelines.

## FRQ Types

Drill down into the 3 specific FRQ formats used on the APES exam.

Design an investigation

Requires creating a valid experiment from a scenario. Tip: Explicitly name your independent/dependent variables and control group.

**10 Questions**

Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution

Focuses on cause-and-effect relationships. Tip: When proposing a solution, ensure it is economically and environmentally viable.

**25 Questions**

Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations

Combines concept application with math. Tip: Always show your work, including units, to get full credit.

**15 Questions**

## Skills

Explore the specific scientific practices tested across all questions.

Concept Explanation

Total: 91 Questions

1.A: Describe concepts

Focus on definitions and basic characteristics. (44)

1.B: Explain concepts

Connect the “how” and “why” of processes. (31)

1.C: Apply concepts

Apply knowledge to specific real-world scenarios. (16)

Visual Representations

Total: 21 Questions

2.A: Describe visuals

Interpret maps, diagrams, and models directly. (13)

2.B: Explain relationships

Identify connections between visual elements. (6)

2.C: Relate to issues

Connect models to broader environmental problems. (2)

Scientific Experiments

Total: 32 Questions

4.A: Identify hypothesis

Formulate testable questions or hypotheses. (10)

4.B: Identify method

Pinpoint research methods and variables. (10)

4.C: Describe design

Explain specific aspects of experimental setups. (6)

4.E: Modify procedure

Predict how changes alter experimental outcomes. (6)

Data Analysis

Total: 36 Questions

5.A: Describe patterns

Identify trends in graphs and tables. (15)

5.B: Describe relationships

Connect variables within data sets. (8)

5.C: Draw conclusions

Use patterns to support scientific claims. (4)

5.D: Interpret results

Relate data back to the hypothesis. (6)

5.E: Explain implications

Connect data to broader environmental issues. (3)

Mathematical Routines

Total: 29 Questions

6.B: Apply math

Set up mathematical relationships and show work. (14)

6.C: Calculate answer

Compute accurate answers with correct units. (15)

Environmental Solutions

Total: 92 Questions

7.A: Describe problems

Identify specific environmental issues. (21)

7.B: Describe responses

Outline potential approaches to solve problems. (22)

7.C: Evaluate solutions

Weigh pros, cons, and unintended consequences. (16)

7.E: Propose solution

Make a claim proposing a specific solution. (17)

7.F: Justify solution

Support proposals with evidence and advantages. (16)

## Units

Browse questions sorted by the 9 distinct units of the APES curriculum.

Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

Often paired with biomes and biogeochemical cycles; look for questions linking climate to ecosystem structure. **(16)**

Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

High frequency unit; emphasizes ecosystem services, island biogeography, and succession in experimental designs. **(26)**

Unit 3: Populations

Frequently appears in calculation questions involving growth rates, rule of 70, and demographic transitions. **(11)**

Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

Focuses on El Niño, soil composition, and plate tectonics as drivers for broader environmental conditions. **(14)**

Unit 5: Land and Water Use

The most tested unit; critical for proposing solutions in agriculture, forestry, mining, and urbanization scenarios. **(34)**

Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

Essential for math-based FRQs comparing renewable vs. nonrenewable energy efficiency and emissions. **(18)**

Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Targets air pollutants (NOx, SOx, PM), photochemical smog, and acid deposition mechanisms. **(13)**

Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

Heavy on eutrophication, bioaccumulation, solid waste, and point vs. nonpoint source pollution analysis. **(24)**

Unit 9: Global Change

Integrates concepts from all units to address climate change, ocean acidification, and biodiversity loss. **(23)**

### Unit 1: The Living World: Ecosystems

- **[2025 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ant biodiversity, habitat type, nonnative plants.
- **[2025 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — El Niño, urban flooding, biome comparison.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=7&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Serengeti ecosystem, tectonic features, highway impact.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Stream DO, BOD zones, macroinvertebrates.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Land use data, urbanization, bobcat conservation.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Drought solutions, prescribed burns, water volume.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mine restoration, plant recovery, soil runoff.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Asian carp, invasive species, Great Lakes.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mercury pollution, turtle nesting, soil changes.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Amphibian richness, deforestation, land development.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Habitat fragmentation, specialist species, land area.
- **[2019 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Piping plovers, barrier islands, nesting habitat.
- **[2019 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Ocean acidification, CO2 trends, pH levels.
- **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Arctic food web, sea ice, polar bears.
- **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Everglades water diversion, phosphorus, restoration.

### Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity

- **[2025 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ant biodiversity, habitat type, nonnative plants.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=4&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Common Tern, wading birds, sea level rise.
- **[2025 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — El Niño, urban flooding, biome comparison.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=7&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Serengeti ecosystem, tectonic features, highway impact.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Stream DO, BOD zones, macroinvertebrates.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ecological succession, watershed diagram, clear-cutting.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Land use data, urbanization, bobcat conservation.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Nuclear power, natural gas, CO2 emissions.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Drought solutions, prescribed burns, water volume.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — GMO beans, runoff, ecological succession.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mine restoration, plant recovery, soil runoff.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Asian carp, invasive species, Great Lakes.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mercury pollution, turtle nesting, soil changes.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Lizard abundance, island biogeography, sugarcane.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Pesticide resistance, IPM, wildlife impact.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Amphibian richness, deforestation, land development.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Habitat fragmentation, specialist species, land area.
- **[2019 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Piping plovers, barrier islands, nesting habitat.
- **[2019 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Oil sands, bitumen extraction, forest ecology.
- **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Arctic food web, sea ice, polar bears.
- **[2017 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Microbeads, plastic pollution, nitrate wastewater.
- **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Deforestation, Haiti ecosystem services, demographics.
- **[2017 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=7)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Hydroelectric dams, keystone species, beavers.
- **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — White Nose Syndrome, bats, infectious disease.
- **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Everglades water diversion, phosphorus, restoration.

### Unit 3: Populations

- **[2025 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ant biodiversity, habitat type, nonnative plants.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=8&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal mining, population growth, biodiversity.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Animal protein, land use, mealworms.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — GMO beans, runoff, ecological succession.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Soil erosion, sediment runoff, straw bales.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Habitat fragmentation, specialist species, land area.
- **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Elephant population, K-strategists, decline rate.
- **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Deforestation, Haiti ecosystem services, demographics.
- **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — White Nose Syndrome, bats, infectious disease.

### Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources

- **[2025 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — El Niño, urban flooding, biome comparison.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=7&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Serengeti ecosystem, tectonic features, highway impact.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Stream DO, BOD zones, macroinvertebrates.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ecological succession, watershed diagram, clear-cutting.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Animal protein, land use, mealworms.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mine restoration, plant recovery, soil runoff.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mississippi watershed, dead zone, riparian buffers.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Lizard abundance, island biogeography, sugarcane.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Urban heat island, solar panels, efficiency.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Soil erosion, sediment runoff, straw bales.
- **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Deforestation, Haiti ecosystem services, demographics.
- **[2017 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=7)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Hydroelectric dams, keystone species, beavers.
- **[2016 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Soil horizons, degradation, acid deposition.

### Unit 5: Land and Water Use

- **[2025 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ant biodiversity, habitat type, nonnative plants.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=4&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Common Tern, wading birds, sea level rise.
- **[2025 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — El Niño, urban flooding, biome comparison.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=7&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Serengeti ecosystem, tectonic features, highway impact.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=8&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal mining, population growth, biodiversity.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ecological succession, watershed diagram, clear-cutting.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Animal protein, land use, mealworms.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Land use data, urbanization, bobcat conservation.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Drought solutions, prescribed burns, water volume.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — GMO beans, runoff, ecological succession.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mine restoration, plant recovery, soil runoff.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Asian carp, invasive species, Great Lakes.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Crude oil, gold mining, ore extraction.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Methane emissions, landfills, beef production.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mercury pollution, turtle nesting, soil changes.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mississippi watershed, dead zone, riparian buffers.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Fracking methane, groundwater overuse, saltwater intrusion.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Lizard abundance, island biogeography, sugarcane.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Urban heat island, solar panels, efficiency.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Soil erosion, sediment runoff, straw bales.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Pesticide resistance, IPM, wildlife impact.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Amphibian richness, deforestation, land development.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Habitat fragmentation, specialist species, land area.
- **[2019 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Piping plovers, barrier islands, nesting habitat.
- **[2019 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Oil sands, bitumen extraction, forest ecology.
- **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Green renovation, carbon footprint, native landscaping.
- **[2017 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Deforestation, Haiti ecosystem services, demographics.
- **[2017 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=7)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Hydroelectric dams, keystone species, beavers.
- **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Iron ore, steel production, mine waste.
- **[2016 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Soil horizons, degradation, acid deposition.
- **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Everglades water diversion, phosphorus, restoration.
- **[2015 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Urban sprawl, smart growth, petroleum.

### Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption

- **[2025 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=9&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Air pollution, gas mileage, energy efficiency.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=8&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal mining, population growth, biodiversity.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Nuclear power, natural gas, CO2 emissions.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Drought solutions, prescribed burns, water volume.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Crude oil, gold mining, ore extraction.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Fracking methane, groundwater overuse, saltwater intrusion.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Urban heat island, solar panels, efficiency.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Solar panels, hydroelectric power, reservoir impacts.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal vs gas, PM2.5, health impacts.
- **[2019 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Oil sands, bitumen extraction, forest ecology.
- **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Green renovation, carbon footprint, native landscaping.
- **[2018 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=3)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Offshore wind, energy generation, revenue.
- **[2017 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=7)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Hydroelectric dams, keystone species, beavers.
- **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=3)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — E-waste, gold recovery, mobile devices.
- **[2015 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Oil spill data, cleanup methods, substitutes.
- **[2015 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Urban sprawl, smart growth, petroleum.

### Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

- **[2025 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — El Niño, urban flooding, biome comparison.
- **[2025 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=9&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Air pollution, gas mileage, energy efficiency.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=8&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal mining, population growth, biodiversity.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Nuclear power, natural gas, CO2 emissions.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Crude oil, gold mining, ore extraction.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Fracking methane, groundwater overuse, saltwater intrusion.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal vs gas, PM2.5, health impacts.
- **[2019 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Park visibility, air pollutants, visitor impact.
- **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Green renovation, carbon footprint, native landscaping.
- **[2018 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Indoor air, biomass burning, ventilation.
- **[2016 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Soil horizons, degradation, acid deposition.

### Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution

- **[2025 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=4&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Common Tern, wading birds, sea level rise.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Stream DO, BOD zones, macroinvertebrates.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ecological succession, watershed diagram, clear-cutting.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Animal protein, land use, mealworms.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Nuclear power, natural gas, CO2 emissions.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Manatee movement, thermal pollution, seagrass.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Crude oil, gold mining, ore extraction.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Methane emissions, landfills, beef production.
- **[2022 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mercury pollution, turtle nesting, soil changes.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Mississippi watershed, dead zone, riparian buffers.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=5&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Coal ash, population change, water use.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Soil erosion, sediment runoff, straw bales.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Pesticide resistance, IPM, wildlife impact.
- **[2019 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Ocean acidification, CO2 trends, pH levels.
- **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Green renovation, carbon footprint, native landscaping.
- **[2018 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Indoor air, biomass burning, ventilation.
- **[2017 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Microbeads, plastic pollution, nitrate wastewater.
- **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — White Nose Syndrome, bats, infectious disease.
- **[2016 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Iron ore, steel production, mine waste.
- **[2016 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — MSW trends, incineration, composting.
- **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Everglades water diversion, phosphorus, restoration.
- **[2015 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=3)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — E-waste, gold recovery, mobile devices.
- **[2015 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Oil spill data, cleanup methods, substitutes.
- **[2015 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Urban sprawl, smart growth, petroleum.

### Unit 9: Global Change

- **[2025 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=3&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Ant biodiversity, habitat type, nonnative plants.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=4&set=2)** (*Design an investigation*) — Common Tern, wading birds, sea level rise.
- **[2025 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2025&pg=7&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Serengeti ecosystem, tectonic features, highway impact.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Animal protein, land use, mealworms.
- **[2024 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Land use data, urbanization, bobcat conservation.
- **[2024 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2024&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Nuclear power, natural gas, CO2 emissions.
- **[2023 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — GMO beans, runoff, ecological succession.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Asian carp, invasive species, Great Lakes.
- **[2023 Set 2 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2023&pg=6&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Methane emissions, landfills, beef production.
- **[2022 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2022&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Lizard abundance, island biogeography, sugarcane.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=2&set=1)** (*Design an investigation*) — Solar panels, hydroelectric power, reservoir impacts.
- **[2021 Set 2 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=4&set=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Amphibian richness, deforestation, land development.
- **[2021 Set 1 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2021&pg=6&set=1)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Habitat fragmentation, specialist species, land area.
- **[2019 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Piping plovers, barrier islands, nesting habitat.
- **[2019 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Ocean acidification, CO2 trends, pH levels.
- **[2019 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2019&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Park visibility, air pollutants, visitor impact.
- **[2018 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Green renovation, carbon footprint, native landscaping.
- **[2018 Q3](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2018&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Arctic food web, sea ice, polar bears.
- **[2017 Q2](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2017&pg=4)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution doing calculations*) — Elephant population, K-strategists, decline rate.
- **[2016 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — White Nose Syndrome, bats, infectious disease.
- **[2016 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2016&pg=6)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Soil horizons, degradation, acid deposition.
- **[2015 Q1](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=2)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Everglades water diversion, phosphorus, restoration.
- **[2015 Q4](https://nerd-notes.com/frq/?subject=environmental-science&yr=2015&pg=5)** (*Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution*) — Urban sprawl, smart growth, petroleum.

### 2026 FRQ Topics Prediction

We used [Phy AI](https://nerd-notes.com/ai) + the frequency of topics above to make an educated guess on what you might see on the upcoming 2026 AP Environmental Science Exam FRQ:

- **Unit 5: Land and Water Use** — 34 appearances. Prepare for a complex scenario involving agriculture (pest control/meat production) or urbanization (heat islands/runoff) that requires proposing a realistic sustainable solution.
- **Unit 2: The Living World: Biodiversity** — 26 appearances. Expect an experimental design question focused on ecosystem services or island biogeography, likely asking you to identify variables or control groups.
- **Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution** — 24 appearances. Pollution remains a high-yield topic; look for questions linking point/nonpoint sources to human health impacts or eutrophication in aquatic systems.
- **Unit 9: Global Change** — 23 appearances. Climate change impacts are increasingly tested; anticipate a question connecting rising global temperatures to biodiversity loss or ocean acidification mechanics.

Use [Phy](https://nerd-notes.com/phybeta) to start solving Science and math questions for **free**.

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