2020 Practice Exam 1 Mcq Ap Environmental Science

2020 Practice Exam 1 MCQ AP Environmental Science: A Comprehensive Review

The AP Environmental Science exam is a challenging but rewarding experience. This comprehensive guide focuses on a detailed review of a hypothetical 2020 Practice Exam 1, concentrating on the Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). While a specific 2020 exam isn't publicly available, this analysis uses common AP Environmental Science topics and question styles to provide a thorough preparation resource. We'll explore key concepts, effective study strategies, and provide example questions with detailed explanations.

Understanding the AP Environmental Science Exam Format

Before diving into the practice questions, understanding the exam's structure is crucial. The AP Environmental Science exam typically consists of two sections:

• Section 1: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): This section accounts for 60% of your final score and contains approximately 100 multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of topics. These questions test your understanding of environmental science principles, data analysis, and interpretation skills.

• Section 2: Free Response Questions (FRQs): This section comprises 40% of your score and involves answering four free-response questions, which require more in-depth analysis, explanation, and application of concepts.

Key Topics Covered in AP Environmental Science

The AP Environmental Science curriculum covers a wide range of interconnected environmental topics. These include:

1. Earth Systems and Resources

• Atmosphere: Composition, structure, pollution (e.g., ozone depletion, acid rain, greenhouse effect), climate change, and weather patterns.
• Hydrosphere: Water cycle, water quality, water pollution, ocean acidification, and freshwater resources.
• Geosphere: Soil formation, erosion, mining, and geological processes.
• Biosphere: Biodiversity, ecosystems, biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus), and population dynamics.

2. The Living World

• Ecology: Population dynamics, community ecology, trophic levels, food webs, and succession.
• Biodiversity: Importance of biodiversity, threats to biodiversity, conservation efforts, and endangered species.
• Evolution: Natural selection, adaptation, and speciation.

3. Population

• Human Population Dynamics: Population growth, demographic transition, carrying capacity, and factors affecting population size.
• Resource Consumption: Patterns of resource use, sustainability, and environmental impact.

4. Pollution

• Air Pollution: Sources, effects, and control strategies.
• Water Pollution: Sources, effects, and control strategies (point and non-point sources).
• Soil Pollution: Sources, effects, and remediation techniques.
• Solid Waste: Waste management strategies, recycling, composting, and landfills.

5. Energy Resources and Consumption

• Fossil Fuels: Formation, extraction, use, and environmental impacts.
• Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass energy.
• Nuclear Energy: Nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, and their environmental implications.
• Energy Efficiency and Conservation: Strategies for reducing energy consumption.

6. Global Change and Sustainability

• Climate Change: Causes, effects, and mitigation strategies.
• Environmental Policy and Legislation: International and national environmental laws and regulations.
• Sustainability: Sustainable practices and their role in environmental conservation.

Sample Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Detailed Explanations

Let's analyze some hypothetical MCQs reflecting the content and style of the AP Environmental Science exam:

1. Which of the following is NOT a greenhouse gas?

(a) Carbon Dioxide (CO2) (b) Methane (CH4) (c) Nitrous Oxide (N2O) (d) Oxygen (O2)

Answer: (d) Oxygen (O2)

Explanation: Carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are all significant greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Oxygen is not a greenhouse gas; it plays a vital role in respiration but doesn't significantly absorb infrared radiation.

2. The process by which nitrogen gas is converted into ammonia is called:

(a) Denitrification (b) Nitrification (c) Nitrogen Fixation (d) Assimilation

Answer: (c) Nitrogen Fixation

Explanation: Nitrogen fixation is the crucial process carried out by certain bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into ammonia (NH3), a form usable by plants. Denitrification is the conversion of nitrates back into nitrogen gas. Nitrification involves the conversion of ammonia to nitrites and then nitrates. Assimilation is the uptake of nitrogen by organisms.

3. Which of the following best describes a keystone species?

(a) A species with a large population size. (b) A species that is at the top of the food chain. (c) A species whose presence significantly influences the structure and function of its ecosystem. (d) A species that is easily identifiable.

Answer: (c) A species whose presence significantly influences the structure and function of its ecosystem.

Explanation: A keystone species plays a disproportionately large role in its ecosystem compared to its abundance. Its removal can have cascading effects on the entire community.

4. The primary source of energy for most ecosystems is:

(a) Chemical energy from decaying organic matter. (b) Geothermal energy from the Earth's core. (c) Solar energy from the Sun. (d) Tidal energy from ocean currents.

Answer: (c) Solar energy from the Sun.

Explanation: Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, is the foundation of most food webs. Solar energy is the ultimate source of energy for most ecosystems.

5. What is the major cause of ocean acidification?

(a) Increased volcanic activity. (b) Increased levels of dissolved oxygen. (c) Increased absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide. (d) Increased runoff from agricultural fields.

Answer: (c) Increased absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Explanation: The ocean absorbs a significant amount of atmospheric CO2. This dissolved CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid, lowering the pH of the ocean and making it more acidic.

6. Which of the following is an example of a non-point source of water pollution?

(a) A sewage treatment plant discharge. (b) Runoff from agricultural fields. (c) An industrial wastewater discharge. (d) A leaking underground storage tank.

Answer: (b) Runoff from agricultural fields.

Explanation: Non-point sources of pollution are diffuse, making them difficult to identify and control. Runoff from agricultural fields carrying fertilizers and pesticides is a classic example of non-point source pollution. The other options are point sources, originating from a specific location.

7. What is the term for the gradual increase in the Earth's average surface temperature?

(a) Ozone depletion (b) Acid rain (c) Global warming (d) El Niño

Answer: (c) Global warming

Explanation: Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average temperature due to the increase in greenhouse gases.

8. Which of the following is NOT a renewable energy source?

(a) Solar energy (b) Wind energy (c) Hydroelectric energy (d) Coal

Answer: (d) Coal

Explanation: Coal is a non-renewable fossil fuel. The other options are renewable energy sources that can be replenished naturally.

Strategies for Success on the AP Environmental Science Exam

Mastering the AP Environmental Science exam requires a multifaceted approach:

• Thorough Content Review: Ensure you have a solid understanding of all the key topics mentioned earlier. Use your textbook, class notes, and reputable online resources.

• Practice, Practice, Practice: Work through numerous multiple-choice questions and free-response questions. This helps you familiarize yourself with the question styles and identify areas needing further review.

• Data Analysis Skills: Develop strong data analysis skills. The exam often involves interpreting graphs, charts, and data tables. Practice interpreting environmental data presented in various formats.

• Effective Time Management: Learn to manage your time efficiently during the exam. Practice completing practice tests under timed conditions.

• Understanding Interconnections: AP Environmental Science emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental systems. Understand how different environmental issues are related.

Conclusion

The AP Environmental Science exam demands a thorough understanding of environmental principles and their applications. By systematically reviewing the core concepts, practicing with sample questions, and developing strong data analysis skills, you can significantly improve your performance on the exam. Remember that consistent effort and effective study strategies are key to achieving success. This detailed review of a hypothetical 2020 Practice Exam 1 provides a strong foundation for your preparation. Good luck!