Independent/Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable in an experiment?

Back

The independent variable is the factor that is changed or manipulated in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Front

What is a dependent variable in an experiment?

Back

The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment, which is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Front

What are control variables?

Back

Control variables are the factors that are kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable alone.

Front

Why is it important to have control variables in an experiment?

Back

Control variables are important because they help to ensure that the experiment is fair and that the results are valid.

Front

What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?

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A control group is used as a baseline to compare the effects of the independent variable, helping to isolate the effects of the treatment.

Front

How can you identify the independent variable in a scientific question?

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The independent variable is usually the factor that is being tested or changed in the question.

Front

In the question 'Does eating breakfast improve test scores?', what is the dependent variable?

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The dependent variable is the test scores.

Front

In an experiment on plant growth, if different types of liquids are used, what is the independent variable?

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The independent variable is the type of liquid given to the plants.

Front

What is the significance of the control variable 'amount of time to complete test' in the question 'Does being tardy impact test scores?'

Back

This control variable ensures that all participants have the same opportunity to complete the test, isolating the effect of tardiness on test scores.

Front

What does it mean to keep variables constant in an experiment?

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Keeping variables constant means that certain factors are not allowed to change during the experiment to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable.