Independent & Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

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

Front

What is a dependent variable?

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

In an experiment, if you change the amount of sunlight plants receive, what is the independent variable?

Back

The amount of sunlight.

Front

In an experiment testing how different fertilizers affect plant growth, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The growth of the plants.

Front

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

Back

Control variables are factors that are kept constant to ensure that any changes in the dependent variable are due to the independent variable.

Front

If a scientist is testing the effect of temperature on the solubility of sugar, what is the independent variable?

Back

Temperature.

Front

If a student measures how tall plants grow with different types of soil, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The height of the plants.

Front

What does it mean to manipulate an independent variable?

Back

To manipulate an independent variable means to intentionally change it in an experiment to observe the effects on the dependent variable.

Front

In a study where the effect of exercise on heart rate is measured, what is the independent variable?

Back

The amount of exercise.

Front

Why is it important to identify independent and dependent variables in an experiment?

Back

Identifying these variables helps clarify the relationship being tested and ensures the experiment is structured correctly.