Science Variables

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What is a variable in a scientific experiment?

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A variable is any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types in an experiment.

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What is an independent variable?

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The independent variable is the variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

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What is a dependent variable?

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The dependent variable is the variable that is measured and affected in the experiment; it responds to changes in the independent variable.

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What is a control variable?

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

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What is the purpose of a hypothesis in an experiment?

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A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.

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How do you identify the dependent variable in an experiment?

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The dependent variable is identified by looking for what is being measured or tested in response to changes in the independent variable.

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What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

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The independent variable is manipulated by the researcher, while the dependent variable is measured to see how it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

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

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Control variables are important because they help ensure that the results are valid and that the experiment tests only the effect of the independent variable.

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Can an experiment have more than one independent variable?

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While it is possible to have more than one independent variable, it can complicate the experiment and make it difficult to determine which variable is affecting the dependent variable.

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What is an example of an independent variable?

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In an experiment testing the effect of sunlight on plant growth, the amount of sunlight each plant receives is the independent variable.