Independent/Dependent Variable

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

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

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

A dependent variable is the variable that is measured and affected in an experiment. It depends on the independent variable.

Front

In the experiment of Sarah bringing treats, which variable is independent?

Back

The number of students (s) is the independent variable.

Front

In a plant growth experiment, if fertilizer is changed, what type of variable is it?

Back

The fertilizer is the independent variable.

Front

In the research question about gasoline and car speed, what is the independent variable?

Back

The type of gasoline is the independent variable.

Front

In the question about TV watching and test grades, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The student's test grades are the dependent variable.

Front

In Ms. S's experiment, what is the independent variable?

Back

The mass of the ball is the independent variable.

Front

What is a control variable?

Back

A control variable is a variable that is kept constant to ensure that the experiment tests only the effect of the independent variable.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

Can there be more than one independent variable in an experiment?

Back

Yes, but it can complicate the analysis of results. It's often best to test one independent variable at a time.