Variables in science

Front

What is a variable in science?

Back

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

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher to observe its effects.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the variable that is measured or observed in an experiment to see how it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Front

What is a controlled variable?

Back

A controlled variable is a factor that is kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure that the results are valid.

Front

What is a responding variable?

Back

The responding variable is another term for the dependent variable, which responds to changes in the independent variable.

Front

How do you identify the independent variable in an experiment?

Back

The independent variable is usually found in the 'if' part of a hypothesis, indicating what the researcher will change.

Front

How do you identify the dependent variable in an experiment?

Back

The dependent variable is usually found in the 'then' part of a hypothesis, indicating what the researcher will measure.

Front

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

Back

A control group is used as a standard for comparison to determine the effect of the independent variable.

Front

Why is it important to have constants in an experiment?

Back

Constants are important to ensure that the experiment is fair and that the results are due to the independent variable alone.

Front

What is an example of an independent variable?

Back

In an experiment testing different brands of paper towels, the brand of paper towel is the independent variable.