Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

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

Front

On which axis is the independent variable plotted on a graph?

Back

The independent variable is plotted on the x-axis.

Front

On which axis is the dependent variable plotted on a graph?

Back

The dependent variable is plotted on the y-axis.

Front

What is a proportional relationship?

Back

A proportional relationship is a relationship between two quantities where the ratio of one quantity to the other is constant.

Front

Give an example of an independent variable in a study about plant growth.

Back

The amount of sunlight each plant receives.

Front

Give an example of a dependent variable in a study about plant growth.

Back

The height of the plants after a certain period.

Front

If you increase the amount of water given to a plant, what type of variable is this?

Back

Independent variable.

Front

If the growth of the plant is measured after changing the water amount, what type of variable is this?

Back

Dependent variable.

Front

What does it mean if a graph does not go through the origin?

Back

It indicates that the relationship may not be proportional.