Experimental Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the one factor that you change in an experiment to test its effects.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the factor that you measure in an experiment; it changes in response to the independent variable.

Front

What is a control variable?

Back

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

Front

Why is it important to change only one variable in an experiment?

Back

Changing only one variable helps to isolate the effects of that variable on the dependent variable, making the results clearer.

Front

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

Back

The control group serves as a standard for comparison, helping to determine if the independent variable has an effect.

Front

Give an example of an independent variable in an experiment testing plant growth.

Back

The amount of sunlight the plants receive.

Front

Give an example of a dependent variable in an experiment testing plant growth.

Back

The height of the plants after a certain period.

Front

What does it mean to keep variables constant in an experiment?

Back

Keeping variables constant means not allowing them to change, so they do not affect the outcome of the experiment.

Front

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?

Back

Qualitative data describes qualities or characteristics (e.g., color, texture), while quantitative data involves numbers and measurements (e.g., height, weight).

Front

What is a hypothesis?

Back

A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.