Dependent and Independent Variables

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

A dependent variable is the variable that is measured or tested in an experiment. It depends on the independent variable.

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

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

Front

In the statement 'The profit, p, and the number of candy bars sold, c', what is the dependent variable?

Back

Dependent variable: p (profit)

Front

In the statement 'Dollars earned, d, and number of hours spent babysitting, h', what is the dependent variable?

Back

Dependent variable: d (dollars earned)

Front

In the statement 'The speed of a car, s, and the time taken to travel a certain distance, t', what is the independent variable?

Back

Independent variable: s (speed of the car)

Front

In the statement 'The number of pages read, p, and the time spent reading, t', what is the dependent variable?

Back

Dependent variable: p (number of pages read)

Front

In the statement 'The number of minutes spent talking on the phone, m, and the amount of a cell phone bill, a', what is the independent variable?

Back

Independent variable: m (number of minutes talking)

Front

How do you identify a dependent variable in an experiment?

Back

The dependent variable is identified by looking for the outcome that changes in response to the independent variable.

Front

How do you identify an independent variable in an experiment?

Back

The independent variable is identified as the factor that is manipulated or changed by the experimenter.

Front

What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?

Back

The independent variable affects the dependent variable; changes in the independent variable cause changes in the dependent variable.