Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

An independent variable is a factor that is changed or controlled in an 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

In the relationship between the length of a lunch line and how long you wait, which is the dependent variable?

Back

How long you wait in line.

Front

In the relationship between the materials in a bag and its weight, which is the independent variable?

Back

The materials in the bag.

Front

In the relationship between the weight of a package and the cost to mail it, which is the independent variable?

Back

The weight of the package.

Front

In the relationship between the amount of gas in a car and the number of miles it can drive, which is the independent variable?

Back

The amount of gas in the car.

Front

In the relationship between the expected number of campers and how many camp counselors are scheduled, which is the dependent variable?

Back

How many camp counselors are scheduled to work.

Front

What is the purpose of identifying independent and dependent variables in an experiment?

Back

To understand how changes in one variable affect another variable.

Front

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

Back

The amount of sunlight the plants receive.

Front

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

Back

The height of the plants.