Scientific Variables

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the data that you measure and record in an experiment. It changes in response to the independent variable.

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the factor that you change or manipulate in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Front

What is a control variable?

Back

Control variables are the factors that are kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure that the results are valid.

Front

In an experiment, what does the dependent variable represent?

Back

The dependent variable represents the outcome or effect that is measured in response to changes in the independent variable.

Front

If you change the amount of sunlight a plant receives, what type of variable is this?

Back

This is an independent variable because it is the factor that you are changing.

Front

If you measure how tall a plant grows in response to different amounts of water, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the height of the plant, as it is what you are measuring.

Front

What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?

Back

Changes in the independent variable cause changes in the dependent variable.

Front

In an experiment, if the temperature is changed to see its effect on test scores, what is the independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the temperature of the room.

Front

What is an example of a control variable in an experiment testing plant growth?

Back

A control variable could be the type of soil used, as it should remain the same for all test groups.

Front

What does it mean to have a fair test in an experiment?

Back

A fair test means that only the independent variable is changed while all other variables are kept constant.