Dependent and Independent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

An independent variable is the variable 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 the variable that is measured and affected in an experiment. It depends on the independent variable.

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 (the number of minutes spent talking on the phone).

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 dependent variable?

Back

Dependent variable: a (the amount of the cell phone bill).

Front

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

Back

Dependent variable: p (the profit).

Front

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

Back

Dependent variable: d (the dollars earned).

Front

In the statement 'Wait time, w, and number of people in line to get on a ride, p', what is the independent variable?

Back

Independent variable: p (the number of people in line).

Front

How do you identify the independent variable in an experiment?

Back

The independent variable is usually the one that is manipulated or changed by the experimenter.

Front

How do you identify the dependent variable in an experiment?

Back

The dependent variable is usually the one that is observed and measured to see how it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Front

What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?

Back

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