Identification: Independent and Dependent Variables

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What is an Independent Variable?

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An Independent Variable is a variable that is manipulated or changed in an experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

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What is a Dependent Variable?

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A Dependent Variable is a variable that is measured or observed in an experiment, and it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

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Example of an Independent Variable in a study on plant growth.

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The amount of sunlight each plant receives.

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Example of a Dependent Variable in a study on plant growth.

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The height of the plants after a certain period.

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How do you identify the Independent Variable in an experiment?

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Look for the variable that is intentionally changed or controlled by the experimenter.

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How do you identify the Dependent Variable in an experiment?

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Look for the variable that is observed and measured to see how it is affected by the independent variable.

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In a study measuring the effect of temperature on enzyme activity, what is the Independent Variable?

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Temperature.

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In a study measuring the effect of temperature on enzyme activity, what is the Dependent Variable?

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Enzyme activity (e.g., rate of reaction).

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What is the relationship between Independent and Dependent Variables?

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The independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

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Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?

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Controlling variables ensures that the results are due to the independent variable and not other factors.