Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

An independent variable is the 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 the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment, which is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Front

In an experiment, if you change the amount of sunlight a plant receives, what is the independent variable?

Back

The amount of sunlight the plant receives.

Front

In an experiment measuring how different amounts of water affect plant growth, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The growth of the plant, usually measured in height.

Front

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

Back

Identifying these variables helps to understand the relationship between them and to determine how changes in one affect the other.

Front

If a scientist is testing how temperature affects the rate of a chemical reaction, what is the independent variable?

Back

The temperature.

Front

If a scientist is testing how temperature affects the rate of a chemical reaction, what is the dependent variable?

Back

The rate of the chemical reaction.

Front

What is a controlled variable?

Back

A controlled variable is a factor that is kept constant throughout an experiment to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable.

Front

Why is it important to have a control group in an experiment?

Back

A control group provides a baseline for comparison, helping to determine the effect of the independent variable.

Front

In the plant sunlight experiment, what is the control group?

Back

The plant that does not receive any sunlight.