Reading Tables and Graphs in Science

Front

What is the y-axis in a graph?

Back

The y-axis is the vertical line on a graph that typically represents the dependent variable.

Front

What is the x-axis in a graph?

Back

The x-axis is the horizontal line on a graph that typically represents the independent variable.

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.

Front

What does it mean to label axes on a graph?

Back

Labeling axes on a graph means to provide a title or description for what each axis represents, including the units of measurement.

Front

What is a data table?

Back

A data table is a way to organize and display data in rows and columns for easy comparison and analysis.

Front

What is the purpose of a graph in science?

Back

The purpose of a graph in science is to visually represent data to identify trends, patterns, and relationships.

Front

What is the control variable?

Back

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

Front

How do you determine which variable goes on the x-axis?

Back

The variable that you change or manipulate in an experiment goes on the x-axis.

Front

How do you determine which variable goes on the y-axis?

Back

The variable that you measure or observe in response to changes in the independent variable goes on the y-axis.