Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

An independent variable is a variable that stands alone and is not affected by other variables. It is the variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

A dependent variable is a variable that depends on other factors. It is the variable that is measured in an experiment.

Front

In the equation t = s, which variable is independent?

Back

s (the number of students) is the independent variable.

Front

In the equation t = s, which variable is dependent?

Back

t (the number of treats) is the dependent variable.

Front

On which axis is the independent variable plotted on a graph?

Back

The independent variable is plotted on the x-axis.

Front

On which axis is the dependent variable plotted on a graph?

Back

The dependent variable is plotted on the y-axis.

Front

What does it mean when we say a variable is 'dependent'?

Back

It means that the variable's value depends on the value of another variable.

Front

What does it mean when we say a variable is 'independent'?

Back

It means that the variable can change freely without being affected by other variables.

Front

If Sarah brings 2 treats for each student, what is the relationship between the number of students and the number of treats?

Back

The number of treats (dependent variable) increases as the number of students (independent variable) increases.

Front

In a table showing the cost of tickets based on the number of tickets purchased, which is the independent quantity?

Back

The number of tickets is the independent quantity.