Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

The one factor that a scientist changes during an experiment. (It affects the results of the experiment).

Back

Independent Variable

Front

The variable that is measured. It is the result of the experiment.

Back

Dependent Variable

Front

The factors that stay the same throughout the experiment.

Back

Constant

Front

Why is it important to have only one independent variable and to control the other variables when performing science experiments?

Back

So you can tell which factor is causing the change in the experiment and get more accurate results

Front

Ben makes five paper helicopters with different wing lengths. He drops them the same way from a height of two meters for five trials each. He records the amount of time it takes for each helicopter to fall to the ground. What is the independent variable?

Back

Wing Length

Front

What is the dependent variable in the experiment where Ben drops paper helicopters with different wing lengths from a height of two meters for five trials each?

Back

Amount of time it takes the helicopter to hit the floor

Front

What is the independent variable in Cindy's experiment on how sunlight affects plant growth?

Back

One plant is in the sunlight and the other is under a box

Front

Cindy wanted to find out how the amount of sunlight affects the growth of plants. She placed two tomato plants in 10 inch pots with potting soil and watered them ¼ cup each day. One plant was placed under a cardboard box and one was placed in the sunlight. She measured the growth of the plant each week for three weeks. What is the dependent variable?

Back

The growth of the plant

Front

What is the independent variable in Molly's investigation about whether the age of students affects their driving skills?

Back

Age of student

Front

What is the dependent variable in Molly's investigation about whether the age of students caused them to be better drivers?

Back

Skill of driving