Understanding Variables in Science

What are variables in science?

• Hypotheses of an experiment

• Factors that can change in an experiment

• Results of an experiment

• Elements that remain constant in an experiment

In the squid experiment, what is the independent variable?

• The type of food given to the squid

• The temperature of the water

• The amount of vitamins given to the squid

• The lifespan of the squid

Why is the independent variable called 'independent'?

• It is the same in all experiments

• It depends on other variables

• It is the result of the experiment

• It does not depend on other variables

What is the dependent variable in the squid experiment?

• The temperature of the water

• The lifespan of the squid

• The type of food given

• The amount of vitamins given

What does the dependent variable represent in an experiment?

• The hypothesis of the experiment

• The variable you keep constant

• The variable you measure

• The variable you manipulate

Which of the following is an example of a controlled variable in the squid experiment?

• The temperature of the water

• The hypothesis of the experiment

• The amount of vitamins given

• The lifespan of the squid

Why are controlled variables important in an experiment?

• They are the variables you measure

• They ensure the results are due to the independent variable

• They help to manipulate the independent variable

• They are the results of the experiment

What could happen if controlled variables are not properly managed?

• The independent variable will change

• The hypothesis will be incorrect

• The results will be meaningless

• The dependent variable will not be measured

In the example, why can't we conclude that vitamins kill squid?

• Because the squid were given too many vitamins

• Because the controlled variables were not managed

• Because the independent variable was not changed

• Because the dependent variable was not measured

What should you do to ensure you can measure your dependent variable accurately?

• Ignore the controlled variables

• Keep all variables constant

• Change multiple variables

• Only change the independent variable