The Scientific Method

A possible explanation to a problem that has not yet been tested. 

• data
• theory
• hypothesis
• fact

These are the variables that remain constant throughout the experiment.

• experimental variables

• control variables

• independent variables

• dependent variables

This variable in an experiment is the one being deliberately changed by the scientist. 

• dependent variable
• independent variable
• data
• control group

An experiment is performed on plants to see how different liquids affect plant growth. Each plant in the experiment is given a different liquid; water, apple juice, or milk. Each plant has the same amount of soil, sunlight, and listens to the same music. In this investigation, the independent variable is ...

• The type of plant
• The amount of sunlight
• The type of music
• The type of liquid

The summary at the end of an experiment that explains the results. 

• conclusion
• procedures
• materials
• responding variable

Testing a hypothesis often involves a(n):

• answer
• experiment
• problem
• safety check

A student wants to test the effects of type of exercise on heart rate.  What is the dependent variable?

• heart rate
• type of exercise
• amount of exercise
• time of day exercise occurs

Observations made during an experiment are called:

• data
• problems
• conclusions
• questions

On what axis should the independent variable always be?

• X
• Y

On what axis should the dependent variable always be?

• X
• Y