Understanding Variables and Experiments with Mythbusters

The video tutorial explores the concepts of independent and dependent variables through Mythbusters experiments. It explains how these variables are used in scientific experiments to test hypotheses. The video includes three experiments: testing if dimples on a car improve gas mileage, if elephants are afraid of mice, and if running in the rain keeps you drier. Each experiment is analyzed to identify the independent and dependent variables, demonstrating how scientific inquiry is applied to test common myths.

What is the role of an independent variable in an experiment?

• It is the variable that is dependent on other variables.

• It is the variable that remains constant.

• It is the variable that is changed by the scientist.

• It is the variable that is measured.

In the dimple car experiment, what was the independent variable?

• The speed at which the car was driven.

• The weight of the car.

• The type of car used.

• Whether the car had dimples or not.

What was the dependent variable in the dimple car experiment?

• The gas mileage of the car.

• The number of dimples on the car.

• The speed of the car.

• The weight of the car.

What unexpected result did the Mythbusters find in the dimple car experiment?

• The dimpled car had better gas mileage.

• The dimpled car had worse gas mileage.

• The dimpled car had the same gas mileage.

• The dimpled car was slower.

In the elephant and mice experiment, what was the independent variable?

• The size of the mouse.

• The number of elephants involved.

• The presence of a mouse under the dung.

• The type of dung used.

What was the dependent variable in the elephant and mice experiment?

• The number of mice used.

• The size of the elephants.

• The reaction of the elephants.

• The type of dung used.

In the running in the rain experiment, what was the independent variable?

• The length of the rain course.

• The amount of rain falling.

• The speed of movement through the rain.

• The type of clothing worn.

What was the dependent variable in the running in the rain experiment?

• The temperature of the rain.

• The speed of the wind.

• The mass of rain collected on the clothing.

• The time taken to complete the course.

What conclusion did the Mythbusters reach about running versus walking in the rain?

• Both result in the same amount of wetness.

• Walking keeps you drier.

• Neither affects how wet you get.

• Running keeps you drier.

Why did the Mythbusters use controlled conditions for the rain experiment?

• To ensure the rain was visible.

• To simulate a real rainstorm.

• To control the speed of the participants.

• To accurately measure the amount of rain collected.