Experimental Design

Front

What are constants in an experiment?

Back

Constants are the parts of the experiment that must be kept the same to ensure that the results are valid.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the factor that an experimenter changes on purpose to observe its effect.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment, which changes in response to the independent variable.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Front

What is the purpose of a control in an experiment?

Back

A control is a standard for comparison in an experiment, which helps to isolate the effects of the independent variable.

Front

How does one identify the independent variable in a graph?

Back

The independent variable is typically plotted on the x-axis and is the variable that is manipulated.

Front

In an experiment on plant growth, if different types of liquids are used, what is the independent variable?

Back

The type of liquid given to the plants.

Front

What is the role of constants in an experiment?

Back

Constants ensure that the experiment is fair and that the results are due to the independent variable alone.

Front

What should be changed in an experiment to test the effect of water on plant growth?

Back

The amount of water given to the plants.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Front

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

Back

The independent variable is changed by the experimenter, while the dependent variable is what is measured in response.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

Front

Why is it important to have a control group in an experiment?

Back

A control group helps to determine if the independent variable has an effect by providing a baseline for comparison.