Independent and Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The independent variable is the one factor that a scientist changes during an experiment. It affects the results of the experiment.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The dependent variable is the variable that is measured in an experiment. It is the result of the experiment.

Front

What are controlled variables?

Back

Controlled variables are the factors that stay the same throughout the experiment.

Front

In Cindy's plant experiment, what is the independent variable?

Back

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

Front

In Ben's helicopter experiment, what is the independent variable?

Back

Wing Length.

Front

What is the purpose of an experiment?

Back

The purpose of an experiment is to test a hypothesis by changing one variable and observing the effect on another.

Front

Why is it important to have controlled variables in an experiment?

Back

Controlled variables are important because they ensure that the experiment is fair and that the results are due to the independent variable.

Front

What is a hypothesis?

Back

A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Front

How do you identify the dependent variable in an experiment?

Back

The dependent variable is identified by looking for the outcome that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable.

Front

What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?

Back

The independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.