Understanding Variables in Science

What is a variable in a scientific experiment?

• A factor that remains constant

• A factor that can change

• A factor that is always independent

• A factor that is always dependent

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Which of the following is an independent variable in an experiment?

• The amount of sunlight a plant receives

• The growth of the plant

• The type of soil used

• The temperature of the room

In an experiment to test the effect of temperature on the solubility of sugar in water, what is the dependent variable?

• The amount of sugar

• The temperature of the water

• The solubility of sugar

• The type of sugar

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

What is the role of a control variable in an experiment?

• To change the outcome of the experiment

• To remain constant and not affect the outcome

• To be the main focus of the experiment

• To be the variable that is measured

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Identify the independent variable in the following scenario: A scientist is testing how the amount of fertilizer affects plant growth.

• The type of plant

• The amount of fertilizer

• The growth of the plant

• The type of fertilizer

In an experiment, which variable is measured to see the effect of changes made to the independent variable?

• Control variable

• Dependent variable

• Independent variable

• Constant variable

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

Which of the following is a control variable in an experiment testing the effect of light on plant growth?

• The amount of water given to the plant

• The height of the plant

• The intensity of light

• The type of plant

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

In a study to determine the effect of different liquids on plant growth, what is the dependent variable?

• The type of liquid used

• The growth of the plant

• The amount of liquid

• The type of plant

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

Which of the following best describes an independent variable?

• It is the variable that is kept constant

• It is the variable that is changed or controlled

• It is the variable that is measured

• It is the variable that is dependent on other variables

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

In an experiment to test the effect of temperature on the rate of a chemical reaction, what is the control variable?

• The temperature

• The rate of the reaction

• The type of chemical used

• The amount of reactants