Understanding Variables in Experiments

This video tutorial explains the scientific method, detailing each step from problem statement to conclusion. It covers controlled experiments, highlighting the roles of independent and dependent variables, and constants. Examples, such as plant growth and popcorn popping, illustrate these concepts. The video concludes with a summary of the scientific method's importance.

What is the first step in the scientific method?

• Data collection

• Hypothesis formation

• Problem statement

• Conclusion

How is a hypothesis typically structured?

• As a list of materials

• As an if-then-because statement

• As a statement of fact

• As a question

What is essential for a procedure in an experiment?

• It should be short

• It should be vague

• It should be specific and repeatable

• It should be creative

In a controlled experiment, what is the independent variable?

• The variable that is kept constant

• The variable that is measured

• The variable that is changed

• The variable that is ignored

Where is the independent variable typically plotted on a graph?

• On the y-axis

• On the x-axis

• In the title

• In the legend

What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

• The variable that is ignored

• The variable that is constant

• The variable that is measured

• The variable that is changed

What should remain constant in a controlled experiment?

• The independent variable

• The dependent variable

• All variables

• All variables except the independent variable

In the popcorn experiment, what is the independent variable?

• The type of popcorn

• The time in the microwave

• Storing in the refrigerator

• The amount of popcorn

What is the dependent variable in the popcorn experiment?

• The amount of popcorn

• The time in the microwave

• The type of popcorn

• How well the popcorn pops

Which of the following is NOT a constant in the popcorn experiment?

• The amount of time in the refrigerator

• Storing in the refrigerator

• The time in the microwave

• The type of popcorn