Independent vs Dependent Variables

Front

What is an independent variable?

Back

The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Front

What is a dependent variable?

Back

The variable that is measured and affected in an experiment, dependent on the independent variable.

Front

In the equation y = x + 5, what is the independent variable?

Back

x

Front

In the equation y = x + 5, what is the dependent variable?

Back

y

Front

On a graph, which axis represents the independent variable?

Back

x-axis

Front

On a graph, which axis represents the dependent variable?

Back

y-axis

Front

If the amount of sunlight affects the growth of a plant, what is the independent variable?

Back

Amount of sunlight.

Front

If the amount of sunlight affects the growth of a plant, what is the dependent variable?

Back

Growth of the plant.

Front

What does it mean if a variable is controlled in an experiment?

Back

It means that the variable is kept constant to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable.

Front

What is the purpose of a graph in representing data?

Back

To visually display the relationship between independent and dependent variables.