Independent and Dependent Variables from Tables and Graphs

Examine the Stonecreek Library book donations graph. Which quantity is the independent variable?

• Number of books

• Number of months

• Rate of donation

• Total donations

Study Tom's lawn mowing earnings data. What is the dependent variable?

• Number of lawns mowed

• Amount Tom is paid

• Time spent mowing

• Cost per lawn

Which quantity depends on the other?

• Number of sets

• Price per set

• Total cost

• Photo quality

Looking at Leroy's pen pricing data, what is the independent variable?

• Total cost

• Base price

• Number of letters

• Profit margin

In Theresa's pretzel scenario, which quantity is dependent on the other?

• Number of servings

• Amount of fat

• Time eaten

• Serving size

What is the independent variable?

• Number of rabbits

• Weeks since summer started

• Growth rate

• Initial population

In the distance traveled graph, which quantity is dependent on the other?

• Time

• Distance traveled

• Speed

• Direction

Looking at the production machine data, identify the dependent variable:

• Time the machine runs

• Items produced

• Production rate

• Machine efficiency

Which is the independent variable in Sofia's grocery shopping scenario?

• Sale price

• Original price

• Discount amount

• Savings percentage

What is the dependent variable in the mountain climber's data?

• Time climbing

• Height reached

• Climbing rate

• Energy expended