In an experiment, the independent variable is the variable that is varied or manipulated by the researcher. Show
The dependent variable is the response that is measured. For example: In a study of how different doses of a drug affect the severity of symptoms, a researcher could compare the frequency and intensity of symptoms when different doses are administered. Here the independent variable is the dose and the dependent variable is the frequency/intensity of symptoms.
The independent and dependent variables are key to any scientific experiment, but how do you tell them apart? Here are the definitions of independent and dependent variables, examples of each type, and tips for telling them apart and graphing them. Independent VariableThe independent variable is the factor the researcher changes or controls in an experiment. It is called independent because it does not depend on any other variable. The independent variable may be called the “controlled variable” because it is the one that is changed or controlled. This is different from the “control variable,” which is variable that is held constant so it won’t influence the outcome of the experiment. Dependent VariableThe dependent variable is the factor that changes in response to the independent variable. It is the variable that you measure in an experiment. The dependent variable may be called the “responding variable.” Examples of Independent and Dependent VariablesHere are several examples of independent and dependent variables in experiments:
How to Tell the Independent and Dependent Variable ApartIf you’re having trouble identifying the independent and dependent variable, here are a few ways to tell them apart. First, remember the dependent variable depends on the independent variable. It helps to write out the variables as an if-then or cause-and-effect sentence that shows the independent variable causes an effect on the dependent variable. If you mix up the variables, the sentence won’t make sense. Example: The amount of eat (independent variable) affects how much you weigh (dependent variable). This makes sense, but if you write the sentence the other way, you can tell it’s incorrect: Example: How much you weigh affects how much you eat. (Well, it could make sense, but you can see it’s an entirely different experiment.) If-then statements also work: Example: If you change the color of light (independent variable), then it affects plant growth (dependent variable). Switching the variables makes no sense: Example: If plant growth rate changes, then it affects the color of light. Sometimes you don’t control either variable, like when you gather data to see if there is a relationship between two factors. This can make identifying the variables a bit trickier, but establishing a logical cause and effect relationship helps: Example: If you increase age (independent variable), then average salary increases (dependent variable). If you switch them, the statement doesn’t make sense: Example: If you increase salary, then age increases. How to Graph Independent and Dependent VariablesPlot or graph independent and dependent variables using the standard method. The independent variable is the x-axis, while the dependent variable is the y-axis. Remember the acronym DRY MIX to keep the variables straight: D = Dependent variable M = Manipulated variable References
What is an example of dependent and independent variables?The type of soda – diet or regular – is the independent variable. The level of blood sugar that you measure is the dependent variable – it changes depending on the type of soda.
What are independent variables in science examples?Answer: An independent variable is exactly what it sounds like. It is a variable that stands alone and isn't changed by the other variables you are trying to measure. For example, someone's age might be an independent variable.
What is a dependent variable for science?The dependent variable is the variable being tested and measured in an experiment, and is 'dependent' on the independent variable. An example of a dependent variable is depression symptoms, which depends on the independent variable (type of therapy).
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