Flashcards on Practice Questions for Identifying Independent, Dependent and Controlled Variables in Science Investigations
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What is an independent variable?
The variable that is intentionally changed or manipulated by the experimenter.
What is a dependent variable?
The variable that is observed or measured to see how it responds to changes in the independent variable.
What is a controlled variable?
The variable that is kept constant or unchanged throughout the experiment.
In a science investigation, what is the purpose of identifying variables?
To understand the relationship between the independent and dependent variables and to ensure accurate and valid results.
What is the independent variable in an experiment to test the effect of different temperatures on plant growth?
The different temperatures
What is the dependent variable in an experiment to test the effect of different temperatures on plant growth?
The plant growth
What is a potential controlled variable in an experiment to test the effect of different temperatures on plant growth?
The type and amount of soil, the amount of water, the amount of sunlight, etc.
In a science investigation, why is it important to have controlled variables?
To eliminate or minimize the effect of other factors that could influence the results, ensuring that any observed changes are due to the independent variable.
What is an example of an independent variable in an experiment investigating the effect of exercise on heart rate?
The amount of exercise or physical activity
What is an example of a dependent variable in an experiment investigating the effect of exercise on heart rate?
Heart rate
What is a potential controlled variable in an experiment investigating the effect of exercise on heart rate?
Age, fitness level, duration of exercise, etc.
In a science investigation, how can you determine if a variable is independent, dependent or controlled?
By analyzing the role of the variable in relation to the purpose of the experiment and its manipulation or observation.
What does the independent variable represent in a graph or data table?
The x-axis
What does the dependent variable represent in a graph or data table?
The y-axis
What does a controlled variable represent in a graph or data table?
No specific representation, as it remains constant.