Distinguish between dependent and independent variables

Full Answer Section

Dependent Variable (DV)

• Definition: The factor that is measured or observed in an experiment. It is the effect.

• Outcome: The dependent variable is the outcome that is being studied.

• Example: In the plant growth study, the dependent variable is the height of the plants (you measure the height of the plants to see if it changes based on sunlight).

Key Points:

• Cause and Effect: The independent variable is the presumed cause, while the dependent variable is the presumed effect.

• Relationship: The goal of an experiment is to determine if there is a relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

• Changes: The independent variable is changed, and the dependent variable is observed for changes in response.

Example Scenarios:

• Scenario 1: Studying the effect of fertilizer on plant growth.

  • IV: Amount of fertilizer applied

  • DV: Plant height

• Scenario 2: Investigating the impact of sleep deprivation on reaction time.

  • IV: Hours of sleep deprivation

  • DV: Reaction time measured in a test

Sample Answer

Here's a breakdown of dependent and independent variables, along with examples to make it clear:

Independent Variable (IV)

• Definition: The factor that is changed or manipulated in an experiment. It is the cause.

• Control: The researcher controls the independent variable to see how it affects the dependent variable.

• Example: In a study about the effect of sunlight on plant growth, the independent variable is the amount of sunlight (you control how much sunlight the plants receive).