Distinguish between dependent and independent variables

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).

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