what is a independent variable in science

11 months ago 23
Nature

In science, variables are any characteristics that can take on different values, such as height, age, temperature, or test scores. There are two types of variables: independent and dependent.

  • Independent variable: This is the variable that stands alone and isnt changed by the other variables you are trying to measure. It is the variable you manipulate, control, or vary in an experimental study to explore its effects. Its called “independent” because it’s not influenced by any other variables in the study.

  • Dependent variable: This is the variable that depends on other factors. It is something that changes depending on several factors such as how much you studied, how much sleep you got the night before, or how much you ate. It is the variable you are measuring in an experimental study to see how it responds to changes in the independent variable.

In summary, the independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the scientists in a controlled experiment, while the dependent variable is the variable that changes in response to the independent variable.