In an experiment, what is the independent variable?

In an experiment, what is the independent variable?

• A. The factor being measured or tested
• B. The factor that is changed or controlled
• C. The factor that remains constant
• D. The outcome of the experiment

Answer: (B)

The independent variable is the factor that is deliberately changed or manipulated by the experimenter in an experiment to investigate its effects on other variables. This could include altering conditions such as temperature, concentration, or time to see how these changes impact the dependent variable, which is measured or observed. In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome of the experiment that is measured, while constants are factors that remain unchanged throughout the experiment to ensure valid results. Understanding the role of the independent variable is crucial for designing experiments and interpreting their results, as it allows scientists to establish cause-and-effect relationships.

The independent variable is the factor that is deliberately changed or manipulated by the experimenter in an experiment to investigate its effects on other variables. This could include altering conditions such as temperature, concentration, or time to see how these changes impact the dependent variable, which is measured or observed.

In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome of the experiment that is measured, while constants are factors that remain unchanged throughout the experiment to ensure valid results. Understanding the role of the independent variable is crucial for designing experiments and interpreting their results, as it allows scientists to establish cause-and-effect relationships.