Dependent variable — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- The response measured under the stated method. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
- The outcome measured to see what the change produced, such as height gain in centimetres. (Life Science & Scientific Inquiry)
Where it is taught
- Variables, Controls & Repeated Trials — Inquiry, Measurement & Models, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
- Questions, Variables & Fair Investigations — Scientific Inquiry & Diversity of Life, Life Science & Scientific Inquiry, Grade 7
In use
The thing he measured to see what happened is the dependent variable — how the sailors' condition changed.
Questions, Variables & Fair Investigations
Questions using dependent variable
Problem 1
Which statement correctly uses dependent variable in Variables, Controls & Repeated Trials?
- A control treatment automatically keeps every other condition equal.
- Repeating a confounded test makes its causal claim valid.
- dependent variable: The response measured under the stated method.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
dependent variable: The response measured under the stated method.
The response measured under the stated method. Width and length both change. Length can affect bending, so the larger load does not isolate width. Keep length, material, support spacing, and counter placement the same, vary width, and use several fresh strips for each treatment. Compare all recorded loads under the same failure rule.
Problem 2
Which is the dependent variable in a water-and-growth test?
- Daily water amount
- Height change
- Container material
- Plant species
Answer and explanation
Height change
Height change is the measured response; daily water is the changed factor.