Independent, Dependent and Control Variables Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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In science, what is meant by a variable in an investigation?

A variable is any factor that can change, such as temperature, light or time.

What is the independent variable in an investigation?

The independent variable is the one factor you change on purpose to see its effect.

What is the dependent variable in an investigation?

The dependent variable is what you measure or observe to see how it changes.

What are control variables in an investigation?

Control variables are factors you keep the same, so they do not affect the result.

Why should you change only one variable at a time in a fair test?

If you change only the independent variable, you can be sure it is causing any change in the dependent variable.

How can you spot the independent variable in a description of an experiment?

Look for the factor the scientist decides to change, such as different temperatures or light levels.

How can you spot the dependent variable in a description of an experiment?

Look for what is measured or recorded, such as height, time taken or number of bubbles.

In an experiment testing how temperature affects enzyme activity, name the independent and dependent variables.

Independent variable: temperature. Dependent variable: rate of enzyme activity, such as how fast a reaction happens.

You investigate how light intensity affects the growth of cress seeds. Name the independent variable, dependent variable and one control variable.

Independent variable: light intensity. Dependent variable: growth of the cress, such as height. One control variable: amount of water or type of seed.

What problem is caused if control variables are not kept the same?

Other factors may affect the result, so you cannot tell if the independent variable caused the change.