Summary
Highlights
Introduction to Variables00:00:00
Most science experiments involve three types of variables: independent, dependent, and control variables.
Independent Variable00:00:05
The independent variable, also called the manipulated variable, is what you change or manipulate in an experiment. It can stand alone and is typically found on the x-axis of a graph.
Dependent Variable00:00:22
The dependent variable, or responding variable, depends on the independent variable. It's the variable you measure in the experiment and is found on the y-axis.
Control Variables00:00:37
Control variables are factors that must remain constant to ensure accurate and reliable results in an experiment.
Example Scenario00:00:43
An example is used to illustrate these variables: determining if higher tire pressure increases gas mileage.
Applying Variables to the Example00:01:06
In the tire pressure example, the different air pressure (20 psi vs. 35 psi) is the independent variable, the measured miles per gallon is the dependent variable, and driving the same car each time is a control variable.
Summary of Variables00:01:20
To summarize, the independent variable is what is changed, the dependent variable is what is measured, and control variables are kept constant to maintain accuracy.