The difference between an independent and dependent variable

Sample Solution

• Independent variable: The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher. It is the variable that the researcher believes is causing the change in the dependent variable.
• Dependent variable: The dependent variable is the variable that is being measured or observed. It is the variable that the researcher believes is being affected by the independent variable.

Full Answer Section

For example, let's say you are interested in studying the effect of different types of fertilizer on plant growth. In this case, the independent variable would be the type of fertilizer, and the dependent variable would be the plant growth. You would change the type of fertilizer that you give to the plants, and then measure the growth of the plants to see how it is affected.

Here are some other examples of independent and dependent variables:

• Independent variable: Amount of sleep
• Dependent variable: Test scores
• Independent variable: Exercise
• Dependent variable: Weight loss
• Independent variable: Stress level
• Dependent variable: Mental health
• Independent variable: Temperature
• Dependent variable: Ice cream sales

In each of these examples, the independent variable is the variable that is being manipulated by the researcher, and the dependent variable is the variable that is being measured or observed.

It is important to note that the independent variable always comes before the dependent variable in a research study. For example, you would not say that "test scores affect the amount of sleep." Instead, you would say that "the amount of sleep affects test scores."

I hope this explanation is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.