Variables Flashcards
What is a variable in scientific research?
A variable is any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types.
True or False: An independent variable is manipulated by the researcher.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ variable is observed and measured in an experiment.
dependent
What type of variable remains constant throughout an experiment?
controlled variable
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of variable? A) Independent B) Dependent C) Confounding D) Constant
D) Constant
What is the purpose of a controlled variable?
To ensure that the experiment tests only the effect of the independent variable.
True or False: A confounding variable can distort the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
True
Fill in the blank: In an experiment, the __________ variable is what the researcher changes.
independent
What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?
The independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a dependent variable? A) Temperature B) Growth Rate C) Light Intensity D) Water Amount
B) Growth Rate
What is a qualitative variable?
A qualitative variable is a non-numeric variable that describes characteristics or qualities.
True or False: Quantitative variables can be divided into discrete and continuous types.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ variables are those that can take on a finite number of values.
Discrete
What is an example of a continuous variable?
Height, weight, or temperature.
Multiple Choice: Which variable is often plotted on the x-axis of a graph? A) Dependent B) Independent C) Controlled D) Confounding
B) Independent
What does it mean for a variable to be operationally defined?
It means to define a variable in terms of specific measurements or procedures used to quantify it.
True or False: A variable can have multiple operational definitions.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ variable can influence the outcome of an experiment but is not the primary focus.
confounding
What is the role of a hypothesis in relation to variables?
A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT typically a controlled variable? A) Temperature B) Time C) Independent Variable D) pH Level
C) Independent Variable
What does it mean to manipulate a variable?
To change or alter a variable to observe its effects on other variables.
True or False: Variables can only be qualitative, not quantitative.
False
Fill in the blank: In experiments, researchers often use __________ to minimize the effect of confounding variables.
randomization
What is the difference between a categorical variable and a numerical variable?
A categorical variable represents groups or categories, while a numerical variable represents measurable quantities.
