Experiments

Variables
An experiment has three main variables. The first is an independent variable, this is the only variable that is changed during a scientific experiment and is usually denoted with an "I." The next variable is the dependent variable, which is a variable that is dependent on the independent variable and is usually denoted with a "D." The last variable is the control, which is a group under normal conditions that is not experimental.

Boy Looking at Flower Through Magnifying Glass

What is the role of the dependent variable in an experiment?

to respond to the independent variable

to control the experiment

to change independently

The role of the dependent variable in an experiment is to respond to the changes in the independent variable. It is the variable that is measured or observed in order to determine the effect of the changes made to the independent variable. The dependent variable is dependent on the independent variable, meaning that it is expected to change as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable.