Which of the answer choices is correctly defined as the variable in a controlled experiment that is purposely changed or manipulated?
constant
controlled variable
dependent variable
independent variable
is it b?
Yes, you are correct! The variable in a controlled experiment that is purposely changed or manipulated is called the independent variable. So, in this case, option (b) "controlled variable" is not the correct answer. To determine the correct answer, let's break down the different variables in a controlled experiment:
1. Constant - This refers to the factors or variables that remain unchanged throughout the experiment. These are kept constant to ensure that any observed effects are due to the manipulated variable and not influenced by other factors.
2. Controlled Variable - This is another term for the constant. It represents the variables that are kept the same throughout the experiment.
3. Dependent Variable - This is the variable that is observed, measured, or recorded throughout the experiment. It is affected by the independent variable and shows the result or outcome of the experiment.
4. Independent Variable - This is the variable that is purposely changed or manipulated in a controlled experiment. It is the variable that is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable.
Therefore, the correct answer is option (d) "independent variable."