1. What is an independent variable? Provide at least two examples.
An independent variable is a factor or condition that is deliberately manipulated or varied by the researcher in order to observe its effect on the dependent variable. It is the variable that is believed to cause or influence changes in the dependent variable.
Two examples of independent variables are:
1. Time: In a study examining the effect of exercise on weight loss, time can be considered as an independent variable. The researchers may manipulate the time spent on exercise and observe how it affects the dependent variable, which is weight loss.
2. Temperature: In a study investigating the impact of temperature on plant growth, temperature can be considered as the independent variable. The researchers can manipulate the temperature conditions and observe its effect on the dependent variable, which is the growth rate of the plants.