what is an independent variable
http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_variables.shtml
thermo dynamic variables which are not path depends are called independent variables. for example- pressure, temperature, volume, number of moles are independent variables.
Only work and energy is dependent variables. they are path dependent.
An independent variable is a variable in an experiment or study that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher. It is the variable that is intentionally changed or varied to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
To identify the independent variable in an experiment or study, you need to consider the following steps:
1. Understand the research question or objective: Identify the specific relationship or effect being investigated.
2. Identify the factors under consideration: Determine the different variables that could potentially influence or contribute to the observed outcome.
3. Determine the potential cause: Identify the variable that the researcher intentionally changes or manipulates to observe its impact on the outcome.
4. Analyze the dependent variable: Identify the variable that is expected to change or respond to the manipulation of the independent variable.
For example, let's consider a study investigating the effect of studying time on exam scores. In this case, the independent variable is the "studying time." The researcher intentionally manipulates this variable by assigning different amounts of study time to different groups of participants. The dependent variable is the "exam scores," which are expected to change or be influenced by the different studying times.
Understanding the concept and identifying the independent variable is crucial for planning and designing experiments, as well as analyzing and interpreting the results.