Question

What is the explanation for identifying independent, dependent and controlled variables in a science experiment involving flowers and food coloring?

Answer 1

In a science experiment involving flowers and food coloring, identifying the independent, dependent, and controlled variables is essential for understanding the relationship between the elements being tested. Here’s how each variable is defined in this context:

1. **Independent Variable**: This is the variable that you change or manipulate in an experiment. In the case of flowers and food coloring, the independent variable could be the **color of the food coloring** used. For example, you might use red, blue, yellow, and green food coloring to see how different colors influence the flowers.

2. **Dependent Variable**: This variable is what you measure or observe in response to changes in the independent variable. In this experiment, the dependent variable could be the **color of the flowers’ petals** after they have absorbed the food coloring. You would observe how the different colors of food coloring affect the petals' coloration over time.

3. **Controlled Variables**: These are the variables that need to be kept constant to ensure that the experiment is fair and that the results are due only to changes in the independent variable. In this experiment, controlled variables could include:
- The **type and size of the flowers** used (e.g., all should be the same type, like white carnations).
- The **amount of water** used in each cup (ensuring each flower receives the same volume).
- The **environmental conditions** (like temperature and light exposure).
- The **time duration** of exposure to the food coloring (e.g., how long the flowers are left in water with coloring).
- The **concentration of the food coloring** should be the same for each color.

By clearly identifying these variables, you can design an effective experiment that allows you to draw conclusions about how food coloring affects the coloration of flowers. This structure helps minimize confusion and ensure that the results are valid and reliable.