What is a variable?

Question

The factors that are the same in an experiment.

The factor that is different in an experiment.

Answer 1

A variable is a factor or element that can change or be changed in an experiment. There are different types of variables:

1. Independent Variable: The factor that is deliberately changed or manipulated in an experiment to observe its effects. This is often referred to as the "different" factor in your statement.

2. Dependent Variable: The factor that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable. This is what you are looking to gather data on based on the manipulation of the independent variable.

3. Controlled Variables (or Constants): The factors that are kept the same throughout the experiment to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable alone.

In summary, the independent variable is the one that is different, while controlled variables are held constant.