Understanding Independent and Dependent Variables in an Experiment

What are Independent and Dependent Variables in an Experiment?

When conducting an experiment, it is essential to understand the concept of independent and dependent variables. The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated by the experimenter, while the dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed as a result of the manipulation.

In the case of a mouse running a maze experiment, the independent variable is the drug given to the mouse. The experimenter controls the administration of the drug to study its effects on the mouse's maze-running performance. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the time it takes for the mouse to complete the maze. This variable will change based on the presence or absence of the drug.

How are Independent and Dependent Variables Tested?

To test the effects of the drug on the mouse's maze-running performance, the experimenter can conduct a controlled experiment. One group of mice is given the drug, while another group is given a placebo. The experimenter then records the time it takes for each group to complete the maze.

If the group of mice that received the drug shows a significant decrease in the time taken to complete the maze compared to the placebo group, it indicates that the drug has an effect on maze-running performance. This difference in performance between the two groups demonstrates the relationship between the independent variable (drug) and the dependent variable (time to complete the maze).