Independent variable
Independent Variable
The Independent Variable (pronounced: /ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt ˈvɛərɪəbəl/) is a term used in Statistics and Experimental Design to denote a variable that is manipulated or controlled in an experiment.
Etymology
The term "Independent Variable" originates from the field of Mathematics, where it is used to denote a variable that stands alone and isn't changed by the other variables you are trying to measure. The term was later adopted in Statistics and Experimental Design to denote a similar concept.
Definition
In an Experiment, the Independent Variable is the variable that is varied or manipulated by the researcher. The changes to the Independent Variable are independent of all the other variables in the experiment, hence the name. The effects of the Independent Variable on the Dependent Variable are observed and recorded.
Related Terms
- Dependent Variable: The variable that is tested and measured in an experiment. It is dependent on the Independent Variable.
- Control Variable: A variable that is kept constant during an experiment to ensure that any changes to the Dependent Variable are solely due to the Independent Variable.
- Extraneous Variable: A variable that is not intentionally studied in your experiment and can affect the results of your experiment.
- Confounding Variable: A variable that influences both the Dependent Variable and Independent Variable, causing a spurious association.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Independent variable
- Wikipedia's article - Independent variable
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