Types of Variables in Research: Independent, Dependent, and Controlled Variables

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Questions and Answers

What is the definition of Independent Variable (IV)?

The variable manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

What does Dependent Variable (DV) refer to?

The variable observed and measured in response to changes in the independent variable.

What is the purpose of a Controlled Variable (CV) or Constant in an experiment?

Factors kept constant to ensure observed changes are due to the independent variable.

Define Scientific Method.

A systematic, logical approach used by scientists to investigate natural phenomena. Signup and view all the answers

What is a hypothesis?

A testable and falsifiable statement that predicts the outcome of an experiment. Signup and view all the answers

What do qualitative observations involve?

Non-numerical descriptions of qualities, characteristics, or attributes. Signup and view all the answers

How do quantitative observations differ from qualitative observations?

Quantitative observations involve measurements and numerical data, providing objective and precise information. Signup and view all the answers

What does WHMIS stand for?

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the difference between short-term and long-term effects of chemical exposure.

Short-term effects are immediate and temporary, while long-term effects are delayed and chronic. Signup and view all the answers

What are the ways chemicals can enter the body?

Inhalation, ingestion, absorption through the skin (dermal exposure), and injection. Signup and view all the answers

In a plant growth experiment, what is considered the dependent variable?

Height of the plants Signup and view all the answers

Which type of variable is intentionally kept constant in an experiment to isolate the effect of the independent variable?

Controlled Variable Signup and view all the answers

What is a scientific question defined as?

A specific, clear, and testable inquiry Signup and view all the answers

Which type of variable is used to measure, test, or observe the effects of different conditions in experiments?

Scientific Variable Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a controlled variable in an experiment?

To ensure observed changes are due to the independent variable Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of a hypothesis in an experiment?

To offer a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon Signup and view all the answers

How do qualitative observations differ from quantitative observations?

Qualitative observations are non-numerical, while quantitative observations involve measurements and numerical data Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of WHMIS labels in workplaces?

To provide basic hazard information for internal use Signup and view all the answers

Which method of chemical entry into the body involves needles?

Injection Signup and view all the answers

What do hazard symbols on WHMIS labels indicate?

Pictograms for types of hazards associated with the product Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Types of variables in scientific research: Independent Variable (IV), Dependent Variable (DV), Controlled Variable (CV), Scientific Variable
Independent Variable: manipulated by researchers to observe effects, example: amount of sunlight in plant growth experiment
Dependent Variable: observed and measured in response to IV changes, example: height of plants in plant growth experiment
Controlled Variable: kept constant in experiment to ensure observations are due to IV, examples: soil type, pot size, watering frequency
Scientific Variable: any factor used to measure, test, or observe effects of different conditions
Scientific Method: systematic approach to investigate natural phenomena, involves making observations, forming hypothesis, conducting experiments, collecting data, drawing conclusions
Scientific Question: specific, clear, testable inquiry that guides investigation, arises from observations or curiosity
Hypothesis: testable and falsifiable statement predicting experiment outcome, tentative explanation for observed phenomenon
Qualitative Observations: non-numerical descriptions of qualities, provide detailed subjective understanding
Quantitative Observations: involve measurements and numerical data, provide objective and precise information
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS): system providing information on safe use of hazardous materials, includes labeling, MSDS, worker education
Long-Term and Short-Term Effects of Chemical Exposure: Short-Term: immediate, temporary health impacts; Long-Term: delayed, chronic health impacts
Ways Chemicals Enter the Body: inhalation, ingestion, dermal exposure, injection
WHMIS Labels: Supplier Label: includes product identifier, hazard symbols, precautionary measures; Workplace Label: includes product identifier, basic hazard information
Structure of WHMIS Labels: Product Identifier: name or code allowing product identification; Hazard Symbols: pictograms indicating types of hazards; Precautionary Measures: information on safe handling, storage, disposal.

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Description

Learn about the definitions of independent, dependent, and controlled variables in research studies, along with examples. Understand the roles these variables play in experiments.