Describe the independent variable, dependent variable, and controlled variable with a suitable example of each.

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Accepted Answer

Independent variable: The variable that the researcher deliberately changes by a chosen amount; it is the cause. Example: In a catapult experiment, the extension of the rubber band is the independent variable. Dependent variable: The variable whose value depends on the independent variable and is measured, not set directly. Example: The distance travelled by the paper bullet. Controlled variable: A variable that is kept the same throughout the experiment so it does not affect the result. Example: The thickness of the rubber band and the size of the paper bullet.