Experimental variables

Definition

Experimental variables are the factors or conditions that are intentionally changed or manipulated in an experiment to observe their effect on the dependent variable.

Analogy

Think of an experimental variable as a knob on a sound system. Just like you can adjust different knobs to change the volume, bass, or treble of the music, experimental variables are like knobs that scientists can tweak to see how they affect the outcome of an experiment.

Related terms

Independent variable: The independent variable is the specific experimental variable that is deliberately changed by the scientist.

Dependent variable: The dependent variable is the outcome or result that is measured and observed in response to changes in the independent variable.

Control group: A control group is a group in an experiment that does not receive any treatment or manipulation and serves as a baseline for comparison with the experimental group.