Final answer:
In an experiment, the variable you change is the independent variable, while the one you measure in response is the dependent variable. These are plotted on the x and y axes respectively in a graph. Control variables are kept constant to ensure accurate measurement of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
Step-by-step explanation:
In an experiment, the variable that you change is known as the independent variable, while the variable that you measure in response to the changes made in the independent variable is called the dependent variable.
- Independent Variable that you change in an experiment
- Dependent Variable that you measure (how it responds to the variable you changed)
- Independent The variable that is on the x axis of a graph (horizontal)
- Dependent The variable that is on the y axis of a graph (vertical)
Typically in a graph, the independent variable is plotted on the horizontal axis, or x-axis, because it is the variable you control or manipulate. The dependent variable, which changes based on the independent variable, is plotted on the vertical axis, or y-axis.