Answer:
The dependent variable is the variable that is being measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable. In this case, the dependent variable is the time it takes for the sugar to dissolve in each cup of tea. The student will measure and compare the time it takes for the sugar to completely dissolve in both the hot and cold tea.
The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher. It is the factor that is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable. In this experiment, the independent variable is the temperature of the tea. The student will have two cups of tea, one hot and one cold, and will measure how long it takes for sugar to dissolve in each cup.
To conduct this experiment, the student can follow these steps:
1. Prepare two identical cups of tea, one hot and one cold. Ensure that both cups contain equal amounts of tea.
2. Measure an equal amount of sugar and add it to each cup simultaneously.
3. Start a timer as soon as the sugar is added to both cups.
4. Observe and record how long it takes for all the sugar to dissolve completely in each cup.
5. Repeat the experiment multiple times to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
6. Analyze and compare the recorded data to determine if there is a significant difference in dissolution time between hot and cold tea.
By manipulating only one variable (temperature) while keeping all other factors constant, this experiment allows for a clear understanding of how temperature affects sugar dissolution in tea.