Final answer:
The dependent variable in the zoo pricing is the total cost, which is tied to the $17.50 charge per child. The independent variable is the number of children attending, as this is the factor that influences the total cost. Parking cost is a flat fee and does not serve as a variable here.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the zoo's pricing structure, the dependent variable is the total cost of the visit, which depends on the number of children attending. In this case, the dependent variable would be the total cost because it changes based on the number of children (each child costs $17.50). Therefore, the correct answer for the dependent variable is b) $17.50.
The independent variable is the factor that you change or control to see how it affects the dependent variable. In this scenario, the independent variable is the number of children because it is the factor you would change to see how it affects the total cost. Therefore, the correct answer for the independent variable is b) Number of children.
The parking cost of $6 is a fixed fee and does not depend on the number of children, thus it is considered neither a dependent nor an independent variable in the context of this question, but rather just a flat rate added to the total cost.