Final answer:
A variable that occurs closer in time to the dependent variable and is affected by other independent variables is called a mediating variable. Mediating variables act as links or intermediate steps that help explain the relationship between the independent and dependent variables in a scientific experiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
In scientific experiments, a variable that occurs closer in time to the dependent variable and is itself affected by other independent variables is called a mediating variable. A mediating variable acts as a link or intermediate step between the independent variable and the dependent variable, helping to explain the relationship between them.
For example, let's say we are studying the effect of temperature on plant growth. The amount of sunlight received by the plant can be considered a mediating variable because it occurs closer in time to the dependent variable (plant growth) and is affected by other independent variables like the time of day and the season.
By considering mediating variables, scientists can better understand the complex relationships between variables and draw more accurate conclusions from their experiments.