Answer: In this scenario, the length of the backpacking trip is the independent variable and the amount of trail mix Wesley will bring is the dependent variable.
The independent variable is the variable that is being changed or controlled in an experiment or study. In this case, the length of the backpacking trip is the independent variable because it is being determined by Wesley and is not influenced by any other factor.
The dependent variable is the variable that is being measured or observed in an experiment or study. In this case, the amount of trail mix Wesley will bring is the dependent variable because it depends on the length of the backpacking trip. Wesley's decision on how much trail mix to bring will be influenced by how long he plans to go backpacking.