Inquiry 1: Exploring and Designing in Physics (DP IB Physics) Flashcards

1/6

0Still learning

Know0

  • What is an independent variable?

Cards in this collection (6)

  • What is an independent variable?

    An independent variable is a variable that is changed on purpose in order to observe the effects of the change.

  • What is a dependent variable?

    A dependent variable is a variable that changes in response to changing the independent variable. The effects of this change are predicted, observed, and measured.

  • What is a control variable?

    A control variable is any other factor that may affect the results of the investigation and must therefore be controlled for as far as possible.

  • A student is measuring the terminal velocity of a ball bearing in different fluids.

    State the following variables for this investigation:

    • independent variable

    • dependent variable

    • control variables

    For a student measuring the terminal velocity of a ball bearing in different fluids, the variables are as follows:

    • independent variable - terminal velocity of ball bearing

    • dependent variable - type of fluid

    • control variables - height of free fall, diameter and mass of ball bearing

  • What steps need to be taken for an experiment to be valid.

    For an experiment to be valid, any variable that may affect the results needs to be controlled for.

  • Why is it important to calibrate measuring equipment prior to taking any readings?

    It is important to calibrate measuring equipment prior to taking any readings to make sure the values given by the measuring device are accurate.