The dependent variable is the one that is *measured* to see the effect of the change made to the independent variable. Read the description of the experiment to identify which variable was measured.
Full Answer
A.Acceleration of the trolley✓ Correct
In a scientific investigation:
- The **independent variable** is the one you change. The description says "different masses were put on the trolley".
- The **dependent variable** is the one you measure. The description says "the acceleration of the trolley was measured".
- **Control variables** are the ones you keep the same. The description says "The force was then kept constant".
Therefore, the acceleration of the trolley is the dependent variable.
Common mistakes
✗ Confusing independent and dependent variables. The dependent variable *depends* on the independent one.
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