A
dependent variable is a variable dependent
on another variable: the independent variable. In simple terms, the
independent variable is said to cause an apparent change in, or
simply affect, the
dependent variable [
Wikipedia2006D].
Example 1 1. In a study of how different dosages of a drug are related to the severity of symptoms of a disease, a measure of the severity of the symptoms of the disease is a dependent variable and the administration of the drug in specified doses is the independent variable. [
Wikipedia2006D]
2. In a call centre, the number of customers serviced per hour, depends on the number of agents, and average service time per customer. In this case number of customers is a dependent variable, entirely dependent on the other two independent variables namely agents, and average service time.
Problem 1
What is the dependent variable in the following function? Briefly explain your choice.
Y = 3X + Z - 5
[
Click for Solution 1 ]
Solution 1
The dependent variable is Y. This is because the value of Y depends on both the values of X and Z changing.
[
Hide Solution 1 ]
References: