A group of researchers investigates the effects of gingko biloba on animal memory. During the first part of the study, the animals learn to run a maze while they are not receiving the supplement; in the second part of the study, the animals learn to run a different maze while they are receiving the supplement. In each case the researchers count how many trials it takes before the animals can run the maze pattern without making any errors. What is the independent variable in this study??

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The independent variable in this study is the presence or absence of the supplement (gingko biloba) in the animal's diet. It is the variable that the researchers manipulate and change in order to measure its effect on the animal's memory. The other variables listed (number of trials, type of animal, age) are all potential dependent variables that may be influenced by the independent variable.

A Group of Researchers Investigates the Effects of Gingko Biloba