A neuroscientist applies an electric shock to sea slugs' tails. After a varying interval, she touches the slugs' tails lightly. Which of the following alternatives CORRECTLY names and identifies the variables in this experiment?
A) independent variable - length of interval; dependent variable - withdrawal response
B) dependent variable - length of interval; independent variable - withdrawal response
C) experimental variable -- length of interval; control variable - withdrawal response
D) control variable - length of interval; experimental variable - withdrawal response

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The independent variable is the length of the interval between the electric shock and the touch, as this is being intentionally changed by the researcher. The dependent variable is the withdrawal response of the sea slug, as this is what is being measured and is expected to vary based on the different intervals.

A Neuroscientist Applies an Electric Shock to Sea Slugs' Tails