What is the difference between a parameter and a variable?

In summary, parameters and variables are both used in descriptions of physics, but they serve different purposes. Parameters are fixed values that are used in models, while variables are the values that are being solved for in those models. In simpler terms, parameters are constants and variables are unknowns. This concept is similar to the use of parameters and variables in mathematical equations.
  • #1
arroy_0205
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It seems (to me) that parameters are also kind of variables in descriptions of physics. I am confused what makes a paramater different from a variable. Can anybody please explain this?
 
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  • #2
Hi there,

From my point of view, here are a few parameters: g=9.8m/s2, c= 300'000km/s.

Variables are the values that you are trying to find in any model. The model bases itself on different fixed values, or parameters.

Cheers
 
  • #3
From a mathematical point of view, a parameter is a variable that is meant to stay fixed in a certain application. For example, in middle or high school you studied the three-parameter family of functions

f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c.

While the three numbers a, b, c are variables, you want to think of them as fixed and let only x vary. To distinguish the roles of a,b,c on the one side and x on the other, we refer to a,b,c as parameters.
 

What is the difference between a parameter and a variable?

A parameter is a constant value that is passed into a function or method, while a variable is a value that can change or vary throughout the execution of a program.

How are parameters and variables used in scientific experiments?

In scientific experiments, parameters are often used to control the conditions of the experiment, while variables are used to measure and record the data being collected.

Can parameters and variables be used interchangeably?

No, parameters and variables serve different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably. Parameters are used to pass values into a function, while variables are used to store and manipulate data.

What happens if a parameter is changed during a scientific experiment?

If a parameter is changed during a scientific experiment, it can affect the outcome of the experiment and potentially lead to inaccurate results. Parameters should be carefully controlled and only changed when necessary.

How can scientists ensure that their parameters and variables are accurate?

To ensure accuracy, scientists must carefully design their experiments, clearly define their parameters and variables, and consistently measure and record data throughout the experiment.

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