Which one could be the three confounding variables?

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In summary, a conversation is taking place about an experiment to test insect preferences for light intensity. The experimental hypothesis is that there will be a difference in the number of insects in the dark side versus the bright side of the chamber. The question is then posed about which variables could be confounding factors in the experiment. The options are varying humidity, orientation of the chamber, age of the insects, non-reflective material of the chamber, type of light source used, and varying temperature. It is suggested that all options could potentially be confounding variables, but the person requesting help is only looking for three to choose from. They ask for clarification on the definition of a confounding variable and then request three specific variables to be chosen. However,
  • #1
yasmin21
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biology urgent need help?

An experiment is set up to test whether a particular insect prefer a dark or a bright environment. A chamber with a gradient in light intensity from one end (dark) to the other (bright) has been made. The experimental hypothesis is:
“There will be a large difference between the number of insect in a dark side and the number in a bright side of the chamber.”
Which one could be the three confounding variables?

A - Varying humidity across the chamber
B - The orientation of the chamber
C - The age of the insects
D - The non-reflective material from which the chamber is made
E - The type of light source used
F - Varying temperature across the chamber

I was thinking A, E and F but there is something wrong even A,B and C is wrong
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
can someone tell me which one is correct please
 
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  • #2
Is there one correct answer or are there multiple correct answers?

I think there are justifications for all the answer choices.

But first, what is a definition of a confounding variable, in your own words?
 
  • #3
no i just need you to choose three confounding variables from the list please.
A confounding variable that should be kept constant/ controlled.
 
  • #4
yasmin21 said:
no i just need you to choose three confounding variables from the list please.
A confounding variable that should be kept constant/ controlled.

You are asking us to do your work for you. That is not how things work on this forum. Please read the forum rules.
 
  • #5


It is difficult to determine which variables could be considered confounding without more information about the experiment. However, some possible confounding variables could include:

1. The time of day the experiment is conducted: This could affect the insects' natural behavior and preferences.

2. The type and amount of food available in each section of the chamber: If one side has more food, it could attract more insects regardless of the light intensity.

3. The presence of predators or other environmental factors in the chamber: This could influence the insects' behavior and cause them to avoid certain areas.

It is important to carefully consider and control for all possible confounding variables in an experiment to ensure accurate and reliable results.
 

Related to Which one could be the three confounding variables?

1. What are confounding variables?

Confounding variables are factors that can influence the results of an experiment, making it difficult to determine the true relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

2. How do I identify confounding variables in my experiment?

To identify confounding variables, you need to carefully consider all possible factors that could affect the outcome of your experiment. It is important to control for these variables or include them as additional independent variables in your study.

3. Can confounding variables be completely eliminated?

No, it is not always possible to completely eliminate confounding variables. However, researchers can use various techniques such as random assignment and matching to minimize their impact on the results of the study.

4. What are some examples of confounding variables?

Some examples of confounding variables include age, gender, socioeconomic status, and environmental factors. These variables can affect the outcome of a study and may need to be controlled for or measured in order to accurately interpret the results.

5. How can I prevent confounding variables from affecting my results?

To prevent confounding variables from affecting your results, it is important to carefully design your experiment and control for as many variables as possible. Additionally, you can use statistical techniques such as regression analysis to account for any potential confounding variables in your data analysis.

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