Statistics and independent variables

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of an independent variable in statistics and its relationship with other variables. It is mentioned that through testing, it is discovered that the variable A causes "something" when values of B, C, and D are equal to B2, C2, and D2. However, it is also noted that in some cases, A may not cause anything when values of B, C, and D are equal to B1, C1, and D1. The question of how to deal with such situations in statistics is raised, and whether it can be concluded that A only causes "something" with specific values of B, C, and D or if it causes something regardless of the variables it depends on
  • #1
Cinitiator
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Homework Statement


Let's say the independent variable (in statistical terms) A depends on variables B, C and D. We perform tests, and find out that the variable A causes "something" with the values of B, C and D equal to B2, C2 and D2.

Let's also say that A with variables B, C and D of B1, C1 and D1 won't cause "anything" (as in, won't cause "something").

How does one deal with such problems in statistics? Whenever some variable depends on other variables to a great extent (even if these variables aren't external), is it usually said that it has been concluded that variable A causes something ONLY with variables B, C and D equal to B2, C2 and D2?

Or is it said that variable A causes something, regardless of the variables that it depends on?


Homework Equations


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The Attempt at a Solution


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  • #2
Cinitiator said:
Let's say the independent variable (in statistical terms) A depends on variables B, C and D. We perform tests, and find out that the variable A causes "something" with the values of B, C and D equal to B2, C2 and D2.
So you discover that A is not an independent variable? It might better serve your query if you were to come up with a real world example to illustrate your question, and also indicate what year of maths you are studying at school.

Perhaps the word "correlates" might be useful here, as it doesn't ascribe a causal relationship. (Example: the height of a man correlates strongly with the length of the trousers he buys.)
 

1. What is a statistic?

A statistic is a numerical measurement that describes a characteristic of a sample. It is used to summarize and analyze data, and can provide insights into trends and patterns within a population.

2. What are independent variables in statistics?

Independent variables are variables that are manipulated or controlled by the researcher in an experiment. They are not affected by other variables and are used to measure the effect of changes in other variables, known as dependent variables.

3. How are independent variables identified in a study?

Independent variables are identified by their ability to be changed or controlled by the researcher. They are often denoted by X in statistical equations and are typically plotted on the horizontal axis in graphs and charts.

4. What is the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables?

The relationship between independent variables and dependent variables is known as cause and effect. Changes in the independent variable are believed to cause changes in the dependent variable. This relationship is often studied and analyzed in experiments and statistical studies.

5. Can independent variables be categorical or continuous?

Yes, independent variables can be either categorical or continuous. Categorical variables have distinct categories or groups, while continuous variables have a range of values. The type of independent variable used in a study will depend on the research question and design.

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