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Re: [Phys-l] explanatory and response variables (was calibration )

Bob LaMontagne wrote:
-----Original Message-----

I fail to see how quantities like log h or log t are
either dependent or independent.
They are simply "related".

True - but, in the experiment described, the apparatus can be set for
either pre-determined time or predetermined distance of fall. I tell my
students that the "independent variable" is the one they control, the
"dependent variable" is the one they measure as a result of setting the
independent variable.

**********************************************
"Magnetism, as you may recall from physics class, is a
powerful force which causes certain objects to be attracted
to refrigerators." -- Dave Barry
**********************************************

Dr. George Spagna
Physics Department
Randolph-Macon College
P.O. Box 5005
Ashland, VA 23005-5505
phone: (804) 752-7344
fax: (804) 752-4724
e-mail: gspagna@rmc.edu
http://faculty.rmc.edu/gspagna