Question

(b) which one of the following best describes the explanatory (independent) and response (dependent) variables?
the explanatory variable is the taste score and the response variable is the vanilla status.
the explanatory variable is the vanilla status and the response variable is the cup color.
the explanatory variable is the vanilla status and the response variable is the taste score.
the explanatory variable is the cup color and the response variable is the taste score.
(c) suppose there is a significant difference in taste scores between the smoothie with vanilla and the smoothie without. has the research team found evidence to support a claim that the difference in taste scores is caused by the vanilla in the smoothie? choose the best answer below.
yes. its possible as long as the procedure was well - designed and all other variables that might influence the result were controlled for.
no. there is no procedure, however well - designed, that can give evidence to support a claim of a cause - and - effect relationship.
no. because the customers dont know which cup has the added vanilla, it is not possible to find evidence to support any claim about a relationship between the taste score and the vanilla in the smoothie.

Explanation:

(b) In an experiment, the explanatory variable is the one that is manipulated or changed to observe its effect on the response variable. Here, the presence or absence of vanilla (vanilla status) is what is being changed to see its impact on the taste score, so the vanilla status is the explanatory variable and the taste score is the response variable.
(c) For a cause - and - effect claim, a well - designed experiment with controlled variables is needed. Since customers don't know which cup has vanilla, if the procedure is well - designed and other variables are controlled, it is possible to support a cause - and - effect claim.

Answer:

(b) The explanatory variable is the vanilla status and the response variable is the taste score.
(c) Yes. It's possible as long as the procedure was well - designed and all other variables that might influence the result were controlled for.