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Dependent

Definition:

Dependent is a term used in mathematics and statistics to describe a variable that is influenced or determined by another variable, known as the independent variable.

Explanation:

  • Independent variable: The variable that is not influenced by any other variable and is the cause of variation.
  • Dependent variable: The variable that is influenced or depends on the value of the independent variable.

Example:

In the equation y = 2x + 1,

  • y is the dependent variable, as its value depends on the value of x.
  • x is the independent variable, as it is not influenced by any other variable.

Key Points:

  • Dependent variable is influenced by the independent variable.
  • The value of the dependent variable changes in accordance with the variations in the independent variable.
  • The relationship between the independent and dependent variables can be positive, negative, or zero.

FAQs

  1. What is the simple meaning of dependent?

    A dependent is someone who relies on another person for financial support, such as a child or a family member.

  2. Who is a dependent in a family?

    A dependent in a family is usually a child, spouse, or elderly parent who relies on another family member for financial and other support.

  3. What is the difference between dependent and dependant?

    “Dependent” is commonly used in American English to describe someone who relies on another, while “dependant” is the British spelling. Both have the same meaning.

  4. Is a child a dependant or dependent?

    A child is a dependent in American English, and a dependant in British English, but both terms refer to the same relationship.

  5. What is an example of a dependant?

    An example of a dependant is a child who relies on their parents for housing, food, and financial support.

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