In a marine biology study investigating the impact of ocean noise pollution on marine organisms, a researcher conducted a field experiment on the foraging behaviour of hermit crabs (Pagurus bernhardus) at two separate tidal pools (Pool Alpha and Pool Beta). The researcher set up underwater speakers to play specific soundscapes and placed a standardized scent bait (crushed mussel) at a fixed distance from the crabs.
The crabs were exposed to a playback of natural, ambient reef sounds (snapping shrimp, gentle wave action) played through the speakers for 10 minutes. The researcher monitored each crab and recorded whether it successfully navigated to and located the bait within the 10-minute limit.
The crabs were exposed to a playback of anthropogenic motorboat engine noise played through the speakers for 10 minutes. The playback volume, frequency spectrum profile, and distance of the bait were calibrated to match the setup at Pool Alpha. The researcher monitored each crab and recorded whether it successfully navigated to and located the bait within the 10-minute limit.
Identify the dependent variable in this investigation.
Practise AQA A Level Psychology Scientific processes with exam-style questions for A Level Psychology. 100 questions, matched to the AQA A Level Psychology (7182) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.