Variable vs. Constant: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on November 24, 2023
A Variable is subject to change, while a Constant remains unchanging over time.
Key Differences
A Variable, by definition, denotes something that can vary or change depending on different factors or conditions. In contrast, a Constant is something that remains steady and unchanged, irrespective of external influences.
In the realm of mathematics and science, a Variable represents quantities that can assume different values. On the other hand, a Constant symbolizes a value that is fixed and does not alter, providing stability in equations and formulas.
When thinking about characteristics or properties, a Variable attribute might change under different circumstances or over time. A Constant attribute, however, remains consistent and can be relied upon to stay the same.
Variables play a crucial role in experiments and research, where they might be manipulated or observed for changes. Constants, conversely, ensure that other factors stay consistent, allowing for accurate assessments of Variables.
In everyday language, referring to something as a Variable suggests uncertainty or fluctuation, while labeling something as a Constant implies reliability and steadfastness.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Subject to change
Remains unchanged
Role in Mathematics
Represents changeable quantities
Represents unchangeable values
Characteristics
Alters under different circumstances
Consistently remains the same
In Experiments
Can be manipulated or observed
Kept stable for accuracy
Implication in Language
Suggests uncertainty or fluctuation
Suggests reliability and steadfastness
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Variable and Constant Definitions
Variable
A symbol in math that represents an unknown quantity.
In the equation x + 2 = 5, 'x' is the Variable.
Constant
A quantity that remains unchanged in mathematical equations.
The speed of light is a Constant in physics.
Variable
An element, feature, or factor that can vary.
There are several Variables affecting the stock market today.
Constant
Faithful and dependable.
He's been a Constant friend through tough times.
Variable
Subject to variation or changes.
His moods are extremely Variable.
Constant
Not changing or varying; continuous
A constant gentle rain.
Drove at a constant speed.
Variable
Likely to change or vary; subject to variation; changeable.
Constant
Happening regularly or repeatedly; continual
The constant barking of the dog next door.
Constant interruptions.
Variable
Inconstant; fickle.
Constant
Unchanging in nature, value, or extent; invariable
A constant wind speed.
Variable
(Biology) Tending to exhibit genetic variation or variation in a physical trait
Geographically variable color patterns.
Constant
Steadfast in purpose, loyalty, or affection; faithful
A constant friend.
Variable
(Mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value.
Constant
Something that is unchanging or invariable.
Variable
Something that varies or is prone to variation.
Constant
A quantity assumed to have a fixed value in a specified mathematical context.
Variable
(Astronomy) A variable star.
Constant
An experimental or theoretical condition, factor, or quantity that does not vary or that is regarded as invariant in specified circumstances.
Variable
A quantity capable of assuming any of a set of values.
Constant
Unchanged through time or space; permanent.
Variable
A symbol representing such a quantity. For example, in the expression a2 + b2 = c2, a,b, and c are variables.
Constant
Consistently recurring over time; persistent.
Variable
Able to vary or be varied.
Variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity; a variable resistor
Constant
Steady in purpose, action, feeling, etc.
Variable
Likely to vary.
Constant
Firm; solid; not fluid.
Variable
Marked by diversity or difference.
Constant
(obsolete) Consistent; logical.
Variable
(mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value.
Constant
Bounded above by a constant.
Constant time
Constant space
Variable
(biology) Tending to deviate from a normal or recognized type.
Constant
That which is permanent or invariable.
Variable
Something that is variable.
Constant
(algebra) A quantity that remains at a fixed value throughout a given discussion.
Variable
Something whose value may be dictated or discovered.
There are several variables to consider here.
Constant
(science) Any property of an experiment, determined numerically, that does not change under given circumstances.
Variable
(mathematics) A symbol representing a variable.
Constant
(computing) An identifier that is bound to an invariant value; a fixed value given a name to aid in readability of source code.
Variable
(programming) A named memory location in which a program can store intermediate results and from which it can read them.
Constant
Firm; solid; fixed; immovable; - opposed to fluid.
If . . . you mix them, you may turn these two fluid liquors into a constant body.
Variable
(astronomy) A variable star.
Constant
Not liable, or given, to change; permanent; regular; continuous; continually recurring; steadfast; faithful; not fickle. Opposite of changeable and variable.
Both loving one fair maid, they yet remained constant friends.
I am constant to my purposes.
His gifts, his constant courtship, nothing gained.
Onward the constant current sweeps.
Variable
(nautical) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.
Constant
Remaining unchanged or invariable, as a quantity, force, law, etc.
Variable
Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.
Constant
Consistent; logical.
Variable
Having the capacity of varying or changing; capable of alternation in any manner; changeable; as, variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity.
Constant
That which is not subject to change; that which is invariable.
Variable
Liable to vary; too susceptible of change; mutable; fickle; unsteady; inconstant; as, the affections of men are variable; passions are variable.
Lest that thy love prove likewise variable.
His heart, I know, how variable and vain!
Constant
A quantity that does not change its value; - used in countradistinction to variable.
Variable
That which is variable; that which varies, or is subject to change.
Constant
A number whose value, when ascertained (as by observation) and substituted in a general mathematical formula expressing an astronomical law, completely determines that law and enables predictions to be made of its effect in particular cases.
Variable
A quantity which may increase or decrease; a quantity which admits of an infinite number of values in the same expression; a variable quantity; as, in the equation x2 - y2 = R2, x and y are variables.
Constant
A number expressing some property or condition of a substance or of an instrument of precision; as, the dielectric constant of quartz; the collimation constant of a transit instrument.
Variable
A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.
Constant
A data structure that does not change during the course of execution of a program. It may be a number, a string, or a more complex data structure; - contrasted with variable.
Variable
Something that is likely to vary; something that is subject to variation;
The weather is one variable to be considered
Constant
A quantity that does not vary
Variable
A quantity that can assume any of a set of values
Constant
A number representing a quantity assumed to have a fixed value in a specified mathematical context;
The velocity of light is a constant
Variable
A star that varies noticeably in brightness
Constant
Persistent in occurrence and unvarying in nature;
Maintained a constant temperature
A constant beat
Principles of unvarying validity
A steady breeze
Variable
A symbol (like x or y) that is used in mathematical or logical expressions to represent a variable quantity
Constant
Continually recurring or continuing without interruption;
Constant repetition of the exercise
Constant chatter of monkeys
Variable
Liable to or capable of change;
Rainfall in the tropics is notoriously variable
Variable winds
Variable expenses
Constant
Steadfast in purpose or devotion or affection;
A man constant in adherence to his ideals
A constant lover
Constant as the northern star
Variable
Marked by diversity or difference;
The varying angles of roof slope
Nature is infinitely variable
Constant
Uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing;
The ceaseless thunder of surf
In constant pain
Night and day we live with the incessant noise of the city
The never-ending search for happiness
The perpetual struggle to maintain standards in a democracy
Man's unceasing warfare with drought and isolation
Unremitting demands of hunger
Variable
(used of a device) designed so that a property (as e.g. light) can be varied;
A variable capacitor
Variable filters in front of the mercury xenon lights
Constant
Remaining unchanged over time.
Her Constant dedication to the job is commendable.
Variable
Something that can change or be changed.
The weather is a classic Variable in outdoor events.
Constant
Continuously occurring or persistently recurring.
The drone of machinery was a Constant presence in the factory.
Variable
Something that is not consistent or having a fixed pattern.
Variable winds made the sailing race challenging.
Constant
A situation or state of affairs that does not change.
Change seems to be the only Constant in life.
FAQs
Is the value of a Constant always the same in every scenario?
While a Constant remains unchanged within a specific context, different scenarios might have different constants.
How do Variables impact research studies?
Variables are factors in studies that can influence outcomes, and researchers often manipulate or observe them.
What defines a Constant in mathematics?
In mathematics, a Constant is a value that remains fixed and unaltered.
Can a Variable become a Constant in an experiment?
Yes, a Variable can be controlled and kept unchanging, making it a Constant in that context.
What is the primary characteristic of a Variable?
A Variable is primarily characterized by its ability to change.
Can the term Variable refer to non-mathematical situations?
Yes, Variable can refer to anything subject to change, like Variable weather conditions.
Is a Constant always a numerical value?
No, a Constant can be any unchanging factor, not just numerical.
How does a Variable differ in algebra versus statistics?
In algebra, a Variable represents an unknown quantity, while in statistics, it might represent data points or attributes subject to variation.
Are all Variables unpredictable?
Not necessarily; while Variables can change, they might follow predictable patterns or trends.
What's an example of a Constant in daily life?
The number of hours in a day, 24, is a Constant in daily life.
Why are Constants essential in scientific experiments?
Constants ensure other factors remain steady, allowing researchers to accurately study the effects of Variables.
Can Constants help provide stability?
Yes, Constants offer a stable, unchanging factor in varying contexts.
Do all equations have both Variables and Constants?
No, some equations might only have Variables, only Constants, or a mix of both.
Are Constants always known quantities?
Typically, Constants are known quantities in a given context, but they might need to be determined in some scenarios.
Do Constants have a role beyond math and science?
Yes, Constants can symbolize unchanging truths or principles in various fields, including philosophy and ethics.
Can a Variable represent more than one value?
Yes, a Variable can take on multiple values, especially in different instances or scenarios.
How can understanding Variables and Constants aid problem-solving?
Recognizing what can change (Variables) and what remains steady (Constants) provides clarity when analyzing and resolving issues.
Why might we use a Variable in a mathematical expression?
Variables allow for generality in expressions and can represent unknowns that we aim to determine.
Can Constants ever change in different contexts?
Yes, what's Constant in one context may vary in another.
Why might a Variable be essential in decision-making?
Variables represent factors that might change, so considering them helps make informed decisions.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
