The Fractionator Principle. The fractionator principle is one of the important concepts used in stereology. The importance of this principle cannot be overlooked. It appears in many different places. Although it looks different depending on how it is used, the principle is the same.
In mathematics, a variable whose value is determined by the value of an independent variable. For example, in the formula for the area of a circle, A = Ïr2, A is the dependent variable, as its value depends on the value of the radius (r). Compare independent variable.
Definition of INDEPENDENT VARIABLE. : a mathematical variable that is independent of the other variables in an expression or function and whose value determines one or more of the values of the other variables. See independent variable defined for kids. ADVERTISEMENT.