Constant vs. Variable — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on September 16, 2023

A constant remains unchanged over time, while a variable is subject to change. Constant denotes stability and permanence and variable implies dynamism and change.

Difference Between Constant and Variable

Table of Contents

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Key Differences

In the realms of mathematics and science, a constant represents a value that does not change. Once its value is defined, it remains fixed for the entirety of the discussion or experiment. Conversely, a variable stands as a symbol that can represent different values; it varies based on conditions or equations.

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While the term constant denotes stability and permanence, the term variable implies dynamism and change. A constant's primary characteristic is its unwavering nature, whether in mathematical equations, scientific experiments, or everyday scenarios. On the other hand, the essence of a variable is its flexibility and adaptability.

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Take a scientific experiment as an instance: when studying the effect of light on plant growth, if the amount of water given to each plant remains the same throughout the experiment, it is a constant. Meanwhile, the amount of light, if it changes for different groups of plants, becomes the variable.

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In programming, a constant might refer to a value that a developer decides should not be altered as the code executes, ensuring consistency. In contrast, a variable in programming holds data that can change as the program runs, offering flexibility.

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Comparison Chart

Definition

A value that does not change.

A symbol that can represent different values.

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Nature

Unchanging.

Subject to change.

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Usage

Represents fixed values in equations.

Holds changeable data in equations.

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Example Scenario

Water amount in a plant experiment.

Light exposure in a plant experiment.

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Role in Programming

Value not altered during code execution.

Holds data that can change during execution.

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Compare with Definitions

Constant

Permanent and unvarying.

His constant dedication to the project ensured its success.

Sep 14, 2023

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Variable

A symbol representing an unknown value in mathematics.

In the equation x + 5 = 10, x is the variable.

Sep 14, 2023

Constant

Not changing or varying; continuous

A constant gentle rain.

Drove at a constant speed.

Sep 06, 2021

Variable

An element or factor that can change.

In our experiment, temperature was the main variable.

Sep 14, 2023

Constant

Happening regularly or repeatedly; continual

The constant barking of the dog next door.

Constant interruptions.

Sep 06, 2021

Variable

Likely to change or vary; subject to variation; changeable.

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Constant

Unchanging in nature, value, or extent; invariable

A constant wind speed.

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Variable

Inconstant; fickle.

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Constant

Steadfast in purpose, loyalty, or affection; faithful

A constant friend.

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Variable

(Biology) Tending to exhibit genetic variation or variation in a physical trait

Geographically variable color patterns.

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Constant

Something that is unchanging or invariable.

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Variable

(Mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value.

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Constant

A quantity assumed to have a fixed value in a specified mathematical context.

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Variable

Something that varies or is prone to variation.

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Constant

An experimental or theoretical condition, factor, or quantity that does not vary or that is regarded as invariant in specified circumstances.

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Variable

(Astronomy) A variable star.

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Constant

Unchanged through time or space; permanent.

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Variable

A quantity capable of assuming any of a set of values.

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Constant

Consistently recurring over time; persistent.

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Variable

A symbol representing such a quantity. For example, in the expression a2 + b2 = c2, a,b, and c are variables.

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Constant

Steady in purpose, action, feeling, etc.

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Variable

Able to vary or be varied.

Variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity; a variable resistor

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Constant

Firm; solid; not fluid.

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Variable

Likely to vary.

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Constant

(obsolete) Consistent; logical.

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Variable

Marked by diversity or difference.

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Constant

Bounded above by a constant.

Constant time

Constant space

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Variable

(mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value.

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Constant

That which is permanent or invariable.

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Variable

(biology) Tending to deviate from a normal or recognized type.

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Constant

(algebra) A quantity that remains at a fixed value throughout a given discussion.

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Variable

Something that is variable.

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Constant

(science) Any property of an experiment, determined numerically, that does not change under given circumstances.

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Variable

Something whose value may be dictated or discovered.

There are several variables to consider here.

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Constant

(computing) An identifier that is bound to an invariant value; a fixed value given a name to aid in readability of source code.

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Variable

(mathematics) A symbol representing a variable.

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Constant

Firm; solid; fixed; immovable; - opposed to fluid.

If . . . you mix them, you may turn these two fluid liquors into a constant body.

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Variable

(programming) A named memory location in which a program can store intermediate results and from which it can read them.

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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.

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Variable

(astronomy) A variable star.

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Constant

Remaining unchanged or invariable, as a quantity, force, law, etc.

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Variable

(nautical) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.

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Constant

Consistent; logical.

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Variable

Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.

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Constant

That which is not subject to change; that which is invariable.

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Variable

Having the capacity of varying or changing; capable of alternation in any manner; changeable; as, variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity.

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Constant

A quantity that does not change its value; - used in countradistinction to variable.

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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!

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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.

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Variable

That which is variable; that which varies, or is subject to change.

Sep 06, 2021

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.

Sep 06, 2021

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.

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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.

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Variable

A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.

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Constant

A quantity that does not vary

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Variable

Something that is likely to vary; something that is subject to variation;

The weather is one variable to be considered

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Constant

A number representing a quantity assumed to have a fixed value in a specified mathematical context;

The velocity of light is a constant

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Variable

A quantity that can assume any of a set of values

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Constant

Persistent in occurrence and unvarying in nature;

Maintained a constant temperature

A constant beat

Principles of unvarying validity

A steady breeze

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Variable

A star that varies noticeably in brightness

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Constant

Continually recurring or continuing without interruption;

Constant repetition of the exercise

Constant chatter of monkeys

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Variable

A symbol (like x or y) that is used in mathematical or logical expressions to represent a variable quantity

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Constant

Steadfast in purpose or devotion or affection;

A man constant in adherence to his ideals

A constant lover

Constant as the northern star

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Variable

Liable to or capable of change;

Rainfall in the tropics is notoriously variable

Variable winds

Variable expenses

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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

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Variable

Marked by diversity or difference;

The varying angles of roof slope

Nature is infinitely variable

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Constant

A value that remains the same over time.

The speed of light in a vacuum is a universal constant.

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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

Sep 06, 2021

Constant

Something that remains unchanged in equations.

In the equation E=mc^2, c is the constant representing the speed of light.

Sep 14, 2023

Variable

Something that differs or changes based on conditions.

Economic growth is a variable dependent on multiple factors.

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Constant

Unchanging under different conditions.

No matter how much pressure you apply, the boiling point of water at sea level remains a constant.

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Variable

Liable to vary or change.

Weather is a variable factor in outdoor planning.

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Constant

Continual; regularly recurring.

Her constant chatter kept him entertained during the long drive.

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Variable

Not consistent or having a fixed pattern.

The variable performance of the team led to unpredictable results.

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Common Curiosities

In what scenarios might a Variable be used?

Variables are used in mathematical equations, scientific experiments, and programming to represent changeable values.

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What is a Constant?

A constant is a value that remains unchanged over time.

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Can a Constant ever change?

By definition, a constant remains fixed and does not change.

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Are there any famous Constants in science?

Yes, like the gravitational constant (G) or Planck's constant (h).

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In algebra, how do we typically represent Variables?

Variables are usually represented by letters, such as x, y, or z.

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Do all equations have both Constants and Variables?

Not necessarily. Some equations might only have constants, some only variables, and some both.

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How do Variables enhance flexibility in equations?

Variables allow for different values to be plugged in, accommodating various scenarios or conditions.

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Can a Variable become a Constant in different scenarios?

Yes, if a previously changeable value is fixed in a different context, it can act as a constant.

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How is a Variable defined?

A variable is a symbol or element that can represent different values and is subject to change.

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Why is it important to distinguish between Constant and Variable?

Distinguishing helps in understanding stability versus change in contexts like mathematical problems or scientific experiments.

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Are there constants in programming?

Yes, constants in programming are values set to remain unchanged during the code's execution.

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Is the term "constant" only used in mathematics and science?

No, it's used in everyday language to describe something unchanging or continual.

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Why are Variables crucial in research?

Variables allow researchers to test hypotheses, study relations, and observe effects under varying conditions.

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How do Constants contribute to the reliability of experiments?

By keeping certain elements constant, researchers can ensure that observed changes are due to the variable being tested.

Sep 16, 2023

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Written by

Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.