How do independent and dependent variables differ in an experiment?

In an experiment, the independent variable serves as the factor that the researcher alters or manipulates to observe its effects. This variable is under the control of the experimenter and is intentionally changed to see how it impacts other factors. In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome or response that is measured during the experiment. It reflects the effect of the changes made to the independent variable.

For instance, if a researcher is studying how varying levels of sunlight affect plant growth, the amount of sunlight would be the independent variable that is manipulated, while the plant growth (measured in height or number of leaves, for example) would be the dependent variable that is observed.

This distinction is crucial in experimental research, as it allows researchers to establish causal relationships between variables and draw informed conclusions based on their observations.