What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

In an experiment, the dependent variable is the one that is measured or observed to assess the effects of the independent variable. It represents the outcome or the response that is dependent on changes made to the independent variable. This is crucial in establishing cause-and-effect relationships, as researchers collect data on the dependent variable to determine how it is influenced by the manipulation of the independent variable.

The other choices refer to different types of variables in an experimental setup. The variable that changes generally refers to the dependent variable itself but lacks specificity as it doesn't encompass the idea that it is being measured. The manipulated variable is actually the independent variable because it is the one that researchers intentionally change to observe its effect on the dependent variable. The controlled variable, on the other hand, are elements that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure that the results are due solely to the manipulation of the independent variable.