What is the difference between a dependent variable and an independent variable in an experiment?

In an experiment, the dependent variable and the independent variable are key components used to explore cause-and-effect relationships. Here's the distinction between the two:

1.Independent Variable:

• The independent variable is the factor that the experimenter manipulates or changes deliberately. It is the variable that is under the control of the researcher.
• This variable is purposely altered to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
• In an experiment, the independent variable is the "cause" or the factor that is believed to have an impact on the dependent variable.
• For instance, in a study investigating the effect of different doses of a drug on plant growth, the amount of the drug administered to the plants would be the independent variable.

2.Dependent Variable:

• The dependent variable is the factor that is observed, measured, or affected as a result of changes in the independent variable.
• It is the outcome or response that is being studied and analyzed in response to variations in the independent variable.
• In an experiment, the dependent variable is the "effect" or the variable that the researcher is interested in understanding or predicting.
• Using the earlier example, in the study examining the effect of different drug doses on plant growth, the plant growth itself (height, number of leaves, etc.) would be the dependent variable.