Question

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?




Independent variables are observed and measured, while dependent variables are manipulated by the researcher.




Independent variables are categorical, while dependent variables are continuous.




Independent variables are manipulated by the researcher, while dependent variables are observed and measured.




Independent variables are directly related to the research question, while dependent variables are not.

Answer 1

The correct distinction between independent and dependent variables is:

**Independent variables are manipulated by the researcher, while dependent variables are observed and measured.**

In an experiment, the independent variable is the one that the researcher changes or controls to observe its effect, while the dependent variable is the outcome or response that is measured to see if it is influenced by changes in the independent variable.

To clarify the other options:

- Independent variables are not necessarily categorical; they can be continuous as well. The same goes for dependent variables.
- Both independent and dependent variables are related to the research question, but they serve different roles in the study.