Which term describes the variable that is measured in an experiment to assess the effect of the independent variable?

The term that describes the variable measured in an experiment to assess the effect of the independent variable is the dependent variable. In an experimental setup, researchers manipulate the independent variable, which is the factor they believe will cause a change. The dependent variable, on the other hand, is what they measure to determine if there was an effect from that manipulation.

For example, if researchers are studying how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth, the amount of sunlight would be the independent variable, while the growth of the plants (measured in height, number of leaves, etc.) is the dependent variable. The relationship between these two variables allows researchers to draw conclusions about the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, thereby providing evidence for their hypothesis.

Understanding this distinction is critical in experimental research as it aids in correctly designing experiments and analyzing data.