Which variable is manipulated in an experimental study?

In an experimental study, the variable that is manipulated to observe its effect on another variable is known as the independent variable. This is the factor that researchers deliberately change to test its impact on the dependent variable, which is the outcome or response that is measured. By manipulating the independent variable, researchers can establish a cause-and-effect relationship, allowing for a clearer understanding of how varying levels or conditions of the independent variable influence the dependent variable.

In the context of an experiment, the control variable refers to the elements that are kept constant to ensure that any changes in the dependent variable can be attributed directly to the manipulation of the independent variable. Extraneous variables are outside factors that could potentially influence the dependent variable but are not of primary interest; these are typically controlled or accounted for to maintain the integrity of the experiment. The dependent variable is the outcome that is observed and measured after changes to the independent variable. Therefore, the identification of the independent variable as the manipulated one is crucial to the design and interpretation of experimental research.