What is characterized as a dependent variable in an experiment?

In an experiment, the dependent variable is defined as the aspect that is measured or observed in response to changes made to the independent variable. It reflects the effects of the manipulation applied to the independent variable. For instance, if a scientist is studying the effect of light on plant growth, the height of the plants (the dependent variable) is what is measured to see how it changes in response to varying light conditions (the independent variable).

This relationship is crucial in understanding cause and effect within an experiment. The dependent variable provides data that can be analyzed to support or refute a hypothesis, making it central to experimental design and evaluation. By observing how it changes, researchers can draw conclusions about the relationship between the variables involved.