In research, variables are characteristics that can take on different values, such as height, age, temperature, or test scores. The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or varied in an experimental study to explore its effects. It is not influenced by any other variables in the study and is also known as the explanatory variable or predictor. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the variable that depends on other factors that are measured and is expected to change as a result of an experimental manipulation of the independent variable. It is often referred to as the response, symptoms, or outcome, and is the focus of the research study. For example, in a study on the effects of pollution on asthma, the incidence of asthma would be the dependent variable, while the pollution level would be the independent variable.
In summary, the independent variable is the cause, while the dependent variable is the effect in a research study.
