What defines an independent variable in an experiment?

The independent variable in an experiment is defined as the factor that is changed or manipulated by the researcher to observe its effects on other variables. This is crucial in scientific experiments because it allows the researcher to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. By altering this variable, you can assess how it influences dependent variables, which are the factors observed or measured as outcomes.

In essence, the independent variable is what the experimenter varies deliberately, aiming to see how it impacts the results or responses of the dependent variables. This manipulation is key to testing hypotheses and gaining a deeper understanding of the phenomena being studied.