Which of the following best describes a dependent variable?

A dependent variable is defined as the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment to assess the effects of changing other variables, specifically the independent variable. In scientific research, the independent variable is the one that is manipulated by the researcher to explore its impact. The dependent variable, on the other hand, reflects the outcome or response as a result of these manipulations.

In practical terms, if a scientist is testing how different amounts of sunlight affect the growth of plants, the amount of sunlight is the independent variable (manipulated) and the growth of the plants is the dependent variable (measured). As the amount of sunlight changes, the growth of the plants will vary accordingly, illustrating the direct relationship between these two variables.

In this context, the other options cannot adequately describe the nature of a dependent variable. For instance, the idea that the dependent variable is manipulated to observe effects mischaracterizes its role in an experiment. Meanwhile, suggesting that it is constant overlooks its variability in response to the independent variable. Claiming that it is not observed contradicts the foundational principle of scientific experimentation, where the dependent variable is essential for determining outcomes.