Which variable is measured during an experiment?

In an experiment, the variable that is measured is known as the dependent variable. This variable is influenced by the independent variable, which is the one that the experimenter manipulates. For instance, if you are investigating how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth, the plant growth (measured in height or biomass) is the dependent variable because it depends on the amount of sunlight the plants receive.

The purpose of measuring the dependent variable is to observe any changes that occur as a result of the manipulation of the independent variable. This helps researchers establish cause-and-effect relationships within the experiment. By clearly defining and measuring the dependent variable, the results can provide insights into how external factors influence the responses being observed.

Understanding the role of control and extraneous variables is also vital for experimental design, as they help ensure that the results are due to the independent variable alone and not influenced by other factors. However, they do not serve the purpose of being measured in the same way that the dependent variable does.