What term describes a variable that is manipulated or changed to observe its effect on another variable?

The term that describes a variable that is manipulated or changed to observe its effect on another variable is the independent variable. In experimental research, researchers systematically adjust the independent variable to study how it influences or predicts changes in another variable, known as the dependent variable. By altering the independent variable, researchers can determine causal relationships and better understand the dynamics between different factors.

In contrast, the dependent variable is the outcome that is measured, and its changes depend on variations made to the independent variable. Confounding variables are extraneous factors that could influence the dependent variable and potentially skew the results if not controlled. Controlled variables, on the other hand, are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure that any observed effect on the dependent variable is solely due to the manipulation of the independent variable. This careful design allows researchers to draw valid conclusions about the relationships among the variables involved.