What is defined as the dependent or responding variable in an experiment?

The correct answer identifies the dependent or responding variable as the result of the change in the experimental group due to the manipulated variable. In any experiment, the dependent variable is what researchers measure to observe the effect of altering another variable, known as the independent variable.

For instance, in a study examining how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth, the amount of plant growth (height, weight, number of leaves, etc.) would be the dependent variable that responds to the changes made (the sunlight exposure). This aspect highlights the core purpose of an experiment: to understand how changes in one factor (the independent variable) impact another factor (the dependent variable).

Other options describe different facets of experimental design but do not accurately define the dependent variable. A predefined conclusion is typically a hypothesis or anticipated outcome rather than a measure taken during testing. A factor that remains constant is referred to as a control variable, essential for maintaining the experiment's integrity by ensuring that other variables do not influence the outcome. The variable that never changes is not relevant in experimental scenarios, as all variables in a dynamic experiment are subject to potential manipulation, except for the controlled variables.