What is the characteristic of an independent variable?

The independent variable is defined as the factor in an experiment that is manipulated or changed by the researcher to observe its effects on a dependent variable. It is termed "independent" because its variation is not dependent on another variable; instead, it serves as the cause in a cause-and-effect relationship. For instance, in a study examining the effects of different amounts of sunlight on plant growth, the amount of sunlight is the independent variable because the researcher controls it and it is not influenced by other factors in the experiment.

This distinction is crucial in experimental design, allowing researchers to draw valid conclusions about the relationships between variables. In contrast to the independent variable, the dependent variable changes in response to the manipulation of the independent variable, highlighting their interdependent relationship. Thus, identifying the characteristic that the independent variable does not change and remains "independent" emphasizes its role in the experimental process.