dependent variable

n. The outcome factor or variable of interest in an experiment that is compared to determine whether differences exist between experimental conditions as a result of manipulation or treatment conditions. Within basic experimental design, changes in the dependent variable are measured to examine the relative impact of another variable (the independent variable). For example, in an experiment to examine the impact of alcohol consumption on memory, the researcher will vary the amount of alcohol consumed (independent variable) to examine changes in memory (dependent variable). The dependent variable is measured and compared in order to draw conclusions about the relative impact of the independent variable.

- BJM