Which of the following is a characteristic of the dependent variable?

The correct answer highlights that the dependent variable is the aspect of an experiment that is measured to assess the effects of changes made to the independent variable. When researchers conduct an experiment, they manipulate the independent variable to see how it influences the dependent variable. Therefore, the dependent variable is essential for determining whether there is a significant effect as a result of the experimental manipulation.

This characteristic is critical for understanding the relationship between variables in research designs. By measuring the dependent variable, researchers can evaluate the outcomes of their interventions, thereby supporting their hypotheses or shedding light on the phenomena being studied.