Independent variables are factors that are manipulated by researchers to measure their effect on a dependent variable. They are also known as predictor variables or experimental variables. An independent variable is the variable that scientists change intentionally in order to observe the effect on a dependent variable.
Dependent variables are factors that are measured by researchers in order to detect the effect of an independent variable. They are also known as response variables or outcome variables. A dependent variable is the variable that scientists measure, often to determine how it is affected by an independent variable.