What is the measured outcome in an experiment called?

Correct answer: Dependent variable

Direct answer: Option C is correct. In an experiment, the dependent variable is the outcome that is measured or observed. Usually, the researcher changes one factor, called the independent variable, and observes how the measured outcome responds. For example, if different amounts of light are given to plants, light is the independent variable and plant growth is the dependent variable. Option A is wrong because the independent variable is the factor deliberately changed or selected. Option B is wrong because a controlled variable is a condition kept the same, such as soil type or pot size. Option C is correct because it names the measured result. Option D is wrong because a constant is a value or condition kept unchanged, not the outcome being measured. A simple question helps: “What am I changing?” gives the independent variable; “What am I measuring?” gives the dependent variable. Memory cue: dependent means the result depends on the changed factor.