Which type of variable is manipulated in an experimental study?

In an experimental study, the variable that is manipulated is known as the independent variable. This type of variable is specifically altered by the researcher to observe the effect it has on another variable, which is called the dependent variable. The purpose of manipulating the independent variable is to determine if changes in it cause any changes in the dependent variable, thereby establishing a cause-and-effect relationship.

In an experimental setup, the researcher may control various factors to isolate the effect of the independent variable, making it distinct from other types of variables such as confounding variables (which could interfere with the results) and control variables (which are kept constant to prevent them from affecting the outcome). Thus, understanding the role of the independent variable is crucial for interpreting the results of the experiment accurately and for validly addressing research questions surrounding the hypothesized relationships in the study.