Final answer:
In regression analysis, the independent variable is used to predict or explain changes in the dependent variable. In this case, the independent variable would be altitude.
Step-by-step explanation:
The independent variable (X) in regression analysis is the variable that is used to predict or explain changes in the dependent variable. In this case, the independent variable would be altitude, as the ecologist is trying to predict temperatures based on altitude.
So, the answer is b) the group means.