Final answer:
The independent variable is the number of steps walked per day, and the dependent variable is the blood pressure. The experimental group comprises individuals walking 10,000 steps, while the control group includes those who do not change their physical activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the statement 'Walking 10,000 steps a day will lower blood pressure', the independent variable is the number of steps walked per day. This is because the independent variable is the one that is manipulated by the participants in the study. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the blood pressure of the individuals walking the 10,000 steps. Blood pressure is considered dependent because it may change in response to the number of steps walked.
The experimental group in this scenario would be the individuals who are walking the 10,000 steps a day. These participants would be followed to determine the effect of walking on blood pressure.
A possible control group could be a set of individuals who maintain their usual level of physical activity without intentionally walking the 10,000 steps. This comparison with the experimental group would help to observe if changes in blood pressure are indeed a result of the increased physical activity from walking 10,000 steps.