Final answer:
In an experimental study, the independent variable is manipulated or controlled by the experimenter, while the dependent variable is what the researcher measures to see how much effect the independent variable had. Control variables are factors that are kept constant or unchanged throughout the experiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
In an experimental study, the independent variable is manipulated or controlled by the experimenter, while the dependent variable is what the researcher measures to see how much effect the independent variable had. The independent variable is the cause of the change and the dependent variable is the effect of that change. For example, in a study on how different amounts of fertilizer affect plant growth, the independent variable would be the amount of fertilizer and the dependent variable would be the plant's height or weight.
Control variables, on the other hand, are factors that are kept constant or unchanged throughout the experiment. These variables are not of interest to the researcher, but they can potentially affect the results. So, by controlling these variables, the researcher can eliminate their impact on the dependent variable and ensure that any observed differences are due to the independent variable.