Final answer:
The independent variable is the cause and the dependent variable is the effect in an experiment to establish a cause-effect relationship. Answer: a) Independent; dependent.
Step-by-step explanation:
If we view an experiment as an attempt to establish a cause-effect relationship, the independent variable would be the cause and the dependent variable would be the effect. The correct answer is: a) Independent; dependent.
In an experimental study, the independent variable is the factor that is manipulated or controlled by the experimenter to examine its effect on the dependent variable, which is the outcome or effect being measured. For example, in an experiment to determine the effect of fertilizer on plant growth, the independent variable could be the amount of fertilizer (cause), while the dependent variable would be the plant growth observed (effect).
The independent variable is the only important difference between the experimental and control groups and is expected to cause a change in the dependent variable when manipulated. The dependent variable reflects the effects of the independent variable and is what the experimenter measures and statistically analyzes to see if causation can be established.