Final answer:
An experiment consists of an independent variable that is manipulated and a dependent variable that is measured. Control variables are used to ensure that the effects observed are due to the independent variable alone.
Step-by-step explanation:
An experiment typically consists of an independent variable that is manipulated or controlled by the experimenter and a dependent variable that is measured to see the effect of the independent variable. Other variables that might affect the dependent variable are held constant and are known as control variables. These control variables ensure that the effects observed are due to the independent variable alone.