What is typically measured as part of an experiment's outcome?

The dependent variable is the correct choice because it is specifically what researchers measure during an experiment to assess the effect of the independent variable. In scientific experiments, the dependent variable is the outcome that is directly influenced by changes made to the independent variable. For example, if the independent variable is the amount of sunlight a plant receives, the growth of the plant would be the dependent variable measured to determine the outcome of the experiment.

The experimental variable refers to any factors controlled within the experiment but is not specifically what is measured, rather it is manipulated. The hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction that guides the experiment but is not something that is measured as an outcome. Initial observations provide a starting point for the research but are not directly the results of the experiment either. Evaluating the dependent variable allows scientists to interpret how changes in the independent variable affect the outcome, making it pivotal to the experimental process.