The independent variable is defined as the condition which can be changed in the experiment. It is the type of the variable which can be controlled and it is known as independent because the value does not depend on and is not affected by the state of the other variables in the experiment. The independent variable is sometimes known as controlled variable as it is the one which can be changed. In addition, in case of independent variable, the values are being deliberately changed by researcher as to obtain the desired outcomes. It is the antecedent and the values are being manipulated by the researcher.

On the other hand, the dependent variable is defined as the aspect and condition which can be helpful in measuring the different attributes in commencing the experiment. The dependent variable is the variable in the research and it responds to the independent variable as well. It is known as dependent as it depends totally on the independent variable and it helps in analysing the results in a successful manner. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the one which changes the values as to reciprocate the changes in value of independent variable. It is consequent in nature and the values are being measured by the researcher.

For instance- In the study as to determine and compare the two brands of paper towels, as to analyse which holds the most of the liquid, in such scenario, the independent variable is the paper towel. On the other hand, the dependent variable is the amount of liquid which can be absorbed by the paper.

Moreover, income is the independent variable as it causes as well as influences the consumption of the other variable. In an experiment, it is the controlled condition which is allowed to be changed in a systematic manner whose effect on the dependent variable is being studied.

The other example which can be analyzed is the amount of time required to test how long does it take to melt the ice cubes in different situations. In such scenario, 1000 equally shaped ice cubes have been taken wherein some of them are made of lemonade and some are made of cranberry juices. In such scenario, some of the ice cubes will be placed on wooden sheet and some on metal sheet.

Therefore, in the respective scenario, the independent variable is the melting time of the ice cubes and the dependent variables are the type of juice and the melting surface which includes wood and metal.

From the analysis of dependent and independent variables, it can be identified that there can be multiple dependent variables for one independent variable and an independent variable is one which does not reply on anything and hence it can be manipulated. Additionally, in case of simple linear regression, ‘y’ denotes the dependent variable, while ‘x’ helps in denoting the independent variable which showcases that ‘y’ depends on ‘x’.