dependent variable

1. Mathematics. A mathematical variable whose value is determined by the value assumed by an independent variable.
2. Statistics. The observed variable in an experiment or study whose changes are determined by the presence or degree of one or more independent variables.

One whose value depends upon the values of other variables and constants in some relationship. For example, in the relationship (y) = f (x), y is the dependent variable. For example, market price of stock is a dependent variable influenced by various independent variables, such as earnings per share, debt-equity ratio, and beta. See also Independent Variable.

A variable whose value is consequent on change in the independent variable. The dependent variable is always the response or reaction to the independent variable. Also called criterion variable.

A variable which depends on one or more variables which may control it or relate to it; in other words, that may be seen as a function of another variable. In a study of pedestrian flow and distance from the CBD, pedestrian flow is the dependent variable, and, if graphed, would be plotted on the ordinate, or y-axis. See independent variable.

A variable that is acted on or influenced by another variable. For example, in an investigation of the affects of age on running speed, the independent variable ( the age of the athlete) is manipulated, selected, or otherwise controlled, and the affect of this manipulation can be seen in the change in the dependent variable (running speed). It is, therefore, an aspect of behaviour or experience that goes with or depends on the changes in the independent variable.