In a research study, a researcher collects data on the number of hours spent studying and the grades students received. Which of the following is the dependent variable?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The grades students received.' In this scenario, the grades students received are the dependent variable because they are influenced by the number of hours spent studying. The grades are the outcome that is being measured based on the manipulation or observation of the independent variable, which in this case is the number of hours spent studying. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The number of hours spent studying is the independent variable being manipulated or observed, the subjects students studied is not directly related to the dependent variable, and the number of students in the study is not the variable being measured or influenced by the independent variable.