In the context of operationalizing variables in research, which of the following best defines an independent variable and its operational definition within a quantitative study?

An independent variable is the factor that researchers change or control to see how it affects another variable, called the dependent variable. In a quantitative study, operationalizing this variable means clearly defining it so that it can be measured accurately. For example, if a researcher wants to study how studying time impacts test scores, the independent variable is "studying time," which could be operationalized as the number of hours spent studying each week. By defining it this way, the researcher can collect data on how different amounts of study time influence students' scores on tests. This clear definition helps ensure that the study can be replicated and that the results are reliable.