What is a factor that remains constant in order to test the impact of an independent variable called?

The term that refers to a factor that remains constant in order to test the impact of an independent variable is known as the control variable. In an experiment, it is crucial to keep certain variables unchanged to isolate the effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable. By controlling these variables, researchers can determine whether any observed changes in the dependent variable are indeed due to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than other factors. This helps to ensure the validity and reliability of the experiment's results.

Keeping control variables consistent allows for a clearer interpretation of the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable, contributing to more robust and trustworthy scientific conclusions.