What Is the Key Difference Between Independent and Dependent Variables

What is the key difference between independent and dependent variables?

A) The dependent variable should change in response to manipulation of the independent variable.
B) The independent variable should change in response to manipulation of the dependent variable.
C) Although both the dependent and independent variables are manipulated, only the dependent variable is considered an intervention.
D) The dependent variable relies on personal or demographic variables for strength, whereas the independent variable is strong enough to stand alone.