In an experimental investigation, the variable that the researcher changes or manipulates in order to see its effects is called the?

If we represent the solar system on a scale that allows us to walk from the sun to pluto in a few minutes, then a) the planets are microscopic and the stars are millions of miles away. b) the planets are the size of basketballs and the nearest stars are a few miles away. c) the planets are marble size or smaller and the nearest stars are thousands of miles away.