Is it a dependent clause?

A team of epidemiologists at the University of Pittsburgh, for example, wondered if woman could avoid the increase in weight and cholesterol levels often associated with menopause.

1. Is the clause that starts with 'if' a dependent clause?




2. If woman could avoid the increase in weight and cholesterol levels, I can not realize what would happen?




3. If woman could avoid the increase in weight and cholesterol levels, weight and cholesterol levels are associated with menopause. Is it right?