A researcher wants to set up a study to test the effects of a new energy drink on student alertness. In this case, the control group would ______.
A) be assigned to drink the new energy drink
B) be assigned to drink nothing
C) alternate between the new energy drink and plain water
D) be assigned to drink coffee

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The control group in an experiment is the group that does not receive the experimental treatment. In this case, the experimental treatment is the new energy drink. Therefore, the control group should be assigned to drink nothing or a placebo, which would not affect their alertness, allowing for a comparison to be made between the effects of the energy drink and no drink at all.

A Researcher Wants to Set Up a Study to Test