The main difference between a correlational study and an experiment is that in an experiment,

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In an experiment, the investigator manipulates the independent variable to observe its effects on the dependent variable. In contrast, a correlational study does not involve manipulation of variables but rather examines the relationship between variables as they naturally occur. Option A is incorrect because participants may or may not be aware of the hypothesis being tested in both types of studies. Option B is incorrect because in some experiments, participants may receive different treatments depending on the conditions (e.g., a control group vs. an experimental group). Option C is incorrect because in an experiment, the participants are typically observed under controlled conditions rather than in their natural environment without interference.

The Main Difference Between a Correlational Study and an Experiment