A key component of an experiment is the control group. This is the condition that:
A) receives the experimental manipulation.
B) the experimenter measures to determine the outcome.
C) serves as the baseline for comparison.
D) the experimenter does not randomly assign.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The control group serves as the baseline for comparison, allowing the experimenter to determine if any changes or effects observed in the experimental group are due solely to the experimental manipulation and not to other factors or chance. Option A describes the experimental group, not the control group. Option B describes the dependent variable, which is what the experimenter measures to determine the outcome. Option D is not a component of the experimental design.

A Key Component of an Experiment Is the Control Group