Which best describes a control group in an experiment?
A sample taken though all experimental steps except that one being tested
A control group in an experiment is a group that is used as a standard of comparison. It is a group that does not receive the experimental treatment but is subjected to all other conditions similar to the experimental group. The purpose of the control group is to eliminate the influence of uncontrolled variables or extraneous factors that might affect the results of the study.
By comparing the results of the experimental group to those of the control group, it is possible to determine if any observed changes or effects are due to the experimental treatment rather than other factors.
For example, if a new medication is being tested, the control group would receive a placebo or an inactive substance instead of the medication being tested. This is to ensure that any observed effects are not due to other variables such as the placebo effect or natural recovery.
Therefore, the control group is an essential part of a well-designed experiment that enables researchers to draw valid conclusions about the effects of an experimental treatment.
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