Final answer:
An experimental study is characterized by control of the research setting and manipulation of variables to observe effects, distinctly different from observational studies where no manipulation occurs.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of research studies, a defining characteristic of control of the setting within which the research is occurring applies to an experimental study. In an experimental study, the researcher manipulates one or more independent variables to observe the effect on a dependent variable, all within a controlled environment. This contrasts with an observational study, where the researcher does not interfere with the variables and only observes and measures characteristics in a sample.
For example, in a classic controlled experiment, participants may be divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group would receive a specific treatment or intervention, while the control group would not, to see if there are any significant effects resulting from the treatment.