Final answer:
A cross-sectional study is a research design that compares participants of different ages or groups at the same time to understand potential associations or differences.
Step-by-step explanation:
A cross-sectional study is a research design in which data-gathering is administered once at a certain point in time, comparing multiple segments of the population simultaneously. It compares participants of different ages or groups at the same time to analyze any potential associations or differences. For example, a researcher might compare the dietary habits of different age groups like 20-year-olds, 30-year-olds, and 40-year-olds to understand how their habits differ.