Final answer:
A block design experiment is a type of experimental design where homogeneous groups called blocks are formed, and treatments are randomly assigned within each block to reduce variability and isolate treatment effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
A block design experiment is a type of experimental design where the experimental units are divided into homogeneous groups called blocks, and treatments are randomly assigned within each block. The correct definition matches option 1: A type of experimental design where the experimental units are divided into homogeneous groups called blocks, and treatments are randomly assigned within each block. The purpose of this design is to reduce variability within the groups and isolate the effect of the experimental treatment. By using random assignment within blocks, the experiment ensures that each treatment has an equal chance of being applied to similar units, thereby increasing the reliability of the conclusion drawn from the experimental results.