Question

Researchers typically try to _________ the differences between conditions and _________ the variability within conditions of the experiment.

1) minimize, maximize
2) maximize, minimize
3) ignore, minimize
4) minimize, ignore

Answer 1

The correct answer to the student's question is 2) maximize, minimize. By minimizing differences between experimental conditions and maximizing within-condition variability, researchers can more accurately assess the impact of the independent variable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Researchers typically try to minimize the differences between conditions and maximize the variability within conditions of the experiment. The correct answer is 2) maximize, minimize. In an experimental design, the goal is usually to control for as many extraneous variables as possible to ensure that any observed effects are due to the manipulation of the independent variable. By minimizing the differences between conditions, the researcher can be confident that the treatment is the only factor affecting the outcome. On the other hand, by maximizing the variability within conditions, researchers can gather a wider range of data, allowing for a more robust analysis of the effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable.