Final answer:
Confounding variables are variables that operate in conjunction with the independent variable and make it harder to find the experimental effect.
They can introduce bias and make it difficult to determine the true relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Researchers need to carefully control and randomize their experiments to minimize the impact of confounding variables.
Therefore, the correct answer is: c. confounding
Step-by-step explanation:
Confounding variables are the variables that operate in conjunction with the independent variable and make it harder to find the experimental effect. These variables can introduce bias and make it difficult to determine the true relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
They can include external factors that are not controlled or accounted for in the experiment, such as subject variables that vary between participants.
For example, let's say a researcher is conducting a study on the effects of a new medication on sleep quality. If some participants in the study also consume caffeine before bed, this can be a confounding variable as it may influence their sleep quality, making it harder to attribute any changes solely to the medication.
In order to minimize the impact of confounding variables, researchers need to carefully control and randomize their experiments. This helps ensure that the independent variable is the only factor that varies between groups, making it easier to determine its true effect on the dependent variable.