Question

Which of the following is the purpose of using control groups in an investigation

A. to establish a standard for data comparison
B. to provide the correct answer to an investigation
C. to determine the dependent variables
D. To function as a third variable Group

Answer 1

The purpose of using control groups is to establish a standard for data comparison, controlling for external factors that allows accurate determination of the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of using control groups in an investigation is A. to establish a standard for data comparison. Control groups are essential in experiments because they allow researchers to separate the effects of the experimental manipulation from other variables. By having a group that does not receive the experimental treatment, scientists can compare results against this baseline, controlling for external factors and determining the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable. The control group should be identical to the test group except for the exposure to the independent variable. This way, any difference in outcomes between the control and experimental groups can be attributed to the experimental manipulation, reducing the possibility of a false correlation. Therefore, when we observe changes in the dependent variable, we can infer that these changes are likely due to the experimental variable and not some other unknown factors.