Answer:
The correct answer is D. a group that is exposed to the INDEPENDENT variable to test how the DEPENDENT variable responds.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a scientific experiment, the experimental group is the group that receives the treatment or manipulation of the independent variable. The purpose of the experimental group is to observe and measure the effects or changes it has on the dependent variable. The independent variable is the variable that is deliberately changed or manipulated by the researcher, while the dependent variable is the variable that is being measured or observed for any changes.
For example, let's say a researcher wants to study the effects of a new medication on blood pressure. They would divide the participants into two groups: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group would receive the new medication, while the control group would receive a placebo or no treatment. The researcher would then measure and compare the blood pressure levels of both groups to see how the medication (independent variable) affects blood pressure (dependent variable).
The experimental group serves as a comparison to see if the changes observed in the dependent variable can be attributed to the manipulation of the independent variable. This helps researchers determine the cause-and-effect relationship between the variables being studied.