Which provides a baseline for an experimental investigation

Subject : Biology

Question:

Which provides a baseline for an experimental investigation?

Expert Verified Solution:

In an experimental investigation, the baseline is provided by the control group or the control condition. The control serves as a standard of comparison for the experimental group, allowing researchers to determine the effects of the independent variable. By maintaining consistent conditions and not applying the experimental treatment to the control group, scientists can observe the natural state of the subject, ensuring that any observed changes in the experimental group can be attributed to the independent variable rather than other factors.

For example, if you were testing the effectiveness of a new drug, the control group would receive a placebo. The results from this group would establish a baseline to compare against the results from the group that received the actual drug. This comparison is crucial for validating the outcomes of the experiment and drawing accurate conclusions.

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