The Role of a Control in an Experiment is To

Question

The role of a control in an experiment is to:
A) prove a hypothesis is correct.
B) ensure the experiment can be repeated.
C) prove that a hypothesis is correct and ensure repeatability.
D) provide a basis of comparison to an experimental group.

Accepted Answer

A control group is used to provide a baseline for comparison to the experimental group. By keeping all variables constant except for the one being tested in the experimental group, any changes or effects observed can be attributed to the variable being tested. This allows for accurate comparisons and conclusions to be drawn about the effect of the variable. The control group ensures that the experiment can be repeated by providing a standard to which future experiments can be compared. However, it does not necessarily prove that a hypothesis is correct.