What is a key characteristic of a control group?

A control group is essential in experimental designs as it serves as a benchmark for comparison. This means that the outcomes of the experimental group, which is exposed to the independent variable, can be assessed against the control group that does not receive the treatment or intervention. By having a control group, researchers can identify what changes occur due to the experimental variable instead of other factors. This helps in establishing the validity of the results, ensuring that any observed effects are indeed due to the manipulation of the independent variable.

The other choices focus on aspects that do not define a control group accurately. For instance, a control group is not affected by the experimental variable; rather, it remains unchanged to allow for a proper comparison. Additionally, the control group is not actively manipulated; manipulation occurs in the experimental group. Lastly, a control group does not guarantee causation, as establishing causation requires more than just comparing groups; it necessitates controlling for other variables and demonstrating that changes in the experimental group occur as a direct result of the manipulation.