Which of the following best describes confounding variables:

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When examining the concept of confounding variables, we evaluate how each option aligns with the idea that a confounder distorts the apparent effect of the independent variable.
Option a: 'Any variable in the control group you are trying to test.' This is inaccurate because a confounder is not simply any variable in the control group; it is a variable that unintentionally correlates with both the treatment and the outcome, thereby biasing results, not just a variable in the control group.
Option b: 'Confuses the results of an experimental test or comparison;' This statement captures the essence of a confounder: it creates spurious associations or masks true effects by introducing alternative explanations for observed differences, thereby confusing causal inference.
Option c: 'Makes real differences between treatments clearer;' This describes a situation where differences are clarified, not confounded. A confounder would obscure or distort true differences rather than enhance clarity, so this option misrepresents the problem.
Option d: 'Can help reduce the chance of making errors;' This is incorrect because confounding increases the risk of erroneous conclusions by biasing estimates, rather than reducing errors; it undermines internal validity rather than improving it.
In summary, only option b accurately reflects the disruptive role of confounding variables in experimental results, while the others describe scenarios that do not align with the definition or effect of confounding.

BIOL2306_1A_2025 Quiz 1 15092025

Which of the following best describes confounding variables:

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