Question

question 5 of 10 which of the following is not a characteristic of both observational studies and experiments? a. results are not used to prove cause and effect. b. the researcher exercises direct control over at least one variable. c. the subjects are observed, and their behavior is recorded. d. data are collected about a population.

Explanation:

• For observational studies, researchers observe without intervening or controlling variables. In experiments, researchers do control variables (like treatment groups). So "direct control over at least one variable" is unique to experiments, not a shared characteristic with observational studies.
• Option A: Both observational studies (due to confounding factors) and some experiments (if not well - controlled) may not prove cause - effect, so this is a shared characteristic.
• Option C: Both observational studies and experiments involve observing subjects and recording behavior.
• Option D: Both types of studies collect data about a population (or sample of a population) to draw conclusions.

Answer:

B. The researcher exercises direct control over at least one variable.