The primary source of information in this passage is a study that was conducted to examine the effect of a new type of fertilizer on the growth rate of a certain type of plant. The study involved two groups of plants: a control group and a treatment group. The control group was not given the new fertilizer, and the treatment group was given the new fertilizer. The study found that the plants in the treatment group grew at a significantly faster rate than the plants in the control group. Based on this information, the author concludes that the new fertilizer is effective in promoting plant growth. What is the most likely reason why the author includes information about the control group in this passage?
SAT · English · previous-year question
- A.demonstrate that the new fertilizer is effective in promoting plant growth.
- B.explain how the study was designed and conducted.
- C.provide a basis for comparing the growth rates of the two groups of plants.correct
- D.suggest that the new fertilizer may have unintended side effects.
Answer
C. provide a basis for comparing the growth rates of the two groups of plants.
Explanation
The control group serves as a baseline for comparison, allowing the author to demonstrate the effectiveness of the new fertilizer by showing how the treatment group grew at a significantly faster rate than the control group. The control group provides a basis for comparing the growth rates of the two groups of plants.
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