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Multiple Choice
In an experiment testing the effect of a new drug on bacterial growth, which of the following best describes a positive control?
A
A group exposed to a placebo solution
B
A group treated with the new drug being tested
C
A group treated with a substance known to inhibit bacterial growth
D
A group that receives no treatment at all
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a positive control: In an experiment, a positive control is a group that is exposed to a treatment or condition that is known to produce a specific effect. This helps confirm that the experimental setup is working as intended.
Analyze the options provided: A group exposed to a placebo solution is a negative control, as it is used to show what happens in the absence of the active treatment. A group treated with the new drug being tested is the experimental group, not a control. A group that receives no treatment at all is also a negative control.
Identify the correct description of a positive control: A positive control is a group treated with a substance known to produce the desired effect—in this case, a substance known to inhibit bacterial growth.
Relate the positive control to the experiment: By including a positive control, the researchers can verify that their experimental setup can detect bacterial growth inhibition when it occurs, ensuring the validity of their results.
Conclude that the correct answer is: 'A group treated with a substance known to inhibit bacterial growth,' as this aligns with the definition and purpose of a positive control in an experiment.