Why is it beneficial to include a control in an investigation?

Including a control in an investigation is essential because it allows researchers to identify the impact of the variable being tested. A control serves as a baseline comparison that highlights the changes caused by manipulating the independent variable. By comparing the results from the experimental group with those from the control group, scientists can observe the effects more clearly and attribute any differences in the outcome directly to the variable in question.

For instance, if the study is examining the effect of a certain fertilizer on plant growth, the control group would consist of plants that do not receive the fertilizer. This comparison reveals how much growth can be attributed specifically to the fertilizer, effectively isolating its impact against the backdrop of natural growth patterns and other environmental factors.