A biology student wanted to determine if using fertilizer would promote plant growth. One hundred plants were
randomly assigned to one of two groups as shown in the design web.
50 Plants Receive Fertilizer
100 Plants
Randomly
Assigned
Compare Plant Growth after
Several Weeks
50 Plants Do Not Receive Fertilizer
Which of the following accurately describes the benefit of comparison in the experiment shown in the design web?


There is no need for comparison in this experiment.

The overall growth of the plants can be compared to see which plants benefit the most from fertilizer.

The growth of the plants in the treatment group only can be compared to see if the fertilizer had a significant
effect.

The growth of plants in the treatment group and the control group can be compared to see if the fertilizer had a
significant effect.