Determine whether the study is an observational study or an experiment. Explain. A research study compared the memory retention of subjects when a learning activity was followed by a brief period of wakeful rest and when a learnir activity was followed by a brief period of distraction. The study is an experiment, observational,

To determine whether the study is an observational study or an experiment, we need to analyze the conditions and methods used in the research. 1. **Definition of Observational Study**: In an observational study, researchers observe subjects without manipulating any variables. They collect data based on what naturally occurs without intervention. 2. **Definition of Experiment**: In an experiment, researchers actively manipulate one or more variables to observe the effect on another variable. This often involves a control group and an experimental group. Now, let's analyze the given study: - The study compares memory retention under two different conditions: - One group experiences a brief period of wakeful rest after a learning activity. - Another group experiences a brief period of distraction after the same learning activity. - The key point here is that the researchers are manipulating the conditions (wakeful rest vs. distraction) to see how these different conditions affect memory retention. Since the researchers are actively manipulating the independent variable (the type of period following the learning activity) and measuring its effect on the dependent variable (memory retention), this study qualifies as an **experiment**. ### Conclusion: The study is an **experiment** because it involves manipulation of conditions to observe their effects on memory retention.