To determine which questions could be answered by observational studies, it's essential to understand the differences between observational studies, surveys, and experiments:
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Observational Studies: These involve observing subjects in their natural environment without any manipulation or intervention by the researcher. They help identify correlations but cannot establish cause-and-effect relationships.
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Surveys: These are tools for collecting self-reported data from participants about their opinions, preferences, or behaviors, often through questionnaires or interviews. Surveys can provide insights into preferences and attitudes.
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Experiments: These involve the manipulation of variables to assess effects and establish cause-and-effect relationships. Participants are usually assigned to different groups to evaluate the impact of a treatment or intervention.
Now, let's categorize the questions provided:
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What brand of kitty litter is preferred by cat owners? – This could be answered by a survey.
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What football team is favored by Texans? – This could also be answered by a survey.
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What cat food is best for feline weight loss? – This typically requires an experiment, as it involves testing the effectiveness of various cat foods.
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What percentage of Rhode Island drivers use their phones while stopped at a red light? – This could be answered by an observational study, as it involves directly observing driver behavior without intervention.
In conclusion, the question that could be answered by an observational study is: "What percentage of Rhode Island drivers use their phones while stopped at a red light?"
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