Final answer:
Lab experiments (randomized clinical trials) examine cause-and-effect hypotheses by randomly selecting participants and assigning them to different treatment groups. Randomization and double-blind methods are used to ensure reliability and prevent bias in the data.
Step-by-step explanation:
In randomized clinical trials, researchers use lab experiments to test cause-and-effect hypotheses. These experiments involve randomly selecting participants from the population of interest and assigning them to different treatment groups. Randomization and double-blind methods are used to prevent bias and ensure the reliability of the data. For example, in a study on the efficacy of a drug in treating a life-threatening illness, researchers compare an experimental group (patients who received the drug) to a control group (patients who did not receive the drug) to determine if there is a statistically significant difference in positive outcomes.