What characterizes a laboratory experiment?

A laboratory experiment is characterized by the manipulation of independent variables within a controlled, artificial setting. This environment allows researchers to isolate specific variables and understand their effects on dependent variables while minimizing the influence of external factors. The controlled nature of the laboratory setting ensures that researchers can replicate experiments and clearly demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships.

In contrast, other options don't accurately describe laboratory experiments. Data collected in natural environments is a hallmark of field studies, which focus on real-world context rather than controlled manipulation. The mention of providing real-world context aligns more closely with qualitative research methods, which are often more contextualized. Lastly, observing participants without intervention is more characteristic of observational studies and does not involve the active manipulation that defines laboratory experiments.