An important characteristic of an experiment is the __________ of variables other than the dependent and independent variables.

In an experiment, controlling other variables is essential to ensure that any observed changes in the dependent variable can be confidently attributed to the manipulations of the independent variable. Control refers to the procedures that researchers use to minimize the influence of extraneous variables, which could confound the results. By keeping these variables constant or systematically varying them alongside the independent variable, researchers can isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, leading to more accurate and valid conclusions.

Manipulation pertains to the active change or adjustment of the independent variable, while measurement focuses on how variables are quantified or assessed. Observation, on the other hand, involves the act of watching or recording data but does not directly address the need to mitigate the influence of other variables. Therefore, control is the critical aspect that ensures the integrity and clarity of experimental findings.