The type of variable that can contaminate the results of an experiment and may be an alternative to a causal relationship is known as a (n) : a. criterion variable b. antecedent variable c. extraneous variable d. predictor variable

Answer: c) Extraneous variable

Explanation:

Extraneous variable is the variable that is present in any experiment unintentionally and without any requirement. These variable impact the state and outcomes of the research which get studied. Example-participant, demand characteristic, experimenter etc.

Other options are incorrect because predictor variables, criterion variables and antecedent variables are not the factors that are unintentionally studied in any research or experiment. Thus, the correct option is option (c).