Question

for the following study, identify the population, sample population, parameter, and sample statistic.
astronomers typically determine the distance to a galaxy (a huge collection of billions of stars) by measuring the distances to just a few stars within it and taking the mean (average) of these distance measurements.

what is the population parameter?
a. the mean distance between all stars that were selected for measurements and earth
b. the distances between each star in the galaxy and earth
c. the distances found in the study
d. the mean distance between all stars in the galaxy and earth

identify the sample statistic. choose the correct answer below.
a. the distances found in the study
b. the mean distance between all stars that were selected for measurements and earth
c. the mean distance between all stars in the galaxy and earth
d. the distances between each star in the galaxy and earth

Explanation:

Define the population parameter

Using the Population Parameter knowledge point

A parameter is a numerical characteristic of the entire population. Here, the population consists of all stars in the galaxy, and the parameter of interest is the true average (mean) distance of all these stars to Earth.

• Option A describes a sample statistic (mean of selected stars).
• Option B describes individual data values, not a summary parameter.
• Option C describes the raw sample data.
• Option D correctly identifies the mean distance of all stars in the galaxy to Earth.

Identify the sample statistic

Using the Sample Statistic knowledge point

A statistic is a numerical characteristic calculated from the sample. Here, the sample consists of the few stars selected for measurement, and the statistic is their mean distance to Earth.

• Option A describes the raw data values.
• Option B correctly identifies the mean distance of the selected stars.
• Option C describes the population parameter.
• Option D describes individual population values.

Answer:

Question 1

• A. The mean distance between all stars that were selected for measurements and Earth
• B. The distances between each star in the galaxy and Earth
• C. The distances found in the study
• D. The mean distance between all stars in the galaxy and Earth (Correct answer)

Question 2

• A. The distances found in the study
• B. The mean distance between all stars that were selected for measurements and Earth (Correct answer)
• C. The mean distance between all stars in the galaxy and Earth
• D. The distances between each star in the galaxy and Earth