Question

what does the null hypothesis (h₀) typically assert in hypothesis testing?
a. the p - value is less than the significance level.
b. there is no effect or difference.
c. there is a significant effect or difference.
d. the sample data does not agree with the population data.

Explanation:

In hypothesis testing, the null hypothesis ($H_0$) is a statement of no difference or no effect. It serves as the baseline assumption that researchers aim to test against an alternative hypothesis.

• Option a: The p - value being less than the significance level is a criterion for rejecting the null hypothesis, not what the null hypothesis itself asserts.
• Option b: This aligns with the definition of the null hypothesis as it typically claims there is no effect or difference.
• Option c: This is more in line with what an alternative hypothesis ($H_1$) might assert, not the null hypothesis.
• Option d: The relationship between sample and population data in terms of agreement is not the core assertion of the null hypothesis.

Answer:

B. There is no effect or difference.