Which statement about statistical analysis in science is true?
A) Statistical methods are applied to data in order to prove that the null hypothesis is incorrect.
B) Statistical tests analyze variation to determine whether the variation is due to chance.
C) Statistical tests can be used to evaluate results from controlled experiments but not comparative experiments.
D) Scientists use statistics to prove their conclusions are true.
E) Statistics are used to measure the probability that an observed difference is due to chance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Statistical analysis is used to measure the probability (p-value) that an observed difference between experimental groups is due to chance. It does not prove that a hypothesis is incorrect or that conclusions are true. It can be applied to both controlled and comparative experiments.

Which Statement About Statistical Analysis in Science Is True