When is the mean of a sampling distribution equal to the population parameter being measured?
A) When the sample size is 30 or larger
B) When the statistic sampled is normally distributed
C) When an unbiased statistic is used
D) When the samples drawn are independent

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mean of a sampling distribution is equal to the population parameter being measured when an unbiased statistic is used. This means that the expected value of the statistic is equal to the population parameter. It is possible to have unbiased statistics with sample sizes less than 30 and with non-normal distributions, as long as they are properly constructed to meet the conditions of unbiasedness. The independence of samples is also important, but it is not the only factor that determines when the mean of a sampling distribution is equal to the population parameter.

When Is the Mean of a Sampling Distribution Equal to the Population