The fact that the point estimate of the population mean may be inaccurate (even with random sampling) is due largely to
A) bias
B) alpha error
C) sampling error
D) none of these, since the population mean cannot be estimated

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inaccuracy of the point estimate of the population mean, even with random sampling, is due to sampling error, which occurs naturally due to the variability in samples that are selected from a population. This means that the sample mean may not perfectly represent the true population mean. Bias refers to systematic errors in the sampling process, while alpha error pertains to errors made in hypothesis testing. The fourth option is incorrect, as the population mean can be estimated through statistical methods.

The Fact That the Point Estimate of the Population Mean