The alternative hypothesis for a two-tailed independent-groups t test states that A)H₀: m₁ ¹ m₂. B)H₀: m₁ = m₂. C)H_a: m₁ ¹ m₂. D)H_a: m₁ = m₂.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A two-tailed test tests for the possibility of both a positive and negative effect or difference between two groups. Therefore, the alternative hypothesis must state that the means are not equal (option C) rather than just testing for a difference without direction (option A). Option B tests for equality, which is the null hypothesis. Option D does not include the possibility of a difference between the means. Therefore, the best answer is option C.

The Alternative Hypothesis for a Two-Tailed Independent-Groups T Test States