The sample finding and hypothesized population parameter are compared because in a hypothesis test, one tests the __________ hypothesis, a formal statement that there is no difference.
A) sample
B) alternative
C) null
D) parameter
E) directional

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a hypothesis test, the null hypothesis is the formal statement that there is no difference between the sample finding and the hypothesized population parameter. Answer A is incorrect because one does not test the sample itself in a hypothesis test. Answer B is incorrect because the alternative hypothesis is the statement being tested which asserts that there is a difference between the sample finding and the hypothesized population parameter. Answer D is incorrect because a parameter is a numerical summary measure of a population, which is not being tested in a hypothesis test. Answer E is incorrect because a directional hypothesis test specifies the direction of the difference, which is not necessary for all hypothesis tests.

The Sample Finding and Hypothesized Population Parameter Are Compared Because