If the research hypothesis states that alcohol affects short-term memory, the null hypothesis states
A) alcohol does not decrease short-term memory.
B) alcohol decreases short-term memory.
C) alcohol has no effect on short-term memory.
D) alcohol increases short-term memory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The null hypothesis always assumes that the independent variable (in this case, alcohol) has no effect on the dependent variable (in this case, short-term memory). Therefore, option C is the most appropriate null hypothesis for this research hypothesis. Options A, B, and D all propose alternative hypotheses, which contradict the research hypothesis.

If the Research Hypothesis States That Alcohol Affects Short-Term Memory