The Australian Bureau of Statistics Regularly Publishes the Average Retail

question 24

Essay

The Australian Bureau of Statistics regularly publishes the average retail prices of selected items for each Australian capital city. The following table presents the prices of oranges, bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots and onions in Melbourne during the June quarter in 2008 and 2010. $$\begin{array} { | l | c | c | } \hline { \text { Fruit and vegetable prices (\$/k) } } \\\hline \text { Item } & \text { June 2008 } & \text { June 2010 } \\\hline \text { Oranges } & 2.98 & 2.95 \\\hline \text { Bananas } & 2.32 & 2.37 \\\hline \text { Potatoes } & 2.69 & 2.44 \\\hline \text { Tomatoes } & 3.72 & 4.59 \\\hline \text { Carrots } & 2.20 & 1.95 \\\hline \text { Onions } & 2.57 & 2.35 \\\hline\end{array}$$ Construct a simple aggregate index of the prices for the fruit and vegetable group using June 2008 as the base period.

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Definitions:

Ossicles

The three small bones in the middle ear called the malleus, incus, and stapes, which are essential for the transmission of sound.

Eardrum

A slim barrier dividing the external ear from the middle ear, which oscillates upon receiving sound vibrations.

Pharynx

A muscular tube that connects the mouth and nasal passages to the esophagus and larynx, facilitating breathing and swallowing.

Endolymph

A fluid located within the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear, playing a key role in hearing and balance.