When Comparing Two Population Means, It Is Important to Know

question 18

Essay

When comparing two population means, it is important to know if the investigation was an experiment where the researcher was able to control which subject gets what treatment, or if the study was observational. Suppose that a statistically significant result is obtained in a study. How would the interpretations of the results differ, based on whether the study was observational or the study was an experiment?

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Definitions:

Interstate Highway

A network of controlled-access highways that form part of the National Highway System in the United States, facilitating interstate and long-distance travel.

Nonexcludability

A characteristic of public goods where it is impossible or highly costly to exclude individuals from consuming the good.

Marginal Costs

The hike in total expenditure resulting from the production of an incremental unit of a product or service.

Marginal Benefits

The incremental enjoyment or usefulness received from consuming or manufacturing another unit of a commodity or service.