Statistical Analysis in Science

A series of flashcards to help prepare for an exam on statistical analysis in the scientific context.

What is statistical analysis used for by scientists?

To analyze quantitative data and determine if results are significant or due to random fluctuations.

What does a null hypothesis state?

There is no relationship between the measured phenomena, meaning the independent variable does not affect the dependent variable.

What is written as Ho in statistical tests?

The null hypothesis.

What is an example of a null hypothesis when testing if teens are better at math than adults?

Age has no effect on mathematical ability.

What is the purpose of statistical analysis in experiments?

To test the hypothesis by comparing data to predicted outcomes and discover significant patterns or trends.

What statistical measure indicates the average of a data set?

Mean.

How is standard deviation defined in statistical analysis?

It measures the spread of data points in relation to the mean.

What is a t test used for?

To test the difference between two sets of data using their means and standard deviations.

When is an ANOVA test used instead of a t test?

When comparing more than two groups of data.

What does a correlation coefficient test?

It tests the relationship between two variables to see if they create a trend.

What kind of test is a Chi Square test?

It compares observed data with expected values, often used in genetics.

What does a Chi Square goodness of fit test determine?

If sample data matches the population.

What do expected values in Chi Square tests rely on?

Probabilities based on what the experiment is testing.

What is meant by 'observed vs expected values' in statistical tests?

To determine if deviations were due to chance or other factors.

Why do scientists continually test theories?

To support the original theory and ensure the data is robust.

What does statistical analysis allow scientists to do with their data?

To conduct rigorous testing to ensure the data is useful.

What is an outlier in data analysis?

A value that is considerably higher or lower than the other data points.

How do scientists view the process of disproving hypotheses?

As a supportive effort to strengthen the overall scientific theory.

What are common statistical analysis methods mentioned in the lecture?

Mean, standard deviation, t test, ANOVA, correlation coefficient, and Chi Square.

What type of distribution might data from flipping a coin follow according to the lecture?

A normal distribution.

In statistical analysis, what is the benefit of including outliers in data?

They provide a complete view of the data set and help understand variability.

What is a relationship that a scientist might suspect when conducting an experiment?

That there is a correlation between the independent and dependent variables.

How does statistical analysis influence scientific conclusions?

It helps validate or refute claims made by analyzing data statistically.

What can the Chi Square test of independence evaluate?

Whether two categorical variables are related.

Why might deviations between observed and expected values occur?

Due to chance or underlying factors not initially considered.

How does statistical analysis contribute to scientific collaboration?

By allowing different researchers to test and validate each other's findings.