Ask a New Question
Menu

Explain how the shape of a distribution determines the appropriate measure of center.(1 point)

Responses

Skewed data means that the mean is the best measure of center.
Skewed data means that the mean is the best measure of center.

Symmetrical data means that the mean is the best measure of center.
Symmetrical data means that the mean is the best measure of center.

The shape does not matter when determining the appropriate measure of center.
The shape does not matter when determining the appropriate measure of center.

More information is needed to determine how the data of distribution determines the appropriate measure of center.

1 answer

The correct response is: Symmetrical data means that the mean is the best measure of center.

Here’s why:

  • In a symmetrical distribution (like a normal distribution), the mean, median, and mode are all located at the center, and the mean effectively represents the center of the data.
  • In contrast, in a skewed distribution, the mean might be pulled in the direction of the skew (towards the tail), and it may not accurately reflect the center of the data. In such cases, the median is often a better measure of center because it is less affected by extreme values.

Therefore, the shape of the distribution is crucial in determining which measure of center is most appropriate.