To determine whether the sample is appropriate and a good representation of the population, we need to consider a few key factors:
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Random Selection: The study states that she tests 15 ice samples from randomly selected coffee drinks. If the samples were truly selected randomly from a larger population of coffee drinks at the coffee shop, this supports the randomization aspect.
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Sample Size: While 15 samples may not be a large sample size, it can be sufficient for preliminary studies, provided that the method of selection was truly random and the ice from various coffee drinks is included.
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Population Representation: The samples must reflect the variety of ice used in different drinks over time at the coffee shop. If the samples come from a diverse range of drinks, this helps in ensuring that the sample represents the overall population of ice used in the shop.
Considering these factors:
- If the ice samples were indeed taken at random from a range of different coffee drinks, her sample could be considered appropriate and a good representation of the population.
- If there are limitations such as sampling only from a specific time period, only selecting certain types of drinks, or any bias in the selection process, then it may not accurately reflect the overall population of ice.
Conclusion: If the study meets the criteria of random selection and adequately represents the population of ice used in various drinks, then the appropriate response is:
Option #1: Yes, her sample is an appropriate, random sample. It is a good representation of the population.
However, if there are concerns about how the samples were collected, you would choose:
Option #2: No, her sample is not an appropriate, random sample. It is not a good representation of the population.