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    Question

    In hypothesis testing, which of the following statements best describes the null hypothesis?

    A It assumes there is a significant difference between groups being compared Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B It posits that any observed difference is due to chance rather than a true effect Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C It always accepts that the alternative hypothesis is true Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D It is only used when data samples are large Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E It guarantees a 100% accurate conclusion if accepted Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The null hypothesis (H0) in hypothesis testing represents a default position that there is no significant effect or relationship between the groups or variables being studied, and any observed difference is due to random chance. It serves as a baseline that researchers seek to test against the alternative hypothesis (H1), which proposes that there is a real effect or difference. Hypothesis testing aims to provide statistical evidence to either reject or fail to reject the null hypothesis, depending on whether the observed data supports a significant effect beyond random chance. Option A is incorrect as the null hypothesis assumes no significant difference, not the opposite. Option C is incorrect as the null hypothesis does not automatically accept the alternative hypothesis. Option D is incorrect because the null hypothesis can be used for any sample size, with different tests suited for small and large samples. Option E is incorrect because the null hypothesis acceptance or rejection does not imply certainty but rather a statistically significant likelihood.

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