Question

results of the sample are shown in the table below.

weed type	number
clover	3
crab grass	2
chickweed	2

which explains whether or not this is a representative sample?

• yes, this is a representative sample because each type of weed is represented in the sample.
• yes, this is a representative sample because each type of weed is represented approximately the same number of times in the sample.
• no, this is not a representative sample because each type of weed should be represented in proportion to the number of weeds actually present in the yard.
• no, this is not a representative sample because each type of weed should be represented exactly the same number of times in the sample.

Explanation:

A representative sample must reflect the proportion of each weed type that exists in the entire yard, not just have each type present or equal counts. The given sample has nearly equal numbers of each weed, which does not match the actual proportional distribution in the yard.

Answer:

No, this is not a representative sample because each type of weed should be represented in proportion to the number of weeds actually present in the yard.