Question

based on the histograms, which of the following is the best comparison of the means and the ranges for the two distributions?
a the mean and range of the fingerling catfish are both equal to those of the large catfish.
b the mean and range of the fingerling catfish are both less than those of the large catfish.
c the mean and range of the fingerling catfish are both greater than those of the large catfish.
d the mean of the fingerling catfish is equal to that of the large catfish, and the range of the fingerling catfish is greater than that of the large catfish.
e the mean of the fingerling catfish is equal to that of the large catfish, and the range of the fingerling catfish is less than that of the large catfish.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall mean and range concepts

Mean is the average value, range is max - min.

Step2: Analyze range visually

From the histogram, assume the number per river for fingerling catfish ranges from 250 - 2250, range = 2250 - 250=2000. For large catfish, assume similar range from 250 - 2250, range = 2000.

Step3: Analyze mean visually

The distribution of fingerling catfish is more spread out to the right - hand side (positively skewed), and large catfish distribution is also somewhat similar in shape and central tendency. The mean of fingerling catfish is likely greater as more data is in higher - value intervals.

Answer:

C. The mean and range of the fingerling catfish are both greater than those of the large catfish.