For each of the following scenarios, the researchers are interested in comparing

Question

For each of the following scenarios, the researchers are interested in comparing the mean of a numerical variable measured in two circumstances. For each, say whether a paired t-test or two-sample t-test would be appropriate.

(a) The number of calories consumed per day by a group of 9 female hyenas compared with the number of calories consumed per day by a group of 9 male hyenas.

(b) The minutes per week of exercise of 10 students before and after they are given free access to a gym.

(c) The systolic blood pressure of 15 patients before and after they start taking the medication Atenolol.

(d) The systolic blood pressure of 15 patients taking the medication Atenolol and 15 patients taking the medication Lisinopril.

Explanation / Answer

We use a paired t test when the same population is used for testing before treatment and after the treatment.

We use the 2 sample t test when 2 different populations are tested with 2 different treatments.

(a) 2 separate populations (males and females) and hence 2 sample t test.

(b) Here the same population of children are used and hence a paired t test.

(c) Here the same population of patients are used and hence a paired t test.

(d) 2 separate populations (patients taking Atenolol and another set of patients taking Lisinopril) and hence 2 sample t test.

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