Question

State whether or not the sampling method described produces a random sample from the given population. The population is the approximately 25,000 protein-coding genes in human DNA. Each gene is assigned a number (from 1 to 25,000 ), and computer software is used to randomly select 100 of these numbers yielding a sample of 100 genes.

Short answer

Yes, the described sampling method does produce a random sample from the population of approximately 25,000 protein-coding genes in human DNA.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Sampling Method

Examine the described sampling method. Here, each protein-coding gene is assigned a number, and computer software randomly selects 100 of these. The task is the evaluation of whether or not this sampling method represents a random sample.

Compare with the Definition

Now grant this sampling method against the definition of a random sample. In a random sample, every member of the population must have an equal probability of being selected. In this case, since every gene is assigned a unique number, and 100 such numbers are selected randomly via computer software, each gene stands an equal chance (1 in 25,000) of being selected. This satisfies the condition for a random sample.

Conclusion

After comparing the sampling method with the definition of random sampling, a final conclusion can be drawn that the described sampling method indeed represents a random sample from the given population of genes.

Key concepts

Sampling Method

Understanding the concept of sampling in statistics is crucial for any research that involves drawing conclusions from a larger group. A sampling method refers to the technique used to select a subset of individuals, items, or data points from a larger population. The purpose of this selection is to make inferences about the entire population without having to investigate every member.

There are various types of sampling methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Some common types include random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified sampling, and cluster sampling. The main objective in selecting a sampling method is to produce a sample that accurately reflects the population it represents.

In the context of the given exercise, where a computer software selects from a population of approximately 25,000 protein-coding genes in human DNA, the method involves assigning a unique number to each gene. This use of random number generation is an example of a random sampling method, ensuring that every gene has an equal opportunity to be included in the sample.

Probability Sampling

In the context of statistical research, probability sampling is a collective term for sampling methods where each member of the population has a known nonzero chance of being selected. The emphasis is on the element of chance: the selection isn't arbitrary but follows a specific statistical methodology.

Probability sampling methods include simple random sampling, stratified sampling, systematic sampling, and others. The method described in the exercise, where a computer randomly selects numbers corresponding to genes, is a classic case of simple random sampling - one of the purest forms of probability sampling. Here, each member of the population (each gene) has a known and equal chance of being selected. As such, the resulting sample is likely to be representative of the population, and conclusions derived from it can be confidently extended back to the entire population.

Statistical Sampling

Stepping into the realm of statistical sampling, we delve into the procedures of selecting a fraction of the data to represent the whole set. Statistical sampling is foundational in statistical practice for making reliable inferences about a larger population based on samples.

One pillar of statistical sampling is the representation of the population — samples should be a small-scale model of the population. Another is the element of randomness. Proper randomization in sample selection mitigates the risk of bias and allows researchers to compute margins of error and confidence intervals, which are essential pieces of information in understanding how well a sample-based estimate might generalize to the population.

In the exercise at hand, the software generates a random sample by utilizing a probability-based statistical sampling method. By doing so, it creates a solid base for statistical analysis, enabling geneticists to draw meaningful insights about human genetics from a manageable set of data.