Chapter 12, Problem AP4.30CPT

To determine

To find out the best way to assign fishes to the two identical fish tanks.

Answer to Problem AP4.30CPT

Option (b) is the correct option.

Explanation of Solution

We have to find a best way to assign fishes to the two identical fish tanks. Now, by looking at the options, we have,

Option (a) is not a good way because the odd numbered fish could have consistently larger or smaller weights than the even number fish. This then implies that the two groups would be different before the experiment starts and thus we cannot be sure that the differences after the treatment are due to the treatments are due to the treatments themselves or due to the weight difference prior to the treatment. Option (b) is a good way because the weight in the two groups will be similar and since the fish in each pair are randomly assigned to a treatment group as well the two groups will be similar sample prior to the treatments.

Option (c) is not a good way because the weight of the fish in second tank will be higher than the first tank. This implies that the two tanks will be different at the starting. Option (d) is not a good way because we do not take into account the weight of the fish. Option (e) is not a good way because the weight of the fish in second tank will be higher than the first tank. This implies that the two tanks will be different at the starting. Thus, option (b) is the correct option.