Determine whether the results below appear to have statistical significance, and also determine whether the results have practical significance.

In a study of a weight loss program, 5 subjects lost an average of 47 lbs. It is found that there is about a 33% chance of getting such results with a diet that has no effect.

Does the weight loss program have statistical significance?

A. No, the program is not statistically significant because the results are likely to occur by chance.
B. Yes, the program is statistically significant because the results are unlikely to occur by chance.
C. Yes, the program is statistically significant because the results are likely to occur by chance.
D. No, the program is not statistically significant because the results are unlikely to occur by chance.



Answer :

To determine whether the weight loss program has statistical significance, we examine the given probability that the results could occur by chance.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1. Identify the Probability of Occurrence by Chance:
The probability provided is 33% (or 0.33). This represents the likelihood of obtaining the results (an average weight loss of 47 lbs by 5 subjects) if the diet program had no effect at all.

2. Understand Statistical Significance:
In statistical analysis, results are generally considered statistically significant if the probability of obtaining such results by chance is very low. A common threshold for statistical significance is a probability less than 5% (or 0.05).

3. Compare the Given Probability with the Statistical Significance Threshold:
Here, the chance of obtaining these results (47 lbs weight loss) by chance is 33%, which is much higher than the 5% threshold.

4. Conclusion on Statistical Significance:
Since the probability (33%) exceeds the 5% threshold, the results are likely to occur by chance. Therefore, the weight loss program is not statistically significant.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

OA. No, the program is not statistically significant because the results are likely to occur by chance.