A medical company tested a new drug for possible side effects. The table shows the relative frequency that a study participant experienced the side effect.

\begin{tabular}{|c|c|c|}
\hline & Side effect & No side effect \\
\hline Adults & 0.07 & 0.43 \\
\hline Children & 0.22 & 0.28 \\
\hline
\end{tabular}

Do these data suggest an association between age and experiencing side effects?

A. Yes. A greater percentage of adults experienced side effects than children.
B. No. A greater percentage of both adults and children had no side effects.
C. No. Adults were as likely to experience side effects as children.
D. Yes. A greater percentage of children experienced side effects than adults.



Answer :

To determine if there is an association between age and experiencing side effects, we need to compare the relative frequencies of adults and children who experienced side effects. Here is a step-by-step solution:

1. Calculate the total relative frequency for adults:
[tex]\[ \text{Total adults} = \text{Side effect (adults)} + \text{No side effect (adults)} = 0.07 + 0.43 = 0.50 \][/tex]

2. Calculate the total relative frequency for children:
[tex]\[ \text{Total children} = \text{Side effect (children)} + \text{No side effect (children)} = 0.22 + 0.28 = 0.50 \][/tex]

3. Calculate the percentage of adults who experienced side effects:
[tex]\[ \text{Percentage (adults)} = \left( \frac{\text{Side effect (adults)}}{\text{Total adults}} \right) \times 100 = \left( \frac{0.07}{0.50} \right) \times 100 = 14\% \][/tex]

4. Calculate the percentage of children who experienced side effects:
[tex]\[ \text{Percentage (children)} = \left( \frac{\text{Side effect (children)}}{\text{Total children}} \right) \times 100 = \left( \frac{0.22}{0.50} \right) \times 100 = 44\% \][/tex]

5. Compare the percentages:
[tex]\[ 44\% \, (\text{children}) > 14\% \, (\text{adults}) \][/tex]

Based on these calculations, a greater percentage of children experienced side effects compared to adults. Therefore, the data do suggest an association between age and experiencing side effects. The correct answer is:

D. Yes. A greater percentage of children experienced side effects than adults.