see below:Question 3 of the 2002 AP Statistics free response questions asks students to analyze a study on the effects of a new drug on lowering cholesterol levels. The study included a control group and two treatment groups, one receiving the new drug and the other receiving a placebo. The question asks students to determine if there is a significant difference in cholesterol levels between the treatment groups and to interpret the results.
To determine if there is a significant difference between the treatment groups, students are asked to calculate a p-value using a t-test. The p-value is found to be 0.02, which is less than the typical significance level of 0.05. This indicates that there is a significant difference between the treatment groups. However, the study also included a control group, and the p-value for the comparison between the control group and the placebo group was found to be 0.06, which is not significant. This suggests that the new drug may not be significantly more effective than a placebo.
The question also asks students to interpret the results in terms of the null and alternative hypotheses. The null hypothesis states that there is no difference in cholesterol levels between the treatment groups, while the alternative hypothesis states that there is a difference. Based on the p-value, we can reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis, meaning that there is a significant difference in cholesterol levels between the treatment groups.
In conclusion, the 2002 AP Statistics free response question #3 provides students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge of t-tests and hypothesis testing to a real-world scenario. By analyzing the study and interpreting the results, students are able to demonstrate their understanding of these statistical concepts.