Using a T-Test for Correlation in Biology Report

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In summary, the forum member is seeking advice on how to show correlations in their biology report about smoking and heart rate. They have conducted 41 trials with different groups and have means and standard deviations. They are considering using a t-test, but are unsure. It is suggested that they use a Pearson correlation coefficient test to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between smoking and heart rate, and also conduct a t-test to compare the means of the different groups. A chi-square test is not recommended for this type of data.
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Svensken
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Homework Statement



Hello everyone!

I have been trying to figure out what i should do to show correlations in my biology report about smoking and heart rate.

I have conducted 41 trials with people who are

-Non smokers and exercise
-Smokers and exercise
-No exercise smokers
-Smokers and no exercise

I have means, and standard deviations.

What statistical test should i do to show that each group is different? should i use a student's t-test?

Homework Equations



T-test
Chi square?

The Attempt at a Solution



I think that t-test i good as i can compare the values and determine wheter they are due to chance or not. However i don't really know

Thanks!
 
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Thank you for sharing your question about showing correlations in your biology report. It sounds like you have conducted a thorough study with a good sample size and are now trying to determine the best way to analyze your data. In this case, I would recommend using a correlation analysis, specifically a Pearson correlation coefficient test, to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between smoking and heart rate. This test will give you a correlation coefficient (r) and a p-value, which will help you determine if there is a significant correlation between the two variables. Additionally, you can also conduct a t-test to compare the means of the different groups and see if there are any significant differences between them. In terms of using a chi-square test, this would be more appropriate if you were looking at categorical data rather than continuous variables like heart rate. I hope this helps and good luck with your report!
 

1. What is a T-test and how is it used in biology reports?

A T-test is a statistical test used to determine whether there is a significant difference between the means of two groups. In biology reports, it is often used to compare the means of two different groups of data, such as the control and experimental groups in an experiment.

2. Why is a T-test preferred over other statistical tests for correlation in biology reports?

A T-test is preferred over other statistical tests because it is specifically designed to compare the means of two groups and is suitable for small sample sizes. This makes it ideal for use in biology reports where the data may be limited.

3. How do you interpret the results of a T-test in a biology report?

The results of a T-test are typically reported as a p-value, which indicates the probability of obtaining the observed results by chance. A p-value of less than 0.05 is generally considered to be statistically significant, meaning that there is a low probability of the results occurring by chance.

4. What are the assumptions of a T-test in biology reports?

The main assumptions of a T-test in biology reports are that the data is normally distributed and the variances of the two groups being compared are equal. If these assumptions are not met, alternative statistical tests may need to be used.

5. Are there any limitations to using a T-test for correlation in biology reports?

One limitation of using a T-test for correlation in biology reports is that it can only determine if there is a significant difference between two groups, but it cannot establish a causal relationship. Additionally, it is important to consider other factors that may influence the results, such as sample size and experimental design.

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