Which of the following best describes the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?

• A. Qualitative data is used only in scientific experiments, while quantitative data is used only in business applications.
• B. Qualitative data is always represented by numbers, while quantitative data is always represented by words.
• C. Qualitative data describes categories or qualities, while quantitative data represents numerical values that can be measured or counted.
• D. Quantitative data cannot be visualized, but qualitative data can be shown using histograms.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data refers to non-numerical information that describes categories, attributes, or qualities, such as colors, labels, or types.
2. Step 2: Recognize that quantitative data consists of numerical values that can be measured or counted, such as height, weight, or number of items.
3. Step 3: Identify that qualitative data is typically represented by words or categories, while quantitative data is represented by numbers.
4. Step 4: Note that both types of data can be visualized, but the types of visualizations differ. For example, qualitative data can be shown using bar charts or pie charts, while quantitative data can be shown using histograms or scatter plots.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description differentiates qualitative data as describing categories or qualities, and quantitative data as representing numerical values that can be measured or counted.