Which of the following best describes the difference between qualitative and quantitative data, and provides a correct example of each?

• A. Qualitative data is always measured in $\mathrm{numbers}$, such as $\mathrm{temperature}$, while quantitative data is described using $\mathrm{words}$, such as $\mathrm{favorite}$ $\mathrm{color}$.
• B. Qualitative data describes $\mathrm{categories}$ or $\mathrm{qualities}$, such as $\mathrm{eye}$ $\mathrm{color}$, while quantitative data represents $\mathrm{numerical}$ $\mathrm{values}$, such as $\mathrm{height}$ in $\mathrm{centimeters}$.
• C. Qualitative data is used only for $\mathrm{continuous}$ $\mathrm{variables}$, such as $\mathrm{age}$, while quantitative data is used for $\mathrm{discrete}$ $\mathrm{variables}$, such as $\mathrm{nationality}$.
• D. Qualitative data can be $\mathrm{added}$ and $\mathrm{subtracted}$, such as $\mathrm{weight}$, while quantitative data cannot be $\mathrm{measured}$, such as $\mathrm{gender}$.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data describes categories or qualities and is typically non-numerical, such as colors, names, or labels.
2. Step 2: Recognize that quantitative data represents numerical values that can be measured or counted, such as height, weight, or temperature.
3. Step 3: Identify examples of qualitative data, such as eye color or favorite color, which are categories without inherent numerical meaning.
4. Step 4: Identify examples of quantitative data, such as height in centimeters or temperature in degrees, which are numerical and can be used in mathematical operations.
5. Step 5: Compare the options given and select the one that correctly matches the definitions and examples of qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring qualitative data is described by categories and quantitative data by numbers.