Final answer:
Qualitative data represent descriptions that do not rely on numbers, such as the taste of soup, while quantitative data are expressed numerically, such as height or temperature. In the given options, 'The soup tastes salty' is an example of qualitative data.
Step-by-step explanation:
The piece of empirical evidence that is qualitative data among the options provided is B. The soup tastes salty. This is because it describes the quality of the soup's taste, which is not expressed in any numerical form and is subject to individual perception. On the other hand, quantitative data involve numbers to express a measurement, such as height, speed, and temperature.
For example, saying a tree is eight feet tall or the water temperature is 80°F are quantitative pieces of information because they can be measured and expressed as numbers with units. Similarly, stating the bicycle speed is 12 miles per hour is also quantitative as it is a measurement of speed with a numerical value and specific units.