Final answer:
Data and information are different in that data are raw facts without context, while information is processed data that has been organized into a meaningful format for decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between data and information is that data are the raw, unprocessed facts that are usually in a form not ready for making decisions. By itself, data may not make much sense to users. Information, on the other hand, is data that has been processed in such a way as to be meaningful to the person who receives it. For example, if data is the raw numerical values recorded from a survey, information would be the analysis and interpretation of that data, such as a summarized report explaining trends and insights gained from the survey.
Data can be classified as either qualitative or quantitative. Qualitative data is descriptive and relates to the category or qualities of the data subject. Quantitative data, meanwhile, is numerical and can be split into two types: continuous or discrete. Continuous quantitative data can take any value within a range, whereas discrete quantitative data consist of distinct, separate values. When we organize and interpret these data, for instance by making a graph using quantitative or qualitative data, it becomes information that can be used for decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the correct answer to the question 'How does data differ from information?' would be 'c. Data has no meaning on its own merit.' Data must be interpreted and given context to become meaningful information.