Final answer:
The purpose of random sampling is to ensure that research participants are selected in a way that gives each individual an equal chance of being included in the sample. Random sampling methods are used to choose a representative group from the larger population.
Step-by-step explanation:
In principle, the purpose of random sampling is to ensure that research participants are selected in a way that gives each individual an equal chance of being included in the sample. Random sampling methods, such as simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, and systematic sampling, are used to choose a representative group from the larger population. This is important because it is not practical or feasible to measure the entire population, so researchers use samples to make inferences about the population.