Final answer:
The difference between a histogram and a bar chart is that a histogram plots quantitative data and has no gaps between the bars, while a bar chart plots categorical data with gaps between the bars.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between a histogram and a bar chart is the type of data they represent. A histogram is used to plot quantitative data, particularly continuous data, and is often used to show frequency distributions. The bars in a histogram touch each other, representing different intervals (or bins) of data. On the other hand, a bar chart is used to plot categorical data. The bars in a bar chart are separated by gaps, emphasizing the discrete nature of the categories.
In specific terms:
- A histogram plots the frequency of data points within certain ranges of the quantitative data set, and is best suited for large, continuous, quantitative data sets.
- Conversely, a bar chart is typically used to compare different groups or categories, such as countries, years, or other qualitative aspects, often representing size, quantity, rates, distances, and other comparative statistics.
Given the options presented in the question, the correct answer is A: A histogram plots quantitative data; a bar chart plots categorical data.