Question

When measuring the mean percentage damage to maize plants, 60 plants from each test plot were selected at random and examined.

Describe how the maize plants could be selected at random.

Answer 1

To select maize plants at random for measuring the mean percentage damage, you would need to ensure that every plant has an equal chance of being chosen. Here's how you could do it: Divide the test plot into smaller sections or rows to make it easier to navigate and randomly select plants. Assign a number or label to each plant to uniquely identify them. Use a random number generator or a random sampling technique to select the desired number of plants from each section or row.

Step-by-step explanation:

To select maize plants at random for measuring the mean percentage damage, you would need to ensure that every plant has an equal chance of being chosen. Here's how you could do it:

1. Divide the test plot into smaller sections or rows to make it easier to navigate and randomly select plants.
2. Assign a number or label to each plant to uniquely identify them.
3. Use a random number generator or a random sampling technique to select the desired number of plants from each section or row.
4. For example, if you need to select 60 plants, you could generate 60 random numbers or use a sampling technique like systematic sampling, where you choose every nth plant.
5. Ensure that you are selecting plants without any bias or preference, such as based on size or appearance.
6. Record the selected plants and proceed with examining and measuring the mean percentage damage.