Question

Using the matching law, predict the distribution of responses between a key with a fixed-ratio 49 requirement and one with a variable-ratio 50:

A) Equal responses to both keys
B) More responses to the fixed-ratio key
C) More responses to the variable-ratio key
D) No responses to either key

Answer 1

The matching law predicts the distribution of responses between different reinforcement schedules. In this case, with a fixed-ratio and variable-ratio key, the distribution of responses is likely to be equal. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Equal responses to both keys.

Step-by-step explanation:

The matching law predicts the distribution of responses between two options based on their reinforcement schedules. According to the matching law, the proportion of responses to each key is directly proportional to the proportion of reinforcement received on each key. In this case, the key with a fixed-ratio 49 requirement and the key with a variable-ratio 50 requirement are being compared.

Since the response requirement for both keys is similar (one requires 49 responses and the other requires 50), the distribution of responses is likely to be close to equal. The matching law suggests that approximately the same number of responses will be allocated to each key.

Therefore, the correct answer is A) Equal responses to both keys.