Final answer:
Without the actual box plot data for the Wolverines and Panthers, it is impossible to accurately compare the spreads of their basketball scores or determine the correct statement about their interquartile ranges and overall ranges. So (b) is the correct option.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best comparison of spreads can be inferred from the interquartile ranges (IQRs) of the box plots, as the IQR provides a measure of the spread of the middle 50% of the data, which is less sensitive to extreme values than the range. Let's analyze each statement:
A. Incorrect. This statement suggests that both teams have the same interquartile range (IQR), but this cannot be determined from the information provided in the box plots.
B. Correct. If the IQR for the Wolverines is 30 and the IQR for the Panthers is 40, it indicates that the spread of scores for the Wolverines is less than that for the Panthers. The IQR measures the range of the middle 50% of the data, so a smaller IQR suggests a more concentrated distribution.
C. Incorrect. This statement compares the medians of the two teams but does not provide information about the spread or variability of the data.
D. Incorrect. This statement compares the ranges of the two teams, but the range is sensitive to extreme values and may not accurately represent the spread of the middle 50% of the data.
In conclusion, option B is the most appropriate comparison of the spreads based on the information provided by the box plots.