Final answer:
To determine the assumptions about the population, we can assume that it is at least approximately normally distributed. The margin of error at 95% confidence is approximately $3.41, while at 99% confidence it is approximately $4.48.
Step-by-step explanation:
(a) To determine the assumptions about the population that can be made for a desired margin of error, we need to consider the shape of the population distribution. In this case, since we do not have any specific information about the shape of the population distribution, we should be willing to make the assumption that the population is at least approximately normally distributed. Therefore, the correct answer is: We should be willing to make the assumption that the population is at least approximately normally distributed.
(b) To calculate the margin of error at a 95% confidence level, we can use the formula:
Margin of Error = Z * (Population Standard Deviation / Square Root of Sample Size)
Plugging in the values, we get:
Margin of Error = 1.96 * (6.5 / Square Root of 14) ≈ 1.96 * 1.739 ≈ 3.41
So, the margin of error is approximately $3.41.
(c) To calculate the margin of error at a 99% confidence level, we can use the same formula:
Margin of Error = Z * (Population Standard Deviation / Square Root of Sample Size)
Plugging in the values, we get:
Margin of Error = 2.58 * (6.5 / Square Root of 14) ≈ 2.58 * 1.739 ≈ 4.48
So, the margin of error is approximately $4.48.