The concentration of a solution is measured six times by one operator using the same instrument. She obtains the following data: 63.2, 67.1, 65.8, 64.0, 65.1, and 65.3 (grams per liter).
(a) Calculate the sample mean. Suppose that the desirable value for this solution has been specified to be 65.0 grams per liter. Do you think that the sample mean value computed here is close enough to the target value to accept the solution as conforming to target? Explain your reasoning.
(b) Calculate the sample variance and sample standard deviation.
(c) Suppose that in measuring the concentration, the operator must set up an apparatus and use a reagent material. What do you think the major sources of variability are in this experiment? Why is it desirable to have a small variance of these measurements?