Dispersion Measure Least Affected by Extremes
Which measure of dispersion is least affected by extreme values-
- Range
- Standard deviation
- Variance
- Mean deviation — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Mean Deviation
Mean Deviation is the measure of dispersion that is least affected by extreme values because it uses absolute deviations from the average (not squared deviations), so outliers do not get disproportionately amplified.
Effect of Extreme Values on Measures of Dispersion
| Measure | Affected by Extremes? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Most affected | Depends entirely on only the two extreme values |
| Variance / S.D. | Highly affected | Deviations are squared → extreme values magnified |
| Mean Deviation | Least affected ✔ | Uses absolute (not squared) deviations; extremes not magnified |
Key Relationships
- Standard Deviation (S.D.) is always greater than Mean Deviation (M.D.)
- S.D. = 5/4 × M.D. (empirical relationship)
- S.D. is the ideal measure of dispersion despite being more affected than M.D.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Range → most affected by extreme values (uses only max and min)
- Standard Deviation → squares all deviations, so extremes are heavily magnified
- Variance → S.D. squared, making it even more sensitive to outliers than S.D.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Genetics & Breeding
This multiple choice question is from Animal Genetics & Breeding, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Genetics & Breeding to strengthen your preparation.
