Relative Measure of Dispersion
Which of the following is a relative measure of dispersion-
- Standard error
- Coefficient of variance — Correct Answer
- Standard deviation
- Both a & b
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Coefficient of Variance
The Coefficient of Variance (CV) is a relative measure of dispersion because it expresses standard deviation as a percentage of the mean — it is unit-free and allows comparison across different datasets.
Relative vs. Absolute Measures of Dispersion
| Category | Measure | Has Units? | Formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute | Range | Yes | Max − Min |
| Absolute | Mean Deviation | Yes | Σ|x − x̄| / N |
| Absolute | Standard Deviation | Yes | √Variance |
| Absolute | Variance | Yes (squared) | S.D.² |
| Relative | Coefficient of Variance (CV) | No (pure %) | (S.D. / A.M.) × 100 |
| Relative | Standard Error (SE) | Depends* | S.D. / √N |
*Standard Error carries the same units as the data, so it is an absolute measure, not a relative one.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Standard Error (SE) → absolute measure; carries same units as observations
- Standard Deviation → absolute measure; has units
- Both a & b → incorrect because Standard Error is not a relative measure
📚 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.
