Statistical Test to Compare Two Variances

Correct Answer: F-test

From the notes (Table 17 and F-test section): The F-test is used to compare two variances. It is also used via ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) to compare more than two sample means.

Four Statistical Tests (from notes)

• Z-test (Large sample test): Compare sample mean vs. population mean when (1) n > 30 AND (2) population SD or variance is known.
• T-test (Small sample test): Compare sample mean vs. population mean when (1) n < 30 AND (2) population SD or variance is NOT known. Two types: paired T-test and unpaired T-test.
• F-test: (1) Compare two variances, (2) Compare more than two sample means (via ANOVA). ✔
• Chi-square test: Non-parametric test for (1) goodness of fit and (2) test for independent attributes. χ² = Σ(O-E)²/E. Calculated value is always positive.