A Level Biology Practice Exam

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What does standard deviation measure in a dataset?

The accuracy of the measurements
The average value of the dataset
The spread of data points around the mean
The size of the sample used in the study

The correct answer is: The spread of data points around the mean

Standard deviation is a statistical measure that quantifies the amount of variation or dispersion in a dataset. When we analyze a set of values, the standard deviation helps us understand how individual data points relate to the mean (average) of the dataset. A low standard deviation indicates that the data points tend to be close to the mean, while a high standard deviation suggests that the data is spread out over a wider range of values. In the context of this question, the understanding of standard deviation as a measure of spread is crucial for interpreting data in biological studies. It provides insights into the variability of measurements, which can be vital for determining the reliability and consistency of experimental results.