Solution 13.4

This time, we will perform the calculations that lead to the F' statistic. Notice that each group has the same number of plants, so we will use the formula F' = ns2/s2pooled.

First, calculate the sample mean and sample variance of each group.

Table 13.10
Tommy's PlantsTara's PlantsNick's Plants
Sample Mean24.225.424.4
Sample Variance11.718.316.3

Next, calculate the variance of the three group means (Calculate the variance of 24.2, 25.4, and 24.4). Variance of the group means = 0.413 = s2

Then MSbetween = ns2 = (5)(0.413) where n = 5 is the sample size (number of plants each child grew).

Calculate the mean of the three sample variances (Calculate the mean of 11.7, 18.3, and 16.3). Mean of the sample variances = 15.433 = s2 pooled

Then MSwithin = s2pooled = 15.433.

The F statistic (or F ratio) is F = MSbetween/MSwithin = ns2/s2pooled = (5)(0.413)/15.433 = 0.134

The dfs for the numerator = the number of groups – 1 = 3 – 1 = 2.

The dfs for the denominator = the total number of samples – the number of groups = 15 – 3 = 12

The distribution for the test is F2,12 and the F statistic is F = 0.134

The p-value is P(F > 0.134) = 0.8759.

Decision: Since α = 0.03 and the p-value = 0.8759, do not reject H0. (Why?)

Conclusion: With a 3% level of significance, from the sample data, the evidence is not sufficient to conclude that the mean heights of the bean plants are different.

Using the TI-83, 83+, 84, 84+ Calculator

To calculate the p-value:

*Press 2nd DISTR

*Arrow down to Fcdf(and press ENTER.

*Enter 0.134, E99, 2, 12)

*Press ENTER

The p-value is 0.8759.