Which term describes a hypothesis stating there is no difference between groups on a variable?

• A. Alternative
• B. Modifying
• C. Confounding
• D. Null

Answer: (D)

In hypothesis testing, the statement that there is no difference between groups is the null hypothesis. It’s the default assumption that any observed difference is due to random variation rather than a real effect. The test aims to determine whether the data provide enough evidence to reject this null in favor of an alternative hypothesis that there is a difference. The alternative asserts there is a difference. A confounding variable is an extraneous factor that can bias results, not a claim about group differences. A modifying variable (moderator) changes the strength or direction of a relationship, not the basic no-difference claim.