Basic applications of the chi-square statistic using counting data.

M A Tries; K W Skrable; C S French; G E Chabot

doi:10.1097/00004032-199910000-00013

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PubMed · 10492352

Basic applications of the chi-square statistic using counting data.

M A Tries·K W Skrable·C S French·G E Chabot

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Abstract

The chi-square statistic has many scientific applications, including the evaluation of variance in counting data and the proper functioning of a radiation counting system. This paper provides a discussion of the fundamental aspects of the chi-square test using counting data. Practical applications of the chi-square statistic are discussed, including the estimation of extra-Poisson variance and dead time for a counting system. The consequences of passing or failing the chi-square test are discussed regarding the proper estimator for the population variance of the counting data. Example scenarios are used to provide insight into the applications of the chi-square statistic and the interpretation of values obtained in hypothesis testing.

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Cesium Radioisotopes Chi-Square Distribution Cobalt Radioisotopes Gamma Rays Models, Statistical Poisson Distribution Radiation Dosage Radiation Effects Radioisotopes Radon Reproducibility of Results Journal Article

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M A Tries, K W Skrable, C S French, G E Chabot. 1999. Basic applications of the chi-square statistic using counting data.. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004032-199910000-00013

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