Arrange the following datasets with means (X) and standard deviations (sigma) in increasing order of their coefficients of variation. Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

1.Sigma = 3.7, X = 20

2.Sigma = 4.3, X = 25

3.Sigma = 5.2, X = 35

4.Sigma = 6.1, X = 40

A1, 2, 3, 4

B2, 3, 4, 1

C3, 4, 2, 1 ✓ Correct

D4, 3, 1, 2

Correct answer: (C) 3, 4, 2, 1

Explanation

The coefficient of variation equals sigma over mean, so the increasing order runs 3, 4, 2, 1.

Dataset 3, 5.2 over 35, gives about 0.149, the smallest relative spread.

Dataset 4, 6.1 over 40, gives about 0.153.

Dataset 2, 4.3 over 25, gives about 0.172.

Dataset 1, 3.7 over 20, gives about 0.185, the largest relative spread.

A lower coefficient of variation indicates greater relative consistency in the data.

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