Quantitative data is characterized by what key feature?

Quantitative data is primarily characterized by numerical measurements, which are often accompanied by specific units of measurement. This type of data allows for precise calculations and statistical analysis, making it essential for experiments and studies where measurement of variables is critical. For instance, data such as height, weight, temperature, and the number of individuals in a population are all examples of quantitative data because they can be expressed in numbers and associated with appropriate units (like meters, kilograms, degrees Celsius, etc.).

In contrast, descriptive information, observational notes, and subjective analysis pertain to qualitative data, which focuses more on characteristics and descriptions rather than numerical values. Qualitative data can provide rich insights but lacks the precision and objectivity that come with quantifiable characteristics. Thus, the key feature of quantitative data is its reliance on numerical values that can be measured and analyzed statistically.