Question

Classification of data or attributes on the basis of either the presence or the absence of a qualitative characteristic is called
(a) spatial classification
(b) chronological classification
(c) qualitative classification
(d) time series

Answer 1

Hint: When data are classified with reference to geographical locations such as countries, states, cities, districts, etc., it is known as spatial classification. A classification where data are grouped according to time is known as a chronological classification. In qualitative classification, data are classified on the basis of some attributes or qualities like honesty, beauty, intelligence, literacy, marital status, etc. A time series is a series of data points indexed (or listed or graphed) in time order.

Complete step-by-step solution:
We know that classification is a method of arranging data into homogeneous classes according to the common features present in the data. There are 4 methods of classification, viz. spatial, chronological, qualitative and quantitative.
Let us understand spatial classification. We usually call spatial classification as geographical classification. When data are classified with reference to geographical locations such as countries, states, cities, districts, etc., it is known as geographical classification. Therefore, option a is incorrect.
Now, let us understand chronological classification. A classification where data are grouped according to time is known as a chronological classification. In this classification, data are classified either in ascending or in descending order with reference to time such as years, quarters, months, weeks, etc. We also call chronological classification as temporal classification. Therefore, option b is incorrect.
Let us recollect what qualitative classification is. In this classification, data are classified on the basis of some attributes or qualities like honesty, beauty, intelligence, literacy, marital status, etc. Therefore, option c is correct.
Now, let us understand what time series is. A time series is a series of data points indexed (or listed or graphed) in time order. Therefore, option d is incorrect.
Hence, the correct option is c.

Note: Students may get confused with qualitative and quantitative classification. We have seen qualitative classification from the above solution. Quantitative classification is made on the basis of some measurable characteristics like height, weight, age, income, marks of students, etc.