Which of the following is the most desirable characteristic of a probability sample? A. The results of a probability sample can be generalized to the larger population.
B. There is no attempt to get a representative cross section of the population in a probability sample.
C. A sampling criterion is used in the probability sampling approach.
D. A probability sample is useful when sociologists are exploring a new topic.
E. A probability sample is not representative of a population.
The correct answer is A. The results of a probability sample can be generalized to the larger population.
Explanation: The primary characteristic of a probability sample is that its results can be generalized to the entire population from which the sample is drawn. This is because probability sampling methods ensure that every member of the population has a known, non-zero chance of being selected, allowing researchers to make inferences about the larger group based on the sample.