What does qualitative data represent?

Qualitative data represents information that cannot be expressed in numerical terms. It typically encompasses descriptive characteristics or qualities, including attributes such as colors, textures, tastes, and other observations that convey non-numeric insights into a subject. This type of data is crucial for understanding the context and meaning behind the more measurable quantitative data, allowing researchers to capture the complexity and depth of their subjects. For instance, in a biology study, qualitative data might come from interviews or observations that reveal behaviors or experiences, which cannot be quantified.

In contrast, the other choices refer to quantitative data or suggest qualities that can be measured, thereby distinguishing them from the nature of qualitative data.