What is the key difference between mean and median?

The correct choice accurately defines both the mean and the median in the context of data analysis. The mean is calculated by summing all the values in a dataset and then dividing by the number of values, yielding an average that represents the entire dataset. In contrast, the median is determined by organizing the values in ascending order and identifying the middle value, which effectively represents the central location of the dataset without being influenced by the specific values of the data points.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because it highlights how each measure can convey different aspects of a dataset. For instance, in a skewed dataset where extreme values may exist, the mean could provide a misleading representation of the dataset's typical value, while the median would remain unaffected and offer a more accurate depiction of the dataset's central tendency.

This choice clarifies the fundamental definitions and roles of both statistical measures, thereby enhancing the understanding of data interpretation in mathematical and statistical contexts.