What are the objects available for study referred to in research?

In the context of research, the term "sample" refers specifically to the objects available for study. A sample consists of a subset of individuals, items, or observations selected from a larger population, which represents that population. Researchers study samples in order to draw conclusions or make inferences about a larger group without needing to examine every single member of that population. This is particularly important in fields such as social sciences, health, and market research, where studying the entire population may be impractical or unfeasible.

The sample is crucial because it enables researchers to conduct statistical analyses and determine characteristics of the population based on the data collected from the sample. This process also introduces concepts like sampling error and representation, which are essential for ensuring that the findings can be generalized back to the larger population. The use of samples is a key methodology in empirical research, allowing for efficient and effective analysis while managing resources and time constraints.