When conducting a survey, a researcher selects a random sample from a larger population. Which of the following statements best describes the primary purpose and an inherent limitation of using a random sample in this context?
The primary purpose is to determine the exact characteristics of the entire population, but this is only possible if the sample size is very large.
The primary purpose is to provide an estimate of population characteristics, and this estimate is subject to natural sampling variability.
The primary purpose is to ensure that all future random samples from the same population will yield identical results, thereby eliminating the need for further surveys.
The primary purpose is to prove a specific hypothesis about a particular subgroup within the population, regardless of the overall population characteristics.