Which statement supports the use of large, representative samples in a study? The study will be over too soon to gather sufficient data. The amount of data able to be collected from a small sample may be insufficient. Fellow scientists are less likely to believe a study that uses a small sample. The traits of the sample members may differ randomly from the traits of the population as a whole.

To determine which statement supports the use of large, representative samples in a study, let's analyze each option: 1. **The study will be over too soon to gather sufficient data.** - This statement suggests a time constraint rather than a justification for using a large sample. It does not directly support the need for a larger sample size. 2. **The amount of data able to be collected from a small sample may be insufficient.** - This statement directly supports the use of large samples. A small sample may not provide enough data to draw reliable conclusions, making a larger sample more desirable for obtaining sufficient data. 3. **Fellow scientists are less likely to believe a study that uses a small sample.** - While this statement implies that larger samples may enhance credibility, it does not provide a direct rationale for why large samples are necessary for the study itself. 4. **The traits of the sample members may differ randomly from the traits of the population as a whole.** - This statement highlights the potential for sampling error in small samples. It supports the idea that larger samples can better represent the population, reducing the likelihood of random differences. Based on this analysis, the statement that most clearly supports the use of large, representative samples in a study is: **The amount of data able to be collected from a small sample may be insufficient.**