Which of the following would be an appropriate alternative hypothesis?

A) The population mean is equal to 3.4.
B) The sample mean is greater than 3.4.
C) The population mean is greater than 3.4.
D) The sample mean is equal to 3.4.
E) The sample mean is not equal to 3.4.

C) The population mean is greater than 3.4.

To determine the appropriate alternative hypothesis, we need to understand the context of the hypothesis testing.

In hypothesis testing, we are comparing a sample to a population or comparing two sample means to see if there is a significant difference. The null hypothesis (H0) represents the statement we want to test, usually stating that there is no significant difference or effect. The alternative hypothesis (Ha) represents the assertion we are trying to establish by providing evidence against the null hypothesis.

In this case, the null hypothesis can be stated as "The population mean is equal to 3.4." This is represented by option A.

The appropriate alternative hypothesis depends on what we are trying to investigate. Based on the given options, it seems that we are interested in exploring if the mean is different from or greater than 3.4.

Option B suggests "The sample mean is greater than 3.4." This is a valid alternative hypothesis if we are testing whether the sample mean is significantly greater than 3.4.

Option C states "The population mean is greater than 3.4." This is also a possible alternative hypothesis if we are testing whether the population mean is significantly greater than 3.4.

Option D suggests "The sample mean is equal to 3.4." This would likely be the null hypothesis rather than the alternative hypothesis.

Option E states "The sample mean is not equal to 3.4." This alternative hypothesis would be appropriate if we are testing whether the sample mean is significantly different from 3.4.

Based on the options provided, both option B and option C would be appropriate alternative hypotheses, depending on the specific research question or hypothesis being investigated.

Without knowing the specific problem, it is difficult to say.

The null hypothesis (Ho) would indicate that the two values were equal. Depending on how the specific problem is stated, the answer for the alternative hypothesis (H1) could be B, C or E.

I hope this helps. If not, repost your question with adequate data.