What distinguishes systematic sampling from random sampling?

Systematic sampling is characterized by selecting samples at regular intervals from a sorted population. This method involves defining a starting point and then choosing every nth unit in the population to create a sample. For instance, if you're conducting a survey and choose every 10th person on a list, you're applying systematic sampling. This structured approach helps ensure that the samples are spread evenly across the population, which can enhance the representativeness of the sample.

In contrast, random sampling does not follow a set interval; instead, each individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected, which can be achieved through various random selection methods. This randomness may lead to samples that are spread out non-uniformly. The other choices do not accurately capture the essence or methodology of systematic sampling when compared to random sampling.