What type of sampling does the Air Quality Index (AQI) utilize?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) utilizes random sampling, allowing for a representative assessment of air quality across various locations and times. This method involves collecting air quality data from randomly selected monitoring stations, which helps ensure that the results reflect the overall air quality experienced by the population rather than being influenced by specific locations or times of day.

Random sampling is beneficial in this context because it reduces the potential for biases that might occur if certain areas were oversampled or undersampled. By giving each location an equal chance of being selected, the AQI can provide a more accurate portrayal of air quality trends and levels that affect public health. In contrast, other sampling methods like full check, systematic sampling, or stratified sampling may not provide the same level of representation or might introduce biases based on the selected criteria.