A researcher calculates a mean from a sample of 23 people. In analyzing her data, she states the following hypotheses: H₀: μ = 25 and H₁: μ ≠ 25. For α = .05, which is an appropriate critical value?

A) 1.717
B) 2.074
C) 2.069
D) 2.064

Since the researcher is using a two-tailed test with a significance level of α = .05, the appropriate critical value for a t-test with 22 degrees of freedom (sample size - 1) is 2.074. This critical value can be found in a t-table or using a statistical software program. Therefore, the best choice is B.