Criteria of Gaussian/non-Gaussian nature of distrubution and populations

Abstract

The use of Gaussian distributions in approximations of samples of non-Gaussian populations leads to irreproducible results. Non-Gaussian distribution ~ should be used i n these cases. The criteria of Gaussianhon-Gaussian nature for distributions are distinct , thus making it possible to unequivocally show which distribution and at which values o f parameters i s Gaussianlnon-Gaussian. For populations, the criteria are more blurred. An alternative is to use only Zipfian distributions as approximations. The correctness o f various distributions (GIGP, GW etc) and the methods of their use in informetrics and scientometrics is analysed.