Which term refers to the continuous evaluation of data over a long period?

The term that refers to the continuous evaluation of data over a long period is trend analysis. This process involves examining data sets to identify consistent patterns or trends over time. By analyzing trends, researchers and organizations can make informed predictions, identify potential issues, and evaluate changes in data that may affect their operations or research. Trend analysis is crucial in many fields, including bioscience, as it allows for the observation of changes in variables that can have significant implications for studies or product development.

In contrast to this, quality control focuses more on the processes and procedures that ensure products or services meet defined specifications at a given moment. Risk management relates to identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks to minimize their impact. Quality assurance is concerned with the systematic processes implemented to ensure quality standards are consistently met but does not specifically denote the long-term analysis of data trends. Thus, while all the other terms are important in their respective contexts, they do not capture the ongoing evaluation aspect that trend analysis encompasses.