Question

An estimate of the balance point for a distribution of ages represented on a number line resulted in a greater sum of

the distances to the right than the sum of the distances to the left. In which direction should you move your
estimate of the balance point? Explain.

Answer 1

To the right

Explanation:

The balance point should be adjusted in the direction of the larger sum. Doing so will make that sum smaller.

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Example:

Consider a point at -5 and another at +11. A first estimated balance point at 0 will give a right-sum of 11, and a left-sum of 5. The rule above says we should move the balance point to the right.

If we move it to 3, then the right sum is (11-3) = 8, and the left sum is (3-5) = 8, so both sums are equal and the new balance point estimate is in the right place.