Final answer:
Without the standard deviation of the part dimensions, we cannot calculate the precise fraction of parts that meet the supplier specification. Assuming a normal distribution, if the specification range is ±1 standard deviation around the mean, approximately 68% of parts would conform. Without further details, a definite answer from the provided options cannot be given.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine what fraction of parts will meet the supplier specifications of a dimension between 1.96 and 2.04 centimeters when the actual mean is 1.98 centimeters, we need to consider the distribution of the measurements. Assuming a normal distribution (which is typical for manufacturing processes), the specification limits are symmetrical around the mean. The range 1.96 to 2.04 is ±0.03 from the mean of 1.98. Without the standard deviation, we cannot precisely calculate the exact fraction of parts meeting the specification. However, standard statistical tables show that approximately 68% of data within a normal distribution falls within ±1 standard deviation from the mean.
If the specification limits are within ±1 standard deviation, roughly 68% of the parts would meet the specification (Option B). Without the standard deviation or further information, we cannot identify an exact fraction from the provided options. It is worth noting that generally, the ±3 standard deviations from the mean encompass about 99.7% of the data in a normal distribution. Therefore, if our mean of 1.98 cm and the range of 1.96 cm to 2.04 cm represents ±3 standard deviations, then 99.7% of parts would meet the specification. Nevertheless, without further details, we cannot affirm one of the options as the factual answer.