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differentiate between discrete and continuous data. which of these data sets represent discrete data? a.) temperature readings for tuesday afternoon b.) snowfall that fell last night in maine c.) number of questions answered incorrectly in a multiple-choice quiz d.) time spent in running 1 mile

User Grundyoso
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Final answer:

Discrete data involve counts of whole numbers while continuous data involve measurements that can include fractions and decimals. In the given scenarios, the number of questions answered incorrectly in a quiz is an example of discrete data, while the rest, including temperature readings, snowfall, and time spent running, are examples of continuous data.

Step-by-step explanation:

Discrete data and continuous data are two types of quantitative data. Discrete data are counts that can only take on certain numerical values and are typically whole numbers, such as the number of questions on a quiz. Continuous data, on the other hand, are measurements that can take on any value within a range and often include fractions and decimals, such as temperature or time.

Analyzing the given data sets:

  • Temperature readings for Tuesday afternoon represent continuous data, as temperature can be measured to an arbitrary level of precision.
  • Snowfall that fell last night in Maine is also a form of continuous data because snowfall can be measured in terms of depth, which is a continuous measurement.
  • The number of questions answered incorrectly in a multiple-choice quiz is discrete data because it involves counting whole numbers.
  • Time spent in running 1 mile is considered continuous data since time can be measured down to infinitely small units, like seconds and milliseconds.
User Basickarl
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