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Which of the following can be represented by a discrete random variable?

A) Height of individuals in a population
B) Temperature in degrees Celsius
C) Time taken to complete a race
D) Weight of a sample of objects

User SaeX
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Out of the options provided, weight of a sample of objects can be represented by a discrete random variable if it refers to countable quantities. Other options like height, temperature, and time are typically measured precisley, which makes them continuous random variables.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to understanding the concept of discrete and continuous random variables in probability. A discrete random variable can take on countable values. In the examples provided, weight of a sample of objects can be represented by a discrete random variable if the weights are specifically counted (like the number of books), but if the weight needs to be measured to a fine scale, it becomes a continuous variable. All the other options - height of individuals (measured), temperature (measured), and time taken to complete a race (measured) are continuous as they are not simply counted.

In general,

  • Height of individuals is measured and, therefore, a continuous random variable.
  • Temperature in degrees Celsius is measured, hence it is a continuous random variable.
  • Time taken to complete a race is measured with precision and is continuous.
  • Weight of a sample of objects can be discrete or continuous depending on whether the value is counted or measured.
User Prakash P
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