Answer: about 141
Explanation:
To find the minimum sample size (n) needed to estimate μ, we can use the formula:
n = (Z * σ / E)^2
Where:
n is the sample size
Z is the Z-score corresponding to the desired confidence level (c)
σ is the population standard deviation
E is the desired margin of error
In this case, we have the following values:
c = 0.98 (confidence level)
σ = 5.1 (population standard deviation)
E = 1 (margin of error)
Now, let's calculate the minimum sample size (n) using the formula mentioned above.
First, we need to find the Z-score corresponding to a confidence level of 0.98. Since the confidence level is 0.98, the area under the normal distribution curve outside the interval is (1 - c) / 2 = 0.01. Looking up this value in the Z-table, we find that the Z-score is approximately 2.33.
Now, we can substitute the values into the formula:
n = (2.33 * 5.1 / 1)^2
Simplifying the expression:
n = (11.883 / 1)^2
n = 11.883^2
n ≈ 141
Therefore, the minimum sample size needed to estimate μ, given the values of c = 0.98, σ = 5.1, and E = 1, is approximately 141.