Final answer:
The third decile (D3) for women's weights, separating the bottom 30% from the top 70%, can be found by converting the 30th percentile z-score to an actual value using the mean and standard deviation, which results in approximately 127.92 pounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the third decile (D3) for women's weights, which separates the bottom 30% from the top 70%, we need to use the mean (µ = 143 lb) and the standard deviation (σ = 29 lb) for the normally distributed weights. The third decile corresponds to the 30th percentile in the standard normal distribution.
First, we use a z-table to find the z-value that corresponds to the 30th percentile. Looking at standard normal distribution tables, or using a calculator, we find that the z-score corresponding to the 30th percentile is approximately -0.52.
Then, we use the formula for converting a z-score to an actual value in the distribution:
X = µ + z × σ
Substituting our values, we get:
X = 143 lb + (-0.52 × 29 lb)
X = 143 lb - 15.08 lb
X = 127.92 lb
Therefore, the third decile for women's weights is about 127.92 lb.