An illustration of measurement accuracy

The weight of an offensive lineman

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Question

The weight of an offensive lineman may be 210 pounds, 210.1 pounds, 210.13 pounds or 210.137 pounds depending on the accuracy of the scale. What is this an illustration of?

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D. E.

C

The weight changes are in a random fashion and without a separate interval. Therefore it is continuous and random.

This question is related to the concept of random variables in statistics. A random variable is a variable whose value is determined by the outcome of a random event. Random variables can be classified into two main types: discrete random variables and continuous random variables.

A discrete random variable is one that can only take on a finite or countable number of distinct values. In this case, the weight of the offensive lineman is given in specific values: 210 pounds, 210.1 pounds, 210.13 pounds, and 210.137 pounds. Each of these values is distinct and separate from one another. Therefore, the weight of the offensive lineman can be considered a discrete random variable.

A continuous random variable, on the other hand, can take on any value within a certain range. It is not limited to specific distinct values. Examples of continuous random variables include measurements like height, weight, or time. In this case, the weight of the offensive lineman is given with decimal places, indicating that it can take on any value within the given range. Therefore, the weight can also be considered a continuous random variable.

Based on this analysis, the correct answer to the question is D. The weight of the offensive lineman can be considered both a discrete random variable and a continuous random variable, depending on the accuracy of the scale used to measure it.