Question

Determine whether the random variable is discrete or continuous. In each​ case, state the possible values of the random variable. ​(a) The number of free dash throw attempts before the first shot is madefree-throw attempts before the first shot is made. ​(b) The time it takes for a light bulb to burn outtime it takes for a light bulb to burn out.

Answer 1

a) Discrete. It can be 2 or 3.

b) Continuous. It can be bigger than 700 hours.

Explanation:

​(a) The number of free dash throw attempts before the first shot is made free-throw attempts before the first shot is made.

Discrete variables assumes finite number of isolated values. We can count the number of free dash throw attempts before the first shot is made, therefore this variable is discrete.

b) The time it takes for a light bulb to burn out time, it takes for a light bulb to burn out.

Continuous variables assume a value in a range rather than a set of finite numbers. Time is not countable but measurable. Therefore this variable is continuous.