Probability of a value of x, given a mean value of x bar and standard deviation s

In summary, the conversation discusses monitoring a local aquifer and finding the mean water level and standard deviation over the past 8 summers. The focus then shifts to finding the probability of the aquifer level dropping to a specific range during the current summer and the probability of it reaching a specific level. It is mentioned that a normal distribution may not be appropriate and that a time series model should be used instead. The concept of extreme value theory for time series is also mentioned in relation to estimating the probability of extreme events.
  • #1
moonman239
282
0
Let's say I monitors my local aquifer (Edwards) using well J-17 over the past 8 summers (not counting this summer). I found that the mean water level/day is 680 ft above sea level, with a standard deviation of 30. Assuming a normal distribution, how do I find the probability that the aquifer level will drop to between 660 and 641 ft sometime this summer, at which time Stage 1 drought restrictions are in place?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Also, how do I find the probability that the level will be exactly 641 ft?
 
  • #3
Assuming a normal distribution won't do you any good. The water levels in the aquifer at different days are certainly dependent so you need to model them as a time series. One you have estimated a suitable time series model from your observations, the question of how likely the water level is to drop to below a certain threshold can be answered in different ways.
One thing which usually comes up in this context is that the target region for which you want to estimate the probability is well outside the typical range of the time series under consideration and reaching it is therefore considered an extreme event, which then leads to the discipline called extreme value theory for time series.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating the probability of a specific value of x given the mean and standard deviation?

The formula for calculating the probability of a specific value of x is known as the z-score formula. It is given by:
P(x) = (x - x bar) / s
where x is the specific value, x bar is the mean, and s is the standard deviation.

2. How is the probability of a value of x affected by the mean and standard deviation?

The probability of a value of x is directly affected by the mean and standard deviation. A higher mean and smaller standard deviation will result in a higher probability, while a lower mean and larger standard deviation will result in a lower probability.

3. Can the probability of a value of x be greater than 1?

No, the probability of a value of x cannot be greater than 1. The maximum probability is 1, which indicates a 100% chance of the event occurring. Any value greater than 1 would not make mathematical sense.

4. How does the shape of the distribution curve affect the probability of a value of x?

The shape of the distribution curve, also known as the bell curve, affects the probability of a value of x by determining the likelihood of the value occurring. For a symmetrical and normal distribution, the probability of a value of x close to the mean is higher, while the probability decreases as the value moves away from the mean.

5. How can the probability of a value of x be used in real life situations?

The probability of a value of x can be used in various real-life situations, such as in finance, medicine, and sports. For example, it can be used to predict stock market trends, determine the effectiveness of a medication, or analyze the performance of a team in a sports tournament.

Similar threads

  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
4
Views
909
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Precalculus Mathematics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top