Calculating Probability with Normal Distribution Sample from N(μ=50, σ2=100)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating a probability using the normal distribution, specifically focusing on a sample from a normal distribution with given parameters. Participants are tasked with finding the probability P(Xbar > 50 + 0.6505(s)) for a sample size of 16 from a normal distribution N(μ=50, σ2=100).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the T distribution due to the small sample size and question the reasoning behind using the T distribution versus the normal distribution. There is also confusion regarding the calculation of the value 2.602 and the interpretation of 's' in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the use of the T distribution and the derivation of the value 2.602. Some guidance has been provided regarding the conditions under which to use the T distribution, but uncertainty remains about specific calculations and interpretations.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the sample size is small (n=16), which influences the choice of distribution. There is also mention of previous problems that used different approaches, indicating a potential inconsistency in understanding the application of statistical methods.

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Homework Statement



Let X1, X2,...,X16 be a random sample of size 16 from N(μ=50, σ2=100) distribution.

Find P(Xbar > 50 + .6505(s))

Homework Equations



Z= (xbar - μ)/(σ/√n)

The Attempt at a Solution



So I know the solution of this problem is given by P( T(15 d.f.) > 2.602 ) but I'm not sure why.

I notice that you get the value 2.602 by plugging (50 + .6505(s)) in for xbar in the Z equation.

I guess I'm not really sure why we use the T distribution here and how you're supposed to come up with the value 2.602. 15 degrees of freedom makes sense.
 
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Phox said:

Homework Statement



Let X1, X2,...,X16 be a random sample of size 16 from N(μ=50, σ2=100) distribution.

Find P(Xbar > 50 + .6505(s))

Homework Equations



Z= (xbar - μ)/(σ/√n)

The Attempt at a Solution



So I know the solution of this problem is given by P( T(15 d.f.) > 2.602 ) but I'm not sure why.

I notice that you get the value 2.602 by plugging (50 + .6505(s)) in for xbar in the Z equation.

I guess I'm not really sure why we use the T distribution here and how you're supposed to come up with the value 2.602. 15 degrees of freedom makes sense.

You have to use the Student's t distribution because your sample size is so small. As I recall the cutoff is about n = 28. For your problem, n = 16.
 
Mark44 said:
You have to use the Student's t distribution because your sample size is so small. As I recall the cutoff is about n = 28. For your problem, n = 16.

Ok. That makes sense.

I suppose I'm confused because in the previous problem we were asked to find P(xbar >52) and we used z scores/normal cdf
 
Phox said:

Homework Statement



Let X1, X2,...,X16 be a random sample of size 16 from N(μ=50, σ2=100) distribution.

Find P(Xbar > 50 + .6505(s))

Homework Equations



Z= (xbar - μ)/(σ/√n)

The Attempt at a Solution



So I know the solution of this problem is given by P( T(15 d.f.) > 2.602 ) but I'm not sure why.

I notice that you get the value 2.602 by plugging (50 + .6505(s)) in for xbar in the Z equation.

I guess I'm not really sure why we use the T distribution here and how you're supposed to come up with the value 2.602. 15 degrees of freedom makes sense.

What, exactly, do you mean by 's' in the expression Xbar > 50 + 0.6505 s ? If 's' is the sample standard deviation, you need to use the t-distribution because you are essentially asking for the distribution of T = (Xbar - μ)/s (or maybe (Xbar - μ)/(s/√n), depending on what s actually represents). You would use the normal distribution if you wanted Xbar > 50 + 0.6505 σ with known σ = 10. In other words, use N for (Xbar - μ)/σ and use T for (Xbar - μ)/s.
 
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Ray Vickson said:
What, exactly, do you mean by 's' in the expression Xbar > 50 + 0.6505 s ? If 's' is the sample standard deviation, you need to use the t-distribution because you are essentially asking for the distribution of T = (Xbar - μ)/s (or maybe (Xbar - μ)/(s/√n), depending on what s actually represents). You would use the normal distribution if you wanted Xbar > 50 + 0.6505 σ with known σ = 10. In other words, use N for (Xbar - μ)/σ and use T for (Xbar - μ)/s.

's' represents the sample standard deviation.

I'm still a bit unclear as to how we come up with the value 2.602
 
Phox said:
's' represents the sample standard deviation.

I'm still a bit unclear as to how we come up with the value 2.602

2.602 = 4 \times 0.6505 = \sqrt{16} \times 0.6505
 

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