Normal Random Variable Probability

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating probabilities involving a normal random variable, specifically focusing on the expression P(|X-80| <= 10) where X has a mean of 80 and a standard deviation of 10. Participants are exploring the implications of absolute values in probability calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss standardizing the normal variable and converting the absolute value inequality into a range for Z-scores. There are questions about the correct interpretation of the probability and the use of Z-tables.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on how to standardize the variable and interpret the results. Some participants express confusion about their calculations, while others attempt to clarify the steps involved in finding the probabilities.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of misunderstanding regarding the standardization process and the use of Z-tables, with some participants noting errors in their calculations. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the absolute value and its implications for the probability calculation.

needhelp83
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If X is a normal rv with mean 80 and standard deviation 10, compute the following probabilities by standardizing:

P(|X-80| <= 10)

I know how to determine the probability without absolute value, but this confuses me. Any help?
 
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From |X-80| <= 10, you can get -10 <= (X-80) <= 10, -1 <= Z <= 1
We also know that P(Z<-1) = P(Z>1) due to symmetry. Hope that helps.
 
Fightfish said:
From |X-80| <= 10, you can get -10 <= (X-80) <= 10, -1 <= Z <= 1
We also know that P(Z<-1) = P(Z>1) due to symmetry. Hope that helps.

I do understand partially. I remember this from just basic algebra. Afterwards, would I solve for P(70 <= X <= 90) where I added 80 to both sides?
 
needhelp83 said:
I do understand partially. I remember this from just basic algebra. Afterwards, would I solve for P(70 <= X <= 90) where I added 80 to both sides?
Yup.
 
Ok I am not getting this to work out correctly:

P(|X-80|) [tex]\leq[/tex] 10)

P(-10 [tex]\leq[/tex] X-80 [tex]\leq[/tex] 10)

P( [tex]\frac{-10-80}{10}[/tex] [tex]\leq[/tex] Z [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]\frac{10-80}{10}[/tex])

-9 [tex]\leq[/tex] Z [tex]\leq[/tex] -7

Ok, so these aren't on the Z table, so I am definitely not doing something right. What am I now missing? The 80 is my mean and 10 is my s.d.
 
[tex]Z = \frac{X-\mu}{\sigma}[/tex]
Check your standardisation.
 
P(-10 [tex]\leq[/tex] X-80 [tex]\leq[/tex] 10)

P (70 [tex]\leq[/tex] X [tex]\leq[/tex] 90)

P ([tex]\frac{70-80}{10}[/tex] [tex]\leq[/tex] Z [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]\frac{90-80}{10}[/tex])

.1587-.8413 = -0.6826

I am funny! What a silly mistake. Should be right now!
 
Check your final calculation - you have a glaring error.
 
statdad said:
Check your final calculation - you have a glaring error.

Wow, this problem kicked my butt!

ANSWER IS:
0.8413 - 0.1587 =0.6826

Thanks for the help guys!
 

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