Open Class Interval Problem from AS S1

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Anna is working on calculating the mean and standard deviation for a set of data summarized in intervals. For the weight of a letter, the mid-values are correctly identified as 15, 25, 35, and 45 grams. For the number of misprints in a magazine, the mid-values are 14.5, 24.5, 34.5, and 45. However, there is confusion regarding the age of the audience at a cinema, as it is initially thought to be discrete due to "complete years," but the appropriate mid-value is actually 45. Clarification on the variable type is sought, especially with exams approaching.
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Homework Statement


Question

Anna is calculating the mean and standard deviation for a set of data for a random
variable X. The data is summarised in the table below.

x: 10– 20– 30– 40–50
Frequency: 8 20 12 0

(i) For each of the following cases, write down the appropriate mid-values of the four
intervals.

(a) X is the weight of a letter, in grams. (This one is okay, variable is continuous)
(b) X is the number of misprints in a magazine. (This one is okay, variable discrete)
(c) X is the age, in complete years, of the audience at a cinema. (Problem)

Answers:
(a) 15, 25, 35, 45
(b) 14.5, 24.5, 34.5, 45
(c) 15, 25, 35, 45.5 (3 s.f.)

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


I understand a) and b) fine. However, I can't figure out c) since I can't figure out what type of variable it is. I initially thought it would be discrete, due to the number of *complete* years. Would that not make the answer the same as that to b) though?
Any clarification is greatly appreciated, exams coming soon :).
 
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Problem solved.
 
Since ##px^9+q## is the factor, then ##x^9=\frac{-q}{p}## will be one of the roots. Let ##f(x)=27x^{18}+bx^9+70##, then: $$27\left(\frac{-q}{p}\right)^2+b\left(\frac{-q}{p}\right)+70=0$$ $$b=27 \frac{q}{p}+70 \frac{p}{q}$$ $$b=\frac{27q^2+70p^2}{pq}$$ From this expression, it looks like there is no greatest value of ##b## because increasing the value of ##p## and ##q## will also increase the value of ##b##. How to find the greatest value of ##b##? Thanks
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