Probability of Normal Distribution

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the probability of a sample mean in a normal distribution context, specifically related to test scores with a given mean and variance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of probabilities using the standard normal distribution, with one participant expressing concern over the interpretation of results related to extreme Z-scores.

Discussion Status

Participants have engaged in a back-and-forth regarding the correctness of calculations, with some affirming the accuracy of the results and addressing concerns about the implications of high Z-scores.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the implications of a large sample size and its effect on the uncertainty of the mean, as well as the interpretation of Z-scores in relation to the normal distribution.

needhelp83
Messages
193
Reaction score
0
Test scores on a standardized test have mean 55 and variance 64. What is the probability that a random sample of 256 scores will have a sample mean score between 53 and 57

I attempted the problem and came up with this:
u=55 and sd = 8 (Square root of 64)
\mu=55 \sigma=\sqrt{64}=8
P(53< \bar{X} < 57) = P(\frac{53-55}{\frac{8}{\sqrt{256}}}<Z<\frac{57-55}{\frac{8}{\sqrt{256}}})=P(-4<Z<4)

What am I doing wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your work looks fine to me. Why do you think there's something wrong?
 
I felt like it was off because 4 is off the charts, so I figured I managed to perform a miscalculation somewhere
 
Yeah, I know the feeling. These statistics and probability problems can really test your intuition quite a bit.
 
\Phi(4)-\Phi(-4) = 1 - 0 =1

So is this correct?
 
Yes, to the accuracy of four decimal places. The large sample size really narrows down the uncertainty in the mean.
 
Ok, thanks for the explanation. That makes sense
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K