Example 5

Example 5: Determine whether the given value is from a discrete or continuous data set.

1. A research poll of 1015 people shows that 752 of them have internet access at work. (answer: Discrete—it is not possible to have a fraction of a person having internet access)

2. Josh Becket’s fastball was clocked at 98 mph during the World Series. (answer: Continuous--You can have any fraction of a mile per hour as the speed)

3. A student spent $86.53 on her calculator for class. (answer: Discrete—You cannot pay any decimal amount for the calculator.  For example, we can’t pay $86.532.  Since this is not possible it is discrete.)