Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

Chapter 6
Continuous Distributions
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
The primary objective of Chapter 6 is to help you understand continuous distributions,
thereby enabling you to:
1.

Understand concepts of the uniform distribution.

2.

Appreciate the importance of the normal distribution.

3.

Recognize normal distribution problems and know how to solve such problems.

4.

Decide when to use the normal distribution to approximately binomial distribution

problems and know how to work such problems.

5.

Decide when to use the exponential distribution to solve problems in business and
know how to work such problems.
CHAPTER TEACHING STRATEGY

Chapter 5 introduced the students to discrete distributions. This chapter

introduces the student to three continuous distributions, the uniform distribution, the
normal distribution and the exponential distribution. The normal distribution is probably
the most widely known and used distribution. The text has been prepared with the notion
that the student should be able to work many varied types of normal curve problems.
Examples and practice problems are given wherein the student is asked to solve for
virtually any of the four variables in the z equation. It is very helpful for the student to
get into the habit of constructing a normal curve diagram with a shaded portion for the
desired area of concern for each problem using the normal distribution. Many students
tend to be more visual learners than auditory and these diagrams will be of great
assistance in problem demonstration and in problem solution.
This chapter contains a section dealing with the solution of binomial distribution
problems by the normal curve. The correction for continuity is emphasized. In this text,
the correction for continuity is always used whenever a binomial distribution problem is
worked by the normal curve. Since this is often a stumbling block for students to
comprehend, the chapter has included (Table 6.4) a table with some rules of thumb as to
how to apply the correction for continuity. It should be emphasized, however, that the

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

answer is still only an approximation. For this reason and also in an effort to link
chapters 5 & 6, the student is sometimes asked to work binomial problems both by
methods in this chapter and also by using binomial tables (A.2). This also will allow the
student to observe how good the approximation of the normal curve is to binomial
problems.
The exponential distribution can be taught as a continuous distribution which can
be used in complement with the Poisson distribution of chapter 5 to solve interarrival
time problems. The student can see that while the Poisson distribution is discrete because
it describes the probabilities of whole number possibilities per some interval, the
exponential distribution describes the probabilities associated with times which are
continuously distributed.
CHAPTER OUTLINE
6.1

The Uniform Distribution

Determining Probabilities in a Uniform Distribution
Using the Computer to Solve for Uniform Distribution Probabilities

6.2

Normal Distribution
History of the Normal Distribution
Probability Density Function of the Normal Distribution
Standardized Normal Distribution
Working Normal Curve Problems
Using the Computer to Solve for Normal Distribution Probabilities

6.3

Using the Normal Curve to Work Binomial Distribution Problems

Correcting for Continuity

6.4

Exponential Distribution
Probabilities of the Exponential Distribution
Using the Computer to Determine Exponential Distribution Probabilities

KEY TERMS
Correction for Continuity
Exponential Distribution
Normal Distribution
Rectangular Distribution

Standardized Normal Distribution

Uniform Distribution
z Distribution
z Score

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

SOLUTIONS TO PROBLEMS IN CHAPTER 6

6.1 a = 200
a) f(x) =
b) =
=

b = 240
1
1
1

b a 240 200 40
a b 200 240

2
2

= 220

b a 240 200
40

12
12
12

c) P(x> 230) =

240 230 10

240 200 40

d) P(205 < x < 220) =

e) P(x < 225) =
6.2 a = 8
a) f(x) =

b) =
=

= 11.547
= .250

220 205 15

240 200 40

225 200 25

240 200 40

= .375

= .625

b = 21
1
1
1

b a 21 8 13

a b 8 21 29

2
2
2

= 14.5

b a 21 8
13

12
12
12

c) P(10 < x < 17) =

= 3.7528

17 10
7

21 8
13

d) P(x > 22) = .0000

= .5385

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

e) P(x > 7) = 1.0000

6.3 a = 2.80

b = 3.14

a b 2.80 3.14

2
2

= 2.97

ba
3.14 2.80

12
12

= 0.10

P(3.00 < x < 3.10) =

6.4 a = 11.97
Height =

3.10 3.00
3.14 2.80

b = 12.03

1
1

b a 12.03 11 .97

P(x > 12.01) =

12.03 12.01
12.03 11 .97

P(11.98 < x < 12.01) =

6.5 = 2100
=

a = 400

b a 3800 400

12
12

Height =

= 0.2941

= .3333

12.01 11 .98
12.03 11.97

= .5000

b = 3800
= 981.5

1
3800 400

ba
12

P(x > 3000) =

= 16.667

= .000294

3800 3000
800

3800 400
3400

= .2353

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

P(x > 4000) = .0000

P(700 < x < 1500) =

1500 700
800

3800 400 3400

= .2353

6.6 a) Prob(z > 1.96):

Table A.5 value for z = 1.96:

.4750

Prob(z > 1.96) = .5000 - .4750 = .0250

b) Prob (z < 0.73):
Table A.5 value for z = 0.73:

.2673

Prob(z < 0.73) = .5000 + .2673 = .7673

c) Prob(1.46 < z 2.84):
Table A.5 value for z = 2.84:
Table A.5 value for z = 1.46:

.4977
.4279

Prob(1.46 < z 2.84) = .4977 4279 = .0698

d) Prob (-2.67 < z < 1.08):
Table A.5 value for z = -2.67:
Table A.5 value for z = 1.08:

.4962
.3599

Prob(-2.67 < z < 1.08) = .4962 + .3599 = .8561

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

e) Prob (-2.05 < z < -.87):

Table A.5 value for z = -2.05: .4798
Table A.5 value for z = -0.87: .3078
Prob(-2.05 < z < -.87) = .4796 - .3078 = .1720
6.7 a)
z =

Prob(x < 635 = 604, = 56.8):

x 635 604

56.8

= 0.55

Table A.5 value for z = 0.55:

.2088

Prob(x < 635) = .2088 + .5000 = .7088

b) Prob(x < 20
z =

= 48, = 12):

x 20 48

12

= -2.33

Table A.5 value for z = -2.33:

.4901

Prob(x < 20) = .5000 - .4901 = .0099

c) Prob(100 < x < 150 = 111, = 33.8):
z =

x 150 111

33.8

= 1.15

Table A.5 value for z = 1.15:

.3749

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

x 100 111

33.8

= -0.33

Table A.5 value for z = -0.33:

.1293

Prob(100 < x < 150) = .3749 + .1293 = .5042

d) Prob(250 < x < 255 = 264, = 10.9):
z =

x 250 264

10.9

= -1.28

Table A.5 value for z = -1.28:

z =

x 255 264

10.9

.3997

= =0.83

Table A.5 value for z = -0.83:

.2967

Prob(250 < x < 255) = .3997 - .2967 = .1030

e) Prob(x > 35 = 37, = 4.35):
z =

x 35 37

4.35

= -0.46

Table A.5 value for z = -0.46:

.1772

Prob(x > 35) = .1772 + .5000 = .6772

f) Prob(x > 170 = 156, = 11.4):
z =

x 170 156

11.4

= 1.23

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

Table A.5 value for z = 1.23:

.3907

Prob(x > 170) = .5000 - .3907 = .1093

6.8 = 22

=4

a) Prob(x > 17):

z =

x 17 22

= -1.25

area between x = 17 and = 22 from table A.5 is .3944

Prob(x > 17) = .3944 + .5000 = .8944
b) Prob(x < 13):
z =

x 13 22

= -2.25

from table A.5, area = .4878

Prob(x < 13) = .5000 - .4878 = .0122
c) P(25 < x < 31):
z =

x 31 22

= 2.25

from table A.5, area = .4878

z =

x 25 22

= 0.75

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

from table A.5, area = .2734

Prob(25 < x < 31) = .4878 - .2734 = .2144
6.9 = 42.78

= 11.35

a) Prob(x > 67.75):

z =

x 67.5 42.78

11.35

= 2.20

from Table A.5, the value for z = 2.20 is .4861

Prob(x > 67.75) = .5000 - .4861 = .0139
b) Prob(30 < x < 50:
z =

x 30 42.78

11.35

= -1.13

z =

x 50 42.78

11.35

= 0.64

from Table A.5, the value for z = -1.13 is .3708

and for z = 0.64 is .2389
Prob(30 < x < 50) = .3708 + .2389 = .6097
c) Prob(x < 25):
z =

x 25 42.78

11.35

= -1.57

from Table A.5, the value for z = -1.57 is .4418

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

10

Prob(x < 25) = .5000 - .4418 = .0582

d) Prob(45 < x < 55):
z =

x 55 42.78

11.35

= 1.08

z =

x 45 42.78

11.35

= 0.20

from Table A.5, the value for z = 1.08 is .3599

from Table A.5, the value for z = 0.20 is .0793
Prob(45 < x < 55) = .3599 - .0793 = .2806
6.10

= $1332

= $575

a) Prob(x > $2000):

z =

x 2000 1332

725

= 0.92

from Table A.5, the z = 0.92 yields:

.3212

Prob(x > $2000) = .5000 - .3212 = .1788

b) Prob(owes money) = Prob(x < 0):
z =

x 0 1332

725

= -1.84

from Table A.5, the z = -1.84 yields: .4671

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

11

Prob(x < 0) = .5000 - .4671 = .0329

c) Prob($100 < x < $700):
z =

x 100 1332

725

= -1.70

from Table A.5, the z = -1.70 yields:

z =

x 700 1332

725

.4554

= -0.87

from Table A.5, the z = -0.87 yields:

.3078

Prob($100 < x < $700) = .4554 - .3078 =

6.11 = $30,000

.1476

= $9,000

a) Prob($15,000 < x < $45,000):

z =

45,000 30,000
9,000

= 1.67

From Table A.5, z = 1.67 yields:

z =

15,000 30,000
9,000

.4525

= -1.67

From Table A.5, z = -1.67 yields:

.4525

Prob($15,000 < x < $45,000) = .4525 + .4525 = .9050

b) Prob(x > $50,000):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

50,000 30,000
9,000

12

= 2.22

From Table A.5, z = 2.22 yields: 4868

Prob(x > $50,000) = .5000 - .4868 = .0132
c) Prob($5,000 < x < $20,000):
z =

5,000 30,000
9,000

= -2.78

From Table A.5, z = -2.78 yields:

z =

20,000 30,000
9,000

.4973

= -1.11

From Table A.5, z = -1.11 yields

.3665

Prob($5,000 < x < $20,000) = .4973 - .3665 = .1308

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

13

d) 90.82% of the values are greater than x = $7,000.

Then x = $7,000 is in the lower half of the distribution
and .9082 - .5000 =
.4082 lie between x and .
From Table A.5, z = -1.33 is associated with an area of .
4082.
Solving for :
z =

-1.33 =

7,000 30,000

= 17,293.23
e) = $9,000. If 79.95% of the costs are less than $33,000,
x = $33,000 is in
the upper half of the distribution and .7995 - .5000 = .
2995 of the values lie
between $33,000 and the mean.
From Table A.5, an area of .2995 is associated with
z = 0.84
Solving for :
z =

0.84 =

33,000
9,000

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

14

= $25,440
= 47

6.12 = 200,

Determine x

a) 60% of the values are greater than x:

Since 50% of the values are greater than the mean, = 200,
10% or .1000 lie
between x and the mean. From Table A.5, the z value
associated with an area
of .1000 is z = -0.25. The z value is negative since x is
below the mean.
Substituting z = -0.25, = 200, and = 47 into the
formula and solving for x:
z =

-0.25 =

x 200
47

x = 188.25

b) x is less than 17% of the values.

Since x is only less than 17% of the values, 33% (.5000- .
1700) or .3300 lie
between x and the mean. Table A.5 yields a z value of 0.95
for an area of
.3300. Using this z = 0.95, = 200, and = 47, x can be
solved for:

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

15

X 200
47

0.95 =

x = 244.65
c) 22% of the values are less than x.
Since 22% of the values lie below x, 28% lie between x
and the mean
(.5000 - .2200). Table A.5 yields a z of -0.77 for an area of
.2800. Using the z
value of -0.77, = 200, and = 47, x can be solved for:
z =

-0.77 =

x 200
47

x = 163.81
d) x is greater than 55% of the values.
Since x is greater than 55% of the values, 5% (.0500) lie
between x and the
mean. From Table A.5, a z value of 0.13 is associated with
an area of .05.
Using z = 0.13, = 200, and = 47, x can be solved for:
z =

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

0.13 =

16

x 200
47

x = 206.11
6.13 a) = 12.56. If 71.97% of the values are greater than 56,
then 21.97% of .2197
lie between 56 and the mean, . The z value associated
with .2197 is -0.58
since the 56 is below the mean.
Using z = -0.58, x = 56, and = 12.56, can be solved
for:
z =

-0.58 =

56
12.56

= 63.285
b) = 352. Since only 13.35% of the values are less than x =
300, the x = 300 is
at the lower end of the distribution. 36.65% (.5000 - .
1335) lie between
x = 300 and = 352. From Table A.5, a z value of -1.11
is associated with
.3665 area at the lower end of the distribution.
Using x = 300, = 352, and z = -1.11, can be solved
for:
z =

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

17

300 352

-1.11 =

= 46.85
= ??

6.14 = 22

72.4% of the values are greater than x, 22.4% lie between x

and . x is below the mean. From table A.5, z = - 0.59.
-0.59 =

18.5 22

-0.59 = -3.5
=

3.5
0.59

= 5.932

6.15 Prob(x < 20) = .2900

x is less than because of the percentage. Between x and is
.5000 - .2900 =
.2100 of the area. The z score associated with this area is
-0.55. Solving for :
z =

-0.55 =

20
4

= 22.20
6.16
= 9.7 Since 22.45% are greater than 11.6, x = 11.6 is
in the upper half of the distribution and .2755 (.5000 - .2245)

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

18

lie between x and the mean. Table A.5 yields a z = 0.76 for an
area of .2755.
Solving for :
z =

0.76 =

11.6 9.7

= 2.5
6.17

a) P(x < 16 n = 30 and p = .70)

= np = 30(.70) = 21
=

n pq

30(.70)(.30)

= 2.51

P(x < 16.5 = 21 and = 2.51)

b) P(10 < x < 20 n = 25 and p = .50)
= np = 25(.50) = 12.5
=

n pq

25(.50)(.50)

P(10.5 < x < 20.5 = 12.5 and = 2.5)

c) P(x = 22 n = 40 and p = .60)

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

19

= np = 40(.60) = 24
=

n pq

40(.60)(.40)

= 3.10

P(21.5 < x < 22.5 = 24 and = 3.10)

d) P(x > 14 n = 16 and p = .45)
= np = 16(.45) = 7.2
=

n pq

16(.45)(.55)

P(x > 14.5 = 7.2 and = 1.99)

6.18

a) n = 8 and p = .50
= np = 8(.50) = 4
=

n pq

8(.50)(.50)

= 1.414

3 = 4 3(1.414) = 4 4.242
(-0.242 to 8.242) does not lie between 0 and 8.
Do not use the normal distribution to approimate this
problem.
b) n = 18 and p = .80
= np = 18(.80) = 14.4
=

n pq

18(.80)(.20)

= 1.697

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

20

3 = 14.4 3(1.697) = 14.4 5.091

(9.309 to 19.491) does not lie between 0 and 18.
Do not use the normal distribution to approimate this
problem.
c) n = 12 and p = .30
= np = 12(.30) = 3.6
=

n pq

12(.30)(.70)

= 1.587

3 = 3.6 3(1.587) = 3.6 4.761

(-1.161 to 8.361) does not lie between 0 and 12.
Do not use the normal distribution to approimate this
problem.
d) n = 30 and p = .75
= np = 30(.75) = 22.5
3 = 22.5 3(2.37) = 22.5 7.11
(15.39 to 29.61) does lie between 0 and 30.
The problem can be approimated by the normal curve.
e) n = 14 and p = .50
= np = 14(.50) = 7
=

n pq

14(.50)(.50)

= 1.87

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

21

3 = 7 3(1.87) = 7 5.61
(1.39 to 12.61) does lie between 0 and 14.
The problem can be approimated by the normal curve.
6.19

a) Prob(x = 8 n = 25 and p = .40)

= np = 25(.40) = 10
=

n pq

25(.40)(.60)

3 = 10 3(2.449) = 10 7.347
(2.653 to 17.347) lies between 0 and 25.
Approimation by the normal curve is sufficient.
Prob(7.5 < x < 8.5 = 10 and = 2.449):
z =

7.5 10
2.449

= -1.02

From Table A.5, area = .3461

z =

8.5 10
2.449

= -0.61

From Table A.5, area = .2291

Prob(7.5 < x < 8.5) = .3461 - .2291 = .1170
From Table A.2 (binomial tables) = .120
b) Prob(x > 13 n = 20 and p = .60)

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

22

= np = 20(.60) = 12
=

n pq

20(.60)(.40)

= 2.19

3 = 12 3(2.19) = 12 6.57
(5.43 to 18.57) lies between 0 and 20.
Approimation by the normal curve is sufficient.
Prob(x < 12.5 = 12 and = 2.19):
z =

x 12.5 12

2.19

= 0.23

From Table A.5, area = .0910

Prob(x > 12.5) = .5000 -.0910 = .4090
From Table A.2 (binomial tables) = .415
c) Prob(x = 7 n = 15 and p = .50)
= np = 15(.50) = 7.5
=

n pq

15(.50)(.50)

= 1.9365

3 = 7.5 3(1.9365) = 7.5 5.81

(1.69 to 13.31) lies between 0 and 15.
Approimation by the normal curve is sufficient.
Prob(6.5 < x < 7.5 = 7.5 and = 1.9365):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

x 6.5 7.5

1.9365

23

= -0.52

From Table A.5, area = .1985

From Table A.2 (binomial tables) = .196
d)Prob(x < 3 n = 10 and p =.70):
= np = 10(.70) = 7
=

n pq

10(.70)(.30)

3 = 7 3(1.449) = 7 4.347
(2.653 to 11.347) does not lie between 0 and 10.
The normal curve is not a good approimation to this
problem.
6.20

n = 120

p = .37

Prob(x < 40):

= np = 120(.37) = 44.4
=

n pq

120(.37 )(.63)

= 5.29

+ 3 = 28.53 to 60.27 does lie between 0 and 120.

It is okay to use the normal distribution to approimate this
problem

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

24

Correcting for continuity: x = 39.5

z =

39.5 44.4
5.29

= -0.93

from Table A.5, the area of z = -0.93 is .3238

Prob(x < 40) = .5000 - .3238 = .1762
6.21

n = 70, p = .59

Prob(x < 35):

Converting to the normal dist.:

= n(p) = 70(.59) = 41.3
=

n pq

70(.59)(.41)

= 4.115

Test for normalcy:

0 < + 3 < n, 0 < 41.3 + 3(4.115) < 70
0 < 28.955 to 53.645 < 70, passes the test
correction for continuity, use x = 34.5
z =

34.5 41.3
4.115

= -1.65

from table A.5, area = .4505

Prob(x < 35) = .5000 - .4505 = .0495
6.22

n = 300

p = .53

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

25

= 300(.53) = 159
=

n pq

300(.53)(.47)

= 8.645

Test: + 3 = 159 + 3(8.645) = 133.065 to 184.935

which lies between 0 and 300. It is okay to use the normal
distribution as an approimation on parts a) and b).
a) Prob(x > 175 transmission)
correcting for continuity: x = 175.5
z =

175.5 159
8.645

= 1.91

from A.5, the area for z = 1.91 is .4719

Prob(x > 175) = .5000 - .4719 = .0281
b) Prob(165 < x < 170)
correcting for continuity: x = 164.5; x = 170.5
z =

170.5 159
8.645

= 1.33

z =

164.5 159
8.645

= 0.64

from A.5, the area for z = 1.33 is .4082

the area for z = 0.64 is .2389
Prob(165 < x < 170) = .4082 - .2389 = .1693
For parts c and d:

n = 300

p = .60

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

26

= 300(.60) = 180
=

n pq

300(.60)(.40)

= 8.485

Test: + 3 = 180 + 3(8.485) = 180 + 25.455

154.545 to 205.455 lies between 0 and 300
It is okay to use the normal distribution to
approimate c) and d)
c) Prob(155 < x < 170 personnel):
correcting for continuity: x = 154.5; x = 170.5
z =

170.5 180
8.485

z =

154.5 180
8.485

= -1.12
= -3.01

from A.5, the area for z = -1.12 is .3686

the area for z = -3.01 is .4987
Prob(155 < x < 170) = .4987 - .3686 = .1301
d) Prob(x < 200 personnel):
correcting for continuity: x = 199.5
z =

199.5 180
8.485

= 2.30

from A.5, the area for z = 2.30 is .4893

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

27

Prob(x < 200) = .5000 + .4893 = .9893

6.23

p = .16 n = 130

Conversion to normal dist.: = n(p) = 130(.16) = 20.8

=

n pq

130(.16)(.84)

= 4.18

a) Prob(x > 25):

Correct for continuity: x = 25.5
z =

25.5 20.8
4.18

= 1.12

from table A.5, area = .3686

Prob(x > 20) = .5000 - .3686 = .1314
b) Prob(15 < x < 23):
Correct for continuity: 14.5 to 23.5
z =

14.5 20.8
4.18

z =

23.5 20.8
4.18

= -1.51
= 0.65

from table A.5, area for z = -1.51 is .4345

area for z = 0.65 is .2422
Prob(15 < x < 23) = .4345 + .2422 = .6767
c) Prob(x < 12):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

correct for continuity:

z =

11.5 20.8
4.18

28

x = 11.5

= -2.22

from table A.5, area for z = -2.22 is .4868

Prob(x < 12) = .5000 - .4868 = .0132
d) Prob(x = 22):
correct for continuity: 21.5 to 22.5
z =

21.5 20.8
4.18

= 0.17

z =

22.5 20.8
4.18

= 0.41

from table A.5, area for 0.17 = .0675

area for 0.41 = .1591
Prob(x = 22) = .1591 - .0675 = .0916
6.24

n = 95

a) Prob(44 < x < 52) agree with direct investments, p = .52

By the normal distribution: = n(p) = 95(.52) = 49.4
=

n pq

95(.52)(.48)

= 4.87

test: + 3 = 49.4 + 3(4.87) = 49.4 + 14.61

0 < 34.79 to 64.01 < 95

test passed

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

43.5 49.4
4.87

29

= -1.21

from table A.5, area = .3869

z =

52.5 49.4
4.87

= 0.64

from table A.5, area = .2389

Prob(44 < x < 52) = .3869 + .2389 = .6258
b) Prob(x > 56):
correcting for continuity, x = 56.5
z =

56.5 49.4
4.87

= 1.46

from table A.5, area = .4279

Prob(x > 56) = .5000 - .4279 = .0721
c) Joint Venture:
p = .70, n = 95
By the normal dist.: = n(p) = 95(.70) = 66.5
=

n pq

95(.70)(.30)

test for normalcy: 66.5 + 3(4.47) = 66.5 + 13.41

0 < 53.09 to 79.91 < 95

test passed

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

30

Prob(x < 60):

correcting for continuity: x = 59.5
z =

59.5 66.5
4.47

= -1.57

from table A.5, area = .4418

Prob(x < 60) = .5000 - .4418 = .0582
d) Prob(55 < x < 62):
correcting for continuity: 54.5 to 62.5
z =

54.5 66.5
4.47

= -2.68

from table A.5, area = .4963

z =

62.5 66.5
4.47

= -0.89

from table A.5, area = .3133

Prob(55 < x < 62) = .4963 - .3133 = .1830
6.25
x0
0
1
2
3
4
5

a) = 0.1
y
.1000
.0905
.0819
.0741
.0670
.0607

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

6
7
8
9
10

.0549
.0497
.0449
.0407
.0368

b) = 0.3
x0
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

y
.3000
.2222
.1646
.1220
.0904
.0669
.0496
.0367
.0272
.0202

31

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

c) = 0.8
x0
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

y
.8000
.3595
.1615
.0726
.0326
.0147
.0066
.0030
.0013
.0006

32

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

d) = 3.0
x0
0
1
2
3
4
5

y
3.0000
.1494
.0074
.0004
.0000
.0000

33

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

6.26

34

a) = 3.25
=

1
1

3.25

= 0.31

1
1

3.25

= 0.31

b) = 0.7
=

1
1

.007

= 1.43

1
1

.007

= 1.43

c) = 1.1
=

1
1

1.1

= 0.91

= 0.91

1
1.1

d) = 6.0
=

1 1

= 0.17

1 1

= 0.17

6.27 a) Prob(x > 5 = 1.35) =

for x0 = 5:

Prob(x) = e-x = e-1.35(5) = e-6.75 = .0012

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

35

b) Prob(x < 3 = 0.68) = 1 - Prob(x < 3 = .68) =

for x0 = 3:
1300 = .8700

1 e-x = 1 e-0.68(3) = 1 e 2.04 = 1 - .

c) Prob(x > 4 = 1.7) =

for x0 = 4:

Prob(x) = e-x = e-1.7(4) = e-6.8 = .0011

d) Prob(x < 6 = 0.80) = 1 - Prob(x > 6 = 0.80) =

for x0 = 6:

Prob(x) = 1 e-x = 1 e-0.80(6) = 1 e-4.8 =

1 - .0082
= .9918
6.28

= 23 sec.

= .0435 per second

a) Prob(x > 1 min = .0435/sec.)

Change to minutes:

= .0435(60) = 2.61 min

Prob(x > 1 min = 2.61/min) =

for x0 = 1:

Prob(x) = e-x = e-2.61(1) = .0735

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

36

b) = .0435/sec
Prob(x > 5 min = .0435/sec.)
Change to minutes:

= (.0435)(60) = 2.61 min

P(x > 5 = 2.61/min) =

for x0 = 5:

Prob(x) = e-x = e-2.61(5) = e-13.05 = .0000

6.29 = 2.44/min.
a) Prob(x > 10 min = 2.44/min) =
Let x0 = 10,

e-x = e-2.44(10) = e-24.4 = .0000

b) Prob(x > 5 min = 2.44/min) =

Let x0 = 5,

e-x = e-2.44(5) = e-12.20 = .0000

c) Prob(x > 1 min = 2.44/min) =

Let x0 = 1,

e-x = e-2.44(1) = e-2.44 = .0872

d) Epected time = =

1
1

2.44

min. = .41 min = 24.6 sec.

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

37

6.30 = 1.12 planes/hr.

a) =

1
1

1.12

= .89 hr. = 53.4 min.

b) Prob(x > 2 hrs = 1.12 planes/hr.) =

Let x0 = 2,

e-x = e-1.12(2) = e-2.24 = .1065

c) Prob(x < 10 min = 1.12/hr.) = 1 - P(x > 10 min =

1.12/hr.)
Change to 1.12/60 min. = .01867/min.
1 - Prob(x > 10 min = .01867/min) =
1 e-x = 1 e-.01867(10) = 1 e-.1861 = 1 - .

Let x0 = 10,
8297 = .1703

6.31 = 3.39/ 1000 passengers

=

1
1

3.39

= 0.295

(0.295)(1,000) = 295
Prob(x > 500):
Let x0 = 500/1,000 passengers = .5
e-x = e-3.39(.5) = e-1.695 = .1836
Prob(x < 200):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

38

Let x0 = 200/1,000 passengers = .2

e-x = e-3.39(.2) = e-.678 = .5076
Prob(x < 200) = 1 - .5076 = .4924
6.32 = 20 years
=

1
20

= .05/year
Prob(x>x0)=e-x
.9512
.9048
.8607

x0
1
2
3

If the foundation is guaranteed for 2 years, based on past

history, 90.48% of the
foundations will last at least 2 years without major repair and
only 9.52% will
require a major repair before 2 years.
a) = 2/month

6.33

Average number of time between rain = =

15 days
= = 15 days
Prob(x < 2 days = 2/month
Change to days:

2
30

= .067/day

Prob(x < 2 days = .067/day) =

1 1
month
2

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

39

1 Prob(x > 2 days = .067/day)

1 e-x = 1 e-.067(2) = 1 .8746 = .1254

let x0 = 2,
6.34 a = 6
f(x) =

b = 14

1
1
1

b a 14 6 8

a b 6 14

2
2

b a 14 6

12
12

Prob(x > 11) =

= .125

= 10
8
12

= 2.309

14 11 3

14 6
8

Prob(7 < x < 12) =

= .375

12 7 5

14 6 8

= .625

a) Prob(x < 21 = 25 and = 4):

6.35
z =

x 21 25

= -1.00

From Table A.5, area = .3413

Prob(x < 21) = .5000 -.3413 = .1587

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

40

b) Prob(x > 77 n = 50 and = 9):

z =

x 71 50

= 3.00

From Table A.5, area = .4987

Prob(x > 77) = .5000 -.4987 = .0013
c) Prob(x > 47 = 50 and = 6):
z =

x 47 50

= -0.50

From Table A.5, area = .1915

Prob(x > 47) = .5000 + .1915 = .6915
d) Prob(13 < x < 29 = 23 and = 4):
z =

x 13 23

= -2.50

From Table A.5, area = .4938

z =

x 29 23

= 1.50

From Table A.5, area = .4332

P(13 < x < 29) = .4938 + 4332 =

.9270

e) Prob(x > 105 = 90 and = 2.86):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

x 105 90

2.86

41

= 5.24

From Table A.5, area = .5000

P(x > 105) = .5000 - .5000 =

6.36

.0000

a) Prob(x = 12 n = 25 and p = .60):

= np = 25(.60) = 15
=

n pq

25(.60)(.40)

= 2.45

3 = 15 3(2.45) = 15 7.35
(7.65 to 22.35) lies between 0 and 25.
The normal curve approimation is sufficient.
P(11.5 < x < 12.5 = 15 and = 2.45):
z=

x 11 .5 15

2.45

= -1.43

From Table A.5, area = .4236

z=

x 12.5 15

2.45

= -1.02

From Table A.5, area = .3461

P(11.5 < x < 12.5) = .4236 - .3461 = .0775
From Table A.2, P(x = 12) = .076

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

42

b) Prob(x > 5 n = 15 and p = .50):

= np = 15(.50) = 7.5
=

n pq

15(.50)(.50)

= 1.94

3 = 7.5 3(1.94) = 7.5 5.82

(1.68 to 13.32) lies between 0 and 15.
The normal curve approimation is sufficient.
Prob(x > 5.5 = 7.5 and = l.94)
z =

5.5 7.5
1.94

= -1.03

From Table A.5, area = .3485

Prob(x > 5.5) = .5000 + .3485 = .8485
Using table A.2, Prob(x > 5) = .849
c) Prob(x < 3 n = 10 and p = .50):
= np = 10(.50) = 5
=

n pq

10(.50)(.50)

= 1.58

3 = 5 3(1.58) = 5 4.74
(0.26 to 9.74) lies between 0 and 10.
The normal curve approimation is sufficient.
Prob(x < 3.5 = 5 and = l.58):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

3.5 5
1.58

43

= -0.95

From Table A.5, area = .3289

Prob(x < 3.5) = .5000 - .3289 = .1711
d) Prob(x > 8 n = 15 and p = .40):
= np = 15(.40) = 6
=

n pq

15(.40)(.60)

= 1.90

3 = 6 3(1.90) = 6 5.7
(0.3 to 11.7) lies between 0 and 15.
The normal curve approimation is sufficient.
Prob(x > 7.5 = 6 and = l.9):
z =

7.5 6
1.9

= 0.79

From Table A.5, area = .2852

Prob(x > 7.5) = .5000 - .2852 = .2148

6.37 a) Prob(x > 3

let 0 = 3

= 1.3):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

Prob(x > 3
b) Prob(x < 2

44

= 1.3) = e-x = e-1.3(3) = e-3.9 = .0202

= 2.0):

Let 0 = 2
Prob(x < 2

= 2.0) = 1 - P(x > 2

= 2.0) =

1 e-x = 1 e-2(2) = 1 e-4 = 1 - .0183 =

c) Prob(1 < x < 3

.9817

= 1.65):

P(x > 1 = 1.65):

Let 0 = 1
e-x = e-1.65(1) = e-1.65 = .1920
Prob(x > 3 = 1.65):
Let x0 = 3
e-x = e-1.65(3) = e-4.95 = .0071
Prob(1 < x < 3) = Prob(x > 1) - P(x > 3) = .1920 - .0071 =
.1849
d) Prob(x > 2 = 0.405):
Let 0 = 2

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

45

e-x = e-(.405)(2) = e-.81 = .4449

6.38 = 43.4
12% more than 48.

x = 48

Area between x and is .50 - .12 = .38

z associated with an area of .3800 is z = 1.175
Solving for :
x

z =
1.175 =

48 43.4

4.6

6.39

= 1.175 = 3.915
p = 1/5 = .20
n = 150
Prob(x > 50):
= 150(.20) = 30
=
z =

150(.20)(.80)

50.5 30
4.899

= 4.899

= 4.18

Area associated with z = 4.18 is .5000

Prob(x > 50) = .5000 - .5000 = .0000

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

46

6.40 = 1 customer/20 minutes

= 1/ = 1
a) 1 hour interval
x0 = 3 because 1 hour = 3(20 minute intervals)
Prob(x > x0) = e-x = e-1(3) = e-3 = .0498
b) 10 to 30 minutes
x0 = .5, x0 = 1.5
Prob(x > .5) = e-x = e-1(.5) = e-.5 = .6065
Prob(x > 1.5) = e-x = e-1(1.5) = e-1.5 = .2231
Prob(10 to 30 minutes) = .6065 - .2231 = .3834
c) less than 5 minutes
x0 = 5/20 = .25
Prob(x > .25) = e-x = e-1(.25) = e-.25 = .7788
Prob(x < .25) = 1 - .7788 = .2212
6.41 = 90.28

= 8.53

Prob(x < 80):

z =

80 90.28
8.53

= -1.21

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

47

from Table A.5, area for z = -1.21 is .3869

Prob(x < 80) = .5000 - .3869 = .1131
Prob(x > 95):
z =

95 90.28
8.53

= 0.55

from Table A.5, area for z = 0.55 is .2088

Prob(x > 95) = .5000 - .2088 = .2912
Prob(83 < x < 87):
z =

83 90.28
8.53

= -0.85

z =

87 90.28
8.53

= -0.38

from Table A.5, area for z = -0.85 is .3023

area for z = -0.38 is .1480
Prob(83 < x < 87) = .3023 - .1480 = .1543
6.42

= 83

Since only 3% = .0300 of the values are greater than

2,655(million), x = 2655
lies in the upper tail of the distribution. .5000 - .0300 = .
4700 of the values lie
between 2655 and the mean.
Table A.5 yields a z = 1.88 for an area of .4700.

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

48

Using z = 1.88, x = 2655, = 83, can be solved for.

z =

2655
83

1.88 =

= 2498.96 million
6.43 a = 18

b = 65

Prob(25 < x < 50) =

=

a b 65 18

2
2

f(x) =

50 25 25

65 18 47

= .5319

= 41.5

1
1
1

b a 65 18 47

= .0213

6.44 = 1.8 per 15 seconds

a) =

1
1

1.8

= .5556(15 sec.) = 8.33 sec.

b) For x0 > 25 sec. use x0 = 25/15 = 1.67

Prob(x0 > 25 sec.) = e-1.6667(1.8) = .4980
c) x0 < 5 sec. = 1/3
Prob(x0 < 5 sec.) = 1 - e-1/3(1.8) = 1 - .5488 = .4512
d)

Prob(x0 > 1 min.):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

49

x0 = 1 min. = 60/15 = 4
Prob(x0 > 1 min.) = e-4(1.8) = .0007
6.45 = 951

= 96

a) Prob(x > 1000):

z =

x 1000 951

96

= 0.51

from Table A.5, the area for z = 0.51 is .1950

Prob(x > 1000) = .5000 - .1950 = .3050
b) Prob(900 < x < 1100):
z =

x 900 951

96

= -0.53

z =

x 1100 951

96

= 1.55

from Table A.5, the area for z = -0.53 is .2019

the area for z = 1.55 is .4394
Prob(900 < x < 1100) = .2019 + .4394 = .6413
c) Prob(825 < x < 925):
z =

x 825 951

96

= -1.31

z =

x 925 951

96

= -0.27

from Table A.5, the area for z = -1.31 is .4049

the area for z = -0.27 is .1064

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

50

Prob(825 < x < 925) = .4049 - .1064 = .2985

d) Prob(x < 700):
z =

x 700 951

96

= -2.61

from Table A.5, the area for z = -2.61 is .4955

Prob(x < 700) = .5000 - .4955 = .0045
6.46 n = 60

p = .24

= np = 60(.24) = 14.4
=

n pq

60(.24)(.76)

= 3.308

test: + 3 = 14.4 + 3(3.308) = 14.4 + 9.924 = 4.476 and

24.324
Since 4.476 to 24.324 lies between 0 and 60, the normal
distribution can be used
to approimate this problem.

Prob(x > 17):

correcting for continuity: x = 16.5
z =

x 16.5 14.4

3.308

= 0.63

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

51

from Table A.5, the area for z = 0.63 is .2357

Prob(x > 17) = .5000 - .2357 = .2643
P(x > 22):
correcting for continuity: x = 22.5
z =

x
22.5 14.4

3.308

= 2.45

from Table A.5, the area for z = 2.45 is .4929

Prob(x > 22) = .5000 - .4929 = .0071
Prob(8 < x < 12):
correcting for continuity: x = 7.5 and x = 12.5
z =

x 12.5 14.4

3.308

z =

x
7.5 14.4

3.308

= -0.57
= -2.09

from Table A.5, the area for z = -0.57 is .2157

the area for z = -2.09 is .4817
Prob(8 < x < 12) = .4817 - .2157 = .2660
6.47 = 45,121

= 4,246

a) Prob(x > 50,000):

z =

50,000 45,121
4,246

= 1.15

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

52

from Table A.5, the area for z = 1.15 is .3749

Prob(x > 50,000) = .5000 - .3749 = .1251
b) Prob(x < 40,000):
z =

40,000 45,121
4,246

= -1.21

from Table A.5, the area for z = -1.21 is .3869

Prob(x < 40,000) = .5000 - .3869 = .1131
c) Prob(x > 35,000):
z =

35,000 45,121
4,246

= -2.38

from Table A.5, the area for z = -2.38 is .4913

Prob(x > 35,000) = .5000 + .4913 = .9913
d) Prob(39,000 < x < 47,000):
z =
z =

39,000 45,121
4,246

= -1.44

47,000 45,121
4,246

= 0.44

from Table A.5, the area for z = -1.44 is .4251

the area for z = 0.44 is .1700
Prob(39,000 < x < 47,000) = .4251 + .1700 = .5951

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

53

6.48 = 9 minutes
= 1/ = .1111/minute = .1111(60)/hour
= 6.67/hour
Prob(x > 5 minutes = .1111/minute) =
1 - Prob(x > 5 minutes =.1111/minute):
Let x0 = 5
Prob(x > 5 minutes = .1111/minute) =
e-x = e-.1111(5) = e-.5555 = .5738
Prob(x < 5 minutes) = 1 - Prob(x > 5 minutes) = 1 - .5738 =
.4262

6.49 = 88

= 6.4

a) Prob(x < 70):

z =

x 70 88

6.4

= -2.81

From Table A.5, area = .4975

Prob(x < 70) = .5000 - .4975 = .0025
b) Prob(x > 80):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

z =

x 80 88

6 .4

54

= -1.25

From Table A.5, area = .3944

Prob(x > 80) = .5000 + .3944 = .8944
c) Prob(90 < x < 100):
z =

x 100 88

6 .4

= 1.88

From Table A.5, area = .4699

z =

x 90 88

6.4

= 0.31

From Table A.5, area = .1217

Prob(90 < x < 100) = .4699 - .1217 = .3482
6.50 n = 200, p = .81
epected number = = n(p) = 200(.81) = 162
= 162
=

n pq

200(.81)(.19)

= 5.548

+ 3 = 162 + 3(5.548) lie between 0 and 200, the

normalcy test is passed

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

55

Prob(150 < x < 155):

correction for continuity: 150.5 to 154.5
z =

150.5 162
5.548

= -2.07

from table A.5, area = .4808

z =

154.5 162
5.548

= -1.35

from table A.5, area = .4115

Prob(150 < x < 155) = .4808 - .4115 = .0693
Prob(x > 158):
correcting for continuity, x = 158.5
z =

158.5 162
5.548

= -0.63

from table A.5, area = .2357

Prob(x > 158) = .2357 + .5000 = .7357
Prob(x < 144):
correcting for continuity, x = 143.5
z =

143.5 162
5.548

= -3.33

from table A.5, area = .4996

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

56

Prob(x < 144) = .5000 - .4996 = .0004

6.51 n = 150

p = .75

= np = 150(.75) = 112.5
=

n pq

150(.75)(.25)

= 5.3033

a) Prob(x < 105):

correcting for continuity: x = 104.5
z =

x 104.5 112 .5

5.3033

= -1.51

from Table A.5, the area for z = -1.51 is .4345

Prob(x < 105) = .5000 - .4345 = .0655
b) Prob(110 < x < 120):
correcting for continuity: x = 109.5, x = 120.5
z =

109.5 112 .5
5.3033

= -0.57

z =

120.5 112 .5
5.3033

= 1.51

from Table A.5, the area for z = -0.57 is .2157

the area for z = 1.51 is .4345
Prob(110 < x < 120) = .2157 + .4345 = .6502
c) Prob(x > 95):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

57

correcting for continuity: x = 95.5

z =

95.5 112 .5
5.3033

= -3.21

from Table A.5, the area for -3.21 is .4993

Prob(x > 95) = .5000 + .4993 = .9993
6.52 =
Height =

ab
2

= 2.165

1
ba

= 0.862

a + b = 2(2.165) = 4.33
1 = 0.862b - 0.862a
b = 4.33 - a
1 = 0.862(4.33 - a) - 0.862a
1 = 3.73246 - 0.862a - 0.862a
1 = 3.73246 - 1.724a
1.724a = 2.73246
a = 1.585
b = 4.33 - 1.585 = 2.745
6.53 = 85,200
60% are between 75,600 and 94,800

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

58

94,800 85,200 = 9,600

75,600 85,200 = 9,600
The 60% can be split into 30% and 30% because the two x
values are equal distance from the
mean.
The z value associated with .3000 area is 0.84
z =
.84 =

94,800 85,200

= 11,428.57
6.54 n = 75

p = .81 prices

p = .44 products

1 = np = 75(.81) = 60.75
1 =

n pq

75(.81)(.19)

= 3.397

2 = np = 75(.44) = 33
2 =

n pq

75(.44)(.56)

= 4.299

Tests: + 3 = 60.75 + 3(3.397) = 60.75 + 10.191

50.559 to 70.941 lies between 0 and 75. It is okay to use
the normal
distribution to approimate this problem.

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

59

+ 3 = 33 + 3(4.299) = 33 + 12.897
20.103 to 45.897 lies between 0 and 75. It is okay to use the
normal distribution
to approimate this problem.
a) The epected value = = 75(.81) = 60.75
b) The epected value = = 75(.44) = 33
c) Prob(x > 67 prices)
correcting for continuity: x = 66.5
z =

66.5 60.75
3.397

= 1.69

from Table A.5, the area for z = 1.69 is .4545

Prob(x > 67 prices) = .5000 - .4545 = .0455
d) Prob(x < 23 products):
correcting for continuity: x = 22.5
z =

22.5 33
4.299

= -2.44

from Table A.5, the area for z = -2.44 is .4927

Prob(x < 23) = .5000 - .4927 = .0073
6.55 = 3 hurricanes 5 months
Prob(x > 1 month = 3 hurricanes per 5 months):

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

60

Since x and are for different intervals,

change Lambda = = 3/ 5 months = 0.6 month.
Prob(x > month = 0.6 per month):
Let x0 = 1
Prob(x > 1) = e-x = e-0.6(1) = e-0.6 = .5488
Prob(x < 2 weeks):

2 weeks = 0.5 month.

Prob(x < 0.5 month = 0.6 per month) =

1 - Prob(x > 0.5 month = 0.6 per month)
Prob(x > 0.5 month = 0.6 per month):
Let x0 = 0.5
Prob(x > 0.5) = e-x = e-0.6(.5) = e-0.30 = .7408
Prob(x < 0.5 month) = 1 - P(x > 0.5 month) = 1 - .7408 = .
2592
Average time = Epected time = = 1/ =
6.56 n = 50

p = .80

= np = 50(.80) = 40
=

n pq

50(.80)(.20)

= 2.828

1.67 months

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

61

Test: + 3 = 40 +3(2.828) = 40 + 8.484

31.516 to 48.484 lies between 0 and
50.
It is okay to use the normal distribution
to approimate this binomial problem.
Prob(x < 35):
correcting for continuity: x = 34.5
z =

34.5 40
2.828

= -1.94

from Table A.5, the area for z = -1.94 is .4738

Prob(x < 35) = .5000 - .4738 = .0262
The epected value = = 40
P(42 < x < 47):
correction for continuity: x = 41.5
z =
z =

41.5 40
2.828
47.5 40
2.828

x = 47.5

= 0.53
= 2.65

from Table A.5, the area for z = 0.53 is .2019

the area for z = 2.65 is .4960

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

62

P(42 < x < 47) = .4960 - .2019 = .2941

6.57 = 2087

= 175

If 20% are less, then 30% lie between x and .

z.30 = -.84
z =

x 2087
175

-.84 =

x = 1940
If 65% are more, then 15% lie between x and
z.15 = -0.39
z =
-.39 =

x 2087
175

x = 2018.75
If x is more than 85%, then 35% lie between x and .
z.35 = 1.03
z =
1.03 =

x 2087
175

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

63

x = 2267.25
6.58 = 0.8 person minute
Prob(x > 1 minute = 0.8 minute):
Let x0 = 1
Prob(x > 1) = e-x = e-.8(1) = e-.8 = .4493
Prob(x > 2.5 Minutes = 0.8 per minute):
Let x0 = 2.5
Prob(x > 2.5) = e-x = e-0.8(2.5) = e-2 = .1353

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

6.59 = 1,762,751

64

= 50,940

Prob(x > 1,850,000):

z =

1,850,000 1,762,751
50,940

= 1.71

from table A.5 the area for z = 1.71 is .4564

Prob(x > 1,850,000) = .5000 - .4564 =
.0436
Prob(x < 1,620,000):
z =

1,620,000 1,762,751
50,940

= -2.80

from table A.5 the area for z = -2.80 is .4974

Prob(x < 1,620,000) = .5000 - .4974 = .0026
6.60 = 2.2 calls 30 secs.
Epected time between calls = = 1/ = 1/(2.2) = .4545(30
sec.) = 13.64 sec.
Prob(x > 1 min. = 2.2 calls per 30 secs.):
Since Lambda and x are for different intervals,
Change Lambda to:

= 4.4 calls/1 min.

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

65

Prob(x > 1 min = 4.4 calls/1 min.):

For x0 = 1:

e-x = e-4.4(1) = .0123

P(x > 2 min. = 4.4 calls/1 min.):

For x0 = 2:

e-x = e-4.4(2) = e-8.8 = .0002

6.61 This is a uniform distribution with a = 11 and b = 32.

The mean is (11 + 32)/2 = 21.5 and the standard deviation is
(32 - 11)/ 12 = 6.06. Almost 81% of the time there are less
than or equal to 28
sales associates working. One hundred percent of the time
there are less than or
equal to 34 sales associates working and never more than 34.
About 23.8% of
the time there are 16 or fewer sales associates working.
There are 21 or fewer
sales associates working about 48% of the time.
6.62 The weight of the rods is normally distributed with a mean
of 227 mg and a
standard deviation of 2.3 mg. The probability that a rod
weighs less than or

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

66

equal to 220 mg is .0012, less than or equal to 225 mg is .

1923, less than
or equal to 227 is .5000 (since 227 is the mean), less than 231
mg is .9590, and
less than or equal to 238 mg is 1.000.
6.63 The lengths of cell phone calls are normally distributed
with a mean of 2.35
minutes and a standard deviation of .11 minutes. Almost
99% of the calls are
less than or equal to 2.60 minutes, almost 82% are less than
or equal to 2.45
minutes, over 32% are less than 2.3 minutes, and almost none
are less than
2 minutes.
6.64 The eponential distribution has = 4.51 per 10 minutes and
= 1/4.51 =
.22173 of 10 minutes or 2.2173 minutes. The probability that
there is less than
.1 or 1 minute between arrivals is .3630. The probability that
there is less than
.2 or 2 minutes between arrivals is .5942. The probability
that there is .5 or 5

Chapter 6: Continuous Distributions

67

minutes or more between arrivals is .1049. The probability

that there is more
than 1 or 10 minutes between arrivals is .0110. It is almost
certain that there
will be less than 2.4 or 24 minutes between arrivals.