Question
Determine whether the given value is a discrete or continuous variable. People are asked to state how many times in the last month they visited their family doctor. Discrete Continuous
Ask by Ingram Pritchard. in the United States
Jan 30,2025
Real Tutor Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The number of doctor visits is a discrete variable.
Solution
The variable in question is **discrete**.
### Explanation:
- **Discrete Variable**: A discrete variable is one that can take on a countable number of distinct values. These values often represent counts or whole numbers without any fractional or decimal parts.
- **Continuous Variable**: A continuous variable can take on an infinite number of values within a given range. These values can include fractions and decimals, representing measurements.
In the provided scenario:
- **Number of Doctor Visits**: This is a **countable** quantity (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, ...). You can't have a fractional number of visits in this context (like 2.5 visits).
Therefore, the number of times people visited their family doctor in the last month is a **discrete variable**.
**Answer:**
Discrete
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Simplify this solution Extra Insights
The number of times people visit their family doctor in the last month is a discrete variable because it involves counting whole visits. You can only have whole numbers like 0, 1, 2, or 3 visits—no half or fractional visits allowed! Discrete variables often result from counting something, whereas continuous variables are typically measured and can take on any value within a range. So, while you might measure things like temperature or height with decimals, visits to the doctor are clearly countable!
