Question

state whether the data described below are discrete or continuous, and explain why.
the exact mass (in grams) of food eaten by a person each day

choose the correct answer below.

a. the data are continuous because the data can only take on specific values.
b. the data are discrete because the data can only take on specific values.
c. the data are continuous because the data can take on any value in an interval.
d. the data are discrete because the data can take on any value in an interval.

Explanation:

Continuous data can take any value within an interval. The mass of food eaten can be any value (e.g., 500.5 grams, 500.55 grams etc.) within a range and is not restricted to specific, separate values. Discrete data consists of distinct, separate values.

Answer:

C. The data are continuous because the data can take on any value in an interval.