The Normal Distribution

The Normal Distribution

You will find Video 6: The Normal Distribution by navigating to the MSL Tool for Success link under Course Home.

This video explains the normal distribution via the binomial distribution: The distribution of the number of heads thrown on 20 coins approximates the normal. This is used to explain that the normal distribution is the mathematical consequence of adding up a large number of random events. Some examples are given of normal distributions in the natural world (mass of ants) and social world (age of marathon runners) and explained in terms of these phenomena resulting from the aggregation of random events.

Respond to one of the following questions in your initial post:

What is the link between the normal distribution and Video 5: Variation 2 (and Egg Roulette), where we relied on statements such as “about two-thirds of observations are within one standard deviation of the

mean”?

Do natural phenomena such as hemoglobin levels or the weight of ants really follow a normal distribution? If you add up a large number of random events, you get a normal distribution.

How large a number makes a normal distribution?

Your initial post should be 150 to 250 words in length. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts by Day 7 in at least one paragraph.