Discrete vs Continuous Math Example 1

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 1

easy
Classify each quantity as discrete or continuous, and explain: (a) number of students in a class, (b) the height of a student, (c) the number of text messages sent, (d) the temperature in a room.

Solution

  1. 1
    (a) Number of students: must be a whole number (can't have 0.50.5 students). Discrete.
  2. 2
    (b) Height: can take any value in a range (e.g., 162.7162.7 cm, 162.73162.73 cm, etc.). Continuous.
  3. 3
    (c) Number of texts: whole numbers only. Discrete.
  4. 4
    (d) Temperature: can take any real value in a range (e.g., 20.1°20.1°, 20.15°20.15°, etc.). Continuous.

Answer

Discrete: (a) and (c); Continuous: (b) and (d).
Discrete quantities are counted (whole numbers, gaps between values), while continuous quantities are measured (any real value possible in an interval). The distinction matters for choosing the right mathematical model and type of graph.

About Discrete vs Continuous

The distinction between quantities that take separate, distinct values (discrete, like number of students) and quantities that can take any value in a range (continuous, like height or temperature).

Learn more about Discrete vs Continuous →

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