Normal Distribution Math Example 4

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

Example 4

medium
A standardized exam has scores that are approximately normal with mean 500500 and standard deviation 100100. About what percent of students score between 400400 and 700700?

Solution

  1. 1
    400400 is 11 standard deviation below the mean, and 700700 is 22 standard deviations above the mean.
  2. 2
    By the empirical rule, the area from โˆ’1ฯƒ-1\sigma to +1ฯƒ+1\sigma is about 68%68\%.
  3. 3
    The area from +1ฯƒ+1\sigma to +2ฯƒ+2\sigma is about 13.5%13.5\%.
  4. 4
    Add them: 68%+13.5%=81.5%68\% + 13.5\% = 81.5\%.

Answer

โ‰ˆ81.5%\approx 81.5\%
For approximately normal data, the empirical rule gives quick probability estimates over standard-deviation bands. This is often enough for interpreting score ranges without full z-table calculations.

About Normal Distribution

The normal distribution (also called the Gaussian distribution or bell curve) is a continuous probability distribution that is symmetric about its mean, with data tapering off equally on both sides following a precise mathematical rule.

Learn more about Normal Distribution โ†’

More Normal Distribution Examples