Explain: Discrete vs.

Continuous
How did you do on that practice quiz? After you submit a practice quiz, be sure to look for any parts
you got wrong, and read the comments below each question.

Ok. Go back now if you need to review the last practice quiz, or else come back to it later. On to the
next topic.

Discrete Variables vs. Continuous Variables

Let's take some time to explore quantitative variables in more detail. Quantitative variables can be
further classified as discrete or continuous.

You can think of discrete variables as points on a graph that are not connected to each other.
Conversely, a continuous variable is a line on a graph (it has an infinite amount of points).Study the
examples and definitions below and add them to your notebook.

Discrete vs. Continuous

Definition Example Graph

The time it takes to get to school. In

A continuous variable can
this case, time is the variable. It can
take on an INFINITE amount
be measured to the nearest minute,
of values between a minimum
second, nanosecond, etc. Other
and maximum.
examples include:
Mass of an object
Running speed
Temperature

A discrete variable can only The number of students present in

take on a FINITE amount
of values between a minimum
and maximum.
class. In this case, the number
of students is the variable. Since you
cannot have half a student, only
whole numbers can
represent variable.
Population
Number of homework assignment
Goals scored in a game