Chapter 2: Variables and Histograms

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to variables and histograms, providing a basis for understanding statistical concepts discussed in the lecture.

Variable

A characteristic that can differ from one individual to the next.

Value

The specific measurement or characteristic that individuals have for a particular variable.

Data Sheet

A table used to organize values of individuals on different variables.

Continuous Variable

A variable that can take on an infinite number of values between two points.

Discrete Variable

A variable with numeric values that can only take on specific, distinct values.

Categorical Variable

A variable consisting of categories or names, without numeric values, such as hair color.

Ordinal Variable

A variable with values that represent ordered ranks, such as 1st, 2nd, 3rd.

Dichotomous Variable

A type of variable that has only two possible values, such as yes/no or true/false.

Histogram

A graphical representation of the distribution of numerical data, where bars touch each other.

Frequency Table

A table that displays the frequency of various outcomes in a dataset.

Bar Graph

A graphical display of data using rectangular bars where the heights represent frequencies.

Header

The top row of a data sheet that lists the names of the variables, often ignored in counting rows.

Subscript

A small number written slightly lower than the baseline, used to indicate an index or position.

Area of a Bar

The product of the height and width of a bar in a histogram, representing frequency or density.

Normal Distribution

A bell-shaped distribution that is symmetrical with a defined mean and standard deviation.