What is a variable? Distinguish between a discrete and a continuous variable.
A measurable characteristic whose value changes overtime is called variable. It refers to that quantity which keeps on changing and which can be measured by some unit. For example, if we measure the height of students of a class, then height is regarded as a variable. A variable can be either discrete or continuous.
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Discrete Variable |
Continuous Variable |
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A variable that takes only whole number as its value is called discrete variable. These variables increase in jumps or in complete numbers. For example- Number of people in a family, number of students in a class, etc. |
A variable that can take any value, within a reasonable limit is called a continuous variable. These variables assume a range of values or increase in fractions and not in jumps. For example- age, height, weight, etc. |