The weight losses for participants in a large exercise and diet study vary according to a Normal distribution with mean 14.5 pounds and standard deviation 3 pounds.
Approximately what percent of the participants lose less than 14.5 pounds?
A) 16 percent
B) 34 percent
C) 50 percent
D) 84 percent
E) 95 percent

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the mean weight loss is 14.5 pounds, any participant who loses less than this amount would fall to the left of the mean on the Normal distribution. Since the Normal distribution is symmetric, we know that 50% of the participants must have lost less than 14.5 pounds. Therefore, the answer is C.

The Weight Losses for Participants in a Large Exercise and Diet