A researcher is conducting a study about early childhood development. Which variable is discrete?

Rationale

Feedings per day is a discrete variable.

Discrete variables are characterized by distinct, separate values, often counted in whole numbers. In this context, feedings per day can only take on integer values (e.g., 0, 1, 2, etc.), making it a clear example of a discrete variable in early childhood development studies.

A (Birth weight in kilograms) YOUR ANSWER

Birth weight is a continuous variable, as it can take on any value within a range and can be measured with precision (e.g., 3.5 kg, 3.75 kg). This variability allows for fractional values, which is a defining characteristic of continuous variables.

B (Consumption in milliliters) YOUR ANSWER

Consumption in milliliters is also a continuous variable. Similar to birth weight, it can be measured in fractions (e.g., 150.5 mL), allowing for an infinite number of possible values within a given range. This property differentiates it from discrete variables, which are limited to specific counts.

C (Time spent sleeping) YOUR ANSWER

Time spent sleeping is a continuous variable as well, since it can be measured in minutes, seconds, or even fractions of a second (e.g., 8.5 hours). The ability to represent time in such precise units means it can take on a wide range of values, in contrast to discrete variables that are countable.

D (Feedings per day) CORRECT

Feedings per day is a discrete variable because it can only be counted in whole numbers. A child can have 0, 1, 2, or more feedings each day, but not 2.5 feedings, which exemplifies the nature of discrete variables as being limited to specific, countable values.

Conclusion

In the study of early childhood development, distinguishing between discrete and continuous variables is crucial. Feedings per day stands out as the only discrete variable because it can only be represented by whole numbers, while birth weight, consumption in milliliters, and time spent sleeping are all continuous variables capable of taking on fractional values. Understanding these distinctions aids researchers in selecting appropriate methods for data collection and analysis.

A researcher is conducting a study about early childhood development. Which variable is discrete?

Feedings per day is a discrete variable.

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