How is the range of a set of numbers determined?

How is the range of a set of numbers determined?

• A. By averaging the numbers
• B. By clustering the numbers
• C. By subtracting the lowest from the highest
• D. By adding all the numbers

Answer: (C)

The range of a set of numbers is determined by subtracting the lowest value in the set from the highest value. This calculation provides a straightforward measurement of the spread or dispersion of the numbers within that set, indicating the difference between the extremes. For instance, if you have a set of numbers such as 3, 7, and 10, the highest number is 10, and the lowest is 3. Therefore, the range is calculated as 10 - 3, which equals 7. Averaging the numbers calculates the mean, which provides a measure of central tendency but does not reflect the variability among the numbers. Clustering relates to grouping numbers based on their values but does not address how far apart the highest and lowest values are. Adding all the numbers together results in the sum, which also does not convey the dispersion or range of the values. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the method used to determine the range in a set of numbers.

The range of a set of numbers is determined by subtracting the lowest value in the set from the highest value. This calculation provides a straightforward measurement of the spread or dispersion of the numbers within that set, indicating the difference between the extremes. For instance, if you have a set of numbers such as 3, 7, and 10, the highest number is 10, and the lowest is 3. Therefore, the range is calculated as 10 - 3, which equals 7.

Averaging the numbers calculates the mean, which provides a measure of central tendency but does not reflect the variability among the numbers. Clustering relates to grouping numbers based on their values but does not address how far apart the highest and lowest values are. Adding all the numbers together results in the sum, which also does not convey the dispersion or range of the values. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the method used to determine the range in a set of numbers.