Uniform Distribution: Overview, Questions, Preparation

Probability 2021 ( Maths Probability )

Rachit Kumar Saxena
Updated on May 14, 2021 08:46 IST

By Rachit Kumar Saxena, Manager-Editorial

Table of content
  • What is Uniform Distribution?
  • Weightage of Uniform Distribution
  • Illustrated Examples on Uniform Distribution
  • FAQs on Uniform Distribution
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What is Uniform Distribution?

The uniform distribution is a type of probability distribution where all the consequences of an occurrence are likely to be equal in probability theory and statistics. Tossing a coin is an example of uniform distribution. And the likelihood is the same in the coin toss experiment of picking a head or tail. It is possible to divide the uniform distribution into two groups, namely: 
Discrete Uniform Distribution- Each experiment’s outcomes are discrete.

A continuous distribution of odds is a uniform distribution that is synonymous with occurrences that are similarly likely to occur. Two parameters, x and y, are defined, where x = minimum value and y = maximum value. It is commonly denoted as u (x, y).  If a uniform distribution with a continuous random variable X's probability density function or probability distribution is f(b)=1/y-x, then it is denoted by U(x,y), where x and y are constants such that x

Continuous Uniform Distribution- An experiment's result is endless and continuous.

Example of Uniform Distribution

In the table below, the data is 55 times a sedan car honks (in seconds).

10.4

19.6

18.8

13.9

17.8

16.8

21.6

17.9

12.5

11.1

4.9

12.8

14.0

22.8

20.8

15.9

16.3

13.4

17.1

14.5

19.0

22.8

1.3

0.7

8.9

11.9

10.9

7.3

5.9

3.7

17.9

19.2

9.8

5.8

6.9

2.6

5.8

21.7

11.8

3.4

2.1

4.5

6.3

10.7

8.9

9.7

9.1

7.7

10.1

3.5

6.9

7.8

11.6

13.8

18.6

Mean sample = 11.49 

The standard deviation for the sample = 6.23. 

The honk times in seconds obey a uniform distribution between 0 and 23 seconds, as assumed (Inclusive). 

Therefore, any honking time is similarly likely to be from 0 to 23.

The theoretical mean = μ = (x+y)/2

μ = (0+23)/2 = 11.50

Standard deviation = √(y−x)2/12

Standard deviation = √(23−0)2/12 =6.64 seconds.

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Weightage of Uniform Distribution

This concept is taught under the chapter Probability. In this, you will learn about the formula and applications of uniform distribution. The weightage of this chapter is 8 marks in the final exam.

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Illustrated Examples on Uniform Distribution

1. X on the interval (0,50) is continuously and uniformly distributed. What is the Expected Value (E[x]) and Variance (Var(x)) of X?

Solution. E[x]=a+b/2 and Var(x)=(b−a)2/12

X is uniform on (a,b) 

a is 0 and b is 50  

E[x]=a+b/2=0+50/2=25

Var(x)=(b−a)2/12=2500/12=208.33

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FAQs on Uniform Distribution

Q: What does uniform distribution imply?

A: A type of probability distribution in statistics in which all results are similarly likely to occur.

Q: What is the shape of a uniform distribution?

A: If its values are distributed uniformly over the spectrum of probabilities, a continuous random variable has a uniform distribution. A rectangular shape arises from the graph of a uniform distribution.

Q: What is the difference in distribution between skewed and uniform?

A: Uniform distribution refers to a situation where all the observations in a dataset are distributed around the distribution spectrum uniformly. Skewed distribution refers to the situation where, relative to the other hand, one side of the graph has more dataset.

Q: Is there a standard deviation with a uniform distribution?

A: The uniform distribution is used to define a condition where it is similarly plausible that all potential consequences of a random experiment will arise.

Q: Why are we increasing the use of uniform distribution?

A: A uniform distribution can be used for every case in which any result in a sample space is equally possible. One instance of this is rolling a single standard die in a discrete situation. A total of six sides of the die are open, and each side is equally likely to be rolled face up.

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