Continuous Random Variables

From an AS paper

Edexcel

Edexcel · Old spec

A2 June 2025 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The random variable \(X \sim \mathrm{U}[1, 4]\)

(a) Find
(i) \(\mathrm{P}(1.8 \lt X \lt 3.2)\)
(ii) \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 3.2 \mid X \gt 1.8)\) (3)

A random sample of 10 observations of \(X\) is taken.

The random variable \(M\) represents the maximum value of these 10 observations.

The cumulative distribution function of \(M\), \(\mathrm{F}(y)\), is given by

\[\mathrm{F}(y) = \begin{cases} 0 & y \lt 1 \\ \left(\dfrac{y-1}{3}\right)^{10} & 1 \leqslant y \leqslant 4 \\ 1 & y \gt 4 \end{cases}\]
(b) Find the probability that the maximum value in the sample is greater than 3.75 (1)
(c)
(i) Sketch the probability density function of \(M\) for \(1 \leqslant y \leqslant 4\)
(ii) Write down the mode of \(M\) (3)
(d) Use algebraic integration to find the exact value of \(\mathrm{E}(M)\) (4)

AS June 2025 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. Subrat is modelling the time, \(t\) seconds, it takes for a computer to carry out a particular process.
He models the time using the continuous random variable \(T\) with cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(t) = \begin{cases} 0 & t \lt 0 \\ at^4 - \dfrac{1}{8}t^3 + bt^2 & 0 \leqslant t \leqslant 4 \\ 1 & t \gt 4 \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

(a) Find, in terms of \(a\) and \(b\), the probability that the computer takes less than 2 seconds to carry out the process. (2)
(b) Find, in terms of \(a\) and \(b\), the probability density function of \(T\) for all values of \(t\) (2)

The probability that the computer takes less than 2 seconds to carry out the process is \(\dfrac{11}{16}\)

(c) Find the exact value of the mode of \(T\)
You must show all stages of your working. (7)

AS June 2025 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The graph of the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of the continuous uniform random variable \(X\) is shown below.

Graph of f(x): f(x) = 0.2 for x from –3 to 2 and 0 elsewhere, x-axis from –4 to 4, vertical axis marked 0.1 and 0.3
(a) Write down the value of \(\mathrm{P}(X = 1)\) (1)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) (1)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\) (1)
(d) Sketch the cumulative distribution function of \(X\) for \(-3 \leqslant x \leqslant 2\)
You should label any points where the sketch touches or crosses the coordinate axes. (3)
(e) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X^2 \gt 1.96)\) (3)

A2 June 2024 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. A company packs chickpeas into small bags and large bags.

The weight of a small bag of chickpeas is normally distributed with mean 500 g and standard deviation 5 g

A random sample of 3 small bags of chickpeas is taken.

(a) Find the probability that the total weight of these 3 bags of chickpeas is between 1490 g and 1530 g (3)

The weight of a large bag of chickpeas is normally distributed with mean 1020 g and standard deviation 20 g

One large bag and one small bag of chickpeas are chosen at random.

(b) Calculate the probability that the weight of the large bag of chickpeas is at least 30 g more than twice the weight of the small bag of chickpeas.
Show your working clearly. (6)

A2 June 2024 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. A continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} ax^{-2} - bx^{-3} & 2 \leqslant x \lt \infty \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

Given that \(\mathrm{P}(X \leqslant 4) = \dfrac{3}{8}\)

(a) use algebraic integration to show that \(a = 3\)
Show your working clearly. (6)
(b) Find the exact value of the median of \(X\) (4)

A2 June 2024 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(G\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([-3, 15]\)

(a) Calculate \(\mathrm{P}(G \gt 12)\) (1)

The random variable \(H\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([2, w]\)

The random variables \(G\) and \(H\) are independent and \(\mathrm{E}(H) = 10\)

(b) Show that the probability that \(G\) and \(H\) are both greater than 12 is \(\dfrac{1}{16}\) (3)

The random variable \(A\) is the area on a coordinate grid bounded by

\[y = -3\]\[y = -4|x| + k\]

where \(k\) is a value from the continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([5, 10]\)

(c) Calculate the expected value of \(A\) (5)

AS June 2024 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([2, 7]\)

(a) Write down the value of \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) (1)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(1 \lt X \lt 4)\) (1)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(2X^2 - 15X + 27 \gt 0)\) (3)
(d) Find \(\mathrm{E}\left(\dfrac{3}{X^2}\right)\) (3)

AS June 2024 Q3

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The continuous random variable \(Y\) has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(y) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{24}(y+2)(4-y) & 0 \leqslant y \leqslant 3 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that the mode of \(Y\) is 1, justifying your reasoning. (2)

Given that \(\mathrm{P}(Y \lt 1) = \dfrac{13}{36}\)

(b) determine whether the median of \(Y\) is less than, equal to, or greater than 2
Give a reason for your answer. (2)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(Y^2) = \dfrac{213}{80}\)

(c) find, using algebraic integration, \(\mathrm{Var}(2Y)\) (5)

AS June 2024 Q1

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

1. A continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt -1 \\ \dfrac{1}{5}(x+1)^2 & -1 \leqslant x \leqslant 0 \\ 1 - \dfrac{1}{20}(4-x)^2 & 0 \lt x \leqslant 4 \\ 1 & x \gt 4 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find the probability density function, \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) (2)
(b)
(i) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) (2)
(ii) Hence describe the skewness of the distribution. (1)
(c) Find, to 3 significant figures, the value of \(c\) such that\[\mathrm{P}(1 \lt X \lt c) = \mathrm{P}(c \lt X \lt 2)\] (3)

A2 June 2023 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The random variable \(R\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([2, 10]\)

(a) Write down the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(r)\) of \(R\) (1)

A sphere of radius \(R\) cm is formed.

The surface area of the sphere, \(S\) cm2, is given by \(S = 4\pi R^2\)

(b) Show that \(\mathrm{E}(S) = \dfrac{496\pi}{3}\) (4)

The volume of the sphere, \(V\) cm3, is given by \(V = \dfrac{4}{3}\pi R^3\)

(c) Find, using algebraic integration, the expected value of \(V\) (4)

A2 June 2023 Q6

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 0 \\ k\left(x - ax^2\right) & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 1 & x \gt 4 \end{cases}\]

The values of \(a\) and \(k\) are positive constants such that \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 2) = \dfrac{2}{3}\)

(a) Find the exact value of the median of \(X\) (6)
(b) Find the probability density function of \(X\) (2)
(c) Hence, deduce the value of the mode of \(X\), giving a reason for your answer. (2)

A2 June 2023 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The weights of eggs, \(E\) grams, follow a normal distribution, \(\mathrm{N}(60,\ 3^2)\)

The weights of empty small boxes, \(S\) grams, follow a normal distribution, \(\mathrm{N}(24,\ 1.8^2)\)

The weights of empty large boxes, \(L\) grams, follow a normal distribution, \(\mathrm{N}(40,\ 2.1^2)\)

Small boxes of eggs contain 6 randomly selected eggs.

Large boxes of eggs contain 12 randomly selected eggs.

(a) Find the probability that the total weight of a randomly selected small box of 6 eggs weighs less than 387 grams. (3)
(b) Find the probability that a randomly selected large box of 12 eggs weighs more than twice a randomly selected small box of 6 eggs. (5)

AS June 2023 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(X\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([-3, k]\)

Given that \(\mathrm{P}(-4 \lt X \lt 2) = \dfrac{1}{3}\)

(a) find the value of \(k\) (3)

A computer generates a random number, \(Y\), where

  • \(Y\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([a, b]\)
  • \(\mathrm{E}(Y) = 6\)
  • \(\mathrm{Var}(Y) = 192\)

The computer generates 5 random numbers.

(b) Calculate the probability that at least 2 of the 5 numbers generated are greater than 7.5 (6)

AS June 2023 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. A continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{x}{16}(9 - x^2) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Find the cumulative distribution function of \(X\) (3)
(b) Calculate \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 1.8)\) (2)
(c) Use calculus to find \(\mathrm{E}\left(\dfrac{3}{X} + 2\right)\) (3)
(d) Show that the mode of \(X\) is \(\sqrt{3}\) (3)

A2 June 2022 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 1 \\ 1.5x - 0.25x^2 - 1.25 & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ 1 & x \gt 3 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find the exact value of the median of \(X\) (2)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 1.6 \mid X \gt 1.2)\) (3)

The random variable \(Y = \dfrac{1}{X}\)

(c) Specify fully the cumulative distribution function of \(Y\) (4)
(d) Hence or otherwise find the mode of \(Y\) (3)

A2 June 2022 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec7 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A rectangle is to have an area of 40 cm2

The length of the rectangle, \(L\) cm, follows a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([4, 10]\)

Find the expected value of the perimeter of the rectangle.
Use algebraic integration, rather than your calculator, to evaluate any definite integrals. (7)

AS June 2022 Q5

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The random variable \(X\) has the continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([0.5, 2.5]\)

Talia selects a number, \(T\), at random from the distribution of \(X\)

(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(T \lt 1)\) (1)

Malik takes Talia’s number, \(T\), and calculates his number, \(M\), where \(M = \dfrac{1}{T^2}\)

(b) Find the probability that both \(T\) and \(M\) are less than 2.25 (3)

Raja and Greta play a game many times.
Each time they play they use a number, \(R\), randomly selected from the distribution of \(X\)

Raja’s score is \(R\)

Greta’s score is \(G\), where \(G = \dfrac{2}{R^2}\)

(c) Determine, giving a reason, who you would expect to have the higher total score. (5)

AS June 2022 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. A random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} 0.8 - 6.4x^{-3} & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

The median of \(X\) is \(m\)

(a) Show that \(m^3 - 3.625m^2 + 4 = 0\) (3)
(b)
(i) Find \(\mathrm{f}'(x)\)
(ii) Explain why the mode of \(X\) is 4 (2)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X^2) = 10.5\) to 3 significant figures,

(c) find \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\), showing your working clearly. (4)

A2 June 2022 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec6 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The random variable \(X \sim \mathrm{N}(5,\ 0.4^2)\) and the random variable \(Y \sim \mathrm{N}(8,\ 0.1^2)\)

\(X\) and \(Y\) are independent random variables.

A random sample of \(a\) independent observations is taken from the distribution of \(X\) and one observation is taken from the distribution of \(Y\)

The random variable \(W = X_1 + X_2 + X_3 + \ldots + X_a + bY\) and has the distribution \(\mathrm{N}(169,\ 2^2)\)

Find the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\) (6)

AS June 2022 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec5 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The graph shows the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of the continuous random variable \(X\)

Graph of f(x): zero up to x = 1, a straight line rising from (1, 0) to (7, 0.20), then a horizontal line at 0.10 from x = 7 to x = 11, and zero after 11
(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 4)\) (2)
(b) Specify the cumulative distribution function of \(X\) for \(7 \leqslant x \leqslant 11\) (3)

A2 October 2021 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The weights of a particular type of apple, \(A\) grams, and a particular type of orange, \(R\) grams, each follow independent normal distributions.

\[A \sim \mathrm{N}(160,\ 12^2) \qquad\qquad R \sim \mathrm{N}(140,\ 10^2)\]
(a) Find the distribution of
(i) \(A + R\)
(ii) the total weight of 2 randomly selected apples.
(3)

A box contains 4 apples and 1 orange only. Jesse selects 2 pieces of fruit at random from the box.

(b) Find the probability that the total weight of the 2 pieces of fruit exceeds 310 grams. (3)

From a large number of apples and oranges, Celeste selects \(m\) apples and 1 orange at random. The random variable \(W\) is given by

\[W = \left(\sum_{i=1}^{m} A_i\right) - n \times R\]

where \(n\) is a positive integer.

Given that the middle 95% of the distribution of \(W\) lies between 1100.08 and 1499.92 grams,

(c) find the value of \(m\) and the value of \(n\) (8)

A2 October 2021 Q5

5. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([0, 4\beta]\), where \(\beta\) is an unknown constant.

Three independent observations, \(X_1\), \(X_2\) and \(X_3\), are taken of \(X\) and the following estimators for \(\beta\) are proposed

\[A = \frac{X_1 + X_2}{2}\]\[B = \frac{X_1 + 2X_2 + 3X_3}{8}\]\[C = \frac{X_1 + 2X_2 - X_3}{8}\]
(a) Calculate the bias of \(A\), the bias of \(B\) and the bias of \(C\) (5)
(b) By calculating the variances, explain which of \(B\) or \(C\) is the better estimator for \(\beta\) (4)
(c) Find an unbiased estimator for \(\beta\) (1)

A2 October 2021 Q3

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 2 \\ 1.25 - \dfrac{2.5}{x} & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 10 \\ 1 & x \gt 10 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(\{X \lt 5\} \cup \{X \gt 8\})\) (2)
(b) Find the median of \(X\). (2)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{E}(X^2)\) (3)
(d)
(i) Sketch the probability density function of \(X\).
(ii) Describe the skewness of the distribution of \(X\).
(3)

A2 October 2020 Q8

EdexcelCurrent spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. A circle, centre \(O\), has radius \(x\) cm, where \(x\) is an observation from the random variable \(X\) which has a rectangular distribution on \([0, \pi]\)

(a) Find the probability that the area of the circle is greater than 10 cm2 (3)
(b) State, giving a reason, whether the median area of the circle is greater or less than 10 cm2 (1)

The triangle \(OAB\) is drawn inside the circle with \(OA\) and \(OB\) as radii of length \(x\) cm and angle \(AOB\) \(x\) radians.

(c) Use algebraic integration to find the expected value of the area of triangle \(OAB\).
Give your answer as an exact value. (7)

A2 October 2020 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. Fence panels come in two sizes, large and small. The lengths of the large panels are normally distributed with mean 198 cm and standard deviation 5 cm. The lengths of the small panels are normally distributed with mean 74 cm and standard deviation 3 cm.

(a) Find the probability that the total length of a random sample of 3 large panels is greater than the total length of a random sample of 8 small panels. (6)

One large panel and one small panel are selected at random.

(b) Find the probability that the length of the large panel is more than \(\dfrac{8}{3}\) times the length of the small panel. (5)

Rosa needs 1000 cm of fencing. The large panels cost £80 each and the small panels cost £30 each. Rosa’s plan is to buy 5 large panels and measure the total length. If the total length is less than 1000 cm she will then buy one small panel as well.

(c) Calculate whether or not the expected cost of Rosa’s plan is cheaper than simply buying 14 small panels. (6)

A2 October 2020 Q5

EdexcelCurrent spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

5.

Figure 1: sketch of y = f(x), a smooth bell-shaped curve rising from O, reaching a maximum at the middle and returning to the x-axis at 2π
Figure 1

The random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) and Figure 1 shows a sketch of \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) where

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(1 - \cos x) & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 2\pi \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{2\pi}\) (3)

The random variable \(Y \sim \mathrm{N}(\mu, \sigma^2)\) and \(\mathrm{E}(Y) = \mathrm{E}(X)\)

The probability density function of \(Y\) is \(\mathrm{g}(y)\), where

\[\mathrm{g}(y) = \frac{1}{\sigma\sqrt{2\pi}}\mathrm{e}^{-\frac{1}{2}\left(\frac{y-\mu}{\sigma}\right)^2} \qquad -\infty \lt y \lt \infty\]

Given that \(\mathrm{g}(\mu) = \mathrm{f}(\mu)\)

(b) find the exact value of \(\sigma\) (3)
(c) Calculate the error in using \(\mathrm{P}\left(\dfrac{\pi}{2} \lt Y \lt \dfrac{3\pi}{2}\right)\) as an approximation to \(\mathrm{P}\left(\dfrac{\pi}{2} \lt X \lt \dfrac{3\pi}{2}\right)\) (4)

AS October 2020 Q3

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 4 \\ px - k\sqrt{x} & 4 \leqslant x \leqslant 9 \\ 1 & x \gt 9 \end{cases}\]

where \(p\) and \(k\) are constants.

(a) Find the value of \(p\) and the value of \(k\). (4)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = \dfrac{119}{18}\)

(b) show that \(\mathrm{Var}(X) = 2.05\) to 3 significant figures. (6)
(c) Write down the mode of \(X\). (1)
(d) Find the exact value of the constant \(a\) such that \(\mathrm{P}(X \leqslant a) = \dfrac{7}{27}\) (3)

A2 June 2019 Q7

EdexcelCurrent spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A manufacturer makes two versions of a toy. One version is made out of wood and the other is made out of plastic.

The weights, \(W\) kg, of the wooden toys are normally distributed with mean 2.5 kg and standard deviation 0.7 kg. The weights, \(X\) kg, of the plastic toys are normally distributed with mean 1.27 kg and standard deviation 0.4 kg. The random variables \(W\) and \(X\) are independent.

(a) Find the probability that the weight of a randomly chosen wooden toy is more than double the weight of a randomly chosen plastic toy. (6)

The manufacturer packs \(n\) of these wooden toys and \(2n\) of these plastic toys into the same container. The maximum weight the container can hold is 252 kg.

The probability of the contents of this container being overweight is 0.2119 to 4 decimal places.

(b) Calculate the value of \(n\). (8)

A2 June 2019 Q4

EdexcelCurrent spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \leqslant 0 \\ k\left(x^3 - \dfrac{3}{8}x^4\right) & 0 \lt x \leqslant 2 \\ 1 & x \gt 2 \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{2}\) (1)
(b) Showing your working clearly, use calculus to find
(i) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\)
(ii) the mode of \(X\)
(6)
(c) Describe, giving a reason, the skewness of the distribution of \(X\) (1)

AS June 2019 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(X\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([5, a]\), where \(a\) is a constant.

Given that \(\mathrm{Var}(X) = \dfrac{27}{4}\)

(a) show that \(a = 14\) (3)

The continuous random variable \(Y\) has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(y) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{20}(2y - 3) & 2 \leqslant y \leqslant 6 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

The random variable \(T = 3(X^2 + X) + 2Y\)

(b) Show that \(\mathrm{E}(T) = \dfrac{9857}{30}\) (7)

AS June 2019 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. Lloyd regularly takes a break from work to go to the local cafe. The amount of time Lloyd waits to be served, in minutes, is modelled by the continuous random variable \(T\), having probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(t) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{t}{120} & 4 \leqslant t \leqslant 16 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that the cumulative distribution function is given by\[\mathrm{F}(t) = \begin{cases} 0 & t \lt 4 \\ \dfrac{t^2}{240} - c & 4 \leqslant t \leqslant 16 \\ 1 & t \gt 16 \end{cases}\]where the value of \(c\) is to be found. (2)
(b) Find the exact probability that the amount of time Lloyd waits to be served is between 5 and 10 minutes. (2)
(c) Find the median of \(T\). (2)
(d) Find the value of \(k\) such that\[\mathrm{P}(T \lt k) = \frac{2}{3}\,\mathrm{P}(T \gt k)\]giving your answer to 3 significant figures. (3)

AS June 2018 Q4

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 3 \\ c - 4.5x^n & 3 \leqslant x \leqslant 9 \\ 1 & x \gt 9 \end{cases}\]

where \(c\) is a positive constant and \(n\) is an integer.

(a) Showing all stages of your working, find the value of \(c\) and the value of \(n\) (7)
(b) Find the lower quartile of \(X\) (2)

AS June 2018 Q2

EdexcelAS paperCurrent spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{8} & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 9 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Write down the name given to this distribution. (1)

The continuous random variable \(Y = 5 - 2X\)

(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(Y \gt 0)\) (2)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{E}(Y)\) (2)
(d) Find \(\mathrm{P}(Y \lt 0 \mid X \lt 7.5)\) (3)

S4 June 2018 Q6

EdexcelOld spec19 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\)

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{x}{2\theta^2} & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 2\theta \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(\theta\) is a constant.

(a) Use integration to show that \(\mathrm{E}(X^N) = \dfrac{2^{N+1}}{N + 2}\theta^N\) (3)
(b) Hence
(i) write down an expression for \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) in terms of \(\theta\)
(ii) find \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\) in terms of \(\theta\) (3)

A random sample \(X_1, X_2, \ldots, X_n\) where \(n \geqslant 2\) is taken to estimate the value of \(\theta\)

The random variable \(S_1 = q\bar{X}\) is an unbiased estimator of \(\theta\)

(c) Write down the value of \(q\) and show that \(S_1\) is a consistent estimator of \(\theta\) (3)

The continuous random variable \(Y\) is independent of \(X\) and is uniformly distributed over the interval \(\left[0, \dfrac{2\theta}{3}\right]\), where \(\theta\) is the same unknown constant as in \(\mathrm{f}(x)\).

The random variable \(S_2 = aX + bY\) is an unbiased estimator of \(\theta\) and is based on one observation of \(X\) and one observation of \(Y\).

(d) Find the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\) for which \(S_2\) has minimum variance. (7)
(e) Show that the minimum variance of \(S_2\) is \(\dfrac{\theta^2}{11}\) (1)
(f) Explain which of \(S_1\) or \(S_2\) is the better estimator for \(\theta\) (2)

S2 June 2018 Q6

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has the following cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \leqslant 1 \\ \dfrac{4}{15}(x - 1) & 1 \lt x \leqslant 2 \\ k\left(\dfrac{ax^3}{3} - \dfrac{x^4}{4}\right) + b & 2 \lt x \leqslant 4 \\ 1 & x \gt 4 \end{cases}\]

where \(k\), \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

Given that the mode of \(X\) is \(\dfrac{8}{3}\)

(a) show that \(a = 4\) (4)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 2.5)\) giving your answer to 3 significant figures. (6)

S3 June 2018 Q5

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The weights, in kg, of cars may be assumed to follow the normal distribution \(\mathrm{N}(1000, 250^2)\). The weights, in kg, of lorries may be assumed to follow the normal distribution \(\mathrm{N}(2800, 650^2)\).

A lorry and a car are chosen at random.

(a) Find the probability that the lorry weighs more than 3 times the weight of the car. (6)

A ferry carries vehicles across a river. The ferry is designed to carry a maximum weight of 20 000 kg.

(b) One morning, 8 cars and 3 lorries drive on to the ferry. Find the probability that their total weight will exceed the recommended maximum weight of 20 000 kg. (5)
(c) State a necessary assumption needed for the calculation in part (b). (1)

S2 June 2018 Q4

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. David aims to catch the train to work each morning. The scheduled departure time of the train is 08 30

The number of minutes after 08 30 that the train departs may be modelled by the random variable \(X\). Given that \(X\) has a continuous uniform distribution over \([\alpha, \beta]\) and that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = 4\) and \(\mathrm{Var}(X) = 12\)

(a) find the value of \(\alpha\) and the value of \(\beta\). (5)

Each morning, the probability that David oversleeps is 0.05

If David oversleeps he will be late for work.

If he does not oversleep he will be in time to catch the train, but will be late for work if the train departs after 08 35

(b) Find the probability that David will be late for work. (3)

Given that David is late for work,

(c) find the probability that he overslept. (2)

S2 June 2018 Q3

EdexcelOld spec18 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The length of time, \(T\), minutes, spent completing a particular task has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(t) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{2}(t - 1) & 1 \lt t \leqslant 2 \\ \dfrac{1}{16}(14t - 3t^2 - 8) & 2 \lt t \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Use algebraic integration to find \(\mathrm{E}(T)\) (4)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(T^2) = \dfrac{267}{40}\)

(b) find \(\mathrm{Var}(T)\) (2)
(c) Find the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(t)\) (5)
(d) Find the 20th percentile of the time taken to complete the task. (3)
(e) Find the probability that the time spent completing the task is more than 1.5 minutes. (2)

Given that a person has already spent 1.5 minutes on the task,

(f) find the probability that this person takes more than 3 minutes to complete the task. (2)

S3 June 2017 Q7

EdexcelOld spec16 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. Sugar is packed into medium bags and large bags. The weights of the medium bags of sugar are normally distributed with mean 520 grams and standard deviation 10 grams. The weights of the large bags of sugar are normally distributed with mean 1510 grams and standard deviation 20 grams.

(a) Find the probability that a randomly chosen large bag of sugar weighs at least 15 grams more than the combined weight of 3 randomly chosen medium bags of sugar. (6)
(b) Find the probability that a randomly chosen large bag of sugar weighs less than 3 times the weight of a randomly chosen medium bag of sugar. (5)

A random sample of 5 medium bags of sugar is taken.

(c) Find the value of \(d\) so that the probability that all 5 bags of sugar each weigh more than 520 grams is equal to the probability that the mean weight of the 5 bags of sugar is more than \(d\) grams. (5)

S2 June 2017 Q6

EdexcelOld spec16 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has a probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(x - 2) & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ k & 3 \lt x \lt 5 \\ k(6 - x) & 5 \leqslant x \leqslant 6 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a positive constant.

(a) Sketch the graph of \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (2)
(b) Show that the value of \(k\) is \(\dfrac{1}{3}\) (2)
(c) Define fully the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (7)
(d) Hence find the 90th percentile of the distribution. (3)
(e) Find \(\mathrm{P}[\mathrm{E}(X) \lt X \lt 5.5]\) (2)

S2 June 2017 Q4

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([\alpha, \beta]\)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = 3.5\) and \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 5) = \dfrac{2}{5}\)

(a) find the value of \(\alpha\) and the value of \(\beta\) (4)

Given that \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt c) = \dfrac{2}{3}\)

(b)
(i) find the value of \(c\)
(ii) find \(\mathrm{P}(c \lt X \lt 9)\) (3)

A rectangle has a perimeter of 200 cm. The length, \(S\) cm, of one side of this rectangle is uniformly distributed between 30 cm and 80 cm.

(c) Find the probability that the length of the shorter side of the rectangle is less than 45 cm. (4)

S2 June 2017 Q3

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The lifetime, \(X\), in tens of hours, of a battery is modelled by the probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{9}x(4 - x) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

Use algebraic integration to find

(a) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) (4)
(b) \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 2.5)\) (3)

A radio runs using 2 of these batteries, both of which must be working. Two fully-charged batteries are put into the radio.

(c) Find the probability that the radio will be working after 25 hours of use. (2)

Given that the radio is working after 16 hours of use,

(d) find the probability that the radio will be working after being used for another 9 hours. (3)

S2 June 2016 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The weight, \(X\) kg, of staples in a bin full of paper has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{9x - 3x^2}{10} & 0 \leqslant x \lt 2 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

Use integration to find

(a) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) (4)
(b) \(\mathrm{Var}\ (X)\) (4)
(c) \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 1.5)\) (3)

Peter raises money by collecting paper and selling it for recycling. A bin full of paper is sold for £50 but if the weight of the staples exceeds 1.5 kg it sells for £25

(d) Find the expected amount of money Peter raises per bin full of paper. (2)

Peter could remove all the staples before the paper is sold but the time taken to remove the staples means that Peter will have 20% fewer bins full of paper to sell.

(e) Decide whether or not Peter should remove all the staples before selling the bins full of paper. Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S4 June 2016 Q6

6. A random sample of size \(n\) is taken from the random variable \(X\), which has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([0, a]\), \(a \gt 0\)

The sample mean is denoted by \(\bar{X}\)

(a) Show that \(Y = 2\bar{X}\) is an unbiased estimator of \(a\) (2)

The maximum value, \(M\), in the sample has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(m) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{nm^{n-1}}{a^n} & 0 \leqslant m \leqslant a \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(b) Find \(\mathrm{E}(M)\) (2)
(c) Show that \(\mathrm{Var}(M) = \dfrac{na^2}{(n + 2)(n + 1)^2}\) (4)

The estimator \(S\) is defined by \(S = \dfrac{n + 1}{n}M\)

Given that \(n \gt 1\)

(d) state which of \(Y\) or \(S\) is the better estimator for \(a\). Give a reason for your answer. (7)

S3 June 2016 Q4

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The weights of eggs are normally distributed with mean 60 g and standard deviation 5 g

Sairah chooses 2 eggs at random.

(a) Find the probability that the difference in weight of these 2 eggs is more than 2 g (5)

Sairah is packing eggs into cartons. The weight of an empty egg carton is normally distributed with mean 40 g and standard deviation 1.5 g

(b) Find the distribution of the total weight of a carton filled with 12 randomly chosen eggs. (3)
(c) Find the probability that a randomly chosen carton, filled with 12 randomly chosen eggs, weighs more than 800 g (2)

S2 June 2016 Q4

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. A continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 2 \\ k(ax + bx^2 - x^3) & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ 1 & x \gt 3 \end{cases}\]

Given that the mode of \(X\) is \(\dfrac{8}{3}\)

(a) show that \(b = 8\) (6)
(b) find the value of \(k\). (4)

S2 June 2016 Q3

EdexcelOld spec6 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The random variable \(R\) has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval [5, 9]

(a) Specify fully the probability density function of \(R\). (1)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(7 \lt R \lt 10)\) (1)

The random variable \(A\) is the area of a circle radius \(R\) cm.

(c) Find \(\mathrm{E}(A)\) (4)

S2 June 2015 Q6

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. A continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) where

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} kx^n & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 1 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) and \(n\) are positive integers.

(a) Find \(k\) in terms of \(n\). (3)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) in terms of \(n\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{E}(X^2)\) in terms of \(n\). (2)

Given that \(n = 2\)

(d) find \(\mathrm{Var}(3X)\). (3)

S3 June 2015 Q5

EdexcelOld spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

5.

(i) The volume, \(B\) ml, in a bottle of Burxton’s water has a normal distribution \(B \sim \mathrm{N}(325, 6^2)\) and the volume, \(H\) ml, in a bottle of Hargate’s water has a normal distribution \(H \sim \mathrm{N}(330, 4^2)\).
Rebecca buys 5 bottles of Burxton’s water and one bottle of Hargate’s water.
Find the probability that the total volume in the 5 bottles of Burxton’s water is more than 5 times the volume in the bottle of Hargate’s water. (5)
(ii) Two independent random samples \(X_1, X_2, X_3, X_4, X_5\) and \(Y_1, Y_2, Y_3, Y_4, Y_5\) are each taken from a normal population with mean \(\mu\) and standard deviation \(\sigma\).
(a) Find the distribution of the random variable \(D = Y_1 - \bar{X}\) (3)
(b) Hence show that \(\mathrm{P}(Y_1 \gt \bar{X} + \sigma) = 0.181\) correct to 3 decimal places. (2)

Ankit believes that \(\mathrm{P}(U_1 \gt \bar{U} + \sigma) = 0.181\) correct to 3 decimal places, for any random sample \(U_1, U_2, U_3, U_4, U_5\) taken from a normal population with mean \(\mu\) and standard deviation \(\sigma\).

(c) Explain briefly why the result from part (b) should not be used to confirm Ankit’s belief. (1)
(d) Find, correct to 3 decimal places, the actual value of \(\mathrm{P}(U_1 \gt \bar{U} + \sigma)\). (6)

S2 June 2015 Q4

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(L\) represents the error, in metres, made when a machine cuts poles to a target length. The distribution of \(L\) is a continuous uniform distribution over the interval [0, 0.5]

(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(L \lt 0.4)\). (1)
(b) Write down \(\mathrm{E}(L)\). (1)
(c) Calculate \(\mathrm{Var}(L)\). (2)

A random sample of 30 poles cut by this machine is taken.

(d) Find the probability that fewer than 4 poles have an error of more than 0.4 metres from the target length. (3)

When a new machine cuts poles to a target length, the error, \(X\) metres, is modelled by the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) where

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 0 \\ 4x - 4x^2 & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 0.5 \\ 1 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(e) Using this model, find \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 0.4)\) (2)

A random sample of 100 poles cut by this new machine is taken.

(f) Using a suitable approximation, find the probability that at least 8 of these poles have an error of more than 0.4 metres. (3)

S2 June 2015 Q3

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. A random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} kx^2 & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 2 \\ k\left(1 - \dfrac{x}{6}\right) & 2 \lt x \leqslant 6 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{4}\) (4)
(b) Write down the mode of \(X\). (1)
(c) Specify fully the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (5)
(d) Find the upper quartile of \(X\). (4)

S2 June 2014 (R) Q7

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A piece of string \(AB\) has length 9 cm. The string is cut at random at a point \(P\) and the random variable \(X\) represents the length of the piece of string \(AP\).

(a) Write down the distribution of \(X\). (1)
(b) Find the probability that the length of the piece of string \(AP\) is more than 6 cm. (1)

The two pieces of string \(AP\) and \(PB\) are used to form two sides of a rectangle.
The random variable \(R\) represents the area of the rectangle.

(c) Show that \(R = aX^2 + bX\) and state the values of the constants \(a\) and \(b\). (2)
(d) Find \(\mathrm{E}(R)\). (6)
(e) Find the probability that \(R\) is more than twice the area of a square whose side has the length of the piece of string \(AP\). (4)

S4 June 2014 (R) Q6

6. Emily is monitoring the level of pollution in a river. Over a period of time she has found that the amount of pollution, \(X\), in a 100 ml sample of river water has a continuous distribution with probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{2x}{a^2} & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant a \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) is a constant.

Emily takes a random sample \(X_1, X_2, X_3, \ldots, X_n\) to try to estimate the value of \(a\).

(a) Show that \(\mathrm{E}(\bar{X}) = \dfrac{2a}{3}\) and \(\mathrm{Var}(\bar{X}) = \dfrac{a^2}{18n}\) (4)

The random variable \(S = p\bar{X}\), where \(p\) is a constant, is an unbiased estimator of \(a\).

(b) Write down the value of \(p\) and find \(\mathrm{Var}(S)\). (2)

Felix suggests using the statistic \(M = \max\{X_1, X_2, X_3, \ldots, X_n\}\) as an estimator of \(a\).

He calculates \(\mathrm{E}(M) = \dfrac{2n}{2n + 1}a\) and \(\mathrm{Var}(M) = \dfrac{n}{(n + 1)(2n + 1)^2}a^2\)

(c) State, giving your reasons, whether or not \(M\) is a consistent estimator of \(a\). (3)

The random variable \(T = qM\), where \(q\) is a constant, is an unbiased estimator of \(a\).

(d) Write down, in terms of \(n\), the value of \(q\) and find \(\mathrm{Var}(T)\). (3)
(e) State, giving your reasons, which of \(S\) or \(T\) you would recommend Emily use as an estimator of \(a\). (3)

Emily took a sample of 5 values of \(X\) and obtained the following:

5.3     4.3     5.7     7.8     6.9

(f) Calculate the estimate of \(a\) using your recommended estimator from part (e). (2)
(g) Find the standard error of your estimate, giving your answer to 2 decimal places. (2)

S2 June 2014 (R) Q6

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. In an experiment some children were asked to estimate the position of the centre of a circle. The random variable \(D\) represents the distance, in centimetres, between the child’s estimate and the actual position of the centre of the circle. The cumulative distribution function of \(D\) is given by

\[\mathrm{F}(d) = \begin{cases} 0 & d \lt 0 \\ \dfrac{d^2}{2} - \dfrac{d^4}{16} & 0 \leqslant d \leqslant 2 \\ 1 & d \gt 2 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find the median of \(D\). (4)
(b) Find the mode of \(D\).
Justify your answer. (5)

The experiment is conducted on 80 children.

(c) Find the expected number of children whose estimate is less than 1 cm from the actual centre of the circle. (3)

S2 June 2014 (R) Q4

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} 3k & 0 \leqslant x \lt 1 \\ kx(4 - x) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (3)
(b) Write down the mode of \(X\). (1)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = \dfrac{29}{16}\)

(c) describe, giving a reason, the skewness of the distribution. (2)
(d) Use integration to find the value of \(k\). (5)
(e) Write down the lower quartile of \(X\). (1)

Given also that \(\mathrm{P}(2 \lt X \lt 3) = \dfrac{11}{36}\)

(f) find the exact value of \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 3)\). (2)

S3 June 2014 (R) Q3

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. A company produces two types of milk powder, ‘Semi-Skimmed’ and ‘Full Cream’. In tests, each type of milk powder is used to make a large number of cups of coffee. The mass, \(S\) grams, of ‘Semi-Skimmed’ milk powder used in one cup of coffee is modelled by \(S \sim \mathrm{N}(4.9, 0.8^2)\). The mass, \(C\) grams, of ‘Full Cream’ milk powder used in one cup of coffee is modelled by \(C \sim \mathrm{N}(2.5, 0.4^2)\)

(a) Two cups of coffee, one with each type of milk powder, are to be selected at random. Find the probability that the mass of ‘Semi-Skimmed’ milk powder used will be at least double that of the ‘Full Cream’ milk powder used. (6)
(b) ‘Semi-Skimmed’ milk powder is sold in 500 g packs. Find the probability that one pack will be sufficient for 100 cups of coffee. (5)

S2 June 2014 Q6

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{2x}{9} & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 1 \\[1ex] \dfrac{2}{9} & 1 \lt x \lt 4 \\[1ex] \dfrac{2}{3} - \dfrac{x}{9} & 4 \leqslant x \leqslant 6 \\[1ex] 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Find \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (4)
(b) Find the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) for all values of \(x\). (6)
(c) Find the median of \(X\). (3)
(d) Describe the skewness. Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S3 June 2014 Q4

EdexcelOld spec6 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(A\) is defined as

\[A = B + 4C - 3D\]

where \(B\), \(C\) and \(D\) are independent random variables with

\[B \sim \mathrm{N}(6, 2^2) \qquad C \sim \mathrm{N}(7, 3^2) \qquad D \sim \mathrm{N}(4, 1.5^2)\]

Find \(\mathrm{P}(A \lt 45)\) (6)

S2 June 2014 Q2

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The length of time, in minutes, that a customer queues in a Post Office is a random variable, \(T\), with probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(t) = \begin{cases} c(81 - t^2) & 0 \leqslant t \leqslant 9 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(c\) is a constant.

(a) Show that the value of \(c\) is \(\dfrac{1}{486}\) (4)
(b) Show that the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(t)\) is given by \[\mathrm{F}(t) = \begin{cases} 0 & t \lt 0 \\ \dfrac{t}{6} - \dfrac{t^3}{1458} & 0 \leqslant t \leqslant 9 \\ 1 & t \gt 9 \end{cases}\] (2)
(c) Find the probability that a customer will queue for longer than 3 minutes. (2)

A customer has been queueing for 3 minutes.

(d) Find the probability that this customer will be queueing for at least 7 minutes. (3)

Three customers are selected at random.

(e) Find the probability that exactly 2 of them had to queue for longer than 3 minutes. (3)

S3 June 2013 (R) Q8

EdexcelOld spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. A farmer supplies both duck eggs and chicken eggs. The weights of duck eggs, \(D\) grams, and chicken eggs, \(C\) grams, are such that

\[D \sim \mathrm{N}(54, 1.2^2) \text{ and } C \sim \mathrm{N}(44, 0.8^2).\]
(a) Find the probability that the weights of 2 randomly selected duck eggs will differ by more than 3 g. (6)
(b) Find the probability that the weight of a randomly selected chicken egg is less than \(\dfrac{4}{5}\) of the weight of a randomly selected duck egg. (5)

Eggs are packed in boxes which contain either 6 randomly selected duck eggs or 6 randomly selected chicken eggs. The weight of an empty box has distribution \(\mathrm{N}\left(28, \sqrt{5}^{\,2}\right)\).

(c) Find the probability that a full box of duck eggs weighs at least 50 g more than a full box of chicken eggs. (6)

S3 June 2013 (R) Q6

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval

\[[a - 1,\ a + 5]\]

where \(a\) is a constant.

Fifty observations of \(X\) are taken, giving a sample mean of 17.2

(a) Use the Central Limit Theorem to find an approximate distribution for \(\bar{X}\). (3)
(b) Hence find a 95% confidence interval for \(a\). (4)

S2 June 2013 (R) Q4

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(3 + 2x - x^2) & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{9}\) (3)
(b) Find the mode of \(X\). (2)
(c) Use algebraic integration to find \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (4)

By comparing your answers to parts (b) and (c),

(d) describe the skewness of \(X\), giving a reason for your answer. (2)

S2 June 2013 (R) Q3

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The random variable \(X\) has a continuous uniform distribution on \([a, b]\) where \(a\) and \(b\) are positive numbers.

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = 23\) and \(\mathrm{Var}(X) = 75\)

(a) find the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\). (6)

Given that \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt c) = 0.32\)

(b) find \(\mathrm{P}(23 \lt X \lt c)\). (2)

S2 June 2013 (R) Q2

EdexcelOld spec7 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The continuous random variable \(Y\) has cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(y) = \begin{cases} 0 & y \lt 0 \\ \dfrac{1}{4}(y^3 - 4y^2 + ky) & 0 \leqslant y \leqslant 2 \\ 1 & y \gt 2 \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Find the value of \(k\). (2)
(b) Find the probability density function of \(Y\), specifying it for all values of \(y\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(Y \gt 1)\). (2)

S3 June 2013 Q5

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. Blumen is a perfume sold in bottles. The amount of perfume in each bottle is normally distributed. The amount of perfume in a large bottle has mean 50 ml and standard deviation 5 ml. The amount of perfume in a small bottle has mean 15 ml and standard deviation 3 ml.

One large and 3 small bottles of Blumen are chosen at random.

(a) Find the probability that the amount in the large bottle is less than the total amount in the 3 small bottles. (6)

A large bottle and a small bottle of Blumen are chosen at random.

(b) Find the probability that the large bottle contains more than 3 times the amount in the small bottle. (6)

S2 June 2013 Q5

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The continuous random variable \(X\) has a cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 1 \\[1ex] \dfrac{x^3}{10} + \dfrac{3x^2}{10} + ax + b & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 2 \\[1ex] 1 & x \gt 2 \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

(a) Find the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\). (4)
(b) Show that \(\mathrm{f}(x) = \dfrac{3}{10}(x^2 + 2x - 2), \quad 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 2\) (1)
(c) Use integration to find \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (4)
(d) Show that the lower quartile of \(X\) lies between 1.425 and 1.435 (3)

S4 June 2013 Q4

EdexcelOld spec16 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. A random sample of size 2, \(X_1\) and \(X_2\), is taken from the random variable \(X\) which has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([-a, 2a]\), \(a \gt 0\)

(a) Show that \(\bar{X} = \dfrac{X_1 + X_2}{2}\) is a biased estimator of \(a\) and find the bias. (3)

The random variable \(Y = k\bar{X}\) is an unbiased estimator of \(a\).

(b) Write down the value of the constant \(k\). (1)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{Var}(Y)\). (4)

The random variable \(M\) is the maximum of \(X_1\) and \(X_2\)

The probability density function, \(m(x)\), of \(M\) is given by

\[m(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{2(x + a)}{9a^2} & -a \leqslant x \leqslant 2a \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(d) Show that \(M\) is an unbiased estimator of \(a\). (4)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(M^2) = \dfrac{3}{2}a^2\)

(e) find \(\mathrm{Var}(M)\). (1)
(f) State, giving a reason, whether you would use \(Y\) or \(M\) as an estimator of \(a\). (2)

A random sample of two values of \(X\) are 5 and −1

(g) Use your answer to part (f) to estimate \(a\). (1)

S2 June 2013 Q4

EdexcelOld spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. A continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([b, 4b]\) where \(b\) is a constant.

(a) Write down \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (1)
(b) Use integration to show that \(\mathrm{Var}(X) = \dfrac{3b^2}{4}\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{Var}(3 - 2X)\). (2)

Given that \(b = 1\) find

(d) the cumulative distribution function of \(X\), \(\mathrm{F}(x)\), for all values of \(x\), (2)
(e) the median of \(X\). (1)

S2 January 2013 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The continuous random variable \(X\) has the following probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} a + bx & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 5 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

(a) Show that \(10a + 25b = 2\) (4)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = \dfrac{35}{12}\)

(b) find a second equation in \(a\) and \(b\), (3)
(c) hence find the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\). (3)
(d) Find, to 3 significant figures, the median of \(X\). (3)
(e) Comment on the skewness. Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S2 January 2013 Q5

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The continuous random variable \(T\) is used to model the number of days, \(t\), a mosquito survives after hatching.

The probability that the mosquito survives for more than \(t\) days is

\[\frac{225}{(t + 15)^2}, \qquad t \geqslant 0\]
(a) Show that the cumulative distribution function of \(T\) is given by \[\mathrm{F}(t) = \begin{cases} 1 - \dfrac{225}{(t + 15)^2} & t \geqslant 0 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\] (1)
(b) Find the probability that a randomly selected mosquito will die within 3 days of hatching. (2)
(c) Given that a mosquito survives for 3 days, find the probability that it will survive for at least 5 more days. (3)

A large number of mosquitoes hatch on the same day.

(d) Find the number of days after which only 10% of these mosquitoes are expected to survive. (4)

S2 January 2013 Q4

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([-4, 6]\).

(a) Write down the mean of \(X\). (1)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \leqslant 2.4)\) (2)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(-3 \lt X - 5 \lt 3)\) (2)

The continuous random variable \(Y\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([a, 4a]\).

(d) Use integration to show that \(\mathrm{E}(Y^2) = 7a^2\) (4)
(e) Find \(\mathrm{Var}(Y)\). (2)
(f) Given that \(\mathrm{P}\left(X \lt \frac{8}{3}\right) = \mathrm{P}\left(Y \lt \frac{8}{3}\right)\), find the value of \(a\). (3)

S3 June 2012 Q7

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The heights, in cm, of the male employees in a large company follow a normal distribution with mean 177 and standard deviation 5
The heights, in cm, of the female employees follow a normal distribution with mean 163 and standard deviation 4

A male employee and a female employee are chosen at random.

(a) Find the probability that the male employee is taller than the female employee. (5)

Six male employees and four female employees are chosen at random.

(b) Find the probability that their total height is less than 17 m. (6)

S2 June 2012 Q7

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{x^2}{45} & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\[1ex] \dfrac{1}{5} & 3 \lt x \lt 4 \\[1ex] \dfrac{1}{3} - \dfrac{x}{30} & 4 \leqslant x \leqslant 10 \\[1ex] 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) for \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 10\) (4)
(b) Find the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) for all values of \(x\). (8)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \leqslant 8)\). (2)

S2 June 2012 Q5

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The queueing time, \(X\) minutes, of a customer at a till of a supermarket has probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{3}{32}x(k - x) & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant k \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that the value of \(k\) is 4 (4)
(b) Write down the value of \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (1)
(c) Calculate \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\). (4)
(d) Find the probability that a randomly chosen customer’s queueing time will differ from the mean by at least half a minute. (3)

S2 June 2012 Q1

EdexcelOld spec7 marksContinuous Random Variables

1. A manufacturer produces sweets of length \(L\) mm where \(L\) has a continuous uniform distribution with range [15, 30].

(a) Find the probability that a randomly selected sweet has a length greater than 24 mm. (2)

These sweets are randomly packed in bags of 20 sweets.

(b) Find the probability that a randomly selected bag will contain at least 8 sweets with length greater than 24 mm. (3)
(c) Find the probability that 2 randomly selected bags will both contain at least 8 sweets with length greater than 24 mm. (2)

S2 January 2012 Q6

EdexcelOld spec18 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. A random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{2} & 0 \leqslant x \lt 1 \\ x - \dfrac{1}{2} & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant k \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a positive constant.

(a) Sketch the graph of \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (2)
(b) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{2}(1 + \sqrt{5})\). (4)
(c) Define fully the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (6)
(d) Find \(\mathrm{P}(0.5 \lt X \lt 1.5)\). (2)
(e) Write down the median of \(X\) and the mode of \(X\). (2)
(f) Describe the skewness of the distribution of \(X\). Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S2 January 2012 Q1

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

1. The time in minutes that Elaine takes to checkout at her local supermarket follows a continuous uniform distribution defined over the interval [3, 9].

Find

(a) Elaine’s expected checkout time, (1)
(b) the variance of the time taken to checkout at the supermarket, (2)
(c) the probability that Elaine will take more than 7 minutes to checkout. (2)

Given that Elaine has already spent 4 minutes at the checkout,

(d) find the probability that she will take a total of less than 6 minutes to checkout. (3)

S2 June 2011 Q7

EdexcelOld spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{3}{32}\left(x - 1\right)\left(5 - x\right) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 5 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) showing clearly the points where it meets the \(x\)-axis. (2)
(b) Write down the value of the mean, \(\mu\), of \(X\). (1)
(c) Show that \(\mathrm{E}(X^2) = 9.8\) (4)
(d) Find the standard deviation, \(\sigma\), of \(X\). (2)

The cumulative distribution function of \(X\) is given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 1 \\ \dfrac{1}{32}\left(a - 15x + 9x^2 - x^3\right) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 5 \\ 1 & x \gt 5 \end{cases}\]

where \(a\) is a constant.

(e) Find the value of \(a\). (2)
(f) Show that the lower quartile of \(X\), \(q_1\), lies between 2.29 and 2.31 (3)
(g) Hence find the upper quartile of \(X\), giving your answer to 1 decimal place. (1)
(h) Find, to 2 decimal places, the value of \(k\) so that\[\mathrm{P}(\mu - k\sigma \lt X \lt \mu + k\sigma) = 0.5\] (2)

S4 June 2011 Q6

EdexcelOld spec16 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. A random sample \(X_1, X_2, \ldots, X_n\) is taken from a population where each of the \(X_i\) have a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([0, \beta]\).
The random variable \(Y = \max\{X_1, X_2, \ldots, X_n\}\).
The probability density function of \(Y\) is given by

\[\mathrm{f}(y) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{n}{\beta^n}\,y^{n-1} & 0 \leqslant y \leqslant \beta \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that \(\mathrm{E}(Y^m) = \dfrac{n}{n+m}\beta^m\). (3)
(b) Write down \(\mathrm{E}(Y)\). (1)
(c) Using your answers to parts (a) and (b), or otherwise, show that \[\mathrm{Var}(Y) = \dfrac{n}{(n+1)^2(n+2)}\beta^2\] (3)
(d) State, giving your reasons, whether or not \(Y\) is a consistent estimator of \(\beta\). (3)

The random variables \(M = 2\bar{X}\), where \(\bar{X} = \dfrac{1}{n}(X_1 + X_2 + \ldots + X_n)\), and \(S = kY\), where \(k\) is a constant, are both unbiased estimators of \(\beta\).

(e) Find the value of \(k\) in terms of \(n\). (1)
(f) State, giving your reasons, which of \(M\) and \(S\) is the better estimator of \(\beta\) in this case. (3)

Five observations of \(X\) are:     8.5    6.3    5.4    9.1    7.6

(g) Calculate the better estimate of \(\beta\). (2)

S3 June 2011 Q6

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The lifetimes of batteries from manufacturer \(A\) are normally distributed with mean 20 hours and standard deviation 5 hours when used in a camera.

(a) Find the mean and standard deviation of the total lifetime of a pack of 6 batteries from manufacturer \(A\). (2)

Judy uses a camera that takes one battery at a time. She takes a pack of 6 batteries from manufacturer \(A\) to use in her camera on holiday.

(b) Find the probability that the batteries will last for more than 110 hours on her holiday. (2)

The lifetimes of batteries from manufacturer \(B\) are normally distributed with mean 35 hours and standard deviation 8 hours when used in a camera.

(c) Find the probability that the total lifetime of a pack of 6 batteries from manufacturer \(A\) is more than 4 times the lifetime of a single battery from manufacturer \(B\) when used in a camera. (6)

S2 June 2011 Q4

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. In a game, players select sticks at random from a box containing a large number of sticks of different lengths. The length, in cm, of a randomly chosen stick has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval [7, 10].

A stick is selected at random from the box.

(a) Find the probability that the stick is shorter than 9.5 cm. (2)

To win a bag of sweets, a player must select 3 sticks and wins if the length of the longest stick is more than 9.5 cm.

(b) Find the probability of winning a bag of sweets. (2)

To win a soft toy, a player must select 6 sticks and wins the toy if more than four of the sticks are shorter than 7.6 cm.

(c) Find the probability of winning a soft toy. (4)

S2 June 2011 Q3

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

3.

Figure 1: sketch of f(x): a curve rising from O to the point B above x = 3, then a straight line down to the x-axis at a
Figure 1

Figure 1 shows a sketch of the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of the random variable \(X\).

For \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 3\), \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) is represented by a curve \(OB\) with equation \(\mathrm{f}(x) = kx^2\), where \(k\) is a constant.

For \(3 \leqslant x \leqslant a\), where \(a\) is a constant, \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) is represented by a straight line passing through \(B\) and the point \((a, 0)\).

For all other values of \(x\), \(\mathrm{f}(x) = 0\).

Given that the mode of \(X\) = the median of \(X\), find

(a) the mode, (1)
(b) the value of \(k\), (4)
(c) the value of \(a\). (3)

Without calculating \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) and with reference to the skewness of the distribution

(d) state, giving your reason, whether \(\mathrm{E}(X) \lt 3\), \(\mathrm{E}(X) = 3\) or \(\mathrm{E}(X) \gt 3\). (2)

S2 January 2011 Q7

EdexcelOld spec13 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The queuing time in minutes, \(X\), of a customer at a post office is modelled by the probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} kx(81 - x^2) & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 9 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{4}{6561}\). (3)

Using integration, find

(b) the mean queuing time of a customer, (4)
(c) the probability that a customer will queue for more than 5 minutes. (3)

Three independent customers shop at the post office.

(d) Find the probability that at least 2 of the customers queue for more than 5 minutes. (3)

S2 January 2011 Q5

EdexcelOld spec13 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. A continuous random variable \(X\) has the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: graph of f(x), a straight line from (0, 4) down to (0.5, 0)
Figure 1
(a) Show that \(\mathrm{f}(x) = 4 - 8x\) for \(0 \leqslant x \leqslant 0.5\) and specify \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) for all real values of \(x\). (4)
(b) Find the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (4)
(c) Find the median of \(X\). (3)
(d) Write down the mode of \(X\). (1)
(e) State, with a reason, the skewness of \(X\). (1)

S2 January 2011 Q3

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval [−1,3].

Find

(a) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) (1)
(b) \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\) (2)
(c) \(\mathrm{E}(X^2)\) (2)
(d) \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 1.4)\) (1)

A total of 40 observations of \(X\) are made.

(e) Find the probability that at least 10 of these observations are negative. (5)

S2 June 2010 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The random variable \(Y\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(y)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(y) = \begin{cases} ky(a - y) & 0 \leqslant y \leqslant 3 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) and \(a\) are positive constants.

(a)
(i) Explain why \(a \geqslant 3\)
(ii) Show that \(k = \dfrac{2}{9(a - 2)}\) (6)

Given that \(\mathrm{E}(Y) = 1.75\)

(b) show that \(a = 4\) and write down the value of \(k\). (6)

For these values of \(a\) and \(k\),

(c) sketch the probability density function, (2)
(d) write down the mode of \(Y\). (1)

S2 June 2010 Q4

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The lifetime, \(X\), in tens of hours, of a battery has a cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & x \lt 1 \\ \dfrac{4}{9}(x^2 + 2x - 3) & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 1.5 \\ 1 & x \gt 1.5 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find the median of \(X\), giving your answer to 3 significant figures. (3)
(b) Find, in full, the probability density function of the random variable \(X\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \geqslant 1.2)\) (2)

A camping lantern runs on 4 batteries, all of which must be working. Four new batteries are put into the lantern.

(d) Find the probability that the lantern will still be working after 12 hours. (2)

S2 June 2010 Q3

EdexcelOld spec5 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. A rectangle has a perimeter of 20 cm. The length, \(X\) cm, of one side of this rectangle is uniformly distributed between 1 cm and 7 cm.

Find the probability that the length of the longer side of the rectangle is more than 6 cm long. (5)

S3 June 2010 Q2

EdexcelOld spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. Philip and James are racing car drivers. Philip’s lap times, in seconds, are normally distributed with mean 90 and variance 9. James’ lap times, in seconds, are normally distributed with mean 91 and variance 12. The lap times of Philip and James are independent. Before a race, they each take a qualifying lap.

(a) Find the probability that James’ time for the qualifying lap is less than Philip’s. (4)

The race is made up of 60 laps. Assuming that they both start from the same starting line and lap times are independent,

(b) find the probability that Philip beats James in the race by more than 2 minutes. (5)

S2 January 2010 Q4

EdexcelOld spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(x^2 - 2x + 2) & 0 \lt x \leqslant 3 \\ 3k & 3 \lt x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{9}\) (4)
(b) Find the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (6)
(c) Find the mean of \(X\). (3)
(d) Show that the median of \(X\) lies between \(x = 2.6\) and \(x = 2.7\) (4)

S2 January 2010 Q2

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. A continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function

\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0, & x \lt -2 \\ \dfrac{x + 2}{6}, & -2 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 1, & x \gt 4 \end{cases}\]
(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 0)\). (2)
(b) Find the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of \(X\). (3)
(c) Write down the name of the distribution of \(X\). (1)
(d) Find the mean and the variance of \(X\). (3)
(e) Write down the value of \(\mathrm{P}(X = 1)\). (1)

S3 June 2009 Q8

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. The random variable \(A\) is defined as

\[A = 4X - 3Y\]

where \(X \sim \mathrm{N}(30, 3^2)\), \(Y \sim \mathrm{N}(20, 2^2)\) and \(X\) and \(Y\) are independent.

Find

(a) \(\mathrm{E}(A)\), (2)
(b) \(\mathrm{Var}(A)\). (3)

The random variables \(Y_1\), \(Y_2\), \(Y_3\) and \(Y_4\) are independent and each has the same distribution as \(Y\). The random variable \(B\) is defined as

\[B = \sum_{i=1}^{4} Y_i\]
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(B \gt A)\). (6)

S2 June 2009 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

7.

Figure 1: graph of y = f(x), an isosceles triangle rising from O to a maximum of 1/2 at x = 2 and falling to the x-axis at x = 4
Figure 1

Figure 1 shows a sketch of the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of the random variable \(X\). The part of the sketch from \(x = 0\) to \(x = 4\) consists of an isosceles triangle with maximum at (2, 0.5).

(a) Write down \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (1)

The probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) can be written in the following form.

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} ax & 0 \leqslant x \lt 2 \\ b - ax & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(b) Find the values of the constants \(a\) and \(b\). (2)
(c) Show that \(\sigma\), the standard deviation of \(X\), is 0.816 to 3 decimal places. (7)
(d) Find the lower quartile of \(X\). (3)
(e) State, giving a reason, whether \(\mathrm{P}(2 - \sigma \lt X \lt 2 + \sigma)\) is more or less than 0.5 (2)

S4 June 2009 Q6

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. A continuous uniform distribution on the interval \([0, k]\) has mean \(\dfrac{k}{2}\) and variance \(\dfrac{k^2}{12}\).

A random sample of three independent variables \(X_1\), \(X_2\) and \(X_3\) is taken from this distribution.

(a) Show that \(\dfrac{2}{3}X_1 + \dfrac{1}{2}X_2 + \dfrac{5}{6}X_3\) is an unbiased estimator for \(k\). (3)

An unbiased estimator for \(k\) is given by \(\hat{k} = aX_1 + bX_2\) where \(a\) and \(b\) are constants.

(b) Show that \(\mathrm{Var}(\hat{k}) = (a^2 - 2a + 2)\dfrac{k^2}{6}\) (6)
(c) Hence determine the value of \(a\) and the value of \(b\) for which \(\hat{k}\) has minimum variance, and calculate this minimum variance. (6)

S2 June 2009 Q6

EdexcelOld spec13 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The three independent random variables \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) each has a continuous uniform distribution over the interval [0, 5].

(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(A \gt 3)\). (1)
(b) Find the probability that \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\) are all greater than 3. (2)

The random variable \(Y\) represents the maximum value of \(A\), \(B\) and \(C\).

The cumulative distribution function of \(Y\) is

\[\mathrm{F}(y) = \begin{cases} 0 & y \lt 0 \\[1mm] \dfrac{y^3}{125} & 0 \leqslant y \leqslant 5 \\[2mm] 1 & y \gt 5 \end{cases}\]
(c) Find the probability density function of \(Y\). (2)
(d) Sketch the probability density function of \(Y\). (2)
(e) Write down the mode of \(Y\). (1)
(f) Find \(\mathrm{E}(Y)\). (3)
(g) Find \(\mathrm{P}(Y \gt 3)\). (2)

S2 January 2009 Q7

EdexcelOld spec13 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} -\frac{2}{9}x + \frac{8}{9} & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) can be written in the form \(ax^2 + bx + c\), for \(1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4\) where \(a\), \(b\) and \(c\) are constants. (3)
(b) Define fully the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (2)
(c) Show that the upper quartile of \(X\) is 2.5 and find the lower quartile. (6)

Given that the median of \(X\) is 1.88

(d) describe the skewness of the distribution. Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S2 January 2009 Q4

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The length of a telephone call made to a company is denoted by the continuous random variable \(T\). It is modelled by the probability density function

\[\mathrm{f}(t) = \begin{cases} kt & 0 \leqslant t \leqslant 10 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that the value of \(k\) is \(\dfrac{1}{50}\). (3)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(T \gt 6)\). (2)
(c) Calculate an exact value for \(\mathrm{E}(T)\) and for \(\mathrm{Var}(T)\). (5)
(d) Write down the mode of the distribution of \(T\). (1)

It is suggested that the probability density function, \(\mathrm{f}(t)\), is not a good model for \(T\).

(e) Sketch the graph of a more suitable probability density function for \(T\). (1)

S2 January 2009 Q2

EdexcelOld spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([-2, 7]\).

(a) Write down fully the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of \(X\). (2)
(b) Sketch the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of \(X\). (2)

Find

(c) \(\mathrm{E}(X^2)\), (3)
(d) \(\mathrm{P}(-0.2 \lt X \lt 0.6)\). (2)

S2 June 2008 Q7

EdexcelOld spec20 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{2}x & 0 \leqslant x \lt 1 \\[2mm] kx^3 & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 2 \\[2mm] 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]

where \(k\) is a constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{5}\) (4)
(b) Calculate the mean of \(X\). (4)
(c) Specify fully the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (7)
(d) Find the median of \(X\). (3)
(e) Comment on the skewness of the distribution of \(X\). (2)

S3 June 2008 Q4

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The weights of adult men are normally distributed with a mean of 84 kg and a standard deviation of 11 kg.

(a) Find the probability that the total weight of 4 randomly chosen adult men is less than 350 kg. (5)

The weights of adult women are normally distributed with a mean of 62 kg and a standard deviation of 10 kg.

(b) Find the probability that the weight of a randomly chosen adult man is less than one and a half times the weight of a randomly chosen adult woman. (6)

S2 June 2008 Q1

EdexcelOld spec10 marksContinuous Random Variables

1. Jean regularly takes a break from work to go to the post office. The amount of time Jean waits in the queue to be served at the post office has a continuous uniform distribution between 0 and 10 minutes.

(a) Find the mean and variance of the time Jean spends in the post office queue. (3)
(b) Find the probability that Jean does not have to wait more than 2 minutes. (2)

Jean visits the post office 5 times.

(c) Find the probability that she never has to wait more than 2 minutes. (2)

Jean is in the queue when she receives a message that she must return to work for an urgent meeting. She can only wait in the queue for a further 3 minutes.

Given that Jean has already been queuing for 5 minutes,

(d) find the probability that she must leave the post office queue without being served. (3)

S2 January 2008 Q8

EdexcelOld spec13 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} 2(x - 2) & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 3 \\ 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) for all values of \(x\). (3)
(b) Write down the mode of \(X\). (1)

Find

(c) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (3)
(d) the median of \(X\). (4)
(e) Comment on the skewness of this distribution. Give a reason for your answer. (2)

S2 January 2008 Q4

EdexcelOld spec7 marksContinuous Random Variables

4. The continuous random variable \(Y\) has cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(y)\) given by

\[\mathrm{F}(y) = \begin{cases} 0 & y \lt 1 \\ k(y^4 + y^2 - 2) & 1 \leqslant y \leqslant 2 \\ 1 & y \gt 2 \end{cases}\]
(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{18}\). (2)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}(Y \gt 1.5)\). (2)
(c) Specify fully the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(y)\). (3)

S2 June 2007 Q8

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

8. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function given by

\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1}{6}x & 0 \lt x \leqslant 3 \\[2mm] 2 - \dfrac{1}{2}x & 3 \lt x \lt 4 \\[2mm] 0 & \text{otherwise} \end{cases}\]
(a) Sketch the probability density function of \(X\). (3)
(b) Find the mode of \(X\). (1)
(c) Specify fully the cumulative distribution function of \(X\). (7)
(d) Using your answer to part (c), find the median of \(X\). (3)

S3 June 2007 Q7

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A set of scaffolding poles come in two sizes, long and short. The length \(L\) of a long pole has the normal distribution \(\mathrm{N}(19.7, 0.5^2)\). The length \(S\) of a short pole has the normal distribution \(\mathrm{N}(4.9, 0.2^2)\). The random variables \(L\) and \(S\) are independent.

A long pole and a short pole are selected at random.

(a) Find the probability that the length of the long pole is more than 4 times the length of the short pole. (7)

Four short poles are selected at random and placed end to end in a row. The random variable \(T\) represents the length of the row.

(b) Find the distribution of \(T\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(|L - T| \lt 0.1)\). (5)

S2 June 2007 Q1

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

1. A string \(AB\) of length 5 cm is cut, in a random place \(C\), into two pieces. The random variable \(X\) is the length of \(AC\).

(a) Write down the name of the probability distribution of \(X\) and sketch the graph of its probability density function. (3)
(b) Find the values of \(\mathrm{E}(X)\) and \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\). (3)
(c) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 3)\). (1)
(d) Write down the probability that \(AC\) is 3 cm long. (1)

S2 January 2007 Q7

EdexcelOld spec14 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The continuous random variable \(X\) has cumulative distribution function\[\mathrm{F}(x) = \begin{cases} 0, & x \lt 0, \\ 2x^2 - x^3, & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 1, \\ 1, & x \gt 1. \end{cases}\]

(a) Find \(\mathrm{P}(X \gt 0.3)\). (2)
(b) Verify that the median value of \(X\) lies between \(x = 0.59\) and \(x = 0.60\). (3)
(c) Find the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (2)
(d) Evaluate \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (3)
(e) Find the mode of \(X\). (2)
(f) Comment on the skewness of \(X\). Justify your answer. (2)

S2 January 2007 Q5

EdexcelOld spec12 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \(\alpha \lt x \lt \beta\).

(a) Write down the probability density function of \(X\), for all \(x\). (2)
(b) Given that \(\mathrm{E}(X) = 2\) and \(\mathrm{P}(X \lt 3) = \dfrac{5}{8}\) find the value of \(\alpha\) and the value of \(\beta\). (4)

A gardener has wire cutters and a piece of wire 150 cm long which has a ring attached at one end. The gardener cuts the wire, at a randomly chosen point, into 2 pieces. The length, in cm, of the piece of wire with the ring on it is represented by the random variable \(X\). Find

(c) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (1)
(d) the standard deviation of \(X\), (2)
(e) the probability that the shorter piece of wire is at most 30 cm long. (3)

S4 June 2006 Q6

6.

Figure 1: square of side t with vertices at O, (t, 0), (t, t) and (0, t), with a point P (X, Y) inside
Figure 1

Figure 1 shows a square of side \(t\) and area \(t^2\) which lies in the first quadrant with one vertex at the origin. A point \(P\) with coordinates \((X, Y)\) is selected at random inside the square and the coordinates are used to estimate \(t^2\). It is assumed that \(X\) and \(Y\) are independent random variables each having a continuous uniform distribution over the interval \([0, t]\).

[You may assume that \(\mathrm{E}(X^nY^n) = \mathrm{E}(X^n)\mathrm{E}(Y^n)\), where \(n\) is a positive integer.]

(a) Use integration to show that \(\mathrm{E}(X^n) = \dfrac{t^n}{n + 1}\). (3)

The random variable \(S = kXY\), where \(k\) is a constant, is an unbiased estimator for \(t^2\).

(b) Find the value of \(k\). (3)
(c) Show that \(\mathrm{Var}\,S = \dfrac{7t^4}{9}\). (3)

The random variable \(U = q(X^2 + Y^2)\), where \(q\) is a constant, is also an unbiased estimator for \(t^2\).

(d) Show that the value of \(q = \dfrac{3}{2}\). (3)
(e) Find \(\mathrm{Var}\,U\). (3)
(f) State, giving a reason, which of \(S\) and \(U\) is the better estimator of \(t^2\). (1)

The point \((2, 3)\) is selected from inside the square.

(g) Use the estimator chosen in part (f) to find an estimate for the area of the square. (1)

S2 June 2006 Q6

EdexcelOld spec16 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. The continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} \dfrac{1 + x}{k}, & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4, \\ 0, & \text{otherwise.} \end{cases}\]

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{21}{2}\). (3)
(b) Specify fully the cumulative distribution function of \(X\). (5)
(c) Calculate \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (3)
(d) Find the value of the median. (3)
(e) Write down the mode. (1)
(f) Explain why the distribution is negatively skewed. (1)

S3 June 2006 Q5

EdexcelOld spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. The workers in a large office block use a lift that can carry a maximum load of 1090 kg. The weights of the male workers are normally distributed with mean 78.5 kg and standard deviation 12.6 kg. The weights of the female workers are normally distributed with mean 62.0 kg and standard deviation 9.8 kg.

Random samples of 7 males and 8 females can enter the lift.

(a) Find the mean and variance of the total weight of the 15 people that enter the lift. (4)
(b) Comment on any relationship you have assumed in part (a) between the two samples. (1)
(c) Find the probability that the maximum load of the lift will be exceeded by the total weight of the 15 people. (4)

S2 June 2006 Q2

EdexcelOld spec7 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The continuous random variable \(L\) represents the error, in mm, made when a machine cuts rods to a target length. The distribution of \(L\) is continuous uniform over the interval \([-4.0, 4.0]\).

Find

(a) \(\mathrm{P}(L \lt -2.6)\), (1)
(b) \(\mathrm{P}(L \lt -3.0 \text{ or } L \gt 3.0)\). (2)

A random sample of 20 rods cut by the machine was checked.

(c) Find the probability that more than half of them were within 3.0 mm of the target length. (4)

S2 January 2006 Q5

EdexcelOld spec15 marksContinuous Random Variables

5. A continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) where\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} kx(x - 2), & 2 \leqslant x \leqslant 3, \\ 0, & \text{otherwise,} \end{cases}\]where \(k\) is a positive constant.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{3}{4}\). (4)

Find

(b) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (3)
(c) the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\). (6)
(d) Show that the median value of \(X\) lies between 2.70 and 2.75. (2)

S2 January 2006 Q3

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. The random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([-1, 5]\).

(a) Sketch the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) of \(X\). (3)

Find

(b) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (1)
(c) \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\), (2)
(d) \(\mathrm{P}(-0.3 \lt X \lt 3.3)\). (2)

S3 January 2006 Q2

EdexcelOld spec9 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. A workshop makes two types of electrical resistor.

The resistance, \(X\) ohms, of resistors of Type A is such that \(X \sim \mathrm{N}(20, 4)\).

The resistance, \(Y\) ohms, of resistors of Type B is such that \(Y \sim \mathrm{N}(10, 0.84)\).

When a resistor of each type is connected into a circuit, the resistance \(R\) ohms of the circuit is given by \(R = X + Y\) where \(X\) and \(Y\) are independent.

Find

(a) \(\mathrm{E}(R)\), (1)
(b) \(\mathrm{Var}(R)\), (2)
(c) \(\mathrm{P}(28.9 \lt R \lt 32.64)\) (6)

S3 June 2005 Q7

EdexcelOld spec19 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. A manufacturer produces two flavours of soft drink, cola and lemonade. The weights, \(C\) and \(L\), in grams, of randomly selected cola and lemonade cans are such that \(C \sim \mathrm{N}(350, 8)\) and \(L \sim \mathrm{N}(345, 17)\).

(a) Find the probability that the weights of two randomly selected cans of cola will differ by more than 6 g. (6)

One can of each flavour is selected at random.

(b) Find the probability that the can of cola weighs more than the can of lemonade. (6)

Cans are delivered to shops in boxes of 24 cans. The weights of empty boxes are normally distributed with mean 100 g and standard deviation 2 g.

(c) Find the probability that a full box of cola cans weighs between 8.51 kg and 8.52 kg. (6)
(d) State an assumption you made in your calculation in part (c). (1)

S2 June 2005 Q6

EdexcelOld spec18 marksContinuous Random Variables

6. A continuous random variable \(X\) has probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\) where\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(4x - x^3), & 0 \leqslant x \leqslant 2, \\ 0, & \text{otherwise,} \end{cases}\]where \(k\) is a positive integer.

(a) Show that \(k = \dfrac{1}{4}\). (4)

Find

(b) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (3)
(c) the mode of \(X\), (3)
(d) the median of \(X\). (4)
(e) Comment on the skewness of the distribution. (2)
(f) Sketch \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (2)

S2 June 2005 Q2

EdexcelOld spec11 marksContinuous Random Variables

2. The continuous random variable \(X\) is uniformly distributed over the interval \([2, 6]\).

(a) Write down the probability density function \(\mathrm{f}(x)\). (2)

Find

(b) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (1)
(c) \(\mathrm{Var}(X)\), (2)
(d) the cumulative distribution function of \(X\), for all \(x\), (4)
(e) \(\mathrm{P}(2.3 \lt X \lt 3.4)\). (2)

S2 January 2005 Q7

EdexcelOld spec17 marksContinuous Random Variables

7. The random variable \(X\) has probability density function\[\mathrm{f}(x) = \begin{cases} k(-x^2 + 5x - 4), & 1 \leqslant x \leqslant 4, \\ 0, & \text{otherwise.} \end{cases}\]

(a) Show that \(k = \frac{2}{9}\). (3)

Find

(b) \(\mathrm{E}(X)\), (3)
(c) the mode of \(X\). (2)
(d) the cumulative distribution function \(\mathrm{F}(x)\) for all \(x\). (5)
(e) Evaluate \(\mathrm{P}(X \leqslant 2.5)\), (2)
(f) Deduce the value of the median and comment on the shape of the distribution. (2)

S2 January 2005 Q3

EdexcelOld spec8 marksContinuous Random Variables

3. A rod of length \(2l\) was broken into 2 parts. The point at which the rod broke is equally likely to be anywhere along the rod. The length of the shorter piece of rod is represented by the random variable \(X\).

(a) Write down the name of the probability density function of \(X\), and specify it fully. (3)
(b) Find \(\mathrm{P}\left(X \lt \frac{1}{3}l\right)\). (2)
(c) Write down the value of \(\mathrm{E}(X)\). (1)

Two identical rods of length \(2l\) are broken.

(d) Find the probability that both of the shorter pieces are of length less than \(\frac{1}{3}l\). (2)