Overview: What Are Random Numbers?
In a set of random numbers, the numbers do not follow any pattern. Each number has an equal probability of occurring, and each number event is independent of any others . Most of the time, numbers that are close to random are generated by computer programs or calculator programs designed to do just that.
What Are Some Examples of Random Events?
Many events are close to random. For example, individual molecules within a gas tend to move randomly, so that it cannot be predicted where an individual molecule will be. Similarly, the theory of radioactivity predicts that a percentage of atoms in a substance will decay into isotopes given an amount of time, but it does not predict precisely which particular atom will decay.
How Are Random Numbers Found?
Numbers that are close to random can be found by consulting random number tables, as the result of computer programs to generate random numbers, and by using a calculator to generate random numbers. In addition, games that depend on giving all the players a fair chance are often determined by using dice or a spinner divided into equal parts. That way each number has an equal probability of being chosen.
How Is Randomness Used In Statistics?
In scientific experiments, statistics are used as a tool to judge the results of an experimental treatment. Subjects have an equal chance to be assigned to a treatment condition through random assignment. Often a random number generator is used in order to assign subjects to treatment groups. Not only does each subject have an equal chance of being assigned to any of the treatment groups, but the choice of any one subject is independent of all the others. This minimizes errors that could occur if the assignment is not random, but confounded.
What Are Monte Carlo Methods?
Monte Carlo methods are mathematical simulations that use random numbers to generate solutions. They are called Monte Carlo methods because the earliest studies used equipment to generate random numbers similar to the methods in gambling casinos, such as decks of cards and roulette wheels. Some simulations include the common practice of airlines overbooking seats on flights, because there are probabilities generated for how many passengers will arrive to take seats. The computer simulation can be run for the number of seats on the airplane as the number of trials, using random numbers to suggest a possible outcome.
Test Prep Academy is the premier SAT/ACT services company for high school students. We offer instructional programs and curriculum for students preparing for the PSAT, ACT, and SAT.
