theoretical distribution

a distribution that is derived from certain principles or assumptions by logical and mathematical reasoning, as opposed to one derived from real-world data obtained by empirical research. Examples include the normal distribution, binomial distribution, and Poisson distribution. In general, the procedures of inferential statistics involve taking one or more empirically observed distributions and referring these to an appropriate theoretical distribution. When there is correspondence between an empirical and a theoretical distribution, the latter may be used to make inferences (predictions) about the probability of future empirical events. Also called reference distribution.

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Psychology term of the day

November 19th 2024

molilalia

n. see mogilalia.