If P is the mean of Poisson distribution, then what is the standard deviation?
2021
If P is the mean of Poisson distribution, then what is the standard deviation?
- A.
P/2
- B.
P
- C.
P2
- D.
√p
Attempted by 8 students.
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Correct answer: D
To determine the standard deviation of a Poisson distribution when given the mean, we rely on the core properties of this probability distribution.
Understanding Poisson Distribution Parameters
In a Poisson distribution, there is a single parameter, often denoted by the Greek letter λ (lambda), which represents both the mean and the variance of the distribution.
Mean: In this problem, the mean is given as P. Therefore, Mean = P.
Variance: A defining characteristic of the Poisson distribution is that the variance is equal to the mean. Therefore, Variance = P.
Standard Deviation: The standard deviation is defined as the square root of the variance.
Since Variance = P, it follows that:
Standard Deviation = √P