In which of the following binomial distributions does the normal distribution provide a reasonable approximation? Use computer commands to generate a graph of the distribution and compare the results to the “rule of thumb.” State your conclusions.

a. n  10, p  0.3

b. n  100, p  0.005

c. n  500, p  0.1

d. n  50, p  0.2 MINITAB (Release 14)

Insert the specific n and p as needed in the following procedure.

Use the Make Patterned Data commands in Exercise 6.66, replacing the first value with 0, the last value with n, and the steps with 1.

Use the Binomial Probability Distribution commands on page 292, using C2 as optional storage.

Use the Scatterplot Simple commands for the data in C1 and C2. Select Data View, Data Display, Project Lines to complete the graph.

Excel Insert the specific n and p as needed in the following procedure.

Use the RANDOM NUMBER GENERATION Patterned Distribution commands in Exercise 6.66, replacing the first value with 0, the last value with n, the steps with 1, and the output range with A1.

Activate cell B1; then use the Binomial Probability Distribution commands on page 292.

Use the Chart Wizard Column commands for the data in columns A and B. Choosing the Series subcommand, input column B for the y values and column A for the category (x) axis labels.