To begin, let’s consider a simple set of numbers: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15. We want to find the range of this set, and to do so, we need to identify the highest and lowest values within the set. In this case, the highest value is 15 and the lowest value is 3.
Once we have the highest and lowest values, we can calculate the range by subtracting the lowest value from the highest value. In our example, the calculation would be 15 – 3 = 12. Therefore, the range of the set {3, 6, 9, 12, 15} is 12.
Let’s consider another example: 2, 7, 14, 20, 25, 30. To find the range of this set, we again need to determine the highest and lowest values. In this case, the highest value is 30 and the lowest value is 2. Subtracting the lowest value from the highest value, we get 30 – 2 = 28. Hence, the range of the set {2, 7, 14, 20, 25, 30} is 28.
So far, we have been working with sets of only a few numbers. However, finding the range becomes even more relevant when dealing with larger sets or data distributions. For larger sets, the process remains the same. Identify the highest and lowest values, and subtract the lowest from the highest to determine the range.
Now, let’s consider a more complex example to showcase the range calculation for larger sets: 5, 8, 12, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 30. By identifying the highest value (30) and the lowest value (5), we can find the range by subtracting the lowest from the highest: 30 – 5 = 25. Therefore, the range of the set {5, 8, 12, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 30} is 25.
In summary, finding the range of a set involves determining the highest and lowest values and then subtracting the lowest value from the highest value. The range provides insight into the spread and variability of the data. Whether working with a small set or a larger data distribution, the process remains the same. By following these steps, you can successfully find the range of any given set of numbers.