Question

In a biology lab, a student has measured the lengths of 30 palmetto bugs in inches. he computes the mean and standard deviation as 4.1 inches and 1.2 inches, respectively. he later finds out that he was supposed to calculate the mean and standard deviation in centimeters instead of in inches. what is the new standard deviation of his sample, in centimeters? (note: 1 in = 2.54 cm)

Answer 1

To solve for the mean and standard deviation in centimeters, we just need to convert the figures from inches to centimeters given by the conversion factor of 1 inch = 2.54 cm.

Solution:

Mean = 4.1 inches x (2.54 cm/1 inch) = 10.41 cm
Standard deviation = 1.2 inches  x (2.54 cm/1 inch) = 3.05 cm

ANSWERS: Mean = 10.41 cm; Standard Deviation = 3.05 cm