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Question #40995
The Question
A real number is chosen uniformly at random from the continuous interval . Let the random variable be defined as where denotes the greatest integer function. What is the coefficient of variation of ?
Options
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Specialist
Targeted practice for niche, high-difficulty concepts that frequently appear in JEE Advanced exams.
Concepts Behind This Question
Standard Deviation and Coefficient of Variation|Equiprobable Outcomes|Step Function Discontinuities
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
This question tests the student's ability to distinguish between continuous and discrete random variables when step functions are involved.
The trap lies in the integral representation of the function, which baits students into applying the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and treating as a continuous variable over .
However, because the upper limit of the integral is the Greatest Integer Function , the outcomes are actually a discrete set of equiprobable jumps.
Attempting to find the variance via continuous integration results in a 'Lethal Collision' with the true discrete probability mass function.
The correct approach requires evaluating the discrete states and computing the population variance algebraically.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Mathematics |
| Chapter | Statistics - Class 11 |
| Concept | Standard Deviation and Coefficient of Variation |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 7 |
| Target Solve Time | 160 sec |
| Access | Free |