Photo AI

Last Updated Sep 26, 2025

Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution Simplified Revision Notes

Revision notes with simplified explanations to understand Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution quickly and effectively.

user avatar
user avatar
user avatar
user avatar
user avatar

289+ students studying

4.4.2 Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

The Normal approximation to the Binomial distribution is a useful technique when dealing with a large number of trials in a Binomial experiment. This approximation allows us to use the Normal distribution to estimate Binomial probabilities, which can be easier and more practical, especially when dealing with large sample sizes.

When to Use Normal Approximation

You can use the Normal approximation to the Binomial distribution when the following conditions are met:

  1. Large Number of Trials (n): The sample size should be large.
  2. Probability Conditions:
  • np5np \geq 5
  • n(1p)5n(1-p) \geq 5 These conditions ensure that the Binomial distribution is sufficiently "bell-shaped" to be approximated by a Normal distribution.
infoNote

Example: Tossing a Biased Coin Suppose you have a biased coin that lands on heads 7070% of the time. You flip the coin 100100 times. What is the probability of getting between 6565 and 7575 heads (inclusive)?


Step 1: Define the Binomial Distribution

  • Number of trials (n): 100100
  • Probability of success (p): 0.70.7
  • Random variable X: Number of heads in 100100 flipsflips.

Step 2: Check Conditions for Normal Approximation

  • np=100×0.7=70np = 100 \times 0.7 = 70
  • n(1p)=100×0.3=30n(1-p) = 100 \times 0.3 = 30 Both npnp and n(1p)n(1-p) are greater than 55, so the Normal approximation is appropriate.

Step 3: Determine the Mean (μ) and Standard Deviation (σ)

  • Mean (μ): np=70np = 70
  • Standard deviation (σ):
np(1p)=100×0.7×0.3=21:highlight[4.58] \sqrt{np(1-p)} = \sqrt{100 \times 0.7 \times 0.3} = \sqrt{21} \approx :highlight[4.58]

Step 4: Apply the Continuity Correction Since the Normal distribution is continuous and the Binomial is discrete, apply a continuity correction when converting Binomial probabilities to Normal probabilities. This involves adjusting the bounds by 0.50.5.

  • To find P(65X75)P(65 \leq X \leq 75) in the Binomial distribution, approximate this by P(64.5<X<75.5) P(64.5 < X < 75.5) in the Normal distribution.

Step 5: Convert to Z-scores Convert the adjusted values to zscoresz-scores:

Z1=64.5704.58:highlight[1.20] Z_1 = \frac{64.5 - 70}{4.58} \approx :highlight[-1.20] Z2=75.5704.58:highlight[1.20]Z_2 = \frac{75.5 - 70}{4.58} \approx :highlight[1.20]

Step 6: Use the Z-table Look up the zscoresz-scores in the ztablez-table (or use a calculator):

  • P(Z<1.20)0.1151P(Z < -1.20) \approx 0.1151
  • P(Z<1.20)0.8849P(Z < 1.20) \approx 0.8849

Step 7: Calculate the Required Probability Subtract the smaller probability from the larger one to find the probability of getting between 6565 and 7575 headsheads:

P(65X75)0.88490.1151=:success[0.7698] P(65 \leq X \leq 75) \approx 0.8849 - 0.1151 = :success[0.7698]

So, the probability of getting between 6565 and 7575 headsheads is approximately 0.770.

Conclusion

The Normal approximation to the Binomial distribution is a powerful tool for estimating probabilities when dealing with a large number of trials. By converting the Binomial problem into a Normal distribution problem, applying a continuity correction, and using zscoresz-scores, you can efficiently find probabilities that would otherwise be cumbersome to calculate using the Binomial distribution directly. This technique is particularly useful in exams as it can simplify complex calculations.


Books

Only available for registered users.

Sign up now to view the full note, or log in if you already have an account!

500K+ Students Use These Powerful Tools to Master Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Enhance your understanding with flashcards, quizzes, and exams—designed to help you grasp key concepts, reinforce learning, and master any topic with confidence!

30 flashcards

Flashcards on Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Revise key concepts with interactive flashcards.

Try Maths Statistics Flashcards

3 quizzes

Quizzes on Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Test your knowledge with fun and engaging quizzes.

Try Maths Statistics Quizzes

29 questions

Exam questions on Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Boost your confidence with real exam questions.

Try Maths Statistics Questions

27 exams created

Exam Builder on Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Create custom exams across topics for better practice!

Try Maths Statistics exam builder

12 papers

Past Papers on Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution

Practice past papers to reinforce exam experience.

Try Maths Statistics Past Papers

Other Revision Notes related to Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution you should explore

Discover More Revision Notes Related to Normal Approximation of Binomial Distribution to Deepen Your Understanding and Improve Your Mastery

96%

114 rated

Choosing Distributions (A Level only)

Modelling with Distributions

user avatar
user avatar
user avatar
user avatar
user avatar

465+ studying

194KViews
Load more notes

Join 500,000+ A-Level students using SimpleStudy...

Join Thousands of A-Level Students Using SimpleStudy to Learn Smarter, Stay Organized, and Boost Their Grades with Confidence!

97% of Students

Report Improved Results

98% of Students

Recommend to friends

500,000+

Students Supported

50 Million+

Questions answered