Module: Continuous Probability Distribution

Exponential Distribution

The exponential distribution is a continuous probability

distribution used to model the time we need to wait before

a given event occurs

Formula

where: P(T ≤ t) – the probability that the service time T

will be less than or equal to t

μ – mean service rate

e – 2.71828…

Example:

Suppose the mean repair time of a microcomputer has

been found to be 3 hours. What is the probability that

service on a faulty microcomputer will be completed in

a. 2 or fewer hours?

b. more than 2 hours?

Solution:

𝐺𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑛:

a. T is 2 or fewer hours

Therefore, the probability that service on a faulty

microcomputer will be completed in 2 or fewer hours is

48.66%.

b. T is more than 2 hours

Therefore, the probability that service on a faulty

microcomputer will be completed in more than 2 hours is

51.34%.