What is the difference between density and distribution?

In summary, a distribution tells us the amount of something over a particular region of space, while a density requires integration to determine the amount over a specific region. In probability, the distribution is often defined using a cumulative distribution function. The density can be thought of as the exterior derivative of the distribution.
  • #1
loom91
404
0
Hi,

What is the difference between a density and a distribution? As in probability distribution and probability density, or energy distribution and energy density. Thanks.

Molu
 
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  • #2
A distribution is a gadget that tells you how much there is over any region of space.

A density is a gadget you have to integrate in order to find out how much there is over any region of space.


Incidentally, in the probability case, we will often define the distribution in terms of a "cumulative distribution function": we use p(x) to tell how much there is over the interval (-infinity, x).

(Or maybe it's (-infinity, x]. I can't remember)
 
  • #3
You mean the density is the exterior drivative of the distribution? Can you give an example?
 

FAQ: What is the difference between density and distribution?

What is density?

Density refers to the amount of mass per unit volume of a substance. It is a measure of how tightly packed the particles of a substance are.

What is distribution?

Distribution refers to the way in which something is spread out or scattered. In science, it often refers to the spatial arrangement of a species or population.

How are density and distribution related?

Density and distribution are related in that they both describe how things are arranged or spread out. However, density specifically refers to the amount of something in a given space, while distribution refers to the pattern or arrangement of that something.

What are some examples of density and distribution in science?

Examples of density in science include the density of a liquid, the density of a gas, or the density of a rock. Examples of distribution in science include the distribution of plants in a forest, the distribution of animals in an ecosystem, or the distribution of stars in a galaxy.

Why is it important to understand the difference between density and distribution?

Understanding the difference between density and distribution is important because it allows us to accurately describe and analyze the properties and behavior of various substances or populations. It also helps us make predictions and informed decisions based on the arrangement and amount of these substances or populations.

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