What is a distribution that is symmetric but has two peaks?
The answer to this question is a Bimodal Distribution. A symmetric distribution with two distinct peaks is referred to as a Bimodal Distribution. It is symmetrical if the two modes are of equivalent frequency and distance from the distribution's center. An example can be the height distribution of a group containing both adults and children.
Bimodal Distribution
Bimodal Distribution: A bimodal distribution is a probability distribution with two different modes, which appear as distinct peaks (local maxima) in the probability density function. This kind of distribution is symmetrical if the two modes have the same frequency and are located equidistant from the center of the distribution. The density curve would appear as a single symmetric curve with two peaks.
For example, if you have a data set concerning the heights of a group of people where one group is composed of adults and the other of children, you may observe a bimodal distribution with one peak representing the common height of children and the other peak the common height of adults.
In conclusion, a Bimodal Distribution is characterized by having two peaks in the distribution that are symmetrically located and of equal frequency. This type of distribution can occur in various datasets, representing multiple groups or phenomena that contribute to the overall distribution pattern.