Random variables

A random variable uses real numerical values to describe a probabilistic event. In our previous work with variables (both in math and programming), we were used to the fact that a variable takes on a certain value. For example, we might have a triangle in which we are given a variable h for the hypotenuse, and we must figure out the length of the hypotenuse. We also might have, in Python:

x = 5

Both of these variables are equal to one value at a time. In a random variable, we are subject to randomness, which means that our variables' values are, well just that, variable! They might take on multiple values depending on the environment.

A random variable still, as shown previously, holds a value. The main distinction between variables as we have seen them and a random variable is the fact that a random variable's value may change depending on the situation.

However, if a random variable can have many values, how do we keep track of them all? Each value that a random variable might...