How do continuous variables differ from discrete variables?

Continuous variables are defined by their ability to take on any value within a specific range. This means that they can assume an infinite number of possible values, allowing for fractions and decimals, rather than being limited to specific, separate values. For example, a continuous variable could represent measurements such as height, weight, or temperature, where values can vary smoothly and are not confined to whole numbers alone.

Understanding this concept is essential because it distinguishes continuous data from discrete data, which can only take specific, distinct values—often whole numbers. This fundamental difference influences how data is analyzed and interpreted, particularly when it comes to statistical methods and techniques used for each type.

The other options highlight some misconceptions about continuous and discrete variables, such as wrongly associating continuous variables with whole numbers or asserting that continuous variables do not exist in real-world measurements, both of which do not hold true according to the definitions in statistics.