The correct answer is B: The data are discrete because the data can only take on specific values.
Explanation:
When we consider the movie ratings given by a critic with possible ratings like 0 stars, ½ star, 1 star, and so on up to 5 stars, we note that these ratings can only take on specific, distinct values. These values are limited to certain set points (e.g., 0, ½, 1, 1½, 2, 2½, 3, 3½, 4, 4½, 5). This set of values is finite and countable.
Discrete data refers to data that can only take certain fixed values, often countable, as opposed to continuous data, which can take any value within a given range and include every possible value within that interval.
Since the movie ratings are specific, distinct values and do not cover every possible point within a range, they are considered discrete. Therefore, the correct option is B.
