Finding the Median from Histograms
Working out the median from a histogram involves two steps that are actually quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. First, you find which interval contains the median, then estimate the exact value.
Start by adding up all the frequencies: 6+1+1+1+1=10 countries total. The median position is (10+1)÷2 = 5.5, meaning you need the value between the 5th and 6th pieces of data when arranged in order.
Since the first group (0-50,000) contains 6 countries, and you need the 5.5th value, the median interval is 0-50,000. To estimate the exact median, use proportional reasoning: assume the data points are spread evenly across the interval.
The calculation becomes: 50,000 × (5.5÷6) = 45,833. So the median forest area is approximately 45,833 square units.
Remember: The median position tells you which interval to look in, then proportional reasoning gives you the estimate within that interval.