Rocscience International Conference 2025 is going to take place in Sydney, Australia Read more

Search Results

Statistical Distributions Overview

Each random variable that you define in RocFall must have a Statistical Distribution selected. The following statistical distributions are available in RocFall:

There are two methods you can use to specify the statistical distributions for random variables: using the pop-up window or using the Statistics dialog.

Notes:

  • The type of Statistical Distribution, together with the statistical parameters of the distribution (mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum values), defines a Probability Density Function (PDF) for the random variable.
  • The PDF describes the distribution of possible values that the random variable may assume for a hypothetical, infinite set of observations of the variable.
  • In most cases, very limited data is available on which to decide what Statistical Distribution and standard deviation to use. Therefore, the engineer must often rely on "best estimates" when defining the PDF for a random variable.

Normal Distribution

A Normal Distribution is commonly used for statistical analysis in geotechnical engineering. When the true distribution of a variable is not known, a Normal Distribution is often assumed. By making a best estimate of the minimum and maximum values of the variable, a standard deviation can be estimated. This is described in the Normal Distribution topic.

Other Distributions

Although a Normal Distribution is most commonly used, the user should become familiar with the properties, and advantages of using other Statistical Distributions.

Rocscience logo, click here to return to the homepage Portal Account Portal Account Log In Log Out Home Shopping Cart icon Click here to search our site Click here to close Learning Tech Support Documentation Info Chevron Delete Back to Top View More" Previous Next PDF File Calendar Location Language Fees Video Click here to visit Rocscience's LinkedIn page Click here to visit Rocscience's YouTube page Click here to visit Rocscience's X page Click here to visit Rocscience's Facebook page Click here to visit Rocscience's Instagram page Click here to visit Rocscience's Reddit page Bookmark Network Scroll down for more Checkmark Download Print Back to top Single User Multiple Users RSLog RocFall3 CPillar Dips EX3 RocFall RocPlane RocSlope3 RocSupport RocTopple RS2 RS3 RSData RSPile Settle3 Slide2 Slide3 SWedge UnWedge RocTunnel3 RocSlope2 BlastMetrix ShapeMetriX Fragmenter Commercial License Education License Trial License Shop safe & secure Money-back guarantee