A probability distribution shaped like a triangle, most likely at the center and linearly less likely toward two firm limits. It suits cases where values are known to cluster near the middle, such as the difference of two rectangular quantities of equal width or a quantity routinely adjusted back toward nominal. For a half-width a, the standard uncertainty is a divided by the square root of 6, about 0.408a.
Subtract two rectangular readings of the same resolution and you get a triangular distribution, so use root six.
Also heard as
- triangular
Related terms
Rectangular distribution
A distribution giving equal likelihood to every value between two limits, used when only the bounds are known.
U-shaped distribution
A distribution where values near the limits are most likely, used for cycling effects such as RF mismatch or room temperature.
Probability density function, the curve describing how likely each possible value of a quantity is.
Type B evaluation
Sizing an uncertainty component from existing knowledge such as certificates, specs or resolution, with no new repeat data.