Which of the following would be an example of a continuous variable?

A continuous variable is one that can take an infinite number of values within a given range. It is typically measured rather than counted, reflecting quantities that can be subdivided into smaller parts.

Height measured in centimeters exemplifies a continuous variable because it can take on any value within a range and can include decimal points (e.g., 170.5 cm, 172.3 cm). This level of precision is characteristic of continuous variables, allowing for a virtually limitless number of measurements.

In contrast, the other options represent different types of variables. For instance, the number of students in a class is a discrete variable because it can only take whole number values (you can't have half a student). Shirt sizes are categorical variables since they involve grouping (Small, Medium, Large) and do not have a numerical order or range. Types of fruit are also categorical variables, as they represent distinct categories with no inherent numeric relationship.

Thus, height is clearly an appropriate example of a continuous variable due to its measurable nature and the ability to express it in fractional values.