Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Random number generators are algorithms used in computer programs to generate sequences of numbers that appear random but are generated based on specific rules.
Pseudorandom Numbers: Pseudorandom numbers are generated by algorithms that use mathematical formulas to produce sequences of numbers that exhibit statistical randomness.
Seed: A seed is an initial value used by a random number generator to start generating a sequence of random or pseudorandom numbers.
Uniform Distribution: Uniform distribution refers to the probability distribution where all outcomes have equal chances of occurring, resulting in a flat or uniform shape on a graph.