How do you find the range of a set of numbers?

To determine the range of a set of numbers, you find the difference between the largest and smallest numbers in that set. This process captures the spread or extent of the values, indicating how far apart the highest and lowest numbers lie. Mathematically, it is expressed as the largest number minus the smallest number, which is exactly what is described in the correct choice.

For example, if you have the numbers 3, 5, and 12, the largest number is 12 and the smallest is 3. The range would be calculated as 12 - 3, resulting in a range of 9. This simple subtraction provides a clear measure of the variability in the data set.

In contrast, other methods mentioned would not yield the range. Multiplying the smallest by the largest does not provide any information about the distance or spread between them. Adding the smallest and largest numbers gives a sum that does not reflect how they relate in terms of range. Averaging the smallest and largest numbers produces a mean value, which again does not show the spread but rather indicates a central tendency. Thus, subtraction of the smallest number from the largest is the correct and effective method for calculating the range.