What characterizes a normal distribution in statistics?

A normal distribution is characterized by several key properties, and one of the defining features is that the mean, median, and mode are all located at the center of the distribution curve. This property ensures that the distribution is symmetrical, meaning that it has equal proportions of values both above and below the central point.

In a normal distribution, the shape of the curve is bell-shaped, indicating that most of the data points are concentrated around the mean, with fewer data points appearing as you move away from the center in either direction. This symmetry and the equal positioning of the mean, median, and mode at the midpoint signify that the distribution is not skewed, which aids in different types of statistical analyses that assume normality.

The presence of skewness would indicate a deviation from a normal distribution, while the exclusive focus on positive values could involve distributions that are not normal, such as skewed distributions or those that are bounded by zero. Thus, the correct answer reflects the central characteristics of a normal distribution succinctly and accurately.