What is a bell curve in the context of intelligence testing?

A bell curve is a graphical representation of a normal distribution of IQ scores. In intelligence testing, this curve illustrates how the scores of a large population tend to cluster around the average value, often defined as an IQ of 100, with fewer individuals scoring extremely high or low. The shape of the curve resembles a bell, which is why it is referred to as the "bell curve." Most people score close to the average, while the number of individuals scoring significantly higher or lower diminishes at the extremes. This distribution pattern is important for understanding how intelligence is measured and assessed across populations, providing insight into the relative placement of individuals’ scores within a larger context. The bell curve is foundational in psychometrics, offering a framework for interpreting IQ scores and making comparisons among different groups.