Discrete and continuous random variables can be used in various engineering applications. Discrete random variables take on countable values and are used when things are counted, like the number of defective items in a batch. Continuous random variables can take any real number value and are used when measurements are made, like the time for a chemical reaction. Some examples given include using discrete variables to find beam loading at points or quality control sampling, and continuous variables to estimate construction time, structural load magnitude, electrical current amounts, and component failure times.