Suppose we want to design a new placebo-controlled trial to evaluate an experimental medication to increase lung capacity. The primary outcome is peak expiratory flow rate, a continuous variable measured in liters per minute. the primary outcome will be measured after 6 months on treatment. the expected peak expiratory flow rate in adults is 300 with a standard deviation of 50. How many subjects should be enrolled to ensure 80% power to detect a difference of 15 liters per minute with a two sided test and a=0.05?

Question

Suppose we want to design a new placebo-controlled trial to evaluate an experimental medication to increase lung capacity.  The primary outcome is peak expiratory flow rate, a continuous variable measured in liters per minute.  the primary outcome will be measured after 6 months on treatment.  the expected peak expiratory flow rate in adults is 300 with a standard deviation of 50.  How many subjects should be enrolled to ensure 80% power to detect a difference of 15 liters per minute with a two sided test and a=0.05?