Step 1: Identify the type of probability distribution.
The experiment has a fixed number of trials $n = 3$.
Each trial has two outcomes: picking a mathematics book (success) or picking a physics book (failure).
The trials are independent because the book is replaced after each selection.
The probability of success is constant across trials.
Hence, this is a binomial distribution.
Step 2: Define the parameters of the binomial distribution.
Number of trials: $n = 3$.
Let a success be picking a mathematics book.
Total books = 3 (Math) + 2 (Physics) = 5.
Probability of success in a single trial:
\[
p = P(\text{Math book}) = \frac{3}{5}.
\]
Random variable $X$ = number of mathematics books selected in 3 trials.
Possible values: $X \in \{0,1,2,3\}$.
Step 3: State the formula for the mean of a binomial distribution.
For a binomial distribution, the mean is:
\[
\mu = E(X) = n p.
\]
Step 4: Calculate the mean.
Substitute the values of $n$ and $p$:
\[
\mu = 3 \times \frac{3}{5} = \frac{9}{5}.
\]