Chapter
Chapter
Chapter
EXERCISE 13.1
1. Given that 𝑬 and 𝑭 are events such that 𝑷(𝑬) = 𝟎. 𝟔, 𝑷(𝑭) = 𝟎. 𝟑 and 𝑷(𝑬 ∩ 𝑭) =
𝟎. 𝟐, find 𝑷(𝑬 ∣ 𝑭) and 𝑷(𝑭 ∣ 𝑬)
𝑃(𝐸∩𝐹) 0.2 2
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = = 0.3 = 3
𝑃(𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸∩𝐹) 0.2 2 1
And ⇒ 𝑃(𝐹 ∣ 𝐸) = = 0.6 = 6 = 3
𝑃(𝐸)
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
0.32
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = = 0.64
0.5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 0.64
5 2
Ans. Given 2𝑃(𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐵) = 13 and 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 5
5 5 5 2
⇒ P(B) = 13 , P(A) = 13×2 = 26 , P(A ∣ B) = 5 … … … (i)
6 5 7
Ans. Given: 𝑃(𝐴) = 11 , 𝑃(𝐵) = 11 , 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 11
(i) We know that 𝑃(𝐴 ∗ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵)
6 5 7 11−7
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 11 + 11 − 11 = 11
4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 11
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
4/11
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 5/11
4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 5
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
4/11 4 2
⇒ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 6/11 = 6 = 3
2
⇒ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 3
Determine 𝑷(𝑬 ∣ 𝑭) in Exercises 6 to 𝟗.
𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
𝑃(𝐹)
1/8 4 1
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = = =
1/4 8 2
1
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
2
𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
𝑃(𝐹)
3/4 6
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = =
7/8 7
Ans. The sample space of the given experiment is S = {HH, HT, TH, TT}
(i) Here, E: tail appears on one coin
And F : one coin shows head
2 1 2 1 2 1
So, P(E) = = , P(F) = = , P(E ∩ F) = =
4 2 4 2 4 2
P(E ∩ F)
P(E ∣ F) =
P(F)
1 1 0
So, P(E) = 4 , P(F) = 4 , P(E ∩ F) = 4 = 0
Now, we know that by definition of conditional probability,
P(E∩F)
P(E ∣ F) = P(F)
0
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = 1/4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = 0
8. A die is thrown three times, 𝐄: 𝟒 appears on the third toss, 𝐅: 𝟔 and 5 appears
respectively on first two tosses.
Ans. The sample space has 216 outcomes, where each element of the sample
space has 3 entries and is of the form (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) where 1 ≤ 𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧 ≤ 6.
1/216 1
⇒ P(E ∣ F) = 6/216 = 6
1
⇒ P(E ∣ F) = 6
9. Mother, father and son line up at random for a family picture E: son on one
end, F: father in middle
Ans. Let M denote mother, F denote father and S denote son. Then, the sample
space for the given experiment will be: S = {MFS, SFM, FSM, MSF, SMF, FMS}
Here, E: Son on one end
And F: Father in middle
⇒ 𝐸 = {𝑀𝐹𝑆, SFM, SMF, FMS } and 𝐹 = {𝑀𝐹𝑆, SFM }
⇒ 𝐸 ∩ 𝐹 = {𝑀𝐹𝑆, 𝑆𝐹𝑀}
4 2 2 1 2 1
So, 𝑃(𝐸) = 6 = 3 , 𝑃(𝐹) = 6 = 3 , 𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹) = 6 = 3
Now, we know that by definition of conditional probability,
𝑃(𝐸∩𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = 𝑃(𝐹)
1/3
⇒ P(E ∣ F) = 1/3 = 1
⇒ P(E ∣ F) = 1
Ans. Let 𝐵 denote black coloured die and 𝑅 denote red coloured die.
Then, the sample space for the given experiment will be:
(𝐵1, 𝑅1), (𝐵1, 𝑅2), (𝐵1, 𝑅3), (𝐵1, 𝑅4), (𝐵1, 𝑅5), (𝐵1, 𝑅6),
(𝐵2, 𝑅1), (𝐵2, 𝑅2), (𝐵2, 𝑅3), (𝐵2, 𝑅4), (𝐵2, 𝑅5), (𝐵2, 𝑅6),
(𝐵3, 𝑅1), (𝐵3, 𝑅2), (𝐵3, 𝑅3), (𝐵3, 𝑅4), (𝐵3, 𝑅5), (𝐵3, 𝑅6),
𝑆=
(𝐵4, 𝑅1), (𝐵4, 𝑅2), (𝐵4, 𝑅3), (𝐵4, 𝑅4), (𝐵4, 𝑅5), (𝐵4, 𝑅6),
(𝐵5, 𝑅1), (𝐵5, 𝑅2), (𝐵5, 𝑅3), (𝐵5, 𝑅4), (𝐵5, 𝑅5), (𝐵5, 𝑅6),
{(𝐵6, 𝑅1), (𝐵6, 𝑅2), (𝐵6, 𝑅3), (𝐵6, 𝑅4), (𝐵6, 𝑅5), (𝐵6, 𝑅6) }
(a) Let 𝐴 be the event of 'obtaining a sum greater than 9 ' and 𝐵 be the event of
'getting a 5 on black die'.
Then, 𝐴 = {(𝐵4, 𝑅6), (𝐵5, 𝑅5), (𝐵5, 𝑅6), (𝐵6, 𝑅4), (𝐵6, 𝑅5), (𝐵6, 𝑅6)}
And 𝐵 = {(𝐵5, 𝑅1), (𝐵5, 𝑅2), (𝐵5, 𝑅3), (𝐵5, 𝑅4), (𝐵5, 𝑅5), (𝐵5, 𝑅6)} ⇒ 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 =
{(𝐵5, 𝑅5), (𝐵5, 𝑅6)}
6 1 6 1 2 1
So, P(A) = 36 = 6 , P(B) = 36 = 6 , P(A ∩ B) = 36 = 18
Now, we know that by definition of conditional probability,
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
(b) Let 𝐴 be the event of 'obtaining a sum 8 ' and 𝐵 be the event of 'getting a
number less than 4 on red die'.
Then, 𝐴 = {(𝐵2, 𝑅6), (𝐵3, 𝑅5), (𝐵4, 𝑅4), (𝐵5, 𝑅3), (𝐵6, 𝑅2)}
(𝐵1, 𝑅1)(𝐵2, 𝑅1), (𝐵3, 𝑅1), (𝐵4, 𝑅1), (𝐵5, 𝑅1), (𝐵6, 𝑅1),
𝐵 = {(𝐵1, 𝑅2), (𝐵2, 𝑅2), (𝐵3, 𝑅2), (𝐵4, 𝑅2), (𝐵5, 𝑅2), (𝐵6, 𝑅2),}
(𝐵1, 𝑅3), (𝐵2, 𝑅3), (𝐵3, 𝑅3), (𝐵4, 𝑅3), (𝐵5, 𝑅3), (𝐵6, 𝑅3)
⇒ 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = {(𝐵5, 𝑅3), (𝐵6, 𝑅2)}
5 18 1 2 1
So, P(A) = 36 , P(B) = 36 = 2 , P(A ∩ B) = 36 = 18
Now, we know that
By definition of conditional probability,
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) =
𝑃(𝐵)
1/18 2 1
⇒ P(A ∣ B) = = 18 = 9
1/2
1
⇒ P(A ∣ B) = 9
11. A fair die is rolled. Consider events 𝑬 = {𝟏, 𝟑, 𝟓}, 𝑭 = {𝟐, 𝟑} and 𝑮 = {𝟐, 𝟑, 𝟒, 𝟓} Find
(i) 𝑷(𝑬 ∣ 𝑭) and 𝑷(𝑭 ∣ 𝑬)
(ii) 𝑷(𝑬 ∣ 𝑮) and 𝑷 (G|E)
(iii) 𝑷((𝑬 ∪ 𝑭) ∣ 𝑮) and 𝑷((𝑬 ∩ 𝑭) ∣ 𝑮)
Ans. The sample space for the given experiment is 𝑆 = {1,2,3,4,5,6} Here, 𝐸 =
{1,3,5}, 𝐹 = {2,3} and 𝐺 = {2,3,4,5} … … … (i)
3 1 2 1 4 2
⇒ P(E) = 6 = 2 , P(F) = 6 = 3 , P(G) = 6 = 3 … … … (ii)
1 2
Now, 𝐸 ∩ 𝐹 = {3}, 𝐹 ∩ 𝐺 = {2,3}, 𝐸 ∩ 𝐺 = {3,5} … … …. (iii) ⇒ P(E ∩ F) = 6 , P(F ∩ G) = 6 =
1 2 1
, P(E ∩ G) = 6 = 3 … … … (iv)
3
𝑃(𝐹∩𝐸) 1/6 2 1
𝑃(𝐹 ∣ 𝐸) = = 1/2 = 6 = 3 [Using (ii) and (iv)]
𝑃(𝐸)
Similarly, we have 1
⇒ 𝑃(𝐹 ∣ 𝐸) = 3
𝑃(𝐺∩𝐸) 1/3 2
𝑃(𝐺 ∣ 𝐸) = = 1/2 = 3
𝑃(𝐸)
Similarly, we have 2
⇒ 𝑃(𝐺 ∣ 𝐸) = 3
(iii) Clearly, from (i), we have
⇒ (𝐸 ∪ 𝐹) ∩ 𝐺 = {2,3,5}
3 1
⇒ 𝑃((𝐸 ∪ 𝐹) ∩ 𝐺) = 6 = 2
1
⇒ 𝑃((𝐸 ∪ 𝐹) ∩ 𝐺) = 2 … … … . (𝑣)
So,
P((E∩F)∩G) 1/6 1
P((E ∩ F) ∣ G) = = 2/3 = 4 [ Using (ii) and (vi)]
P(G)
1
⇒ P((E ∩ F) ∣ G) = 4
12. Assume that each born child is equally likely to be a boy or a girl. If a family
has two children, what is the conditional probability that both are girls given
that (i) the youngest is a girl, (ii) at least one is a girl?
⇒ F = {GG, BG}
2 1
⇒ P(F) = 4 = 2 … … … (i)
Now, E ∩ F = {GG}
1
⇒ P(E ∩ F) = 4 … … … (ii)
Now, E ∩ H = {GG}
1
⇒ P(E ∩ H) = 4 … … … (iv)
P(E∩F)
P(E ∣ F) = P(F)
P(E∩H) 1/4 1
⇒ P(E ∣ H) = = 3/4 = 3 [ Using (iii) and (iv)]
P(H)
1
⇒ P(E ∣ H) =
3
13. An instructor has a question bank consisting of 300 easy True / False
questions, 200 difficult True / False questions, 𝟓𝟎𝟎 easy multiple choice
questions and 400 difficult multiple choice questions. If a question is selected at
random from the question bank, what is the probability that it will be an easy
question given that it is a multiple choice question?
Ans. Here, there are two types of questions, True/False or Multiple Choice
Questions (T/F or MCQ), and each of them are divided into Easy and Difficult type,
as shown below in the tree diagram.
So, in all, there are, 500 T/F questions and 900 MCQs.
Also, there are 800 Easy questions and 600 difficult questions.
⇒ the sample space of this experiment has 500 + 900 = 1400 outcomes.
Now, let E be the event of 'getting an Easy question' and F be the event of 'getting
an MCQ'.
800 8 900 9
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸) = 1400 = 14 And 𝑃(𝐹) = 1400 = 14 … … … . . (i)
𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
𝑃(𝐹)
5/14 5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = 9/14 = 9 [𝑈sing (i) and (ii)]
5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
9
14. Given that the two numbers appearing on throwing two dice are different. Find
the probability of the event 'the sum of numbers on the dice is 4 '.
⇒ 𝐸 ∩ 𝐹 = {(1,3), (3,1)}
3 1 30 5 2 1
⇒ P(E) = 36 = 12 , P(F) = 36 = 6 , P(E ∩ F) = 36 = 18 … … … . (i)
𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹)
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) =
𝑃(𝐹)
0
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = = 0 [𝑈sing (i)]
𝑃(𝐹)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐹) = 0
17. If 𝑨 and 𝑩 are events such that 𝑷(𝑨 ∣ 𝑩) = 𝑷(𝑩 ∣ 𝑨), then
A. 𝐴 ⊂ 𝐵 but 𝐴 ≠ 𝐵
B. 𝐴 = 𝐵
C. 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = 𝜙
D. 𝑃(𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴)
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵) 𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
⇒ =
𝑃(𝐵) 𝑃(𝐴)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐵)
EXERCISE 13.2
1. If 𝑷(𝑨) = 𝟑/𝟓 and 𝑷(𝑩) = 𝟏/𝟓, find 𝑷(𝑨 ∩ 𝑩) if 𝑨 and 𝑩 are independent events.
2. Two cards are drawn at random and without replacement from a pack of 52
playing cards. Find the probability that both the cards are black.
Ans. Given a box of oranges. Let 𝐴, 𝐵 and 𝐶 denotes respectively the events that
the first, second and third drawn orange is good.
Now, P (𝐴) = 𝑃( good orange in first draw ) = 12/15
Because the second orange is drawn without replacement so, now the total
number of good oranges will be 11 and total oranges will be 14 that is the
conditional probability of 𝐵 given that A has already occurred.
Now, 𝑃(𝐵/𝐴) = 𝑃( good orange in second draw ) = 11/14
Because the third orange is drawn without replacement so, now the total number
of good oranges will be 10 and total orangs will be 13 that is the conditional
probability of 𝐶 given that 𝐴 and 𝐵 has already occurred.
Now, P(C/AB) = P( good orange in third draw ) = 10/13
Thus the probability that all the oranges are good
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐶) = 12/15 × 11/14 × 10/13 = 44/91
Hence, the probability that a box will be approved for sale = 44/91
4. A fair coin and an unbiased die are tossed. Let 𝑨 be the event 'head appears on
the coin' and B be the event ' 3 on the die'. Check whether 𝑨 and 𝑩 are
independent events or not.
5. A die marked 1, 2, 3 in red and 𝟒, 𝟓, 𝟔 in green is tossed. Let 𝑨 be the event, 'the
number is even,' and B be the event, 'the number is red'. Are 𝑨 and 𝑩
independent?
6. Let 𝑬 and 𝑭 be events with 𝑷(𝑬) = 𝟑/𝟓, 𝑷(𝑭) = 𝟑/𝟏𝟎 and 𝑷(𝑬 ∩ 𝑭) = 𝟏/𝟓. Are 𝑬 and
𝑭 independent?
(ii) Independent
When 𝐴 and 𝐵 are independent.
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴). 𝑃(𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 1/2𝑝
As we know, 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)
⇒ 3/5 = 1/2 + 2 − 𝑝/2
⇒ 𝑝/2 = 3/5 − 1/2
⇒ 𝑝 = 2 × 1/10 = 1/5
(iii) 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
As we know 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
0.12
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 0.4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 0.3
(iv) 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴)
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
As we know 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
0.12
⇒ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 0.3
⇒ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 0.4
9. If 𝑨 and 𝑩 are two events such that 𝑷(𝑨) = 𝟏/𝟒, 𝑷(𝑩) = 𝟏/𝟐 and 𝑷(𝑨 ∩ 𝑩) = 𝟏/𝟖,
find 𝑷( not 𝑨 and not 𝑩).
10. Events 𝐴 and 𝐵 are such that 𝑃(𝐴) = 1/2, 𝑃(𝐵) = 7/12 and 𝑃( not 𝐴 or not 𝐵) =
1/4. State whether A and B are independent?
Ans. Given 𝑃(𝐴) = 1/2, 𝑃(𝐵) = 7/12 and 𝑃( not 𝐴 or not 𝐵) = 1/4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴′ ∪ 𝐵 ′ ) = 1/4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)′ = 1/4
⇒ 1 − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 1/4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 1 − 1/4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 3/4 … … (1)
And 𝑃(𝐴). 𝑃(𝐵) = 1/2 × 7/12 = 7/24 … (2)
From (1) and (2) 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) ≠ 𝑃(𝐴). 𝑃(𝐵)
Therefore, 𝐴 and 𝐵 are not independent events.
11. Given two independent events 𝑨 and 𝑩 such that 𝑷(𝑨) = 𝟎. 𝟑, 𝑷(𝑩) = 𝟎. 𝟔.
Find
(i) 𝑷(𝑨 and 𝑩)
(ii) 𝑷(𝑨 and not 𝑩)
(iii) 𝑷 (A or 𝑩)
(iv) 𝑷 (neither 𝑨 nor 𝑩 )
= 0.3 × 0.6
= 0.18
(iii) 𝑃(𝐴 or 𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 or 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵)
As we know, 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 0.3 + 0.6 − 0.18
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 0.72
= 1/2 × 1/2 × 1/2 = 1/8 So, probability of getting an odd number at least once
= 1 − probability of getting an odd number in no throw
= 1 - probability of getting an even number in three times
= 1 − 1/8
∴ Probability of getting an odd number at least once = 7/8
13. Two balls are drawn at random with replacement from a box containing 10
black and 8 red balls. Find the probability that
(i) both balls are red.
(ii) First ball is black and second is red.
(iii) One of them is black and other is red.
14. Probability of solving specific problem independently by 𝑨 and 𝑩 are 𝟏/𝟐 and
𝟏/𝟑 respectively. If both try to solve the problem independently, find the
probability that
(i) The problem is solved
(ii) Exactly one of them solves the problem.
Ans. Given,
𝑃(𝐴) = Probability of solving the problem by 𝐴 = 1/2
𝑃(𝐵) = Probability of solving the problem by 𝐵 = 1/3
Because 𝐴 and 𝐵 both are independent.
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) ⋅ 𝑃(𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 1/2 × 1/3 = 1/6
𝑃(𝐴′ ) = 1 − 𝑃(𝐴) = 1 − 1/2 = 1/2
𝑃(𝐵 ′ ) = 1 − 𝑃(𝐵) = 1 − 1/3 = 2/3
(i) The problem is solved
The problem is solved, i.e. it is either solved by 𝐴 or it is solved by 𝐵.
= P(A ∪ B)
As we know, 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 1/2 + 1/3 − 1/6 = 4/6
⇒ 𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 2/3
(ii) Exactly one of them solves the problem
That is either problem is solved by 𝐴 but not by 𝐵 or vice versa
That is 𝑃(𝐴) ⋅ 𝑃(𝐵 ′ ) + 𝑃(𝐴′ ) ⋅ 𝑃(𝐵)
= 1/2(2/3) + 1/2(1/3)
= 1/3 + 1/6 = 3/6
15. One card is drawn at random from a well shuffled deck of 52 cards. In which of
the following cases are the events 𝑬 and 𝑭 independent?
(i) E: 'the card drawn is a spade' F: 'the card drawn is an ace'
(ii) E: 'the card drawn is black' 𝑭 : 'the card drawn is a king'
(iii) E: 'the card drawn is a king or queen' 𝑭 : 'the card drawn is a queen or jack'.
(iii) In a deck of 52 cards, 4 cards are queen, 4 cards are king and 4 cards are jack.
Hence, 𝑃(𝐸) = the card drawn is either king or queen = 8/52 = 2/13
𝑃(𝐹) = the card drawn is either queen or jack = 8/52 = 2/13
There are 4 cards which are either king or queen and either queen or jack.
𝑃(𝐸 ∩ 𝐹) = the card drawn is either king or queen and either queen or jack
16. In a hostel, 𝟔𝟎% of the students read Hindi newspaper, 𝟒𝟎% read English
newspaper and 𝟐𝟎% read both Hindi and English newspapers. A student is
selected at random.
(a) Find the probability that she reads neither Hindi nor English newspapers.
(b) If she reads Hindi newspaper, find the probability that she reads English
newspaper.
(c) If she reads English newspaper, find the probability that she reads Hindi
newspaper
Ans. Given:
Let H and E denote the number of students who read Hindi and English newspaper
respectively.
Hence, 𝑃(𝐻) = Probability of students who read Hindi newspaper = 60/100 = 3/5
𝑃(𝐸) = Probability of students who read English newspaper = 40/100 = 2/5
P(H ∩ E) = Probability of students who read Hindi and English both newspaper =
20/100 = 1/5
(a) Find the probability that she reads neither Hindi nor English newspapers.
P (neither H nor E )
𝑃( neither 𝐻 nor 𝐸) = 𝑃(𝐻 ′ ∩ 𝐸 ′ )
As, {𝐻 ′ ∩ E ′ = (H ∪ E)′ }
⇒ P( neither A nor B) = P((H ∪ E))
= 1 − P(H ∪ E)
= 1 − [𝑃(𝐻) + 𝑃(𝐸) − 𝑃(𝐻 ∩ 𝐸)]
3 2 1
=1−[ + − ]
5 5 5
4 1
=1−[ ]=
5 5
(b) If she reads Hindi newspaper, find the probability that she reads English
newspaper.
𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐻) = Hindi newspaper reading has already occurred and the probability that
she reads English newspaper is to find.
𝑃(𝐻∩𝐸)
As we know 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐻) = 𝑃(𝐻)
1
5 1 5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐻) = 3 =5×3
5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸 ∣ 𝐻) = 1/3
(c) If she reads English newspaper, find the probability that she reads Hindi
newspaper.
P(H ∣ E) = English newspaper reading has already occurred and the probability that
she reads Hindi newspaper is to find.
𝑃(𝐻∩𝐸)
As we know 𝑃(𝐻 ∣ 𝐸) = 𝑃(𝐸)
1
5 1 5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐻 ∣ 𝐸) = 2 =5×2
5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐻 ∣ 𝐸) = 1/2
17. The probability of obtaining an even prime number on each die, when a pair of
dice is rolled is
A. 0
B. 𝟏/𝟑
C. 𝟏/𝟏𝟐
D. 𝟏/𝟑𝟔
Ans. D. 1/36
Explanation:
Given A pair of dice is rolled.
Hence the number of outcomes = 36
Let 𝑃(𝐸) be the probability to get an even prime number on each die.
As we know the only even prime number is 2 .
So, 𝐸 = {2,2}
⇒ 𝑃€ = 1/36
EXERCISE 13.3
1. An urn contains 5 red and 5 black balls. A ball is drawn at random, its
colour is noted and is returned to the urn. Moreover, 2 additional balls of the
colour drawn are put in the urn and then a ball is drawn at random. What is the
probability that the second ball is red?
2. A bag contains 4 red and 4 black balls, another bag contains 2 red and 6 black
balls. One of the two bags is selected at random and a ball is drawn from the
bag which is found to be red. Find the probability that the ball is drawn from
the first bag.
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event of choosing the bag 𝐼, 𝐸2 be the event of choosing the bag
say bag II and 𝐴 be the event of drawing a red ball.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 1/2
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃( drawing a red ball from bag 𝐼) = 4/8 = 1/2
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃( drawing a red ball from bag 𝐼𝐼) = 2/8 = 1/4
Now the probability of drawing a ball from bag I, being given that it is red, is
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have:
P(E1) ⋅ P(A ∣ E1 )
P(E1 ∣ A) =
P(E1 ) ⋅ P(A ∣ E1 ) + P(E2 ) ⋅ P(A ∣ E2 )
1 1
= 2⋅2
1 1 1 1
2⋅2+2⋅4
1
= 4
1 1
4+8
1
2
=4=
3 3
8
2
⇒ P(E1 ∣ A) =
3
3. Of the students in a college, it is known that 𝟔𝟎% reside in hostel and 𝟒𝟎% are day
scholars (not residing in hostel). Previous year results report that 𝟑𝟎% of all
students who reside in hostel attain 𝑨 grade and 𝟐𝟎% of day scholars attain 𝑨
grade in their annual examination. At the end of the year, one student is chosen
at random from the college and he has an 𝑨 grade, what is the probability that
the student is a hostlier?
Ans. Let E1 be the event that student is a hostler, E2 be the event that student is a
day scholar and 𝐴 be the event of getting 𝐴 grade.
60
Then P(E1 ) = 60% = 100 = 0.6
40
And P(E2) = 40% = 100 = 0.4
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃 (students who attain 𝐴 grade reside in hostel ) = 30% = 0.3
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃 (students who attain 𝐴 grade is day scholar ) = 20% = 0.2
Now the probability of students who reside in hostel, being given he attain 𝐴 grade,
is 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have:
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸
1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
0.6×0.3
= 0.6×0.3+0.4×0.2
0.18
= 0.18+0.08
0.18 18 9
= 0.26 = 26 = 13
9
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 13
4. In answering a question on a multiple choice test, a student either knows
the answer or guesses. Let 𝟑/𝟒 be the probability that he knows the
answer and 𝟏/𝟒 be the probability that he guesses. Assuming that a
student who guesses at the answer will be correct with probability 𝟏/𝟒.
What is the probability that the student knows the answer given that he
answered it correctly?
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event that the student knows the answer, 𝐸2 be the event that
the student guess the answer and 𝐴 be the event that the answer is correct.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 3/4
And 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 1/4
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃( correct answer given that he knows ) = 1
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃 (correct answer given that he guesses ) = 1/4
Now the probability that he knows the answer, being given that answer is correct, is
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have:
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸
1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸
1 1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
6. There are three coins. One is a two headed coin (having head on both faces),
another is a biased coin that comes up heads 𝟕𝟓% of the time and third is an
unbiased coin. One of the three coins is chosen at random and tossed, it
shows heads, what is the probability that it was the two headed coin?
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event of choosing a two headed coin, 𝐸2 be the event of
choosing a biased coin and 𝐸3 be the event of choosing an unbiased coin. Let 𝐴 be
the event that the coin shows head.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 𝑃(𝐸3 ) = 1/3
As we a headed coin has head on both sides so it will shows head.
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃( correct answer given that he knows ) = 1
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃( coin shows head given that the coin is biased ) = 75% = 75/100 =
3/4
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸3 ) = 𝑃( coin shows head given that the coin is unbiased ) = 1/2
Now the probability that the coin is two headed, being given that it shows head, is
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸
1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )+𝑃(𝐸3 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸3 )
1
3
= 1 3 1
(1+ + )
3 4 2
1 4
= 9 =9
4
4
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 9
7. An insurance company insured 2000 scooter drivers, 4000 car drivers and
6000 truck drivers. The probability of an accidents are 𝟎. 𝟎𝟏, 𝟎. 𝟎𝟑 and 𝟎. 𝟏𝟓
respectively. One of the insured persons meets with an accident. What is the
probability that he is a scooter driver?
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event that the driver is a scooter driver, 𝐸2 be the event that the
driver is a car driver and 𝐸3 be the event that the driver is a truck driver. Let 𝐴 be the
event that the person meet with an accident.
Total number of drivers = 2000 + 4000 + 6000 = 12000
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 2000/12000 = 1/6
𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 4000/12000 = 1/3
𝑃(𝐸3 ) = 6000/12000 = 1/2
As we a headed coin has head on both sides so it will shows head.
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃( accident of a scooter driver ) = 0.01 = 1/100
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃( accident of a car driver ) = 0.03 = 3/100
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸3 ) = 𝑃( accident of a truck driver ) = 0.15 = 15/100 = 3/20
Now the probability that the driver is a scooter driver, being given that he met with
an accident, is 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸 )+𝑃(𝐸
1 1 2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )+𝑃(𝐸3 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸3 )
1
600
= 1 1 1 3
( + + )
20 30 5 2
1
30 1
= 52 = 52
30
1
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 52
8. A factory has two machines 𝑨 and B. Past record shows that machine A
produced 𝟔𝟎% of the items of output and machine B produced 𝟒𝟎% of the
items. Further, 𝟐% of the items produced by machine 𝑨 and 𝟏% produced by
machine B were defective. All the items are put into one stockpile and then
one item is chosen at random from this and is found to be defective.What is
the probability that it was produced by machine B?
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event that item is produced by 𝐴, 𝐸2 be the event that item is
produced by 𝐵 and 𝑋 be the event that produced product is found to be defective.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 60% = 60/100 = 3/5
𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 40% = 40/100 = 2/5
= 2% = 2/100 = 1/50
And 𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃 (item is defective given that it is produced by machine 𝐵) = 1% =
1/100
Now the probability that item is produced by 𝐵, being given that item is
defective, is 𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have
𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸2 )
𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸
1 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸2 )
9. Two groups are competing for the position on the Board of directors of a
corporation. The probabilities that the first and the second groups will win are
𝟎. 𝟔 and 𝟎. 𝟒 respectively. Further, if the first group wins, the probability of
introducing a new product is 𝟎. 𝟕 and the corresponding probability is 𝟎. 𝟑 if the
second group wins. Find the probability that the new product introduced was
by the second group.
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event that first group wins the competition, 𝐸2 be the event that
that second group wins the competition and 𝐴 be the event of introducing a new
product.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 0.6 and 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 0.4
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃 (introducing a new product given that first group wins ) = 0.7
And 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃 (introducing a new product given that second group wins) = 0.3
Now the probability of that new product introduced was by the second group,
being given that a new product was introduced, is 𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have
𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸
1 1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 2/9
10. Suppose a girl throws a die. If she gets a 5 or 6 , she tosses a coin three times
and notes the number of heads. If she gets 𝟏, 𝟐, 𝟑 or 4 , she tosses a coin once
and notes whether a head or tail is obtained. If she obtained exactly one head,
what is the probability that she threw 𝟏, 𝟐, 𝟑 or 4 with the die?
Ans. let 𝐸1 be the event that the outcome on the die is 5 or 6, 𝐸2 be the event that
the outcome on the die is 1,2,3 or 4 and 𝐴 be the event getting exactly head.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 2/6 = 1/3
𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 4/6 = 2/3
𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸
1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
1
3
= 1 1
+
8 3
1
3 8
= 3+8 = 11
24
8
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 11
𝑃(𝐸2 ∣ 𝐴) = 8/11
11. A manufacturer has three machine operators 𝑨, 𝑩 and 𝑪. The first operator A
produces 𝟏% defective items, whereas the other two operators 𝑩 and 𝑪
produce 𝟓% and 𝟕% defective items respectively. A is on the job for 𝟓𝟎% of the
time, 𝑩 is on the job for 𝟑𝟎% of the time and 𝑪 is on the job for 𝟐𝟎% of the time. A
defective item is produced, what is the probability that it was produced by A?
Ans. Let 𝐸1 be the event of time consumed by machine 𝐴, 𝐸2 be the event of time
consumed by machine 𝐵 and 𝐸3 be the event of time consumed by machine C. Let
X be the event of producing defective items.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 50% = 50/100 = 1/2
𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 30% = 30/100 = 3/10
𝑃(𝐸3 ) = 20% = 20/100 = 1/5
As we a headed coin has head on both sides so it will shows head.
Also 𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 𝑃( defective item produced by 𝐴) = 1% = 1/100
And 𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐸2 ) = 𝑃( defective item produced by 𝐵) = 5% = 5/100
And 𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐸3 ) = 𝑃( defective item produced by 𝐶) = 7% = 7/100
Now the probability that item produced by machine 𝐴, being given that defective
item is produced, is 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝑋) = 𝑃(𝐸 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸 )+𝑃(𝐸
1 1 2 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸2 )+𝑃(𝐸3 )⋅𝑃(𝑋∣𝐸3 )
1 1
⋅
2 100
= 1 1 3 7
( + + )
100 2 2 5
1
2 5
= 17 = 34
5
5
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝑋) = 34
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 5/34
12. A card from a pack of 52 cards is lost. From the remaining cards of the pack,
two cards are drawn and are found to be both diamonds. Find the probability
of the lost card being a diamond.
Ans. Let E1 be the event that the drawn card is a diamond, E2 be the event that the
drawn card is not a diamond and 𝐴 be the event that the card is lost.
As we know, out of 52 cards, 13 cards are diamond and 39 cards are not diamond.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 13/52 and 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 39/52
Now, when a diamond card is lost then there are 12 diamond cards out of total 51
cards.
Two diamond cards can be drawn out of 12 diamond cards in 12 C2 ways.
Similarly, two diamond cards can be drawn out of total 51 cards in 51 𝐶2 ways.
Then probability of getting two cards, when one diamond card is lost, is 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ).
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 12
𝐶2 / 51 𝐶2
Also 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸1 ) = 12 𝐶2 / 51 𝐶2
12! 2! × 49!
= ×
2! × 10! 51!
12 × 11 × 10! 2 × 1 × 49!
= ×
2 × 1 × 10! 51 × 50 × 49!
12 × 11 22
= =
51 × 50 425
Now, when not a diamond card is lost then there are 13 diamond cards out of total
51 cards.
Two diamond cards can be drawn out of 13 diamond cards in 13 𝐶2 ways.
Similarly, two diamond cards can be drawn out of total 51 cards in 51 C2 ways.
Then probability of getting two cards, when card is lost which is not diamond,
is 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐸2 ).
Also P(A ∣ E2 ) = 13 C2 / 51 C2
13! 2!×49!
= 2!×11! × 51!
13×12×11! 2×1×49!
= ×
2×1×10! 51×50×49!
13×12 26
= 51×50 = 425
Now the probability that the lost card is diamond, being given that the card is
lost, is 𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴).
By using Bayes' theorem, we have:
𝑃(𝐸1 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸1 )
𝑃(𝐸1 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐸 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸
1 1 )+𝑃(𝐸2 )⋅𝑃(𝐴∣𝐸2 )
13. Probability that A speaks truth is 𝟒/𝟓. A coin is tossed. A reports that a head
appears. The probability that actually there was head is
A. 4/5
B. 𝟏/𝟐
C. 𝟏/𝟓
D. 𝟐/𝟓
Ans. A. 4/5
Explanation:
Let 𝐸1 be the event that 𝐴 speaks truth, 𝐸2 be the event that 𝐴 lies and 𝑋 be the
event that it appears head.
Therefore, 𝑃(𝐸1 ) = 4/5
As 𝐸1 and 𝐸2 are the events which are complimentary to each other.
Then 𝑃(𝐸1 ) + 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 1
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 1 − 𝑃(𝐸1 )
⇒ 𝑃(𝐸2 ) = 1 − 4/5 = 1/5
14. If 𝑨 and 𝑩 are two events such that 𝑨 ⊂ 𝑩 and 𝑷(𝑩) ≠ 𝟎, then which of the
following is correct?
A. 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)/𝑃(𝐴)
B. 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) < 𝑃(𝐴)
C. 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) ≥ 𝑃(𝐴)
D. None of these
Consider
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵) 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = = 𝑃(𝐵) … (2)
𝑃(𝐵)
EXERCISE 13.4
1. State which of the following are not the probability distributions of a random
variable. Give reasons for your answer.
(i)
𝐗 0 1 2
𝐏(𝐗) 𝟎. 𝟒 𝟎. 𝟒 𝟎. 𝟐
(ii)
𝐗 0 1 2 3 4
𝐏(𝐗) 𝟎. 𝟏 𝟎. 𝟓 𝟎. 𝟐 −𝟎. 𝟏 𝟎. 𝟑
Ans. Here we have table with values for 𝑋 and 𝑃(𝑋).
As we see from the table that 𝑃(𝑋) = −0.1 for 𝑋 = 3.
It is known that probability of any observation must always be positive that it
can't be negative.
Hence, the given table is not the probability distributions of a random variable.
(iii)
𝐘 −𝟏 0 1
𝐏(𝐘) 𝟎. 𝟔 𝟎. 𝟏 𝟎. 𝟐
(iv)
𝐙 3 2 1 0 −𝟏
𝐏(𝐙) 𝟎. 𝟑 𝟎. 𝟐 𝟎. 𝟒 𝟎. 𝟏 𝟎. 𝟎𝟓
Hence, the given table is not the probability distributions of a random variable.
2. An urn contains 5 red and 2 black balls. Two balls are randomly drawn.
Let 𝑿 represent the number of black balls. What are the possible
values of 𝑿 ? Is 𝑿 a random variable?
3. Let 𝑿 represent the difference between the number of heads and the number
of tails obtained when a coin is tossed 6 times. What are possible values of 𝑿 ?
As we know,
𝑋 0 1 2
Ans. Given three coins are tossed simultaneously. Hence, the sample space of the
experiment is 𝑆 = {𝐻𝐻𝐻, 𝐻𝐻𝑇, HTH, THH, TTH, THT, HTT, TTT}
𝑋 represents the number of tails.
As we see, 𝑋 is a function on sample space whose range is {0,1,2,3}.
Thus, 𝑋 is a random variable which can take the values 0,1,2 or 3.
𝑃(𝑋 = 0) = 𝑃(𝐻𝐻𝐻) = 1/8
X 0 1 2 3
P(X) 1/8 3/8 3/8 1/8
P(X = 1) = P(HTTT) + P(TTTH) + P(THTT) + P(TTHT) = 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 = 1/4
P(X = 2) = P(HHTT) + P(THHT) + P(TTHH) + P(THTH) + P(HTHT) + P(HTTH) = 1/16 +
1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 = 6/16 = 3/8
P(X = 3) = P(THHH) + P(HHHT) + P(HTHH) + P(HHTH) = 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 + 1/16 = 1/4
P(X = 4) = P(HHHH) = 1/16
Hence, the required probability distribution is,
𝑋 0 1 2
𝑋 0 1
1 3 4 16
= 4C3 ⋅ (5) ⋅ 5 = 625
1 4 1
= 4 𝐶4 ⋅ ( ) =
5 625
𝑋 0 1 2 3 4
7. A coin is biased so that the head is 3 times as likely to occur as tail. If the coin
is tossed twice, find the probability distribution of number of tails.
And 𝑃(𝐻) = 3𝑥
For a biased coin, 𝑃(𝑇) + 𝑃(𝐻) = 1
⇒ 𝑥 + 3𝑥 = 1
⇒ 4𝑥 = 1
⇒ 𝑥 = 1/4
𝑋 0 1 2
𝐗 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Determine
(i) 𝑘
(ii) 𝑃(𝑋 < 3)
(iii) 𝑃(𝑋 > 6)
(iv) 𝑃(0 < 𝑋 < 3)
It is known that probability of any observation must always be positive that it can't
be negative.
So 𝑘 = 1/10
10. Find the mean number of heads in three tosses of a fair coin.
𝑋 0 1 2 3
11. Two dice are thrown simultaneously. If 𝑿 denotes the number of sixes, find the
expectation of 𝑿.
𝑋 0 1 2
25 5 1
= 0 × 36 + 1 × 18 + 2 × 36
5 1 6 1
= 18 + 18 = 18 = 3
1
⇒ E(𝑋) = 3
12. Two numbers are selected at random (without replacement) from the
first six positive integers. Let 𝑿 denote the larger of the two numbers
obtained. Find 𝑬(𝑿).
For 𝑋 = 5, the possible observations are (1,5), (5,1), (2,5), (5,2), (3,5), (5,3)(5,4) and (4,5).
𝑃(𝑋) = 8/30 = 4/15
𝑋 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 1 4 1
=2× +3× +4× +5× +6×
15 15 5 15 3
2 6 4 20 2+6+12+20+30 70
= 15 + 15 + 5 + 15 + 2 = = 15
15
14
⇒ E(X) = 3
13. Let 𝑿 denote the sum of the numbers obtained when two fair dice are
rolled. Find the variance and standard deviation of 𝑿.
For 𝑋 = 5, the possible observations are (1,4), (4,1), (2,3) and (3,2)
For 𝑋 = 6, the possible observations are (1,5), (5,1), (2,4), (4,2) and (3,3).
𝑃(𝑋) = 5/36
For 𝑋 = 9, the possible observations are (5,4), (4,5), (3,6) and (6,3)
𝑃(𝑋) = 4/36 = 1/9
For 𝑋 = 10, the possible observations are (5,5), (4,6) and (6,4).
𝑃(𝑋) = 1/36
Hence, the required probability distribution is,
X 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1 1 1 1 5 1 5 1 1 1 1
P(X)
/36 /18 /12 /9 /36 /6 /36 /9 /12 /18 /36
1 1 1 1 5 1 5
= 2 × 36 + 3 × 18 + 4 × 12 + 5 × 9 + 6 × 36 + 7 × 6 + 8 × 36
1 1 1 1
+9 × 9 + 10 × 12 + 11 × 18 + 12 × 36
1 1 1 5 5 7 10 5 11 1
= 18 + 6 + 3 + 9 + 6 + 6 + + 1 + 6 + 18 + 3
9
1+3+6+10+15+21+20+18+15+11+6 126
= =
18 18
⇒ 𝐸(𝑋) = 7
𝐸(𝑋) = 7
⇒ 𝐸(𝑋 2 ) = 54.833
= 54.833 − (7)2
= 54.833 − 49 = 5.833
X 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
f 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 1
𝐗 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
𝐏(𝐗) 2/15 1/15 2/15 3/15 1/15 2/15 3/15 1/15
Therefore 𝐸(𝑋)
is:
E(X) = ∑ni=1 xi pi
2 1 2 3 1 2
= 14 × 15 + 15 × 15 + 16 × 15 + 17 × 15 + 18 × 15 + 19 × 15
3 1
+ 20 × 15 + 21 × 15
28+15+32+21+18+38+60+21 263
= =
15 15
⇒ 𝐸(𝑋) = 17.53
𝐸(𝑋 2)
= ∑ 𝑥𝑖2 ⋅ 𝑝(𝑥𝑖 )
𝑖=1
2 1 2 3 1
= (14)2 × + (15)2 × + (16)2 × + (17)2 × + (18)2 ×
15 15 15 15 15
2 3 1
+(19)2 × + (20)2 × + (21)2 ×
15 15 15
392 + 225 + 512 + 867 + 324 + 722 + 1200 + 441 4683
= =
15 15
⇒ 𝐸(𝑋 2 ) = 312.2
15. In a meeting, 𝟕𝟎% of the members favour and 𝟑𝟎% oppose a certain proposal.
A member is selected at random and we take 𝑿 = 𝟎 if he opposed, and 𝑿 = 𝟏 if
he is in favour. Find 𝑬(𝑿) and Var (𝑿).
Therefore 𝐸(𝑋) is
E(X) = ∑ni=1 Xi pi
= 0 × 0.3 + 1 × 0.7
⇒ E(X) = 0.7
And 𝐸(𝑋 2 ) is:
16. The mean of the numbers obtained on throwing a die having written 1 on three
faces, 2 on two faces and 5 on one face is
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 8/3
Ans. B. 2
Explanation:
Given a die having written 1 on three faces, 2 on two faces and 5 on one face.
Let 𝑋 be the random variable representing a number on given die.
Then 𝑋 can take any value of 1,2 or 5 .
The total numbers is six.
NOW
𝑃(𝑋 = 1) = 3/6 = 1/2
𝑃(𝑋 = 2) = 1/3
𝑃(𝑋 = 5) = 1/6
1 1 1
=1×2+2×3+5×6
1 2 5 3+4+5 12
=2+3+6= =
6 6
1 1 1
=1×2+2×3+5×6
1 2 5 3+4+5 12
=2+3+6= =
6 6
⇒ 𝐸(𝑋) = 2
17. Suppose that two cards are drawn at random from a deck of cards. Let 𝑿 be
the number of aces obtained. Then the value of 𝑬(𝑿) is
A. 37/221
B. 5/13
C. 1/13
D. 2/13
Ans. D. 2/13
Explanation:
Given a deck of cards.
𝑋 be the number of aces obtained.
Hence, 𝑋 can take value of 0,1 or 2 .
As we know, in a deck of 52 cards, 4 cards are aces. Therefore 48 cards are non-
ace cards.
4𝑐0 ×48𝐶2
𝑃(𝑋 = 0) = 𝑃(0 ace and 2 non ace cards ) = 52 𝑐
2
1128
=
1326
4 1 ×48𝑐
𝑃(𝑋 = 1) = 𝑃(1 ace and 1 non ace cards) = 52 𝑐 1
2
192
= 1326
4𝑐2 ×48𝑐0
𝑃(𝑋 = 2) = 𝑃(2 ace and 0 non ace cards) = 52 𝑐
2
6
=
1326
= 6/1326
𝑋 0 1 2
EXERCISE 13.5
1. A die is thrown 6 times. If 'getting an odd number' is a success, what is the
probability of
(i) 5 successes?
(ii) At least 5 successes?
(iii) At most 5 successes?
Ans. We know that the repeated tosses of a dice are known as Bernoulli trials.
Let the number of successes of getting an odd number in an experiment of 6 trials
be 𝑥.
Probability of getting an odd number in a single throw of a dice ( 𝑝 )
number of odd numbers on a dice 3 1
= =6=2
total number of numbers on a dice
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1/2
Now, here 𝑥 has a binomial distribution.
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2 … 𝑛
= 6 𝐶𝑥 (1/2)6−𝑥
= 6 𝐶𝑥 (1/2)6
Ans. We know that the repeated tosses of a pair of dice are known as Bernoulli
trials. Let the number of times of getting doublets in an experiment of throwing two
dice simultaneously four times be 𝑥.
Probability of getting doublets in a single throw of a a pair of dice(p)
number of doublets possible in a pair of dice 6
= = 36
total number of possible pairs when two dice thrown
1
=6
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/6 = 5/6
Now, here 𝑥 has a binomial distribution, where 𝑛 = 4, 𝑝 = 1/6, 𝑞 = 5/6
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2, … 𝑛
= 4 𝐶𝑥 (5/6)4−𝑥 (1/6)𝑥
= 4 𝐶𝑥 (54−𝑥 /66 )
3. There are 𝟓% defective items in a large bulk of items. What is the probability
that a sample of 10 items will include not more than one defective item?
Ans. Let there be 𝑥 number of defective items in a sample of ten items drawn
successively.
Now, as we can see that the drawing of the items is done with replacement. Thus,
the trials are Bernoulli trials.
Now, probability of getting a defective item, 𝑝 = 5/100 = 1/20
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 1/20 = 19/20
∴ We can say that 𝑥 has a binomial distribution, where 𝑛 = 10 and 𝑝 = 1/20
Thus, 𝑃(𝑥 = 𝑥) = 𝑛
𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2 … 𝑛
10 19 10−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 𝐶𝑥 (20) (20)
19 10 19 9 1 1
= (20) + 10 × (20) (20)
19 9 19 10
= (20) [20 + 20]
19 9 29
=( ) ×( )
20 20
Ans. Let the number of spade cards among the five drawn cards be 𝑥.
As we can observe that the drawing of cards is with replacement, thus, the trials
will be Bernoulli trials.
Now, we know that in a deck of 52 cards there are total 13 spade cards.
Thus, Probability of drawing a spade from a deck of 52 cards
= 13/52 = 1/4
𝑞 = 1 − 1/4 = 3/4
3 5−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 5 𝐶𝑥 (4) (4)
3 0 1 5
= 5 𝐶5 (4) (4)
1
= 1 × 1024
1
= 1024
= 1/1024
5. The probability that a bulb produced by a factory will fuse after 150 days of
use is 𝟎. 𝟎𝟓. Find the probability that out of 5 such bulbs
(i) none
(ii) not more than one
(iii) more than one
(iv) at least one will fuse after 150 days of use.
Ans. Let us assume that the number of bulbs that will fuse after 150 days of use in
an experiment of 5 trials be 𝑥.
As we can see that the trial is made with replacement, thus, the trials will be
Bernoulli trials.
It is already mentioned in the question that, 𝑝 = 0.05
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 0.05 = 0.95
Here, we can clearly observe that 𝑥 has a binomial representation with 𝑛 = 5 and
𝑝 = 0.05
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2 … 𝑛
= 5 𝐶𝑥 (0.95)5−𝑥 (0.05)𝑥
= 5 𝐶0 (0.95)5−0 (0.05)0
= 1 × 0.955
= (0.95)5
(ii) Probability of not more than one such bulb in a random drawing of 5
bulbs = 𝑃(𝑋 ≤ 1)
= 𝑃(𝑋 = 0) + 𝑃(𝑋 = 1)
= 5 𝐶0 (0.95)5−0 (0.05)0 + 5 𝐶1 (0.95)5−1 (0.05)1
= 1 × 0.955 + 5 × (0.95)4 × 0.05
= (0.95)4 (0.95 + 0.25)
= (0.95)4 × 1.2
(iii) Probability of more than one such bulb in a random drawing of 5 bulbs
= 𝑃(𝑋 > 1)
= 1 − 𝑃(𝑋 ≤ 1)
= 1 − [(0.95)4 × 1.2]
6. A bag consists of 10 balls each marked with one of the digits 0 to 9 . If four balls
are drawn successively with replacement from the bag, what is the
probability that none is marked with the digit 0 ?
Ans. Let us assume that number of balls with digit marked as zero among the
experiment of 4 balls drawn simultaneously be 𝑥.
As we can see that the balls are drawn with replacement, thus, the trial is a
Bernoulli trial.
Probability of a ball drawn from the bag to be marked as digit 0 = 1/10
It can be clearly observed that 𝑋 has a binomial distribution with 𝑛 = 4 and 𝑝 = 1/10
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/10 = 9/10
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2, … 𝑛
9 4−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 4 𝐶𝑥 (10) (10)
9 4−0 1 0
= 4 𝐶0 (10) (10)
9 4 1 0
= 4 𝐶𝑥 (10) (10)
9 4
= 1 × (10)
9 4
= (10)
7. In an examination, 20 questions of true-false type are asked. Suppose a
student tosses a fair coin to determine his answer to each question. If
the coin falls heads, he answers 'true'; if it falls tails, he answers 'false'.
Find the probability that he answers at least 12 questions correctly.
Ans. Let us assume that the number of correctly answered questions out of twenty
questions be 𝑥.
Since, 'head' on the coin shows the true answer and the 'tail' on the coin shows the
false answers. Thus, the repeated tosses or the correctly answered questions are
Bernoulli trails.
Thus, 𝑝 = 1/2 and 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/2 = 1/2
Here, it can be clearly observed that 𝑥 has binomial distribution, where 𝑛 = 20 and
𝑝 = 1/2
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2 … 𝑛
20 1 20−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 𝐶𝑥 (2) (2)
20 1 20
= 𝐶𝑥 ( )
2
8. Suppose 𝑿 has a binomial distribution 𝑩(𝟔, 𝟏/𝟐). Show that 𝑿 = 𝟑 is the most likely
outcome. (Hint: 𝑷(𝑿 = 𝟑) is the maximum among all 𝑷(𝒙𝒊), 𝒙𝒊 = 𝟎, 𝟏, 𝟐, 𝟑, 𝟒, 𝟓, 𝟔)
Thus, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛
𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥 , where 𝑥 = 0,1,2 … 𝑛
1 6−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 6 𝐶𝑥 (2) (2)
1 6
= 6 𝐶𝑥 (2)
It can be clearly observed that 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) will be maximum if 6 𝑐𝑥 will be maximum.
∴6 cx = 6 c6 = 1
6
c1 = 6 c5 = 6
6
c2 = 6 c4 = 15
6
c3 = 20
9. On a multiple choice examination with three possible answers for each of the
five questions, what is the probability that a candidate would get four or more
correct answers just by guessing?
Ans. In this question, we have the repeated correct answer guessing form the
given multiple choice questions are Bernoulli trials
Let us now assume, 𝑋 represents the number of correct answers by guessing in the
multiple choice set
Now, probability of getting a correct answer, 𝑝 = 1/3
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/3 = 2/3
Clearly, we have 𝑋 is a binomial distribution where 𝑛 = 5 and 𝑃 = 1/3
𝑛
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
2 5−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 5 𝐶𝑥 (3) ⋅ (3)
= 𝑃(𝑋 = 4) + 𝑃(𝑋 = 5)
2 1 4 1 5
= 5 C4 (3) ⋅ (3) + 5 C5 (3)
2 1 1
= 5 ⋅ 3 ⋅ 81 + 1 ⋅ 243
11
= 243
10. A person buys a lottery ticket in 50 lotteries, in each of which his chance of
winning a prize is 𝟏/𝟏𝟎𝟎. What is the probability that he will win a prize
(a) At least once
(b) Exactly once
(c) At least twice?
Ans. (a) Let 𝑋 represents the number of prizes winning in 50 lotteries and the trials
are Bernoulli trials
Here clearly, we have 𝑋 is a binomial distribution where 𝑛 = 50 and 𝑝 = 1/100
Thus, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/100 = 99/100
∴ P(X = x) = n 𝐶x qn−x px
99 50−𝑥 1 𝑥
50
= 𝐶𝑥 (100) ⋅ (100)
= 1 − 𝑃(𝑋 < 1)
= 1 − 𝑃(𝑋 = 0)
99 50
50
=1− 𝐶0 (100)
99 50
= 1 − 1. (100)
99 50
= 1 − (100)
Ans. Let us assume 𝑋 represent the number of times of getting 5 in 7 throws of the
die
Also, the repeated tossing of a die are the Bernoulli trials
Thus, probability of getting 5 in a single throw, 𝑝 = 1/6
And,𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝
= 1 − 1/6
= 5/6
𝑛
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
5 7−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 7 𝐶𝑥 ( ) ⋅( )
6 6
5 5 1
= 21 ⋅ (6) ⋅ 36
7 5 5
= (12) (6)
12. Find the probability of throwing at most 2 sixes in 6 throws of a single die.
13. It is known that 𝟏𝟎% of certain articles manufactured are defective. What is
the probability that in a random sample of 12 such articles, 9 are defective?
Ans. Let us assume 𝑋 represent the number of times selecting defected articles in
a random sample space of given 12 articles
Also, the repeated articles in a random sample space are the Bernoulli trials
Clearly, we have 𝑋 has the binomial distribution where 𝑛 = 12 and 𝑝 = 10% = 1/10
And, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/10 = 9/10
𝑛
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
9 12−𝑥 1 𝑥
12
= 𝐶𝑥 (10) ⋅ (10)
9 3 1 9
Hence, probability of selecting 9 defective articles =12 𝐶9 (10) (10)
93 1
= 220 ⋅ 103 ⋅ 109
22×93
= 1011
14. In a box containing 100 bulbs, 10 are defective. The probability that out of a
sample of 5 bulbs, none is defective is
A. 10−1
B. (1/2)5
C. (9/10)5
9
D.
10
Ans. C. (9/10)5
Explanation:
Let us assume 𝑋 represent the number of times selecting defected bulbs in a
random sample of given 5 bulbs
Also, the repeated selection of defective bulbs from a box are the Bernoulli trials
Clearly, we have 𝑋 has the binomial distribution where 𝑛 = 5 and 𝑝 = 1/10
And, 𝑞 = 1 − 𝑝 = 1 − 1/10
𝑛
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
−𝑥
5 9 5 1 𝑥
= 𝐶𝑥 (10) (10)
9 5
= 5 𝐶0 ⋅ (10)
9 5
= 1. (10)
9 5
= (10)
∴ Option C is correct
15. The probability that a student is not a swimmer is 𝟏/𝟓. Then the probability that
out of five students, four are swimmers is
A. 𝟓 𝐂𝟒 𝟏/𝟓(𝟒/𝟓)𝟒
B. (𝟒/𝟓)𝟒 (𝟏/𝟓)
C. 𝟓 𝑪𝟏 𝟏/𝟓(𝟒/𝟓)𝟒
D. None of these
Ans. A. 5 C4 1/5(4/5)4
Explanation:
Let us assume 𝑋 represent the number of students out of 5 who are swimmers
Also, the repeated selection of students who are swimmers are the Bernoulli trials
Thus, probability of students who are not swimmers = 𝑞 = 1/5
Clearly, we have 𝑋 has the binomial distribution where 𝑛 = 5
And, 𝑝 = 1 − 𝑞
= 1 − 1/5
= 4/5
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑞 𝑛−𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
−𝑥
5 1 5 4 𝑥
= 𝐶𝑥 (5) ⋅ (5)
1 4 4
= 5 𝐶4 (5) ⋅ (5)
∴ Option A is correct
Miscellaneous Exercise
1. 𝑨 and 𝑩 are two events such that 𝑷(𝑨) ≠ 𝟎. Find 𝑷(𝑩 ∣ 𝑨), if:
(i) 𝑨 is a subset of 𝑩
(ii) 𝑨 ∩ 𝑩 = 𝝋
Ans. It is given that,
𝐴 and 𝐵 are two events such that 𝑃(𝐴) ≠ 0
We have, 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = 𝐴
∴ 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵 ∩ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐵∩𝐴)
Hence, 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐴)
= 𝑃(𝐴)
=1
(ii) We have,
𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 0
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
∴ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
=0
Ans. (i) According to the question, if the couple has two children then the sample
space is:
𝑆 = {(𝑏, 𝑏), (𝑏, 𝑔), (𝑔, 𝑏), (𝑔, 𝑔)}
Assume that 𝐴 denote the event of both children having male and 𝐵 denote the
event of having at least one of the male children
Thus, we have:
𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = {(𝑏, 𝑏)}
1
𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 4
P(A) = 1/4
P(B) = 3/4
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
Hence, 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
By substituting the values we get
1
4
= 3
4
= 1/3
(ii) Assume that 𝐶 denote the event having both children females and 𝐷 denote the
event of having elder child is female
∴ 𝐶 = {(𝑔, 𝑔)}
𝑃(𝐶) = 1/4
𝑃(𝐷) = (2/4)
𝑃(𝐶∩𝐷)
Hence, 𝑃(𝐶 ∣ 𝐷) = 𝑃(𝐷)
1
4
= 2
4
= 1/2
3. Suppose that 𝟓% of men and 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓% of women have grey hair. A grey haired
person is selected at random. What is the probability of this person being
male? Assume that there are equal number of males and females.
Ans. Given that, 5% of men and 0.25% of women have grey hair
∴ Total % of people having grey hair = 5 + 0.25
= 5.25%
𝑃 = 5/25 = 20/21
4. Suppose that 𝟗𝟎% of people are right-handed. What is the probability
that at most 6 of a random sample of 10 people are right-handed?
Hence, the probability of having more than 6 right handed people: = 1 − 𝑃 (More
than 6 people are right handed)
−𝑟
= 1 − ∑10 𝑟
𝑟=7 10𝐶𝑟 (0.9) (0.1)
10
5. An urn contains 25 balls of which 10 balls bear a mark ' 𝑿 ' and the remaining 15
bear a mark ' 𝒀 '. A ball is drawn at random from the urn, its mark is noted
down and it is replaced. If 6 balls are drawn in this way, find the probability
that:
(i) All will bear ' 𝑿 ' mark.
(ii) Not more than 2 will bear ' 𝒀 ' mark.
(iii) At least one ball will bear ' 𝒀 ' mark.
(iv) The number of balls with ' 𝑿 ' mark and ' 𝒀 ' mark will be equal.
𝑛
𝑃(𝑍 = 𝑧) = 𝐶𝑧 𝑝𝑛−𝑧 𝑞 𝑧
2 6
= 6 𝐶0 (5)
2 6
= (5)
(ii) Probability (Not more than 2 will bear ' 𝑌 ' mark ) = 𝑃(𝑍 ≤ 2)
2 4
= 7 (5)
(iii) Now, Probability (At least one ball will bear ' 𝑌 ' mark ) = 𝑃(𝑍 ≥ 1)
= 1 − 𝑃(𝑍 = 0
2 6
= 1 − (5)
(iv) Probability (Having equal number of balls with ' 𝑋 ' mark and ' 𝑌 ' mark)
= 𝑃(𝑍 = 3 )
2 3 3 3
= 6 𝐶3 (54) (5)
20×8×27
= 15625
864
= 3125
6. In a hurdle race, a player has to cross 10 hurdles. The probability that
he will clear each hurdle is 𝟓/𝟔. What is the probability that he
will knock down fewer than 2 hurdles?
Ans. Assume that 𝑝 be the probability of player that will clear the hurdle while q be
the probability of player that will knock down the hurdle
∴ p = 5/6 and q = 1 − 5/6 = 1/6
Let us also assume 𝑋 be the random variable that represents the number of times
the player will knock down the hurdle
∴ By binomial distribution, 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝑛 𝐶𝑥 𝑝𝑛−𝑥 𝑞 𝑥
Hence, probability (players knocking down less than 2 hurdles) = 𝑃(𝑋 < 2)
= 𝑃(𝑋 = 0) + 𝑃(𝑋 = 1)
= 10 𝐶0 (𝑞)0 (𝑝)10 + 10 𝐶1 (𝑞)(𝑝)9
5 10 5 10
= (6) × [6 + ]
6
5 5 9
= 2 × (6)
(5)10
= 2×(6)6
5 5 9
= 2 × (6)
(5)10
= 2×(6)9
7. A die is thrown again and again until three sixes are obtained. Find the
probability of obtaining the third six in the sixth throw of the die.
10×(5)3 1
Also, Probability that the six come in the sixth throw = ×6
(6)5
10×125
= (6)6
625
= 23328
8. If a leap year is selected at random, what is the chance that it will contain 53
Tuesdays?
Ans. We know that, in a leap year there are total 366 days, 52 weeks and 2 days
Now, in 52 weeks there are total 52 Tuesdays
∴ Probability that the leap year will contain 53 Tuesdays is equal to the probability
of remaining 2 days will be Tuesdays
Thus, the remaining two days can be
(Monday and Tuesday), (Tuesday and Wednesday), (Wednesday and Thursday),
(Thursday and Friday), (Friday and Saturday), (Saturday and Sunday) and (Sunday
and Monday)
∴ Total Number of cases = 7
Cases in which Tuesday can come = 2
Hence, probability (leap year having 53 Tuesdays) = 2/7
𝑛
𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑝𝑛−𝑥 𝑞 𝑥
∴ Probability of having at least 4 successes = 𝑃(𝑋 ≥ 4)
6
2 4 1 2 6 2 5 1 6
2 6
= 𝐶4 ( ) ( ) + 𝐶5 ( ) ( ) + 𝐶6 ( )
3 3 3 3 3
15(2)4 6(2)5 (2)6
= + +
36 36 36
31×(2)4
=
(3)6
31 2 4
= (3)
9
10. How many times must a man toss a fair coin so that the probability of having
at least one head is more than 𝟗𝟎%?
Ans. Let us assume that, man tosses the coin 𝑛 times. Thus, 𝑛 tosses are the
Bernoulli trials
∴ Probability of getting head at the toss of the coin = 1/2
Let us assume, 𝑝 = 1/2 and 𝑞 = 1/2
𝑛
∴ 𝑃(𝑋 = 𝑥) = 𝐶𝑥 𝑝𝑛−𝑥 𝑞 𝑥
𝑛 1 𝑛−𝑥 1 𝑥
= 𝐶𝑥 (2) (2)
𝑛 1 𝑛
= 𝐶𝑥 (2)
2𝑛 > 10
Hence, the minimum value of 𝑛 satisfying the given inequality = 4
∴ The man have to toss the coin 4 or more times
11. In a game, a man wins a rupee for a six and loses a rupee for any other
number when a fair die is thrown. The man decided to throw a die thrice but to
quit as and when he gets a six. Find the expected value of the amount he wins
/ loses.
(i) First case is that, if he gets a six on his first through then the required probability
will be 1/6
∴ Amount received by him = Rs. 1
(ii) Secondly, if he gets six on his second throw then the probability
= (5/6 × 1/6) = 5/36
∴ Amount received by him = −Rs. 1 + Rs. 1
=0
(iii) Lastly, if he does not get six in first two throws and gets six in his third throw then
the probability = 5/6 × 5/6 × 1/6
= 25/216
= (36 − 25)/216
= 11/216
A 1 6 3
B 6 2 2
C 8 1 1
D 0 6 4
One of the boxes has been selected at random and a single marble is drawn from
it. If the marble is red, what is the probability that it was drawn from box 𝐴 ?, box 𝐵 ?,
box 𝐶 ?
𝑃(𝐸𝐴 ∩𝑅)
𝑃(𝐸𝐴 ∣ 𝑅) = 𝑃(𝑅)
1
40
= 3
8
= 1/15
𝑃(𝐸𝐵 ∩𝑅)
𝑃(𝐸𝐵 ∣ 𝑅) = 𝑃(𝑅)
6
40
= 3
8
= 2/5
8
40
= 3
8
=8/15
13. Assume that the chances of a patient having a heart attack are 𝟒𝟎%. It is also
assumed that a meditation and yoga course reduce the risk of heart attack by
𝟑𝟎% and prescription of certain drug reduces its chances by 𝟐𝟓%. At a time a
patient can choose any one of the two options with equal probabilities. It is
given that after going through one of the two options the patient selected at
random suffers a heart attack. Find the probability that the patient followed a
course of meditation and yoga?
Ans. Let us assume, 𝑋 denotes the events having a person heart attack
𝐴1 denote events having the selected person followed the course of yoga and
meditation
And, A2 denote the events having the person adopted the drug prescription
It is given in the question that,
𝑃(𝑋) = 0.40
1
And, 𝑃(𝐴1 ) = 𝑃(𝐴2 ) = 2
∴ Probability (The patient suffering from a heart attack and followed a course of
meditation and yoga):
𝑃(𝐴1 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴1 )
𝑃(𝐴1 ∣ 𝑋) = 𝑃(𝐴 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴
1 1 )+𝑃(𝐴2 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴2 )
1
×0.28
2
=1 1
×0.28+ ×0.30
2 2
14
=
29
14. If each element of a second order determinant is either zero or one,
what is the probability that the value of the determinant is positive?
(Assume that the individual entries of the determinant are chosen
independently, each value being assumed with probability 𝟏/𝟐).
16. Bag I contains 3 red and 4 black balls and Bag Il contains 4 red and 5 black
balls. One ball is transferred from Bag I to Bag II and then a ball is drawn from
Bag II. The ball so drawn is found to be red in colour. Find the probability that
the transferred ball is black.
Choose the correct answer in each of the following:
Ans. Let us firstly assume, 𝐴1 denote the events that a red ball is transferred from
bag I to II
And, A2 denote the event that a black ball is transferred from bag I to II
∴ P(A1 ) = 3/7
5
𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐴1 ) = 10
1
=2
4
𝑃(𝑋 ∣ 𝐴2 ) = 10
2
=5
𝑃(𝐴2 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴2 )
Hence, 𝑃(𝐴2 ∣ 𝑋) = 𝑃(𝐴 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴
1 1 )+𝑃(𝐴2 )𝑃(𝑋∣𝐴2 )
4 2
×
7 5
= 3 1 4 2
× + ×
7 2 7 5
16
=
31
17. If 𝑨 and 𝑩 are two events such that 𝑷(𝑨) ≠ 𝟎 and 𝑷(𝑩 ∣ 𝑨) = 𝟏, then
A. 𝑨 ⊂ 𝑩
B. 𝑩 ⊂ 𝑨
C. 𝑩 = 𝝋
D. 𝑨 = 𝝋
Ans. A. 𝐴 ⊂ 𝐵
Explanation:
It is given in the question that,
𝐴 and 𝐵 are two events where,
𝑃(𝐴) ≠ 0
And, 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 1
𝑃(𝐵∩𝐴)
∴ 𝑃(𝐵 ∣ 𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐵∩𝐴)
1= 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐴) = 𝑃(𝐵 ∩ 𝐴)
∴𝐴⊂𝐵
Ans. B. 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 1
Explanation:
Given that,
𝐴 and 𝐵 are any two events where,
𝑃( A) + P(B) − P(A and B) = P(A)
𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴)
𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 0
𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
𝑃(𝐴∩𝐵)
∴ 𝑃(𝐴 ∣ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐵)
=1