Probability of soft-drink machine

In summary, the probability of getting a specific drink from a soft-drink machine depends on the number of options available, the frequency of each drink being stocked, and other factors such as temperature, machine age, and size. It can be calculated if all relevant information is known, but may also be affected by external factors.
  • #1
superwolf
184
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A soft-drink machine discharges an average of 200 ml per cup, with a standard deviation of 15 ml. What is the probability that a cup contains between 191 and 209 ml?


Attempt:

[tex]Z_1 = \frac{190.5-200}{15} = -0.63[/tex]

[tex]Z_2 = \frac{209.5-200}{15} = 0.63[/tex]

The table in my book "Areas under the normal curve", gives P = 0.7357-0.2643 = 0.4714

Correct answer (according to the same book): 0.4514

Are my continuity corrections wrong?
 
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  • #2
I don't think that you need a continuity correction here, unless the problem specifies that the machine can only dispense discrete amounts.

(209 - 200)/15 = .6

P(Z < .6) = .7257
.7257 - (1-.7257) = .4514
 

1. What is the probability of getting a specific drink from a soft-drink machine?

The probability of getting a specific drink from a soft-drink machine depends on the number of options available and the frequency of each drink being stocked. For example, if there are 5 drink options and each drink has an equal chance of being stocked, the probability would be 1/5 or 20%.

2. How does the temperature of the soft-drink machine affect the probability of getting a cold drink?

The temperature of the soft-drink machine can affect the probability of getting a cold drink, as colder temperatures can increase the likelihood of the drink being cold. However, other factors such as the amount of time the drink has been in the machine and the placement of the drink within the machine can also impact the temperature.

3. Is there a difference in the probability of getting a drink from an older vs. newer soft-drink machine?

The probability of getting a drink from an older vs. newer soft-drink machine may vary depending on the maintenance and stocking of the machine. However, if both machines are functioning properly and stocked with the same drinks, the probability should be the same.

4. How does the size of the soft-drink machine impact the probability of getting a specific drink?

The size of the soft-drink machine may impact the probability of getting a specific drink if there are more or less options available. For example, a larger machine may have more drink options and therefore decrease the probability of getting a specific drink, while a smaller machine may have fewer options and increase the probability.

5. Can the probability of getting a specific drink from a soft-drink machine be calculated?

The probability of getting a specific drink from a soft-drink machine can be calculated if the number of options and frequency of each drink being stocked are known. However, other factors such as machine maintenance and customer demand can also influence the probability.

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