Solving Probability of A & B: Find P(B)

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of independence in probability and how it relates to finding the probability of events A and B. It is stated that since A and B are independent, P(A&B) is equal to P(A) multiplied by P(B). The conversation also mentions the formula for calculating P(AorB) and how it can be used to find P(B) given the values of P(A) and P(AorB). Finally, the conversation ends with a solution to finding P(B) and a note of appreciation.
  • #1
brendan
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Hi Guys,
I have been given the following Question.
Given that P(A) = 0.4 and P(AorB) = 0.9 Find P(B) if A and B are independent.

I know That if the're independent

P(A&B) = P(A)P(B)

P(AorB) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A&B)

And as the're independent

P(A|B) = P(A)

and

P(A|B) = P(A&B)/P(B)


As P(A&B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A&B)


I know P(A) = 0.4, P(A|B) = 0.4 P(AorB)= 0.9 and

P(AorB) <= P(A) + P(B)
0.9 <= 0.4 + P(B)
Which implies that P(B) <= 0.5

I'm Trying to find P(B) however I'm having a lot of difficulty finding P(A&B).

Could someone please point me in the right direction of finding P(A&B)?

Kindest regards
Brendan
 
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  • #2
brendan said:
Hi Guys,
I have been given the following Question.
Given that P(A) = 0.4 and P(AorB) = 0.9 Find P(B) if A and B are independent.

I know That if the're independent

P(A&B) = P(A)P(B)

P(AorB) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A&B)

And as the're independent

P(A|B) = P(A)

and

P(A|B) = P(A&B)/P(B)


As P(A&B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A&B)
Typo: that last "P(A&B)" should be P(AorB)


I know P(A) = 0.4, P(A|B) = 0.4 P(AorB)= 0.9 and

P(AorB) <= P(A) + P(B)
0.9 <= 0.4 + P(B)
Which implies that P(B) <= 0.5

I'm Trying to find P(B) however I'm having a lot of difficulty finding P(A&B).

Could someone please point me in the right direction of finding P(A&B)?

Kindest regards
Brendan
You have already said that P(A&B)= P(A)P(B) because they are independent.
P(AorB)= P(A)+ P(B)- P(A&B)= P(A)+ P(B)- P(A)P(B).

You are told that P(A)= 0.4 and P(AorB)= 0.9. That equation becomes
0.9= 0.4+ P(B)- 0.4P(B). Solve that equation.
 
  • #3
Thanks a lot for your help I really appreciate it
0.9= 0.4+ P(B)- 0.4P(B). Solve that equation.

p(B) = .833 and p(A&B) = .33

I will be remembering that one!

regards
Brendan
 

What is the formula for calculating the probability of event B?

The formula for calculating the probability of event B is P(B) = (# of outcomes where B occurs)/(total # of possible outcomes).

How does the probability of event B relate to the probability of event A and B occurring together?

The probability of event A and B occurring together is equal to the probability of event A times the probability of event B given that event A has occurred. This can be represented as P(A and B) = P(A) * P(B|A).

What is the difference between independent and dependent events in terms of probability?

Independent events are events where the outcome of one event does not affect the outcome of another event. The probability of independent events occurring together is equal to the product of their individual probabilities. Dependent events are events where the outcome of one event does affect the outcome of another event. The probability of dependent events occurring together is dependent on the outcome of the first event.

What are some strategies for solving probability problems involving event A and B?

Some strategies for solving probability problems involving event A and B include using tree diagrams, creating a contingency table, and applying the formulas for conditional probability and the multiplication rule. It is also helpful to clearly define the events and identify any relevant information or restrictions given in the problem.

Can the probability of event B ever be greater than 1?

No, the probability of any event cannot be greater than 1. A probability of 1 means that the event is certain to occur, while a probability of 0 means that the event is impossible. Therefore, the probability of event B must always be between 0 and 1, inclusive.

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