Lottery probability Question

In summary, the Euromillions lottery involves selecting 5 main numbers and 2 lucky star numbers without replacement and ignoring order. The probability of matching 2 main numbers and 1 lucky star number is about 0.39, while the probability of matching 1 main number and 2 lucky star numbers is about 0.37. Both events are equally likely, but they are independent of each other.
  • #1
mynameisfunk
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Homework Statement


Euromillions is a transnational lottery. A player selects 5 "main" numbers without replacement, ignoring order from 1 to 50. The player then selects 2 "lucky star" numbers without replacement and ignoring order from 1 to 11. Ultimately, 5 numbers are randomly selected without replacement ignoring order from 1 to 50 and independently, 2 numbers are selected without replacement from 1 to 11. Consider events (A) the player matches 2 "main" numbers and 1 "lucky star" number and (B) the player matches 1 "main" number and 2 "lucky star" numbers. Separately compute the probabilities of A & B. Which are more likely?


Homework Equations



Hyper geometric Distribution and additiive probability?

The Attempt at a Solution


Sorry for no latex, I couldn't seem to figure it out for the hypergeometric..

A: I had [(5 choose 2)*(45 choose 3)]/(50 choose 5) + [(2 choose 1)*(9 choose 1)]/(11 choose 2)=.39

B: I had [(5 choose 1)*(45 choose 4)]/(50 choose 5) + [(2 choose 2)*(9 choose 0)]/(11 choose 2)=.37


Not sure if this is right..
 
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  • #2
mynameisfunk said:
A: I had [(5 choose 2)*(45 choose 3)]/(50 choose 5) + [(2 choose 1)*(9 choose 1)]/(11 choose 2)=.39
(Assuming the question means exactly 2 main numbers, etc., not at least 2...)
Not a bad start, but think again about how to combine the two probabilities. You want the probability of two independent events both happening.
 
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1. What is the probability of winning the lottery?

The probability of winning the lottery depends on the specific lottery game being played. Each game has different odds of winning, which are typically displayed on the lottery ticket or on the lottery organization's website. For example, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292,201,338.

2. How are lottery numbers chosen?

Lottery numbers are typically chosen through a random number generator, which ensures that each number has an equal chance of being selected. Some lotteries also use mechanical machines to mix numbered balls and draw the winning numbers.

3. What happens if multiple people have the same winning numbers?

If multiple people have the same winning numbers, the prize is typically divided equally among the winners. For example, if two people have the winning numbers for a $1 million prize, each would receive $500,000.

4. Is it possible to increase my chances of winning the lottery?

The odds of winning the lottery are based on chance and cannot be changed. However, some people believe that certain strategies or systems can increase their chances of winning, but these are not proven to be effective and should not be relied upon.

5. Are lottery drawings truly random?

Yes, lottery drawings are designed to be random and fair, using random number generators or mechanical machines to select the winning numbers. However, there have been rare instances of fraud or manipulation in some lottery drawings, which are quickly investigated and rectified by the lottery organization.

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