What is the probability of getting a sum of 10 when rolling two unfair dice?

In summary, the conversation discusses the probability of the sum of two dice being equal to 10. The sum of the probabilities of each number on the dice is 1, and the probability that the two dice show the same number is calculated to be 2/3. After solving for the probabilities of numbers 4 and 6, it is found that the sum of their squares is 13/18. However, after correcting a mistake in the calculation, the correct value for the sum of squares is found to be 7/18. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the various possible cases and an expression for calculating the probability of the sum being 10.
  • #1
Saitama
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Homework Statement


(see attachment)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


The sum of the probabilities of each number on the dice is 1, i.e
[tex]\frac{1}{6}+\frac{1}{6}+\frac{1}{9}+x+\frac{2}{9}+y=1[/tex]
where x and y are the probabilities of number 4 and 6 respectively. Solving,
[tex]x+y=\frac{1}{3}[/tex]

The probability that the two dice shows same number is
[tex]\left(\frac{1}{6} \right)^2+\left(\frac{1}{6} \right)^2+\left(\frac{1}{9} \right)^2+x^2+\left(\frac{2}{9} \right)^2+y^2=\left(\frac{2}{3} \right)^4[/tex]
Solving, [tex]x^2+y^2=\frac{13}{18}[/tex]
Rewriting ##x^2+y^2## as ##(x+y)^2-2xy## and substituting the value of ##x+y##,
[tex]2xy=\frac{-11}{18}[/tex]
For the sum of two resulting numbers to be 10, there are three possible cases. The first shows 4 and the second shows 6 or (4,6). The other cases are (5,5) and (6,4).
The probability that the sum of the two resulting numbers is 10 can be given by the expression:
[tex]2xy+\left(\frac{2}{9} \right)^2[/tex]
Substituting the value of ##2xy##, I get a negative answer. :confused:

Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
 

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  • #2
I think you are just messing up the arithmetic. I don't get x^2+y^2=13/18. Check it.
 
  • #3
Dick said:
I think you are just messing up the arithmetic. I don't get x^2+y^2=13/18. Check it.

Oh yes, I missed a factor of 9 in the denominator. :redface:

Thanks Dick! :smile:
 

Related to What is the probability of getting a sum of 10 when rolling two unfair dice?

What is the concept of "Probability - two unfair dice"?

The concept of "Probability - two unfair dice" is the study of the likelihood or chance of obtaining a particular outcome when rolling two dice that are not equally likely to land on each side. This means that the dice have different probabilities for each possible outcome.

How do you calculate the probability of rolling a specific number on two unfair dice?

To calculate the probability of rolling a specific number on two unfair dice, you need to first determine the probability of rolling that number on each individual die. Then, you multiply the individual probabilities together to get the overall probability of rolling that number on both dice. For example, if one die has a 1/6 chance of rolling a 3 and the other die has a 1/4 chance of rolling a 3, the overall probability of rolling a 3 on both dice is 1/6 x 1/4 = 1/24.

Can two unfair dice have the same probabilities for each possible outcome?

Yes, two unfair dice can have the same probabilities for each possible outcome. However, this is not very common as the whole point of having unfair dice is to have different probabilities for each outcome. Two equal dice would be considered fair.

What is the difference between fair and unfair dice?

Fair dice have an equal probability for each possible outcome, meaning that each side has an equal chance of landing facing up. Unfair dice, on the other hand, have different probabilities for each outcome, meaning that certain sides are more likely to land facing up than others. This can be achieved through altering the weight distribution or shape of the dice.

Are unfair dice used in real-life applications?

Yes, unfair dice are used in real-life applications such as gambling and board games. In gambling, casinos often use loaded dice to increase their chances of winning. In board games, designers may use unfair dice to add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the game. However, it is important for players to be aware of the fairness of the dice in order to make informed decisions.

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