Calculating Chances of Success with Binomial Distribution: A Homework Example

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the chances of getting a desired outcome once in six attempts with a 20% success rate, the binomial distribution formula is used. The user initially misapplies the formula, particularly in the factorial notation. A more straightforward approach is to calculate the probability of failing all six attempts and then subtract that from one to find the probability of at least one success. Clarification on the correct use of factorials and the binomial distribution is necessary for accurate calculations. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving similar problems effectively.
Schmidtter
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Homework Statement


I am trying to figure out if I have a 20% chance to get what I want (let it = x) and I have 6 chances to do so (n=6), I am curious how I set this question up to find out my chances of getting 'x' once out of the 6 times I try.

Homework Equations


Binomial Distribution.

x! / y!(x - y)!


The Attempt at a Solution



x = 0.2
y = 0.8

= 0.8! / 0.2! (0.8 - 0.2)!
= 40320 / 1440
= 28

Any help would be appreciated.
 
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I don't think you quite get the binomial distribution. What is '.8!' suppose to mean? You might want to review it. On the other hand, the easy way to solve this problem is to figure out your odds of losing 6 straight times, call it P. Then your odds of winning are 1-P.
 
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