Probability formula Question

In summary, to prove the formula P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A\bigcapB), you can use Venn diagrams to visually represent the sets A, B, and their intersection. By considering the areas of these regions, you can show that the formula holds true.
  • #1
GreenPrint
1,196
0

Homework Statement



Show that the formula: P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)

P(AΔB) = P(A[itex]\bigcap B^{c}[/itex])[itex]\bigcup (A^{c}\bigcap B)[/itex]

I don't know where to go from here. Thanks for any help.
 
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  • #2
GreenPrint said:

Homework Statement



Show that the formula: P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)
Show that the formula does what?
GreenPrint said:

Homework Equations

Definition of P(AΔB), perhaps?
GreenPrint said:

The Attempt at a Solution



P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)

P(AΔB) = P(A[itex]\bigcap B^{c}[/itex])[itex]\bigcup (A^{c}\bigcap B)[/itex]

I don't know where to go from here. Thanks for any help.
 
  • #3
Hi GreenPrint! :smile:

Hint: how would you prove area(AΔB) = area(A) + area(B) - 2area(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B) ? :wink:
 
  • #4
GreenPrint said:

Homework Statement



Show that the formula: P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



P(AΔB) = P(A) + P(B) - 2P(A[itex]\bigcap[/itex]B)

P(AΔB) = P(A[itex]\bigcap B^{c}[/itex])[itex]\bigcup (A^{c}\bigcap B)[/itex]

I don't know where to go from here. Thanks for any help.

Use Venn diagrams; that's their purpose.
 

1. What is the probability formula?

The probability formula is a mathematical equation used to calculate the likelihood of an event or outcome occurring. It is expressed as P(A) = n(A)/n(S), where P(A) is the probability of event A occurring, n(A) is the number of outcomes in event A, and n(S) is the total number of possible outcomes.

2. How is the probability formula used in real life?

The probability formula is used in various fields such as statistics, finance, and science to make predictions and decisions based on the likelihood of certain events occurring. For example, it can be used to calculate the chances of winning a game of chance, or to assess the risk of a certain investment.

3. What is the difference between theoretical and experimental probability?

Theoretical probability is a calculation based on mathematical principles and assumptions, while experimental probability is based on actual data collected from experiments or observations. Theoretical probability is used to predict outcomes, while experimental probability is used to analyze and verify the accuracy of predictions.

4. Can the probability formula be used for all types of events?

Yes, the probability formula can be used for all types of events, whether they are simple or complex. It can be applied to events with equally likely outcomes, as well as events with different probabilities for each outcome.

5. What other factors should be considered when using the probability formula?

When using the probability formula, it is important to consider any relevant factors that may affect the outcome, such as sample size, bias, and independence of events. Additionally, the accuracy of the data and assumptions made in the calculation should also be taken into account for more reliable results.

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