Probability of Getting Red at Least Once in Two Spins of a Wheel with 8 Colors

Thread starter pace
Start date Mar 5, 2008
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Independent Probability

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The discussion revolves around calculating the probability of landing on red at least once when spinning a wheel with eight colors, including red, twice. Participants explore various probability formulas, initially struggling to arrive at the correct answer of approximately 0.234. Key points include recognizing that the total outcomes can be categorized into four scenarios: RR, RN, NR, and NN, with only three being favorable for at least one red. The conversation emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between probabilities of exact outcomes versus at least one occurrence, leading to the realization that the correct approach involves summing the probabilities of the favorable scenarios. Ultimately, the participants clarify their understanding of probability concepts, particularly in the context of independent events.

Mar 8, 2008

pace

Or "Red at least once means 3 out of 4 outcomes. the 3 outcomes is defined by 'first spin is red', "third spin is not red", "fourth spin is red", and last as 'can be anything'" (Taking out my favorable/can-be-anything.

uh, something like that? Closer? Grr, I don't like getting math not to work, I get so focused on it.

Last edited: Mar 8, 2008