What is the Probability of Owning Either a Microwave or CD Player?

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SUMMARY

The probability that Joe owns either a microwave or a CD player, but not both, is calculated to be 40%. Given that the probability of owning a microwave is 75%, a CD player is 45%, and both is 40%, the individual probabilities for owning only a microwave and only a CD player are determined to be 35% and 5%, respectively. The solution effectively utilizes basic probability principles and suggests visualizing the scenario with a Venn diagram for clarity.

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Homework Statement



The probability that Joe owns a microwave oven is 75%; the probability that he owns a CD player is 45%; and the probability that he owns both is 40%. Find the probability that he owns either one but not both.

Homework Equations



(work posted below)

The Attempt at a Solution



P(only microwave)= .75-.4 = .35
P(only CD Player) = .45 - .4 = .05
P(only micr. or CD Pl) = .35 + .05 = .4

Answer = .4
 
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You got it! Try visualizing it with a Venn diagram: 2 overlapping circles representing probabilities that he owns either or both, surrounded by a large circle that represents probability that he owns either, both, or neither. (Hint: probability he owns neither is 0.2)
 

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