What is the value of K in the equation 21K = 1?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the value of K in the context of a probability problem involving a loaded die. Participants explore the relationship between K and the probabilities assigned to the outcomes of rolling the die, as well as the implications of the equation 21K = 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for the value of K in the equation K(x^{6}) = 1.
  • Another suggests dividing both sides by x^6, leading to K = 1/x^{6} under the condition that x ≠ 0.
  • A later post clarifies that the original problem involves a loaded die, with probabilities defined as P(roll is i) = K*i for i = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • One participant notes that K must be determined such that the total probability sums to 1, leading to the equation K + 2K + 3K + 4K + 5K + 6K = 1.
  • Another participant confirms that this simplifies to 21K = 1, proposing K = 1/21 as a solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the formulation of the problem and the need to find K, but there is some uncertainty regarding the initial interpretation of the equation and the context of the loaded die.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the loading of the die and the implications of the probabilities assigned to each face. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of the initial problem statement.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in probability theory, particularly in the context of loaded dice and probability distributions, may find this discussion relevant.

Jason76
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What is the value of K?

K(x^{6}) = 1
 
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Suppose $x\ne0$ and you divide both sides by $x^6$...what do you get?
 
MarkFL said:
Suppose $x\ne0$ and you divide both sides by $x^6$...what do you get?

K(x^{6}) = 1

\dfrac{K(x^{6})}{x^{6}} = \dfrac{1}{x^{6}} where x \ne 0

K = \dfrac{1}{x^{6}}

Actually, here is the original problem:

A die has its six faces loaded so that P(roll is i)=K*x for x=1,2,3,4,5,6. It is rolled until an even number appears. Let X be the number of rolls needed.

Next finding K is needed. Sorry if in wrong section. This is for probability.
 
Last edited:
I've moved the thread, and will wait until someone more proficient at probability to chime in. :D
 
MarkFL said:
I've moved the thread, and will wait until someone more proficient at probability to chime in. :D

It seems like a long time ago, the professor said something about differentiation and also used Wolfram Alpha.
 
Hi Jason,

I take it that should be P(roll is i)=K*i?
If so, K must be such that all chances sum to 1.
So:
$$K\cdot 1 + ... + K\cdot 6 = 1$$
Can we find K from that?
 
I like Serena said:
...I take it that should be P(roll is i)=K*i?...

I also thought that might be the intended problem. :D
 
Contacted the professor.

K + 2K + 3K + 4K + 5K + 6K = 1

is the correct format so

21K = 1

so

K = \dfrac{1}{21}
 

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