Winning the Lottery: Calculating Probabilities of 6 Numbers Out of 34

  • Context: MHB 
  • Thread starter Thread starter stormy
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Probability
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the probability of winning a lottery by selecting 6 numbers from a total of 34. The number of combinations for choosing 6 numbers from 34 is determined using the combination formula C(n, k) = n! / (k!(n-k)!), resulting in 134596 possible combinations. Consequently, the probability of winning with a single ticket is 1 in 134596, or approximately 0.0000074. This analysis provides a clear understanding of the mathematical principles involved in lottery probability calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of combinatorial mathematics, specifically combinations
  • Familiarity with the factorial function and its notation
  • Basic probability theory concepts
  • Knowledge of lottery mechanics and rules
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the combination formula C(n, k) in depth
  • Explore advanced probability concepts, including expected value
  • Learn about different lottery formats and their odds
  • Investigate statistical analysis techniques for large datasets
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, statisticians, lottery enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding probability calculations related to games of chance.

stormy
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
In a certain lottery, you must select 6 numbers (in any order) out of 34 correctly to win.
a.) How many ways can 6 numbers be chosen out of 34 numbers?
b.) You purchase one lottery ticket. What is the probability of winning?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hello and welcome to MHB! :D

We ask that our users show their progress (work thus far or thoughts on how to begin) when posting questions. This way our helpers can see where you are stuck or may be going astray and will be able to post the best help possible without potentially making a suggestion which you have already tried, which would waste your time and that of the helper.

Can you post what you have done so far?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 45 ·
2
Replies
45
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
8K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K