Question

Consider the statement, "The probability that an individual wins the lottery is one in a million." (a) provide an interpretation for the statement in terms of the symmetry definition of probability. If you are unable to do so , explain. (b) Provide an interpretation for the statement in term of the frequency definition of probability. If you are unable to do so , explain.

Answer 1

Answer :

Given statement is :

The probability that an individual wins the lottery is one in a million.

a)

In terms of the symmetry definition of probability :

If there are 1 million outcomes,that is equally likely to occur.

therefore,

probability P(E) = 1 / million

Where E = Event of an individual wins the lottery.

b)

In term of the frequency definition of probability :

Using classical definition :

P(E) = Frequency(X) / Million

= 1 / million.

Where X = No.of individuals wins out of one million.