Richard C. answered • 06/08/22
Tutor
5
(4)
Confidence-building SAT math tutor and author of SAT math books
Magnolia C.
asked • 08/12/19math probability word problem
A bowl contains 6 balls, marked with the numerals 1 through 6. If two balls are picked out at random, what is the probability that numbers 5 and 6 will both be picked?
(1) 1/30 (4)1/6
(2) 1/15 (5)1/12
(3) 1/5
More
2 Answers By Expert Tutors
There are 36 possible equally likely outcomes and 2 of them satisfy the requirements of the problem (6,5) and (5,6)
Probability=2/36=1/18
Eka V.
1/30 because the first ball has probability 1/6, the second - 1/5. multiplying them together, we get 1/30.
Report
08/15/19
Paul M.
tutor
I don’t agree. The probability on the first pick is the probability of a 5 or a 6 which is 1/3; then the probability on the 2nd pick is 1/6 to pick the number not already picked. The required probability is 1/18 as I said originally...even though it is not in the approved answers, it is correct!
Report
08/15/19
Paul M.
tutor
If the balls are picked one at a time WITHOUT replacement, then the probability is 1/3*1/5=1/15 but as the problem is stated the probability is 1/18!
Report
08/15/19
Still looking for help? Get the right answer, fast.
Ask a question for free
Get a free answer to a quick problem.
Most questions answered within 4 hours.
OR
Find an Online Tutor Now
Choose an expert and meet online. No packages or subscriptions, pay only for the time you need.
Magnolia C.
Thats wrong i dont have 1/18 as one of my answers08/13/19