Math Problem Statement

Determine the value of the missing probability for the random variable x where P(x) represents the probability. Given probabilities: P(1) = 0.25, P(2) = 0.2, P(3) = 0.45.

Solution

The table shows the probability distribution for a discrete random variable xx, where each P(x)P(x) represents the probability associated with each possible value of xx. The sum of all probabilities in a probability distribution must equal 1.

From the table:

P(0)+P(1)+P(2)+P(3)=1P(0) + P(1) + P(2) + P(3) = 1

We know:

P(1)=0.25,P(2)=0.20,P(3)=0.45P(1) = 0.25, \quad P(2) = 0.20, \quad P(3) = 0.45

Let P(0)=?P(0) = ?. So, the equation becomes:

P(0)+0.25+0.20+0.45=1P(0) + 0.25 + 0.20 + 0.45 = 1

Now, summing the known probabilities:

0.25+0.20+0.45=0.900.25 + 0.20 + 0.45 = 0.90

Thus,

P(0)+0.90=1P(0) + 0.90 = 1

P(0)=10.90=0.10P(0) = 1 - 0.90 = 0.10

So, the missing probability P(0)P(0) is 0.10.

Would you like more details or have any questions about this?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. What is a probability distribution?
  2. How do you verify that a set of probabilities is valid?
  3. What are the properties of a discrete probability distribution?
  4. How would this change for a continuous distribution?
  5. Can probabilities be negative?

Tip: Always ensure that the sum of all probabilities in any probability distribution equals 1.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Probability Distribution
Discrete Random Variables

Formulas

Sum of probabilities: P(0) + P(1) + P(2) + P(3) = 1

Theorems

Basic Theorem of Probability: Sum of probabilities in a discrete probability distribution equals 1

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8