Question

The probability of being struck by lightning is 0.00016. Find the odds against being struck by lightning

Answer 1

Answer:

$Odds\ Against = 6249:1$

Step-by-step explanation:

Represent Lightning with L

Given

$P(L) = 0.00016$

Required

Determine the odds against lightning

First, we need to determine the probability of not being struck;

Represent this with P(L')

$P(L') + P(L) = 1$

Make P(L') the subject

$P(L') = 1 - P(L)$

Substitute $P(L) = 0.00016$

$P(L') = 1 - 0.00016$

$P(L') = 0.99984$

Now, the odds against lightning can be calculated;

$Odds\ Against = \frac{P(L')}{P(L)}$

$Odds\ Against = \frac{0.99984}{0.00016}$

$Odds\ Against = 6249:1$

The odds against lightning is 6249:1