When two dice are thrown simultaneously, what is the probability …

Physics Questions

Two dice are thrown at the same time. What is the probability that the sum of the two numbers appearing on the top of the dice is (i) at least 9? (ii) 7? (iii) less than or equal to 6? a. (i) 5/36, (ii) 6/36, (iii) 15/36 b. (i) 7/36, (ii) 6/36, (iii) 15/36 c. (i) 10/36, (ii) 6/36, (iii) 15/36 d. (i) 5/36, (ii) 5/36, (iii) 10/36

Short Answer

The total possible outcomes when rolling two dice is 36. The probabilities for specific sums are calculated as follows: at least 9 has a probability of 10/36, exactly 7 is 6/36, and less than or equal to 6 is 15/36. Based on these calculations, the correct option aligns with option (c).

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understanding Possible Outcomes

When rolling two dice, each die can land on any of its 6 faces, resulting in a total of 36 possible outcomes (6 x 6). This basic knowledge is crucial as it serves as the denominator when calculating probabilities for various sums. Identifying all these outcomes helps establish a foundation for further calculations.

Step 2: Calculating Probabilities for Different Sums

To determine the probabilities for specific sums, analyze the pairs that yield these sums. For example:

  • At least 9: The outcomes include pairs like (3,6) and (6,6). There are 10 such outcomes, leading to a probability of 10/36.
  • Exactly 7: The pairs include (1,6) and (6,1), totaling 6 outcomes, giving a probability of 6/36 or 1/6.
  • Less than or equal to 6: Pairs like (1,1) and (2,3) add up to 15 outcomes, resulting in a probability of 15/36.

Step 3: Final Comparison and Conclusion

After calculating these probabilities, they can be compared to determine the correct option. The results are:

  • At least 9: 10/36
  • Exactly 7: 6/36
  • Less than or equal to 6: 15/36

These values closely match option (c), confirming it as the correct answer based on the calculated probabilities.

Related Concepts

Possible Outcomes

The different results that can occur when rolling two dice; specifically, the total number of combinations from the faces of the dice, which is 36 (6 for the first die multiplied by 6 for the second die).

Probability

The measure of the likelihood that a particular outcome will occur; calculated as the number of favorable outcomes divided by the total number of possible outcomes (in this case, the number of favorable pairs that yield a specific sum divided by 36).

Sums

The total values obtained from the outcomes of rolling two dice; these include various combinations that can yield different sums, which are analyzed to determine their respective probabilities.

Scroll to Top