The probability of winning the jackpot in a lottery game depends on the specific game and the number of possible combinations. For Mega Millions, the probability of winning the jackpot is about 1 in 302 million, while for Powerball, the probability is about 1 in 292 million. The odds of winning the jackpot are the same as the probability of winning.
The expected value for the minimum payout for winning also varies depending on the game and the specific prize category. For example, in Mega Millions, the minimum prize for matching just the Mega Ball is $2, and the expected value for this prize is about $0.10. The current expected value of a lottery game is calculated as the sum of the probability of winning each prize multiplied by the value of that prize.
The statement "someone has to win" is technically true, as eventually, a winner will be chosen. However, it is not a valid reason to play the lottery, as the probability of winning is so low that it is not a reliable or rational way to try to make money.
The statements "you are more likely to be struck by lightning," "you are more likely to be bitten by a shark," and "it is more likely that it will snow in Death Valley" are all true. The probability of being struck by lightning is about 1 in 15,000, the probability of being bitten by a shark is about 1 in 11.5 million, and it has snowed in Death Valley at least twice in history. However, it is important to note that these probabilities are not directly comparable to the probability of winning the lottery, as they represent different types of events. Additionally, while these events are statistically unlikely, they are not impossible, so it is always a good idea to take safety precautions and be prepared for unexpected events.