Final answer:
The probability that a cookie contains either chocolate or nuts is 40%, while the probability that a cookie contains neither, making it safe for Sean to eat, is 60%.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject at hand is a problem related to probability, which falls under the category of mathematics. Specifically, we're tasked with determining the likelihood that a cookie in a given assortment contains either chocolate, nuts, or both, which are hazards for Sean who is allergic. We are given that 36% of cookies contain chocolate, 12% contain nuts, and there is an 8% chance that a cookie contains both.
To find the probability of a cookie having chocolate or nuts, we can use the formula: P(A or B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A and B). Substituting the given percentages:
P(Chocolate or Nuts) = P(Chocolate) + P(Nuts) - P(Chocolate and Nuts) = 36% + 12% - 8% = 40%.
Consequently, the probability of a cookie not containing either chocolate or nuts, and thus safe for Sean to eat, can be found by subtracting this result from 100%:
P(Neither Chocolate Nor Nuts) = 100% - P(Chocolate or Nuts) = 100% - 40% = 60%.