Final answer:
The probability of two independent events a and b occurring simultaneously is calculated by multiplying their individual probabilities, which results in 0.20.
Step-by-step explanation:
Since a and b are independent events, the probability of both events occurring is found by multiplying their individual probabilities. The probability of event a occurring is 0.40, and the probability of event b occurring is 0.50. Therefore, the probability of both a and b occurring is:
P(a AND b) = P(a) × P(b) = 0.40 × 0.50 = 0.20.
The correct answer to the probability of both independent events a and b occurring is 0.20, which corresponds to option 1) 0.20.