Question

What does it mean when we write p(a)? what is the possible range of values for p(a), and why?

Answer 1

Answer:
`0 \le p(a) \le 1`

The smallest p(a) can get is 0. The largest is 1. Both endpoints are included.

Step-by-step explanation:

I'm assuming p(a) refers to a probability. If so, then p(a) = 0 means there's a 0% chance of the event happening. On the opposite end of the spectrum, p(a) = 1 means there's a 100% chance of the event happening. Most probabilities will fall somewhere in between.

Examples:

• Getting tails on a coin has probability 1/2 = 0.50 = 50%
• Rolling a "4" on a single die has probability of 1/6 = 0.1667 = 16.67% approximately.
• Selecting an ace of spades has the probability 1/52 = 0.0192 = 1.92% approximately.
• The weather forecast saying "There's a 37% chance of rain" means P(a) = 0.37