Question

The probability of being struck by lightning is 0.00016. Find the odds against being struck by lightning

Answer 1

`Odds\ Against = 6249:1`

Explanation:

Represent Lightning with L

Given

`P(L) = 0.00016`

Required

Determine the odds against lightning

First, we need to determine the probability of not being struck;

Represent this with P(L')

`P(L') + P(L) = 1`

Make P(L') the subject

`P(L') = 1 - P(L)`

Substitute
`P(L) = 0.00016`

`P(L') = 1 - 0.00016`

`P(L') = 0.99984`

Now, the odds against lightning can be calculated;

`Odds\ Against = (P(L'))/(P(L))`

`Odds\ Against = (0.99984)/(0.00016)`

`Odds\ Against = 6249:1`

The odds against lightning is 6249:1