Binomial

 

Example

a) On this example we will examine the probability a couple who has 8 children and has exactly 5 boys.

b) Next we will look at the probability that they have more than 5 boys.

c) Finally we will look at the probability that they have at most 5 boys.

Assume a .5 chance of having a boy.

Solution can be solved using excel.

a) On this example we will examine the probability a couple who has 8 children has exactly 5 boys.

Type this in an excel cell

=binom.dist(5,8,.5,False)

and then hit enter

.21875 would be the answer

b) Next we will look at the probability that they have more than 5 boys.

Type this in an excel cell

=1-binom.dist(5,8,.5,True)

and then hit enter

.144531 would be the answer

c) Finally we will look at the probability that they have at most 5 boys.

Assume a .5 chance of having a boy.

Type this  in an excel cell

=binom.dist(5,8,.5,True)

and hit enter

.855469 would be the answer

Note: We use “true” if we’re calculating a cumulative probability. We use “false” to calculate the exact probability. 

Instructions for your initial post:

For your initial post, create a similar problem with 3 scenarios for your classmates to solve. Creativity and originality are welcomed 🙂 No minimum word count required. Do not give the answers in your initial post – that will be one of your response posts (keep reading….).

At least two response posts required (no minimum word count required):

For one post, answer a classmate’s exercise – show your Excel work/steps and explain your thought process.