Questions: If the odds on a bet are 38:1 against, what is the probability of winning? Express your answer as a fraction.
Answer
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Transcript text: If the odds on a bet are 38:1 against, what is the probability of winning? Express your answer as a fraction.
Answer
How to enter your answer (opens in new window)
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Given Odds Against
The given odds against are \(38:1\).
Step 2: Calculate Total Outcomes
To find the total number of possible outcomes, add the numbers representing the odds:
\[
\text{Total outcomes} = 38 + 1 = 39
\]
Step 3: Calculate Winning Outcomes
The number of winning outcomes is given by the second number in the odds:
\[
\text{Winning outcomes} = 1
\]
Step 4: Calculate Probability of Winning
The probability of winning is the ratio of the number of winning outcomes to the total number of possible outcomes:
\[
\text{Probability of winning} = \frac{1}{39}
\]