Discrete Probability Distributions

Introduction

In the previous chapter we discussed the basic concepts of probability and described how the rules of addition and multiplication were used to compute probabilities. In this chapter we expand the study of probability to include the concept of a probability distribution.

What is a Probability Distribution?

A probability distribution shows the possible outcomes of an experiment and the probability of each of these outcomes.

Probability distribution: A listing of all the outcomes of an experiment and the probability associated with

each outcome.

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How can we generate a probability distribution? As an example, the possible outcomes on the roll of a single die are shown at right.

Number of Spots on Die Probability

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