Rule of Complementary Events
Rule of complementary events provides a straightforward way to calculate the probability of one event by subtracting the probability of its complementary event from 1. Mathematically, it can be expressed as:
P(A′) = 1 – P(A)
where:
- P(A′) is Probability of Complementary event A’.
- P(A) is Probability of Event A.
Complementary Events Example
Suppose we toss a fair coin. Let event A represent getting heads on the coin toss. The complementary event A’ would then represent getting tails. Since the coin is fair, the probability of getting heads (P(A)) is 0.5. Using the rule of complementary events, we can find the probability of getting tails (P(A′)) as follows:
P(A′) = 1 – P(A)
= 1 − 0.5 = 0.5
Therefore, the probability of getting tails is also 0.5, as expected.
Complementary Events: Definition, Rule, and Examples
Complementary events are fundamental concepts in probability theory that provide insights into the relationship between different outcomes of an experiment or event. In probability, events are not isolated occurrences but often have complementary counterparts that represent the opposite or negation of the original event.
Table of Content
- What is Probability?
- What are Complementary Events in Probability?
- Complementary Events Definition
- Complementary Events Properties
- Rule of Complementary Events
- Complementary Events Example
- Sample Questions on Complementary Events