GizmosAnswerKey
MathGrade 6-8

Theoretical and Experimental Probability Answer Key

Compare theoretical and experimental probability through simulations and discover the Law of Large Numbers.

Prior Knowledge Questions

Q1.What is probability?

Answer

Probability is the likelihood of an event occurring, expressed as a number between 0 (impossible) and 1 (certain).

Q2.What is theoretical probability?

Answer

Theoretical probability is the expected probability based on mathematical reasoning (favorable outcomes รท total outcomes).

Q3.What is experimental probability?

Answer

Experimental probability is based on actual results from conducting an experiment or trial.

Activity A โ€“ Coin Flips

Q1.What is the theoretical probability of flipping heads on a fair coin?

Answer

1/2 or 0.5 or 50%.

Q2.Why might experimental probability differ from theoretical probability?

Answer

Experimental probability differs due to random variation; with more trials, experimental probability gets closer to theoretical probability (Law of Large Numbers).

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