If the probability that an identified hurricane will make a direct hit on a certain stretch of beach is 0.10, what are the odds in favor of a direct hit?
a. 1:10 b. 1:9 c. 9:1 d. 8:1
To calculate the odds in favor of an event, you need to divide the probability of the event occurring by the probability of the event not occurring.
In this case, the probability of a direct hit is 0.10, and the probability of no direct hit (or not occurring) is 1 - 0.10 = 0.90.
Next, divide the probability of a direct hit by the probability of no direct hit:
0.10 / 0.90 = 1/9.
So, the odds in favor of a direct hit are 1:9.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. 1:9.
c: 9:1
"Longshot" odds (low probability events) have the higher number first.