Question

Mr. Doodle’s grade distribution over the past 3 years for a course in college algebra is shown in the chart below.
Grade number
A 45
B 180
C 110
D 95
F 65
I 5

If Jane plans to take a college algebra course with Mr. Doodle, determine the empirical probability that she receives an A

Answer 1

Find the total number of grades, then put 45 on top as the numerator. 3/40 is the answer

Empirical probability is what actually happens while theoretically probability is just sort of like a perfect world case where it is perfectly fair. For example, if a coin were tossed a 100 times, the theoretical probability would be 50% for head and 50% for tails. But in empirical probability where the numbers are based on real life results and testing, the chances may be 53% for head and 47% for tails.

In your question, since the data given is based on actual (Well, fake) real life data to calculate chances, one would be using empirical probability. Theoretical probability would be calculating the chances of getting a A out 6 different possible grades if the chance of getting each grade is equal, According to theoretical probability, the chances would be 1/6 for an A.