The probability of a compound event can be found using the Addition Rule.
For mutually exclusive events, the probability of their union is the sum of their individual probabilities.
For non-mutually exclusive events, you must subtract the probability of their intersection from the sum of their individual probabilities.
The intersection of two events represents the outcomes they have in common.
The complement of a compound event includes all outcomes that are not part of the event.
Review Questions
What is a compound event and how does it differ from a simple event?
How do you calculate the probability of a compound event for mutually exclusive events?
Explain how to use the Addition Rule for non-mutually exclusive events.
Related terms
Simple Event: An outcome or an event that cannot be broken down into simpler components.
Mutually Exclusive Events: Events that cannot happen at the same time.
Addition Rule: A principle used to calculate the probability of either one event or another occurring by adding their individual probabilities and adjusting for any overlap.