Empirical probability

Definition

Empirical probability is the probability of an event determined by conducting experiments or observing real-life occurrences. It is calculated as the ratio of the number of favorable outcomes to the total number of trials.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Empirical probability relies on actual data collected from experiments or observations.
2. It is different from theoretical probability, which is based on expected outcomes without actual trials.
3. The formula for empirical probability is P(E) = Number of favorable outcomes / Total number of trials.
4. Empirical probability can change with more data or additional trials, making it dynamic and adaptable.
5. A larger number of trials generally leads to a more accurate estimate of the empirical probability.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes empirical probability from theoretical probability?
• How do you calculate empirical probability?
• Why might empirical probabilities become more accurate with an increased number of trials?

Related terms

Theoretical Probability: Theoretical Probability is determined based on known possible outcomes without conducting experiments.

Relative Frequency: Relative Frequency refers to how often an event occurs relative to the total number of observations.

Law of Large Numbers: The Law of Large Numbers states that as the number of trials increases, the empirical probability will tend to get closer to the theoretical probability.