Math Is Fun Forum

karney

Guest

probability problem with cards

Two cards are simultaneously drawn from an ordinary deck.  The probability that they're not both the same suit is?   Thanks!

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: probability problem with cards

Hi karney;

First card could be any card out of 52
Second card 39 out of the 51 remaining

Last edited by bobbym (2009-05-27 12:37:52)

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In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.

JoAnnI

Guest

Re: probability problem with cards

Where do you get the 39/51? 

Thanks...

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: probability problem with cards

Hi JoAnni;

  After you have picked some card there are 51 left and 12 of the same suit as the card you already picked. You don't want any of those 12, so there are 39 (51-12=39) that are not of the same suit.

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In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.