16Hit1600
Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisHardProbability from a two-way table (marginal)

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

Dogs — young: 30, adult: 42 Cats — young: 18, adult: 30

The table shows 120 pets at a shelter by type and age group. If one pet is chosen at random, what is the probability that it is young?

  1. A. 2/5Correct
  2. B. 3/10
  3. C. 1/4
  4. D. 3/5

Answer: A. 2/5

Young pets: 30 + 18 = 48. Probability: 48/120 = 2/5.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 3/10
3/10 would need 36 young pets; there are 48.
C. 1/4
1/4 is 30/120, counting only the young dogs.
D. 3/5
3/5 is the probability the pet is an adult (72/120).

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