Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Discrete random variables

Discrete random variables — practice question

A fair ordinary die is rolled over and over until either a 1 or a 6 appears.
(a)[3]

Find the probability that obtaining a 1 or a 6 requires at least 3 throws but no more than 5 throws.

(b)[3]

In a separate trial, the die is thrown 3 times. The random variable $X$ counts how many times a 1 or a 6 is obtained. Draw the probability distribution table for $X$.

(c)[2]

Find the value of $\text{E}(X)$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: At least one suitable term of the form $(1-p)p^k$ with $0 \le p \le 1$.

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