Why?

As you know the theoretical probability of a coin landing on heads is 50% (1/2). But does this happen in reality? It is possible for me to flip a coin 3 times and get three heads so why is it 50%?

This activity explores the relationship with theoretical and experimental probability. As you enter your data make sure you watch the graph at the top to see how it is changing as you and your class mates enter more information.

Instructions

Step 1) Get a coin or use the virtual coin flipper. 

Step 2) Flip the coin and record the result in the form below.

Step 3) Keep flipping and recording until you reach the end of the form and click 'submit'.

Step 4) Once you have done that you can 'submit another response' and repeat steps 1-3 again.

Happy flipping!

Task: Answer the following questions

1. What is the theoretical probability of the coin landing on heads - p (Heads) =

2. Flip the coin 10 times. What was your actual result? Was there a difference with the theoretical probability? Why or why not?

3. Look at the graph with the cumulative results of everyones experiment. What do you notice? Why is this?

Extension

4. What is the probability of  getting two head in a row?

5. What is the probability of  getting five heads in a row?  Getting ten heads in a row?

Credit to J. Evison for spreadsheet back end and content.