Class 9 Mathematics Exercise 11.3 – Probability (Complete Explanation with Examples)
Probability is a key concept in Class 9 Mathematics that helps students understand how likely an event is to occur. Exercise 11.3 focuses on applying probability formulas to real exam-style problems, including sample spaces, relative frequency, and expected outcomes.
This exercise is important because it develops logical thinking and prepares students for advanced topics in statistics and decision-making.
Basic Concept of Probability
Probability measures the chance of an event occurring. It is always a number between 0 and 1.
Probability Formula:
P(E) = Number of Favorable Outcomes / Total Number of Possible Outcomes
If an event is certain, its probability is 1. If it is impossible, its probability is 0.
Sample Space
The sample space is the set of all possible outcomes of an experiment.
Example: When tossing a coin, the sample space is {Head, Tail}.
Relative and Expected Frequency
Relative Frequency
Relative frequency is based on experimental results.
Formula:
Relative Frequency = Frequency of Event / Total Number of Trials
Expected Frequency
Expected frequency predicts how many times an event will occur.
Formula:
Expected Frequency = Probability × Number of Trials
Step-by-Step Solved Examples
Example 1: Letters of a Word
Find probability from the word ALLAH.
Total letters = 5
- Vowels (A appears twice): P = 2/5
- Letter H (1 occurrence): P = 1/5
- Letter L (2 occurrences): P = 2/5
- Consonants (L, L, H = 3): P = 3/5
This type of question checks your understanding of counting outcomes correctly.
Example 2: Factory Production
A factory produces:
- 7000 Jackets
- 2000 Sweaters
- 3000 Trousers
Total items = 12000
Faulty items = 18
- Probability of selecting a trouser = 3000 / 12000 = 1/4
- Probability of selecting a faulty item = 18 / 12000 = 3/2000
This example shows how probability is applied in real-life situations.
Example 3: Special Dice
A 10-sided dice has numbers: 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 6, 7, 8
- P(4) = 4/10 = 2/5
- Prime numbers (5, 5, 7): P = 3/10
- Factors of 12 (4 and 6): total = 5 → P = 1/2
This type of question tests your ability to identify conditions within a sample space.
Example 4: Expected Frequency
If probability of getting heads is 3/5 and coin is tossed 520 times:
Expected heads = (3/5) × 520 = 312
If probability of getting 6 on a dice is 1/8 and rolled 6000 times:
Expected number of 6s = (1/8) × 6000 = 750
These questions are very common in exams and carry good marks.
Important Rules in Probability
- The sum of probabilities of all outcomes is always 1
- P(Event) + P(Not Event) = 1
- Probability can never be negative
- Impossible events have probability 0
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect counting of total outcomes
- Forgetting to simplify fractions
- Misinterpreting the question
- Mixing up favorable and total outcomes
Careful reading and proper step-by-step working can prevent these errors.
Exam Tips for Exercise 11.3
- Always write the probability formula first
- Clearly define sample space
- Show all steps for full marks
- Simplify answers properly
- Practice different types of questions
Examiners reward clear method and logical presentation.
Why This Exercise Is Important
Probability is not just a mathematical topic. It is used in science, business, and daily decision-making. Understanding this chapter improves analytical thinking and problem-solving ability.
Strong command over Exercise 11.3 helps in both board exams and higher-level mathematics.
Explore More Lessons
Find more Class 9 Mathematics notes, solved exercises, and concept-based lessons on the STEMBridge Learning platform.
Related Posts
- Class 9 Mathematics - Measure of Central Tendency
- Class 9 Mathematics - Exercise 11.2 Basic Statistics
- Class 9 Mathematics - Statistics (Theoretical Part)
Class 9 Mathematics Exercise 11.3 – Probability is essential for building a strong understanding of how events and outcomes are analyzed mathematically. With consistent practice and clear concepts, students can solve even complex questions with confidence.
STEMBridge Learning provides structured and exam-focused explanations to help students achieve better results.
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