Fifty Challenging Problems in Probability with Solutions

Frederick Mosteller, Stanley Appelbaum

$24.95

Paperback

In stock
Ready to ship

QTY:

English

Dover
01 May 1987

Mathematics & Sciences; Probability & statistics

Summary
Details

Remarkable puzzlers, graded in difficulty, illustrate elementary and advanced aspects of probability. These problems were selected for originality, general interest, or because they demonstrate valuable techniques. Also includes detailed solutions.

Can you solve the problem of ""The Unfair Subway""? Marvin gets off work at random times between 3 and 5 p.m. His mother lives uptown, his girlfriend downtown. He takes the first subway that comes in either direction and eats dinner with the one he is delivered to. His mother complains that he never comes to see her, but he says she has a 50-50 chance. He has had dinner with her twice in the last 20 working days. Explain. Marvin's adventures in probability are one of the fifty intriguing puzzles that illustrate both elementary ad advanced aspects of probability, each problem designed to challenge the mathematically inclined. From ""The Flippant Juror"" and ""The Prisoner's Dilemma"" to ""The Cliffhanger"" and ""The Clumsy Chemist,"" they provide an ideal supplement for all who enjoy the stimulating fun of mathematics. Professor Frederick Mosteller, who teaches statistics at Harvard University, has chosen the problems for originality, general interest, or because they demonstrate valuable techniques. In addition, the problems are graded as to difficulty and many have considerable stature. Indeed, one has ""enlivened the research lives of many excellent mathematicians."" Detailed solutions are included. There is every probability you'll need at least a few of them.

By: Frederick Mosteller, Stanley Appelbaum
Imprint: Dover
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 136mm, Spine: 215mm
Weight: 130g
ISBN: 9780486653556
ISBN 10: 0486653552
Publication Date: 01 May 1987
Audience: College/higher education , A / AS level , Further / Higher Education
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Unspecified