Elementary Probability with Applications

Elementary Probability with Applications, Second Edition shows students how probability has practical uses in many different fields, such as business, politics, and sports. In the book, students learn about probability concepts from real-world examples rather than theory.

The text explains how probability models with underlying assumptions are used to model actual situations. It contains examples of probability models as they relate to:

• Bloc voting



• Population genetics



• Doubling strategies in casinos



• Machine reliability



• Airline management



• Cryptology



• Blood testing



• Dogs resembling owners



• Drug detection



• Jury verdicts



• Coincidences



• Number of concert hall aisles



• 2000 U.S. presidential election



• Points after deuce in tennis



• Tests regarding intelligent dogs



• Music composition

Based on the author’s course at The College of William and Mary, the text can be used in a one-semester or one-quarter course in discrete probability with a strong emphasis on applications. By studying the book, students will appreciate the subject of probability and its applications and develop their problem-solving and reasoning skills.

Larry Rabinowitz taught mathematics and probability in the mathematics department at The College of William and Mary for over 30 years.