Question

what is the probability of picking up a red sock, from a basket containing 8 red socks and 12 white socks?

Explanation:

Step1: Find total number of socks

Total socks = Red socks + White socks = \( 8 + 12 = 20 \)

Step2: Calculate probability of red sock

Probability = \( \frac{\text{Number of red socks}}{\text{Total number of socks}} = \frac{8}{20} \)
Simplify \( \frac{8}{20} \) by dividing numerator and denominator by 4: \( \frac{8\div4}{20\div4} = \frac{2}{5} \)

Answer:

\( \frac{2}{5} \) (corresponding to the option with \( \frac{2}{5} \))