Question

which of the following is correct when tossing a coin?
the probability of getting heads is 1.
the probability of getting heads is 0.
tossing a coin in any trial is dependent on the previous trials.
the probability of getting heads is 1/2.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze probability of getting heads

When tossing a fair coin, there are 2 possible outcomes (heads or tails). The probability formula is \(P=\frac{\text{Number of favorable outcomes}}{\text{Total number of outcomes}}\). For getting heads, the number of favorable outcomes is 1 and total number of outcomes is 2. So \(P(\text{heads})=\frac{1}{2}\).

Step2: Analyze independence of coin - toss trials

Each coin - toss trial is independent. The result of one toss does not affect the result of another toss. So the statement "Tossing a coin in any trial is dependent on the previous trials" is wrong. Also, probability of getting heads is not 1 (certain event) or 0 (impossible event) as there are two possible outcomes.

Answer:

The probability of getting heads is \(1/2\).