Grade 12 · Binomial probability
Binomial probability: A mean that is not an integer
Binomial probability: investigate a mean that is not an integer with trial count n = 7; success probability p = 0.25.
Predict what will happen, press Play, then pause and explain what changed. Every control also works without playback.
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Counting successes in a fixed set of independent, identical-probability trials gives a binomial model. Its probability masses belong to integer outcomes, while the expected count may be fractional. Scanning exact masses distinguishes a theoretical distribution from the noisy frequencies of one simulated sample. This investigation starts with Trial count n = 7; Success probability p = 0.25. Predict the result before playing, then change one parameter while keeping the other fixed to test the reason for the change.
A relationship to keep
P(X=k)=C(n,k)pᵏ(1−p)ⁿ⁻ᵏ; E[X]=np
Read the symbols alongside the explanation. A diagram shows the relationship; the assumptions tell you when it applies.
- STEP 1
Set up the mathematical model
Specify the number of trials and common probability, then check that the model's independence assumption is meaningful. The starting case is “A mean that is not an integer.”
- STEP 2
Follow the changing quantity
Scan counts from zero to n. Each highlighted bar reports exact mass and the cumulative probability through that count.
- STEP 3
Explain and test the result
Compare the distribution with its mean np and predict how an observed count table could be checked against expected counts. A good fit would not itself prove independence.
Your turn to explain
Make a prediction. Test your reasoning.
Keep Trial count n = 7; Success probability p = 0.25. Pause the timeline at 20%. Given success count = 1, calculate exact mass p(x=k), cumulative p(x≤k), mean np. Show the substitution into the displayed formula.
Use the values specified in the question. Reset restores the initial values for this investigation.
Compare your explanation
For k=1, C(7,1)(0.25)^1(1−0.25)^6=0.311462. Adding this formula from k=0 through 1 gives 0.444946; the mean is 7(0.25)=1.75. Results: Exact mass P(X=k): 0.311; Cumulative P(X≤k): 0.445; Mean np: 1.75. Decimal values are rounded; retain the original parameters when checking.
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