In the Game of Roulette, a Wheel Spins and a Ball

question 144

Multiple Choice

In the game of roulette, a wheel spins and a ball lands at random in one of an equal number of black and red slots. Because the ball landed in a red slot four times in a row, Cal believes it will land in a black slot on the next spin. Which MOST accurately describes the validity of Cal's belief?

• A) Cal is most likely correct because the law of averages should apply.
• B) Cal is most likely correct because the probability of a ball landing in a red slot increases for any spin that immediately follows a black outcome.
• C) Cal is incorrect in believing that random outcomes alternate more than they really do.
• D) Cal is incorrect because the ball would need to land in the red slot several more times in a row before increasing its likelihood of landing in a black slot.

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Definitions:

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome

A genetic condition where a person who is genetically male is resistant to male hormones, leading to the development of female physical traits but male genetic makeup.

Genetically Male

Refers to individuals who have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome in their 23rd chromosomal pair, determining male biological characteristics.

23rd Chromosome

One of the 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans, also known as the sex chromosomes (X and Y), which determine an individual's sex.

Biologically Male

Refers to individuals whose anatomy and genetic composition at birth include male characteristics such as XY chromosomes and male reproductive structures.