If P(A lives 15 years) = 7/8 and P(B lives 15 years) = 9/10, assuming independence, what is the probability that both A and B are alive after 15 years?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 63/80

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
For independent events, the probability that both occur equals the product of their individual probabilities. Survival-type questions often include this assumption unless stated otherwise.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • P(A survives 15 years) = 7/8.
  • P(B survives 15 years) = 9/10.
  • Independence of the two survival events (as typical in basic probability exercises).


Concept / Approach:
P(A ∩ B) = P(A) * P(B) for independent A and B.



Step-by-Step Solution:
P = (7/8) * (9/10) = 63/80.



Verification / Alternative check:
63/80 = 0.7875 lies between individual probabilities (0.875 and 0.9), as expected for a conjunction.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1/20 and 1/5 are far too small; “None of these” is incorrect since 63/80 is present.



Common Pitfalls:
Adding probabilities instead of multiplying for independent “both happen” scenarios.



Final Answer:
63/80

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