Single card from a well-shuffled deck: What is the probability of drawing a queen of clubs or a king of hearts?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1/26

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We consider two specific distinct cards in a standard deck. The probability of drawing one of them is the count of favorable cards divided by 52.


Given Data / Assumptions:
Two distinct favorable cards: Q♣ and K♥; deck size = 52; uniform randomness.


Concept / Approach:
Since the events are disjoint singletons, add their probabilities.


Step-by-Step Solution:

P(Q♣ or K♥) = 1/52 + 1/52 = 2/52 = 1/26


Verification / Alternative check:
Counting directly: 2 favorable outcomes out of 52.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1/52 counts only one; 1/13 treats a whole rank or suit; 1/39 mixes numerator/denominator incorrectly.


Common Pitfalls:
Accidentally assuming overlap; these are different cards.


Final Answer:
1/26

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