Probability

problem

Taking Chances

Age

11 to 14

Challenge level

2 out of 3

This article, for students and teachers, is mainly about probability, the mathematical way of looking at random chance and is a shorter version of Taking Chances Extended.
problem

Can't Find a Coin?

Age

11 to 14

Challenge level

2 out of 3

Can you generate a set of random results? Can you fool the random simulator?
problem

Heavy Hydrocarbons

Age

14 to 18

Challenge level

2 out of 3

Explore the distribution of molecular masses for various hydrocarbons
problem

Molecular Sequencer

Age

14 to 18

Challenge level

2 out of 3

Investigate the molecular masses in this sequence of molecules and deduce which molecule has been analysed in the mass spectrometer.
problem

Peas in a Pod

Age

14 to 16

Challenge level

2 out of 3

What is the chance this pea plant will look like its parents?
problem

Squash

Age

16 to 18

Challenge level

3 out of 3

If the score is 8-8 do I have more chance of winning if the winner is the first to reach 9 points or the first to reach 10 points?
game

Scissors, Paper, Rock

Age

5 to 7

Challenge level

1 out of 3

Play this well-known game against the computer where each player is equally likely to choose scissors, paper or rock. Why not try the variations too?
problem

Probable Words

Age

5 to 7

Challenge level

1 out of 3

If you asked your mum/dad/friend to take you to the park today, what sort of response might you get?
problem

All Change

Age

5 to 7

Challenge level

1 out of 3

There are three versions of this challenge. The idea is to change the colour of all the spots on the grid. Can you do it in fewer throws of the dice?
problem

Two and One

Age

5 to 7

Challenge level

3 out of 3

Terry and Ali are playing a game with three balls. Is it fair that Terry wins when the middle ball is red?