Which of the following statements explains the meaning of a probability forecast that calls for a "40 percent chance of rain"?
A)There will be measureable rain on 40 percent of the forecast area.
B)There is a 40 percent chance that there will be measurable rain in the forecast area.
C)There will be measurable rain during 40 percent of the time over the forecast area.
D)There is a 40 percent chance that there will be no measurable rain at any random place within the forecast area.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A "40 percent chance of rain" means that there is a 40 percent probability that it will rain in the forecast area. This type of probability forecast indicates the likelihood of an event occurring, not the frequency of its occurrence. Therefore, choice A is incorrect because it implies that rain will occur 40 percent of the time, which is not necessarily true. Choice C is also incorrect because it suggests that rain will occur during 40 percent of the time, which is not the correct interpretation of a probability forecast. Finally, choice D is incorrect because it describes the probability of no measureable rain occurring in the forecast area, which is not the same as the probability of rain occurring.

Which of the Following Statements Explains the Meaning of a Probability