PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 130: Answer and Explanation

Question: 130

Based on the table, what is the approximate probability that a guest will be an adult, if the guest orders the chicken?

• A. 0.28
• B. 0.49
• C. 0.53
• D. 0.72

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

The question asks for a probability, which is defined as . Read the table carefully to find the numbers to make the probability. There are 1,143 male adults and 1,237 female adults who ordered chicken, so there are 1,143 + 1,237 = 2,380 total adults who ordered chicken. This is the number of outcomes you want. The total possible outcomes includes everyone who ordered chicken. There are also 924 children who ordered chicken, so there are 924 + 2,380 = 3,304 possible outcomes. Therefore, the probability is . The answer choices are expressed as decimals, so divide 2,380 by 3,304 to find that this is approximately 0.72. The correct answer is (D).