A First Course in Statistics, 12th Edition

3.1 Events, Sample Spaces, and Probability

Let’s begin our treatment of probability with straightforward examples that are easily described. With the aid of these simple examples, we can introduce important definitions that will help us develop the notion of probability more easily.

Suppose a coin is tossed once and the up face is recorded. The result we see is called an observation, or measurement, and the process of making an observation is called an experiment. Notice that our definition of experiment is broader than the one used in the physical sciences, which brings to mind test tubes, microscopes, and other laboratory equipment. Statistical experiments may include, in addition to these things, recording an Internet user’s preference for ...