2 Basic Reliability Mathematics Probability

DOI: 10.1201/9781003307495-2

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter, we discuss the elements of probability theory relevant to the study of reliability of engineered systems. Probability is a concept that people use formally and casually every day. Weather forecasts are probabilistic in nature. People use probability in their casual conversations to show their perception of the likely occurrence or nonoccurrence of particular events. Odds are given for the outcomes of sport events and are used in gambling. The formal use of probability concepts is widespread in physics, astronomy, biology, finance, and engineering.

We begin with a presentation of basic concepts of probability and Boolean algebra used ...

Get Reliability and Risk Analysis, 2nd Edition now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.