- Experimental Probability is calculated from actual results of an experiment: P(event) = (number of times event occurs) / (total number of trials). For example, if a coin is tossed 10 times and lands on heads 7 times, the experimental probability of heads is 7/10.
- Theoretical Probability is calculated using mathematical reasoning about all possible outcomes: P(event) = (number of favorable outcomes) / (total number of possible outcomes). For a fair coin, the theoretical probability of heads is 1/2, since there are two equally likely outcomes.
- The key difference is that experimental probability is based on observed data from trials, while theoretical probability is based on expected outcomes assuming ideal conditions.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of theoretical and experimental probability worksheet 7th grade.