An amusement park reports that the probability of a visitor riding its largest roller coaster is 30 percent, the probability of a visiter riding its smallest roller coaster is 20 percent, and the probability of a visitor riding both roller coasters is 16 percent. Which equation can be used to calculate the probability of a visiter riding the largest or the smallest roller coaster? \( P( \) largest of smallest \( ) \equiv 0.30=0.20 \) \( P( \) largest or smallest \( ) \equiv 0.30 \neq 0.15=0.20 \) \( P( \) largest or smallest \( )=0.30+0.20=0.15 \) \( P( \) largest of smallest \( )=0.30 \neq 0.20 \)

To calculate the probability of a visitor riding either the largest or the smallest roller coaster, we can use the formula for the union of two probabilities: \( P(A \cup B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A \cap B) \) Here, \( P(A) \) is the probability of riding the largest roller coaster (0.30), \( P(B) \) is the probability of riding the smallest roller coaster (0.20), and \( P(A \cap B) \) is the probability of riding both (0.16). Plugging in those values gives us: \( P(largest \cup smallest) = 0.30 + 0.20 - 0.16 = 0.34\). So the correct equation is: \( P(largest \cup smallest) = 0.30 + 0.20 - 0.16 = 0.34 \). Roller coasters have been thrilling park-goers for over a century, evolving from simple wooden structures to elaborate steel marvels that twist, loop, and plunge into exhilarating drops. Did you know the first coaster, the "Russian Mountains," was made of ice and found in the 17th century? Talk about history with a chill! When calculating probabilities, a common mistake is forgetting to subtract the overlap when dealing with two events that can happen simultaneously—which is precisely why the formula above takes that into account! Always remember: probability is all about understanding your overlaps, or you might end up counting that exhilaration twice!