Moderate -0.8 This is a straightforward application of the multiplication rule for independent events with basic probability fractions. Students set up P(plum from Jameel) × P(plum from Rosa) = 1/4, giving (5/8) × (x/(x+6)) = 1/4, then solve the simple linear equation. Requires only routine probability calculation and basic algebra, making it easier than average.
2 Jameel has 5 plums and 3 apricots in a box. Rosa has \(x\) plums and 6 apricots in a box. One fruit is chosen at random from Jameel's box and one fruit is chosen at random from Rosa's box. The probability that both fruits chosen are plums is \(\frac { 1 } { 4 }\). Write down an equation in \(x\) and hence find \(x\). [3]
2 Jameel has 5 plums and 3 apricots in a box. Rosa has $x$ plums and 6 apricots in a box. One fruit is chosen at random from Jameel's box and one fruit is chosen at random from Rosa's box. The probability that both fruits chosen are plums is $\frac { 1 } { 4 }$. Write down an equation in $x$ and hence find $x$. [3]\\
\hfill \mbox{\textit{CAIE S1 2019 Q2 [3]}}