In: Statistics and Probability
A flycatcher is trying to catch passing bugs and will keep going until it gets one, or until it has tried five times, whichever comes first. The probability that it catches a bug on any given try is 20%, and each try is independent.
a) What is the probability that it catches its first bug on an even-numbered attempt?
b) What is the probability that it catches its first bug on an odd-numbered attempt?
c) What is the probability that the bird gives up before catching a fly?