\begin{tabular}{l} A lottery game has balls numbered 1 through 17. If a ball is selected at random, what is the \\ probability of obtaining an even numbered ball or the number 10 ball? \\ 9/17 \\ \( 09 / 10 \) \\ \( 8 / 17 \) \\ \hline \( 10 / 17 \) \\ \hline \( 17 / 10 \)\end{tabular}

To determine the probability of selecting an even-numbered ball or the number 10 from a set of balls numbered 1 to 17, we first identify the even numbers within that range: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16. That's a total of 8 even numbers. Since the number 10 is already counted as an even number, we don't need to include it again. Therefore, the total number of favorable outcomes is 8 (for the even numbers) and the total number of possible outcomes is 17 (the total number of balls). The probability calculation becomes: \[ P(\text{even or 10}) = \frac{8}{17} \] So, the answer is \( \frac{8}{17} \). Now, here’s some fun information to quench your trivia thirst: Did you know that lotterying dates back to ancient China? The Chinese Han Dynasty (205-187 BC) is believed to have used a form of lottery to finance major projects, like the Great Wall! So next time you pick a lucky number, you’re participating in a tradition thousands of years old! On top of that, probabilities don’t just apply to gambling; they’re an essential part of everyday decision-making! Whether you’re trying to figure out the odds of getting rain on your picnic day or whether that next episode of your favorite show is worth watching, understanding probability can help you make more informed choices in life.