Lottery Numbers Are Not Always Equally Distributed Between Odd and Even (Lottery Trivia Answer 2010-04)

Last Week's Trivia Question #2010-04 was: 

In most lotteries, you would think there is a 50% chance of Odd numbers and 50% chance of Even numbers being drawn.

• So, based on historical data, do actual drawing occurrences obey the expected laws of probability?

The Correct Answer is:

• It depends on the Lottery Game you are looking at.
• During the past year, the occurrences of an Odd Powerball being drawn are about 62.5% (or 5 out of 8), whereas only 51.3% are expected.
• And, if you play Mega Millions, odd Megaballs are also drawn more frequently then even ones.
• So when selecting the bonus balls in these 2 games, the odd numbered balls have the advantage.

JL.........