Dec 11, 2024, 6:00 PM
Dec 11, 2024, 6:00 PM

Mathematician Sarah Hart reveals why unlikely events occur more than you think

Highlights
  • The mathematician Sarah Hart experienced a coincidence in a cafe where her PIN matched the bathroom door code.
  • Statistically, such coincidences can be explained, with a 1 in 10,000 chance for matching PINs.
  • The experience underscores that coincidences are more common than perceived and can have important implications.
Story

In a cafe in York, UK, a mathematician named Sarah Hart experienced a peculiar coincidence where the PIN she entered into a card reader matched the bathroom entry code handed to her by the barista. This event prompted her to reflect on the nature and occurrence of coincidences. Hart noted that while seemingly improbable, such coincidences can often be explained through mathematics. With 10,000 possible four-digit numbers for PINs, the odds of the door code matching her PIN were 1 in 10,000. However, given York's annual influx of 8.9 million tourists, she estimated that approximately 890 people might have similar PINs at the cafe throughout the year. This revelation highlighted that coincidences may not be as extraordinary as they appear. The story serves as a reminder of the inherent unpredictability of events and how probability can play a significant role in interpreting these experiences. Moreover, Hart's insights can extend beyond casual coincidence, impacting various fields including the law, science, and even the lottery, where similar probability principles apply.

Opinions

You've reached the end