The mathematical foundation of dice rolling involves discrete probability distributions, combinatorics, and statistical theory that enables precise analysis of outcomes and probabilities.
Single Die Mathematics:
For a fair n-sided die: P(X = k) = 1/n for each outcome k ∈ {1, 2, ..., n}; Expected value E(X) = (n + 1)/2; Variance Var(X) = (n² - 1)/12; Standard deviation σ = √[(n² - 1)/12].
Example: Standard 6-sided die has E(X) = 3.5, Var(X) = 2.917, σ = 1.708. Each outcome has probability 1/6 ≈ 0.1667 or 16.67%.
Multiple Dice Analysis:
For k independent n-sided dice: Sum S = X₁ + X₂ + ... + Xₖ; E(S) = k × (n + 1)/2; Var(S) = k × (n² - 1)/12; σ(S) = √[k × (n² - 1)/12].
Probability mass function becomes more complex, requiring convolution or generating functions for exact calculations. As k increases, the distribution approaches normal by the central limit theorem.
Statistical Testing:
Chi-square goodness of fit test: χ² = Σ[(Observed - Expected)²/Expected]; Degrees of freedom = (number of outcomes) - 1; Critical values determine if observed frequencies significantly deviate from theoretical expectations.
Confidence intervals for proportions: p̂ ± z(α/2) × √[p̂(1-p̂)/n], where p̂ is observed proportion, z(α/2) is critical value, and n is sample size.