Random Numbers

[sidlaws]

Is it possible to generate random numbers using an ordinary calculator? If so how?

[bigbanana]

I'm not positive, but I doubt it very much.

If you're talking about a bog standard calculator, I'm fairly certain it can't be done. There may be more scope with scientific calculators, but there are few problems that occur to me.

For example, would you include 0 in the numbers generated, how many sets of numbers do you want, how many digits are there to be in each series of numbers and what is the maximum range of numbers.

I don't think even programmable calculators are up to this task.

Why don't you try something like this?

http://www.randomizer.org/form.htm

[StudentGal]

you need a scientific calulator and then you can. The button you press will be maker specific but on my sharp one I have to press the function button then the = and it gives me a random number :D

[heathfield]

No calculator or computer can generate a random number by itself. They will make use of a formula to obtain a 'pseudo-random' number that appears to be random. How near to random this looks will depend on the quality of the formula. An example is Microsoft's 'Solitaire'

To obtain true random numbers, the computer must be linked to a source of random 'noise', such as radioactive decay, or interstellar radio noise.

[hubblebubble]

Just close your eyes, turn the calculator around a few times and press some buttons....