Poisson Distribution

Statistics & Probability

Calculate Poisson probability P(X = k), cumulative probability P(X ≤ k), and rate distribution for events occurring randomly at a known average rate λ over time or space.

Calculated Result
P(X = 4) = 0.19537

P(X ≤ 4) = 0.62884 · P(X > 4) = 0.37116

Formula: P(X=k) = (e⁻λ × λᵏ) / k!

About this calculator

The Poisson distribution models the frequency of independent events occurring within a fixed interval of time, area, or volume when the average arrival rate (λ) is constant (e.g., website visitors per minute, customer arrivals at a bank, or radioactive decay clicks).

This tool computes exact and cumulative Poisson probabilities, expected mean (μ = λ), variance (σ² = λ), and distribution tables.

How It Works & Formula

FormulaP(X=k) = e⁻λ λᵏ / k!

P(X = k) = (λᵏ × e⁻λ) / k!. For large k or λ, calculations evaluate via natural logarithms ln(P) = k·ln(λ) - λ - ln(k!) to prevent numerical floating-point overflow.