To determine the term that best describes the probability of choosing a penny from the 1980s from the bag, we need to follow these steps:
1. Calculate the Probability:
Given that the probability of choosing a penny from the 1980s is [tex]\(\frac{3}{40}\)[/tex].
[tex]\[
\text{Probability} = \frac{3}{40} = 0.075
\][/tex]
2. Define the Possible Probability Terms:
- Impossible: This term is used when the probability is 0. In other words, an event that cannot happen has a probability of 0.
- Unlikely: This term typically describes a probability that is low (generally considered to be less than or equal to 0.25).
- Likely: This term is used when the probability is moderate to high (typically greater than 0.25 and up to 0.75).
- Certain: This term is used when the probability is 1, meaning the event is sure to happen.
3. Compare the Calculated Probability:
- The calculated probability [tex]\(0.075\)[/tex] is greater than 0 and less than 0.25.
- Since [tex]\(0.075\)[/tex] is within the range that defines an unlikely event (typically [tex]\(0 < \text{Probability} \leq 0.25\)[/tex]), we classify this probability as "unlikely".
Therefore, the term that best describes the probability of choosing a penny from the 1980s from the bag is:
[tex]\[
\boxed{\text{unlikely}}
\][/tex]
