A system consisting of two components A and B that are connected in se- ries functions if both of them function. If P (A), the probability that component A functions, is 0.99, and the probability that component B functions is 0.90, ?nd the probability that this series system functions, assuming that whether one component functions or not is independent of the status of the other component. If these com- ponents are connected in parallel, the system fails (i.e., will not function) only if both components fail. Assuming independence, determine the probability that the parallel system functions. Which probability is higher and why is it reasonable to expect a higher probability from the system in question?