Powerball works by players selecting five numbers from a set of 69 white balls and one number (the Powerball) from 26 red balls. Players win the jackpot by matching all five white balls in any order plus the red Powerball number. The minimum bet is $2, and players can choose their own numbers or use a quick pick option where the numbers are randomly selected for them. Drawings use two machines — one for the white balls and one for the red Powerball — and prizes are awarded for matching as few as three white balls or the Powerball alone. There is also an optional Power Play feature that can multiply non-jackpot winnings for an additional $1 per game.
How the Drawing Works
- Two ball machines are used: one with 69 white balls and another with 26 red Powerballs.
- Five white balls and one red ball are drawn at random.
- The order of the white balls does not matter.
- Matching the Powerball plus some white balls leads to various prize levels.
Playing Options
- Players select 5 numbers from 1 to 69 and 1 Powerball number from 1 to 26.
- Quick Pick option allows random selection.
- Optional add-ons like Power Play can multiply winnings.
- Double Play option allows winning in a second drawing with the same numbers.
Winning
- Jackpot: Match all 5 white balls plus the red Powerball.
- Other prizes are available for matching fewer numbers or just the Powerball.
- Power Play multiplier applies to non-jackpot prizes, potentially increasing winnings up to 10 times.
This explanation summarizes the core mechanics and options for playing Powerball.
