Using the expected value of a discrete distribution, it is found that the expected net gain to the player for one play of the game is of -$4.22.
The expected value of a discrete distribution is given by the sum of each outcome multiplied by it's respective probability.
Considering that there are 6000 tickets, the distribution of net gains is given as follows:
Hence, the expected net gain is given by:
[tex]E(X) = \frac{3445 + 745 + 20(20) - 5(5978)}{6000} = -4.22[/tex]
The expected net gain to the player for one play of the game is of -$4.22.
More can be learned about the expected value of a discrete distribution at https://brainly.com/question/24855677