Why do you have to be 18 to buy lottery tickets but 21 to play slots? Aren't they both gambling?

Question

It doesn't make sense. An 18 year old can buy scratch-off tickets and lottery tickets, but a 21 year old can go to Vegas and gamble? Either way, isn't lottery a form of gambling?

And since we're on the topic of age, what determines what age a person has to be to do things?

21 to drink alcohol and play slots? 19 to smoke cigarettes (wasn't it just 18 two years ago)? 18 to vote, watch p**n, and buy lotto tickets? 17 to watch R-rated movies?

Wouldn't it be easier to just make everything accessible to 18-year olds? They are "legally" adults afterall.

Thanks to those who answer! This has been on my mind for awhile, and now that I turned 18 years old, I've been wanting to know.

Answer 1

in Michigan you can play slots at 18.  Vegas is different because of the free booze.

Answer 2

Where I live here in NY you can play the slot machines.  It is called Empire City and its at Yonkers Racetrack.  You only have to be 18 because the place is owned and operated by  the NY State Lottery.  

Answer 3

yes i wonder the same thing and yes they are both gambling