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Feb15-12, 04:47 AM   #1
 

Statistics: Show that sum of two independent Cauchy random variables is also Cauchy


1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

Let X and Y be independent random variables each having the Cauchy density function f(x)=1/(∏(1+x2)), and let Z = X+Y. Show that Z also has a Cauchy density function.

2. Relevant equations

Density function for X and Y is f(x)=1/(∏(1+x2)) .
Convolution integral = ∫f(x)f(y-x)dx .

3. The attempt at a solution

My book gives the following hint, saying to "check it":

f(x)f(y-x) = (f(x)+f(y-x))/(∏(4+y2)) + 2/(∏y(4+y2))(xf(x)+(y-x)f(y-x)) .

Using this hint, I'm able to solve the rest of the problem, but I can't figure out how to prove that this hint is true.

Any help would be much appreciated : )
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