Calculate E(XY) when X~N(0,1), Y=X^2~\chi^2(1)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the expected value E(XY) where X follows a normal distribution N(0,1) and Y is defined as Y=X^2, which follows a chi-squared distribution with 1 degree of freedom. Participants explore the joint distribution and correlation between X and Y, as well as the implications of their relationship.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests calculating E(XY) by determining the joint distribution f(x,y) and its cumulative distribution F(x,y), leading to a complex probability calculation.
  • Another participant proposes that since X and Y are perfectly correlated, E(XY) can be simplified to finding the third moment of the normal distribution, implying E(XY) = E(X^3).
  • A later reply indicates that while E(XY) can be calculated as zero, this does not imply that X and Y are uncorrelated, highlighting a distinction between correlation and association.
  • Further inquiry into the joint distribution of X and Y is raised, with requests for hints on how to proceed with the calculations.
  • One participant introduces the concept of the Dirac delta function to express the relationship between f(x,y) and f(y|x), noting that knowing x determines y exactly.
  • There is mention of alternative expressions for f(x,y) when y equals x^2, suggesting a zero probability elsewhere.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the complexity of calculating E(XY) and the nature of the relationship between X and Y. There is no consensus on the best approach to find the joint distribution or the expected value.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the challenges in calculating the joint distribution and the implications of using delta functions, which may not be familiar to all. The discussion reflects uncertainty regarding the correct method to derive the expected value and the nature of correlation between the variables.

gimmytang
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X~N(0,1), Y=X^2~[tex]\chi^2[/tex](1), find E(XY).

My thoughts are in the following:
To calculate E(XY), I need to know f(x,y), since [tex]E(XY)=\int{xyf(x,y)dxdy}[/tex]. To calculate f(x,y), I need to know F(x,y), since f(x,y)=d(F(x,y)/dxdy.

[tex]F(x,y)=P(X\leq x, Y\leq y) \\<br /> =P(X\leq x, X^{2} \leq y)\\<br /> =P(X\leq x, -\sqrt{y} \leq X \leq \sqrt{y})[/tex]
Thus,
[tex]F(x,y) =P(-\sqrt{y} \leq X \leq x)P(x<\sqrt{y})+P(-\sqrt{y} \leq X \leq \sqrt{y})P(x > \sqrt{y})[/tex]
Then I don't know how to calculate the four components of probabilities accordingly. Anyone gives a hand?

Thanks!
gim :bugeye:
 
Last edited:
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I think you're making this too hard for yourself. x and y have 100% correlation. I think you essentially want to calculate the third moment of a normal distribution, since x*y = x^3. So find the expected value of x^3 = the third moment.
 
Thank you for your useful hint! The result following your method is E(XY)=0, then cor(X,Y)=0. In this sense X and Y are uncorrelated, but they are fully associated.
gim
 
I am still wondering the joint distribution of X and Y. There must be a solution to that. If it is not too difficult, please give me some hints.
Thanks!
gim
 
f(x,y) = f(x) * f(y|x)

So, you need f(y|x). However, once you know x, you know y exactly, so
f(y|x) = delta function(y - x^2).

So f(x,y) = f(x) * delta function(y-x^2).

I'm not sure if I've seen delta functions outside of physics, actually. Here's a writeup I found:

http://www.tutorfusion.com/eTutor/physics/e&m/1/5/1_5_dirac_delta_function.htm

If you don't want to use delta functions, I guess you could just say:

f(x,y) = f(x) when y= x^2
= 0 otherwise
 
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