Bivariate density on a unit circle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around verifying a bivariate density function defined on a unit circle, specifically for the function f(x, y) = π/2 within the region where x² + y² ≤ 1 and y > x. The participants are exploring the integration bounds necessary to confirm that the total volume equals 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to set the correct bounds of integration for the given density function. There is discussion about the region defined by the unit circle and the line y = x, with some questioning the appropriateness of their chosen limits. Others suggest considering the geometry of the problem, including rotating coordinates or visualizing the area.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with various interpretations of the integration bounds being explored. Some participants have provided insights into the geometric representation of the problem, while others are still grappling with the setup of the integration limits. There is no explicit consensus yet, but several productive directions have been suggested.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of verifying a probability density function, which requires careful consideration of the area under the curve defined by the specified conditions. The nature of the problem suggests that the integration bounds are critical to achieving the correct total volume.

gajohnson
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Homework Statement



Consider the bivariate density of X and Y,
f(x, y) = pi/2 for x^2 + y^2 ≤1 and y > x
and = 0 otherwise.
(a) Verify that this is a bivariate density (that is, the total volume ∫∫ f(x,y)dxdy = 1)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



The problem I'm having is setting the proper bounds of integration. It seem to me that this is describing a region on the unit circle that ranges from (√2/2 , √2/2) to (-√2/2 , -√2/2).

So in that case I'm tempted to make the bounds √2/2 and -1 for the x's and 1 and -√2/2 for the y's. But that doesn't seem to be giving me an answer of 1 when I integrate to find test whether or not it is a bivariate density. If the bounds are right, then I'll just keep plugging away at the integration until I get it. But, if my thinking is wrong on the bounds, any help would be greatly appreciated in figuring out how to set the right ones. Thanks!
 
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hi gajohnson! :smile:

(do yo mean f(x, y) = 2/π ? :confused:)
gajohnson said:
The problem I'm having is setting the proper bounds of integration … I'm tempted to make the bounds √2/2 and -1 for the x's and 1 and -√2/2 for the y's.

that (ie fixed limits for both variables) would give you a rectangle

you need fixed limits for the first variable (its least and greatest possible values), and limits that are a function of the first variable for the second variable :wink:
 
It will be much easier if you rotate coordinates 45 degrees.
 
Start by drawing a picture. x^2+ y^2\le 1 is, of course, the unit disk. y= x is the line through the origin bisecting that disk and y> x is the region above that line. The circle and line boundaries intersect, as you say, at \left(\sqrt{2}/2, \sqrt{2}/2\right) and \left(-\sqrt{2}/2, -\sqrt{2}/2\right). Clearly the smallest value x takes on is -\sqrt{2}/2 and the largest is \sqrt{2}/2. Now, for each x, y goes from the line y= x to the upper semi-circle y= \sqrt{1- x^2}.
 
gajohnson said:

Homework Statement



Consider the bivariate density of X and Y,
f(x, y) = pi/2 for x^2 + y^2 ≤1 and y > x
and = 0 otherwise.
(a) Verify that this is a bivariate density (that is, the total volume ∫∫ f(x,y)dxdy = 1)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



The problem I'm having is setting the proper bounds of integration. It seem to me that this is describing a region on the unit circle that ranges from (√2/2 , √2/2) to (-√2/2 , -√2/2).

So in that case I'm tempted to make the bounds √2/2 and -1 for the x's and 1 and -√2/2 for the y's. But that doesn't seem to be giving me an answer of 1 when I integrate to find test whether or not it is a bivariate density. If the bounds are right, then I'll just keep plugging away at the integration until I get it. But, if my thinking is wrong on the bounds, any help would be greatly appreciated in figuring out how to set the right ones. Thanks!

Since the probability density is constant over the relevant (x,y) region, and that region is a semi-circle, all you need to do is figure out the area of a semi-circle.
 
I was visualizing it properly but not connecting the obvious dots, thanks everyone!
 

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