Calculating Variance for Y=3x^2+3x+3

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the variance of the function Y=3x^2+3x+3, focusing on the assumptions and interpretations involved in the variance calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the variance calculation and question the assumptions made, particularly regarding covariance between terms. There is an attempt to clarify the expression for variance and its components.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of their assumptions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need to consider covariance, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted assumption that covariance between X^2 and X is zero, which some participants challenge. The presence of a potential typo regarding variable notation (z vs. x) is also mentioned.

hellokitten
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Homework Statement


Find the variance of Y=3x^2+3x+3

The Attempt at a Solution


Let Y = 3x^2 +3x +3

Var(Y) = Var(3x^2 +3x +3) = 9Var(x^2) +9Var(x) = 9 [E[X^4] - E[X^2]^2 +E[X^2] - E[X]^2]
This is wrong.
 
Last edited:
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hellokitten said:
Var(3x^2 +3z +1) = 9Var(x^2) +9Var(x)
I guess the z should be X, or 9var(x) should be 9Var(Z). Either way, what assumption does that step require?
 
haruspex said:
I guess the z should be X, or 9var(x) should be 9Var(Z). Either way, what assumption does that step require?

Oh. It assumes no covariance.
 
Last edited:
hellokitten said:

Homework Statement


Find the variance of Y=3x^2+3x+3

The Attempt at a Solution


Let Y = 3x^2 +3x +3

Var(Y) = Var(3x^2 +3x +3) = 9Var(x^2) +9Var(x) = 9 [E[X^4] - E[X^2]^2 +E[X^2] - E[X]^2]
This is wrong.

You have assumed that ##\text{Cov}(X^2,X) = 0,## which is not generally true.
 

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