Cumulative Frequency Homework: Solving (a) and (b)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a homework problem involving the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the sum of two independent uniformly distributed random variables, X1 and X2, each ranging from 0 to 1. For the case where 0 ≤ Y ≤ 1, it is established that P(X1 + X2 = Y) = ½ Y². For the case where 1 ≤ Y ≤ 2, the solution shows that P(X1 + X2 = Y) = 1 - ½ (2 - Y)². The correct interpretation of the problem emphasizes the need to calculate P(Y ≤ y) rather than P(X1 + X2 = Y).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of uniform distribution, specifically the properties of random variables.
  • Familiarity with cumulative distribution functions (CDF) and probability notation.
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, particularly integration for probability density functions.
  • Ability to interpret and manipulate mathematical expressions and equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of cumulative distribution functions for sums of independent random variables.
  • Learn about the properties of uniform distributions and their applications in probability theory.
  • Explore the concept of probability density functions (PDF) and how they relate to cumulative distribution functions.
  • Practice solving similar problems involving random variables and their distributions to reinforce understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying probability theory, particularly those tackling problems involving random variables and cumulative distribution functions. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of uniform distributions and their properties.

cyt91
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Homework Statement


A random variable X is uniformly distributed between 0 and 1. Two independent observations are made,X1 and X2. Take (X1,X2 ) as a point on the lines X1 +X2 =Y in a cartesian plane. X1 +X2 =Y is triangular.
(a) show that , for 0≤ Y≤ 1, P( X1 +X2 =Y)= ½ Y2

(b) show that , for 1≤ Y≤ 2, P( X1 +X2 =Y)=1- ½ (2-Y)2



Homework Equations


f(x)=[tex]\frac{1}{b-a}[/tex] ,for uniform distribution



The Attempt at a Solution



I know that f(x)=1 for 0≤ x≤ 1 since X is uniformly distributed. But how do I solve (a).
Can anyone show me the solution for (a) only so that I could solve (b) myself?

Thanks a lot!:smile:
 
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cyt91 said:

Homework Statement


A random variable X is uniformly distributed between 0 and 1. Two independent observations are made,X1 and X2. Take (X1,X2 ) as a point on the lines X1 +X2 =Y in a cartesian plane. X1 +X2 =Y is triangular.
(a) show that , for 0≤ Y≤ 1, P( X1 +X2 =Y)= ½ Y2

This is a very confused statement of the problem. First of all, I suppose that last Y2 is supposed to be Y2. Use the X2 icon for superscripts.

Secondly, you are apparently confused between a random variable Y and its range. Here you are giving Y as the sum of two random variables: Y = X1 + X2 (you can use the subscript button too). Per the title of your post, you are apparently seeking the cumulative distribution function for Y. The usual notation is to use lower case for the range values, so you want to calculate P(Y ≤ y) = P(X1 + X2 ≤ y), not P( X1 +X2 =Y). This is where you have two cases depending on whether y < 1 or y > 1.

Does stating the problem clearly help you any?
 

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