Did I correctly find the probability density function?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the probability density function (pdf) of a random variable Z, defined as the sum of two independent random variables X and Y, each with their own specified probability density functions. The original poster presents the problem using characteristic functions and expresses uncertainty about their approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of characteristic functions to find the pdf of Z. The original poster questions the validity of their method, particularly regarding the handling of complex numbers in their calculations. Others point out potential errors in the original poster's reasoning and suggest reconsidering the implications of the pdf being complex.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants actively questioning assumptions and clarifying the mathematical approach. Some guidance has been offered regarding the nature of the pdf and the implications of complex values, but no consensus has been reached on the correctness of the original poster's solution.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern about the integration of the proposed pdf and whether it yields a finite result, which is crucial for a valid probability density function. The original poster also expresses confusion regarding the notation used in their equations.

r19ecua
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Homework Statement


A random variable x has a probability density function given by

fX(x) = e-x , x ≥ 0

and an independent random variable Y has a probability density function of

fY(y) = ey , y ≤ 0

using the characterisic functions, find the probability density function of Z = X + Y

Homework Equations



\PhiX(\omega) = E[ejωx] = ∫fX(x)ejωxdx

\PhiZ(ω) = \PhiX(\omega) * \PhiY(\omega)

fZ(z) = 1/ (2\pi) ∫ \PhiZ(ω) * e-jωz

the integrals within section 2 are from negative infinity to positive infinity . . .
also it's 1 over 2 pi . . didn't know how to make that into a fraction :confused:

The Attempt at a Solution



My attempt was scanned and uploaded via photobucket.. here's the scan!
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo39/r19ecua/scan0356.jpg

I'm wondering if Cauchy's was a good way to handle this..
 
Last edited:
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r19ecua said:

Homework Statement


A random variable x has a probability density function given by

fX(x) = e-x , x ≥ 0

and an independent random variable Y has a probability density function of

fY(y) = ey , y ≤ 0

using the characterisic functions, find the probability density function of Z = X + Y

Homework Equations



\PhiX(\omega) = E[ejωx] = ∫fX(x)ejωxdx

\PhiZ(ω) = \PhiX(\omega) * \PhiY(\omega)

fZ(z) = 1/ (2\pi) ∫ \PhiZ(ω) * e-jωz

the integrals within section 2 are from negative infinity to positive infinity . . .
also it's 1 over 2 pi . . didn't know how to make that into a fraction :confused:

The Attempt at a Solution



My attempt was scanned and uploaded via photobucket.. here's the scan!
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo39/r19ecua/scan0356.jpg

I'm wondering if Cauchy's was a good way to handle this..

Since ##Z## is a real-valued random variable its pdf ##f_Z(z)## cannot be complex for real ##z .## So your solution is incorrect.
 
I just realized that I did not replace the 1's with j's which led to my grand error! The j's are meant to cancel.. my answer should be:

ez / 2 .. .. Is that correct?
 
r19ecua said:
I just realized that I did not replace the 1's with j's which led to my grand error! The j's are meant to cancel.. my answer should be:

ez / 2 .. .. Is that correct?

No, obviously not. Does e^z have a finite integral when you integrate z from -∞ to +∞?
 

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