Do Independent Normal Variables Exceed a Given Total?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a probability problem involving independent normal random variables. Specifically, the original poster is tasked with finding the probability that the sum of seven independent random variables, each drawn from a normal distribution N(10, 7), exceeds a total of 88.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to standardize the sum of the random variables but encounters difficulties with their calculations. They express confusion about the correct method to apply.
  • Some participants clarify the properties of the sum of independent normal variables, noting that the resulting distribution is also normal, with a mean and variance derived from the individual variables.
  • Others suggest that the original poster reconsider their approach to standardization, emphasizing the importance of using the standard deviation rather than the variance in their calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the properties of normal distributions and the correct approach to standardization. There is no explicit consensus yet, as the original poster continues to seek clarity on the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the mean and variance of the sum of the random variables, as well as the correct application of standardization in the context of normal distributions. The original poster's initial calculations appear to have led to confusion, highlighting the need for careful attention to these concepts.

WY
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Hi
I'm wondering if someone can help me out on this question as to how to go about doing it:
X_1, X_2... X_7 are independent random variables represnting a random sample of size 7 from the normal N(10, 7) distribution. Find to 3 dp probablitity that the sample total exceeds 88.

I tried to standardise this but my numbers don't seem to get me the answer of 0.005. Can someone help me out? Thanks in advance :)
 
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How did try to do it? Remember, the d.f. of the sum of random variables with normal distributions is another normal distribution with a mean that is the sum of the means of the individual variables and a variance that is the sum of the variances of the individual variables. Also remember when changing varibles that what appears in the the normal distribution is \frac{(x-\mu)}{\sigma} and not \frac{(x-\mu)}{\sigma^2}, so use the standard deviation and not the variance when changing variables.
 
Thanks for the help! when i originally did it i used (88-10)/7 to try and standardise it - giving me a ridiculous number. So with the normal distribution N(10,7) what should I now do with those - I'm still kind of confused...
 
Remember, the mean is the sum of the means of the X_i, so that's 10+10+10+...=70. The variance is the sum of the variances. Remember to normalize with the standard deviation and not the variance. Once you do that you do get the answer you said you were supposed to.
 

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