Find the cumulative distribution function

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a random variable x that takes on the values 1, 2, or 3 with associated probabilities dependent on a variable k. Participants are tasked with finding the appropriate value of k, the mean, and the cumulative distribution function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the requirement that the sum of the probabilities must equal 1, which leads to questioning what value of k satisfies this condition. There is also mention of needing to understand the cumulative distribution function and its relation to the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing hints and emphasizing the importance of showing work before receiving help. There is recognition of the need for clarity on the definitions and formulas involved, particularly regarding the cumulative distribution function.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express their lack of familiarity with statistics, indicating that they are seeking guidance rather than direct answers. The forum guidelines emphasize the necessity of demonstrating some effort before receiving assistance.

maria_01
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Homework Statement


The random variable x takes on the values 1, 2, or 3 with probabilities (1 + 3k)/3, (1 + 2k)/3, and (0.5 + 5k)/3, respectively.


Homework Equations



i. Find the appropriate value of k.
ii. Find the mean.
iii. Find the cumulative distribution function.


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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maria_01 said:

Homework Statement


The random variable x takes on the values 1, 2, or 3 with probabilities (1 + 3k)/3, (1 + 2k)/3, and (0.5 + 5k)/3, respectively.


Homework Equations



i. Find the appropriate value of k.
ii. Find the mean.
iii. Find the cumulative distribution function.


The Attempt at a Solution


As per the guidelines of the forum, you must show your own attempts (some work) before people help you out. It's to make sure we are helping and not doing all the work (and you will truly learn only if you do part of the work yourself).

As a hint for the first question: what should be the sum of the probabibilities of all the possible outcomes?
 
The the sum of the probabibilities is 1.
 
And so k is what/satisfies what?
 
I'm an IT person clueless of statistics. I took an online course and now struggling to understand. If you can help that be great.

Also if I knew how to do it, I wouldn't be asking for help. My attention is not to just get the answers but atleast know which formulas to use and how to imply them. I"m really stuck at cumulative distribution function.
 
maria_01 said:
Also if I knew how to do it, I wouldn't be asking for help. My attention is not to just get the answers but atleast know which formulas to use and how to imply them. I"m really stuck at cumulative distribution function.

The rules are, you must show some work! No one is COMPLETELY clueless on a problem. You knew the probabilities summed to 1, so your not completely clueless. Now if you know that the probabilities have to sum to 1, then this should be nothing more than an algebra problem for part A.

If the probabilities sum to 1, what must k be?
 
maria_01 said:
I'm an IT person clueless of statistics.

THe first part is nothing to do with stats - you have 3 numbers that sum to 1. The second two parts are just plugging numbers into a formula.
Start with the definitions always.
 

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