Finding the expected value of a probability function

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To find the expected value E(X) of the random variable X with the given probability function f(x) = 0.49x(0.3)^(x-1), the formula E(X) = sum of all x of x*f(x) is used. The calculation leads to E(X) = 0.49 * sum of all x of x^2(0.3)^(x-1). However, concerns are raised about the convergence of the probability function across the entire real line, with suggestions that it may not integrate to 1. For a valid probability density function, the expected value is typically calculated using the integral E(X) = ∫ xf(x) dx from -∞ to ∞. Clarification on the probability function's validity is essential for accurate evaluation.
Jessica21
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1. Suppose X is a random variable with probability function
f(x) = 0.49x(0.3)^ (x-1). Find E(x).




2. E(X) = sum of all x of x*f(x)



3. so I know that E(X) = sum of all x of x*f(x)
so E(x)= 0.49* sum of all x of x^2(0.3)^(x-1)

But I'm not sure how do i evaluate the sum?
Can anyone please help me,thanks!
 
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Are you sure you have the right probability function? This one doesn't converge on the entire real line and I wasn't able to find an interval where it integrated to 1.

In any event, if you have a random variable X with a probability density function f(x), then the expected value of X is
\intop_{-\infty}^{\infty} xf(x) dx
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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