Geometric Distribution: Finding Specific p Value for Mean Calculation

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To find the specific value of p for a geometric distribution with a mean of 0.6, the relationship between p and q is established as q/p = (1-p)/p. Given that q = 1 - p, the mean can be expressed as p/q. By substituting q into the mean equation, the value of p can be calculated. The probability generating function (p.g.f.) of X is then derived as q/(1-ps).
umzung
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Homework Statement
The number of items bought by each customer entering a bookshop is a random variable X that has a geometric distribution starting at 0 with mean 0.6.
Find the value of the parameter p of the geometric distribution, and hence write down the probability generating function of X.
Relevant Equations
$$q/(1-ps)$$
I know the p.g.f. of X is $$q/(1-ps)$$ and that the mean is $$p/q$$, but how do I find a specific value for p here?
 
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umzung said:
Homework Statement:: The number of items bought by each customer entering a bookshop is a random variable X that has a geometric distribution starting at 0 with mean 0.6.
Find the value of the parameter p of the geometric distribution, and hence write down the probability generating function of X.
Homework Equations:: $$q/(1-ps)$$

I know the p.g.f. of X is $$q/(1-ps)$$ and that the mean is $$p/q$$, but how do I find a specific value for p here?

What are ##p, q## and ##s## here?
 
PeroK said:
What are ##p, q## and ##s## here?
$$p$$ is the probability, $$q$$ is (1 - probability) and $$s$$ is a dummy variable, not a random variable.
 
umzung said:
$$p$$ is the probability, $$q$$ is (1 - probability) and $$s$$ is a dummy variable, not a random variable.
Okay, so the mean is ##q/p = (1-p)/p##. Do you know the mean in this case?
 
Got it, thanks.
 
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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