Help with cumulative distributions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) and their properties. The original poster presents a specific CDF defined piecewise and seeks to compute probabilities related to a random variable Y.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to compute probabilities using the provided CDF, breaking down the intervals for calculations. Some participants question the validity of the CDF itself, suggesting it may not meet the criteria for a proper CDF or probability density function. Others suggest that the original poster consult their instructor for further clarification.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising concerns about the correctness of the CDF and its implications for the calculations. There is no explicit consensus on the validity of the original poster's approach, and multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem is framed within the context of cumulative distribution functions and random variables, highlighting potential issues with the definitions and properties of the functions involved.

sneaky666
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Homework Statement



suppose Fy(y)=y^3 for 0<=y<1/2 and Fy(y)=1-y^3 for 1/2<=y<=1. Compute these.

1.
P(1/3<Y<3/4)
2.
P(Y=1/3)
3.
P(Y=1/2)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




Is this right for the 1. ?
P(1/3<Y<3/4)
P(1/3<Y<1/2) + P(1/2<=Y<3/4)
( Fy(1/2-) - Fy(1/3) ) + ( Fy(3/4-) - Fy(1/2-) )
Fy(1/2-) - Fy(1/3) + Fy(3/4-) - Fy(1/2-)


Now I have to use
Fy(y)=y^3 for 0<=y<1/2 and Fy(y)=1-y^3 for 1/2<=y<=1

1/8 - 1/27 + 37/64 - 1/8
=935/1728

for 2 i am getting 1/27
for 3 i am getting 7/8

I think there's something wrong, but I don't know what.
 
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Is Fy supposed to be the cumulative distribution function? If it is, you must have written down the wrong function because the cdf should be an increasing function. If it's supposed to be a probability density function, there's also a problem because the area under the curve from -∞ to +∞ isn't equal to 1.
 
the exact question was:

Suppose Fy(y)=y^3 for 0<=y<1/2, and Fy(y)=1-y^3 for 1/2<=y<=1. Compute each of the following:
a) P(1/3<Y<3/4)
b) P(Y=1/3)
c) P(Y=1/2)

the section name is cumulative distribution function
chapter name is random variables and distribution
 
I think you need to go ask your instructor about this problem because it doesn't make sense.
 

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