How Do I Derive the Distribution of 2θΣx_i for Independent Random Variables?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving the distribution of the random variable \(2\theta\sum_{i=1}^n X_i\) for independent random variables \(X_i\) that follow a specific probability density function (p.d.f.). The scope includes theoretical derivation and application of statistical concepts, particularly focusing on chi-squared distributions and moment-generating functions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the p.d.f. of a random variable \(X\) and states that \(2\theta X\) has a chi-squared distribution with 1 degree of freedom.
  • Another participant confirms the p.d.f. of \(Y = 2\theta X\) and suggests that \(2\theta X_i\) for independent \(X_i\) also follows a chi-squared distribution.
  • There is a question about whether to use the transformation theorem or moment-generating functions to find the distribution of \(2\theta \sum_{i=1}^n X_i\).
  • One participant asks for clarification on how the moment-generating function can aid in determining the distribution of \(2\theta \sum_{i=1}^n X_i\).
  • Another participant reiterates the importance of the moment-generating function, stating it completely determines the distribution and provides a formula for the moment-generating function of the sum of independent random variables.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the distribution of \(2\theta X\) and its relation to the chi-squared distribution. However, there is no consensus on the best method to derive the distribution of \(2\theta \sum_{i=1}^n X_i\), with differing opinions on using transformation versus moment-generating functions.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the necessity of finding the likelihood function and the implications of independence on the distribution of the sum of random variables. There are also unresolved questions about the application of the moment-generating function in this context.

SupLem
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
We have a r.v. X with p.d.f. = sqrt(θ/πx)*exp(-xθ) , x>0 and θ a positive parameter.
We are required to show that 2 θX has a x^2 distribution with 1 d.f. and deduce that, if x_1,……,x_n are independent r.v. with this p.d.f., then 2θ∑_(i=1)^n▒x_ι has a chi-squared distribution with n degrees of freedom.
Using transformation (y=2θΧ) I found the pdf of y=1/sqrt (2π) *y^(-1/2)*e^(-y/2). How do I find the distribution of 2θ∑_(i=1)^n▒x_ι ? Do I need to find the likelihood function (which contains ∑_(i=1)^n▒x_ι ) first ? How do I recognise the d.f. of this distribution (Is it n because it involves x_1,……,x_n,i.e. n r.v.?

(since i couldn't get the graphics right above, I am also adding a screenshot of my word document in order to view). Thanks!View attachment 3491
 

Attachments

  • Capture_8_Nov.JPG
    Capture_8_Nov.JPG
    56.8 KB · Views: 113
Physics news on Phys.org
As you've found for the pdf $f_Y$ of the r.v $Y=2\theta X$:
$$f_Y(y) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi}} y^{-\frac{1}{2}} e^{-\frac{y}{2}}$$
which is indeed the pdf of the $\chi^2$-distribution with 1 degree of freedom. Next, we have given that $X_1,\ldots,X_n$ are independen r.v's with the same pdf as $X$.

First note that $2\theta X_i$ for $i=1,\ldots,n$ has the same distribution as $Y$, in other words to solve the question you have to find the distribution of $n$ independent r.v's $X_i$ with $X_i \sim \chi^2(1)$.

Do you need to solve this with the transformation theorem? Because using the moment-generating function would lead easily to a solution (because of the independency).
 
Thank you very much for your response. Could you, please, elaborate, on how using the moment generating function would help us in this respect ( i.e. finding the 2θΣx(i=1 to n) distribution?
 
SupLem said:
Thank you very much for your response. Could you, please, elaborate, on how using the moment generating function would help us in this respect ( i.e. finding the 2θΣx(i=1 to n) distribution?

It satisfies to use the moment generating function as it determines the distribution completely.

Denote the moment generating function of $2\theta X_i \sim \chi^2(1)$ as $M_{2\theta X_i}(t)$ which is known for $i=1,\ldots,n$. Due to the independency we have
$$M_ {2\theta \sum_{i=1}^{n} X_i}(t) = \prod_{i=1}^{n} M_{2\theta X_i}(t)$$
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K