How do I find the constant 'c' in this probability problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a probability problem involving a two-dimensional discrete stochastic vector (X,Y) with a specified probability function. The original poster seeks assistance in determining the constant 'c' in the probability function and also asks about a specific probability when λ = 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the constant 'c' from the given probability function and expresses uncertainty about the approach. They also inquire about demonstrating a specific probability when λ = 1.

Discussion Status

Some participants question whether the inquiry constitutes homework, indicating a need for clarification on the nature of the problem. The original poster reiterates their request for hints on how to proceed with the questions posed.

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There is a suggestion that the problem may be subject to homework constraints, which could affect the type of guidance provided.

Mathman23
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Hi Guys,
I have this probability Problem where I have become stuck, therefore I pray that there is somebody in here who can give me some advice :)
It goes a something like that:
The two dimensional discrete Stochastic vector (X,Y) has the probability function [tex]P_{X,Y}[/tex] which is
[tex]P(X=x,Y=y) = \left\{ \begin{array}{ll}\frac{{c e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{y}}}}{{y!}} & \textrm{where} \ x \in (-2,-1,0,1) \ \textrm{and} \ \ y \in (0,1,\ldots)&\\0 & \textrm{other.}&\\\end{array} \right.[/tex]
where [tex]\lambda > 0[/tex] and c > 0
(a) The support supp P_{X,Y} = {-2,-1,0,1, \ldots}
(b)
The Probability functions [tex]P_X[/tex] and [tex]P_Y[/tex] for X and Y are
[tex]P(X=x) = \left\{ \begin{array}{ll}c & \textrm{where} \ x \in (-2,-1,0,1) \\0 & \textrm{other.}&\\\end{array} \right.[/tex]
[tex]P(Y=y) = \left\{ \begin{array}{ll}\frac{{c e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{y}}}}{{y!}} & \textrm{and} \ \ y \in (0,1,\ldots)&\\0 & \textrm{other.}&\\\end{array} \right.[/tex]

This is done by showing that [tex]Y \ \~{} pol(\lambda)[/tex],

[tex]\sum_{y=0} ^{\infty} \frac{{e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{y}}}}{{y!}} =\sum_{y=1} ^{\infty} \frac{{ e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{y}}}}{{y-1!}} = \lambda \sum_{y=1} ^{\infty} \frac{{ e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{(y-1)}}}}{{(y-1)!}} = <br /> \lambda \sum_{v=0} ^{\infty} \frac{{ e^{- \lambda}{\lambda ^{(v)}}}}{{(v)!}} = \lambda[/tex]
where v = (y-1)
I have two question
(c) I need to find the constant 'c'. How do I go about doing that?
(d)
If [tex]\lambda = 1[/tex], then [tex]P(X=Y) = 1/2 e^ -1[/tex]. Any hits on how I show that ?
Sincerely and God bless You
Fred
 
Last edited:
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Is this homework?
 
Yes,

I there is somebody out there who culd please give me a hit on how to solve question (c) and (d)??

Many thanks in advance and God bless You :)

/Fred

EnumaElish said:
Is this homework?
 
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=88064
 
I need to find the constant 'c'. How do I go about doing that?
Where are we starting from? Have you thought about this at all?
 

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