How to Get Covariance of Bivariate Poisson Distribution

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the covariance of a Bivariate Poisson Distribution, specifically focusing on the relationship between two random variables defined as sums of independent Poisson random variables. Participants explore the mathematical formulation and assumptions required to derive the covariance.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the joint probability function for the Bivariate Poisson Distribution and states that the covariance should equal θ3.
  • Another participant points out issues with notation, suggesting a need for clarity in mathematical expressions.
  • Several participants express confusion regarding the mathematical representation of independence and the derivation of covariance.
  • A participant outlines a derivation of covariance, breaking it down into components and applying the assumption of independence, ultimately concluding that Cov(X,Y) = Var(X3) = θ3.
  • Another participant confirms the correctness of the derivation provided by the previous participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is agreement on the final expression for the covariance, there is some disagreement regarding the notation and clarity of the mathematical formulation. The discussion includes varying levels of understanding and comfort with the notation used.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the notation and how to mathematically represent assumptions of independence, indicating a potential limitation in communication and understanding of the underlying concepts.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in statistical theory, particularly those studying Poisson distributions and covariance calculations, may find this discussion relevant.

ahdika
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Dear all, I have a problem in solving covariance of Bivariate Poisson Distribution

Let X_i \sim POI (\theta_i) , i = 1,2,3
Consider
X = X_1 + X_3
Y = X_2 + X_3

Then the joint probability function given :
P(X = x, Y = y) = e^{\theta_1+\theta_2+\theta_3} \frac {\theta_1^x}{x!} \frac {\theta_2^y}{y!} \sum {k = 0}{min(x,y)} \left( \begin{array}{c} x \\ k \end{array} \right) \left( \begin{array}{c} y \\ k \end{array} \right) k! \left( \frac{\theta_3}{\theta_1 \theta_2} \right)^k

Marginally, we get :
X \sim POI (\theta_1+\theta_3)
Y \sim POI (\theta_2+\theta_3)
\theta_1, \theta_2, \theta_3 ≥ 0
Then, the cov(X,Y) = \theta_3

That's all information I have, but I have no idea how to get \theta_3 as the covariance of (X,Y). Please share anything you know about the way to get that value !
Thanks a lot
 
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Your notation is screwed up.
 
I'm sorry, I'm a very new member here so I still confuse how to make equation correctly, I think it's just like writing equation in LaTEX..
anyway, thanks for your reply.. I'll try to rewrite it correctly
 
Let Xi ~ Poisson (θi) , i = 1,2,3
consider
X = X1 + X3
Y = X2 + X3

this two random variables X and Y follow the bivariate poisson distribution so that
X ~ Poisson (θ1 + θ3)
Y ~ Poisson (θ2 + θ3)

and then the covariance of the bivariate poisson distribution is
Cov(X,Y) = θ3

I just don't know how to get θ3 as the covariance of this distribution.. please share me the way to get that Cov(X,Y) = θ3
Thanks
 
I am not familiar with your notation. However, assuming Xi are independent, then the covariance between X and Y involves only X3.
 
Oh, I am sorry.. maybe it's because the notations we usually used are different..

Oke, I get it.. but I am confused how to explain it in mathematics equation
Like we know,
Cov(XY) = Cov(X1+X3,X2+X3)
then, how must I explain about the assumption of independency between X1 and X2 in mathematics form?
 
Oh, I get it..

Correct me if I'm wrong

Cov(X,Y) = Cov(X1+X3,X2+X3)
= Cov(X1,X2+X3) + Cov(X3,X2+X3)
= Cov(X1,X2) + Cov(X1,X3) + Cov(X3,X2) + Cov(X3,X3)

but because there's assumption that Xi independent, so
Cov(X1,X2) = 0
Cov(X1,X3) = 0
Cov(X3,X2) = 0

and then I get

Cov(X,Y) = Cov(X3,X3)
= Var(X3)
= θ3

Am I wrong?
 
Your derivation is absolutely correct!
 
wow, okay.. thanks a lot for your help..
:) :) :)
 

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