Mgf of continuous random variables

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The moment-generating function (MGF) of a continuous random variable with the probability density function (PDF) defined as f(x) = 2x for 0 < x < 1 is calculated using the integral M(S) = ∫ e^(Sx) f(x) dx. The correct computation involves integrating by parts, yielding M(S) = 2(e^S(s-1) + 1)/s². The discussion also touches on the transformation of random variables, specifically how M_Y(S) relates to MGF when Y = aX + b, clarifying that M_Y(S) = E[e^(YS)].

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of moment-generating functions (MGF)
  • Familiarity with probability density functions (PDF)
  • Knowledge of integration techniques, specifically integration by parts
  • Basic concepts of random variable transformations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of moment-generating functions (MGF)
  • Learn about integration techniques, focusing on integration by parts
  • Explore the relationship between random variable transformations and their MGFs
  • Research the use of computational tools like WolframAlpha for integral evaluations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in statistics, data science, and mathematics who are working with continuous random variables and their moment-generating functions.

nacho-man
Messages
166
Reaction score
0
i have a simple enough question

Find the MGF of a continuous random variable with the PDF:

f(x) = 2x, 0<x<1

I understand MGF is calculated as:

$$M(S) = \int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} e^{Sx} f(x)dx$$

which would give me

$$\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} e^{Sx} 2xdx$$
but how would i compute this integral?edit: scratch that. I think i am on the right track here, someone check?

if Y = aX + b, then
$$M_{y}(S) = E[e^{2S}] = e^{S}E[E^{2Sx}]$$

$$M_{y}(S) = e^S \int_{0}^{1}e^{2Sx}dx
= ... $$

$$= e^{S}(\frac{e^{2S}}{2s} - \frac{1}{2S}) $$
Is this correct?/ Am I on the correct track?

On another note, let's celebrate me getting the hang of latex! Yay (Clapping)
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
nacho said:
I understand MGF is calculated as:

$$M(S) = \int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} e^{Sx} f(x)dx$$

which would give me

$$\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} e^{Sx} 2xdx$$
but how would i compute this integral?
Integrating by parts gives \[\int_{0}^{1} e^{Sx}2x\,dx =2\frac{e^s(s-1)+1}{s^2}\]You can check WolframAlpha.

nacho said:
if Y = aX + b, then
$$M_{y}(S) = E[e^{2S}] = e^{S}E[E^{2Sx}]$$
What? Where did $a$ and $b$ go? Also, $M_Y(S)=E[e^{YS}]$, not $E[e^{2S}]$.
 
Edit: previous poster already replied
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K