What is the expected value of a particle's position after n jumps?

In summary, the problem sets up a scenario where a particle starts at the origin and makes jumps of one unit on the real line, with a given probability of jumping left and right. The expected value of the particle's position after n jumps is then asked to be found. The equations for finding expected value in continuous and discrete cases are provided. The conversation ends with a question about the distribution of the particle's positions.
  • #1
uva123
9
0

Homework Statement



Suppose that a particle starts at the origin of the real line and moves along the line in
jumps of one unit. For each jump, the probability is p that the particle will jump one unit to the left and the probability is (1-p) that the particle will jump one unit to the right.
Find the expected value of the position of the particle after n jumps.


Homework Equations



E(x)=[tex]\sumf(x)xdx[/tex] from -infinity to +infinity (continuous case)
E(x)=[tex]\sumf(x)x[/tex] for all x (discrete case)

The Attempt at a Solution



p(0<p<1) =>jumps one unit left
q=(1-p) =>jumps one unit right
 
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  • #2
Well seeing how there are only two outcomes with n trials, how are the positions of the particle distributed?
 
  • #3
im really not sure.
 
  • #4
uva123 said:
im really not sure.

Which distributions do you know?
 

1. What is expected value?

Expected value, also known as the mean or average, is a statistical measure that represents the average outcome of a random variable over a large number of trials. It is calculated by multiplying each possible outcome by its probability and summing all of these values.

2. How is expected value used in science?

Expected value is commonly used in science to make predictions and inform decision-making processes. It can be used to analyze data and determine the most likely outcome of a particular event or experiment.

3. Can expected value be negative?

Yes, expected value can be negative. This occurs when there is a possibility of a loss or negative outcome in the event or experiment being analyzed.

4. How is expected value different from actual value?

Expected value is a calculated estimate based on probability, while actual value is the real, observed result. Expected value is used to make predictions, while actual value reflects the outcome of a specific trial or event.

5. Are there any limitations to using expected value?

Yes, there are limitations to using expected value. It assumes that all possible outcomes are equally likely, and it may not accurately reflect the true outcome if there are significant variations in the data. Additionally, it does not account for unexpected or rare events.

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