Poisson distribution questions

Click For Summary
The discussion focuses on finding the probability generating function for a Poisson distribution with parameter λ, which is determined to be p_x(s) = exp(λ(s-1)), valid for real values of s. Participants express uncertainty about calculating the expected value E[x(x-1)(x-2)(x-3)(x-4)(x-5)(x-6)(x-7)(x-8)(x-9)(x-10)(x-11)], suggesting the use of the definition of expected value. A proposed approach involves rewriting the term as x!/(x-12)!, which may simplify the calculation by canceling terms. Overall, the thread highlights the challenge of evaluating the expected value while confirming the correct formulation of the generating function. The discussion emphasizes the analytical steps needed to tackle Poisson distribution problems.
silentone
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Suppose x has a Poisson \lambda distribution

Find the probability generating function and range it is well defined. Then evaluate E[x(x-1)(x-2)(x-3)(x-4)(x-5)(x-6)(x-7)(x-7)(X-8)(x-9)(x-10)(x-11)]


Homework Equations


f_x (x) = exp(-lamda) (lamda)^x/x! for x=0,1,2,3...


The Attempt at a Solution


The probability generating function I got easily by using the exponential power series and got p_x (s) = exp(lamda(s-1)) . It is well defined for s real.

I do not know how to approach the expected value.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I could be wrong on this, so take this with a grain of salt.

Apply the definition of expected value. It looks like you could rewrite your term as x!/(x-12)! Does this help? Then when you take the sum, the x! should cancel, and you'll be left with (x-12)! on the bottom.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
929
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K