# Probability, Bivariate Normal Distribution

1. Jun 23, 2009

### WHB3

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Let the probability density function of X and Y be bivariate normal. For what values of a is the variance of aX+Y minimum?

2. Relevant equations
The answer in the book is -p(X,Y)(std dev of X/std dev of Y)

3. The attempt at a solution
I think the equation for Var(aX+Y) is,
Var(aX+Y)=a^2Var(X)+Var(Y)+2aCov(X,Y), but I have no idea how to work this equation to equal the answer in the book.

Any ideas would be much appreciated!!
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution

2. Jun 24, 2009

Yes

$$Var(aX+Y) = a^2 Var(X) + Var(Y) + 2 a Cov(X,Y)$$

which, as a function of $$a$$, looks like a quadratic function. How about you? (There's a hint here :) )

3. Jun 24, 2009

4. Jul 1, 2009

### WHB3

I think I spoke too soon, Statdad.

I can see where the equation Var(aX+Y) is a quadratic equation, but I still can't factor the equation to obtain "-p(X,Y)(std dev of Y/std dev of X)" as one of the factors where -p(X,Y) is the negative correlation coefficient.

I am wondering whether I should be working with a different equation.

Any further assistance would be appreciated.

5. Jul 1, 2009

### EnumaElish

Remember p(X,Y) = Cov(X,Y)/sqrt(Var(X)Var(Y)).

6. Jul 2, 2009

### WHB3

When I try to factor this equation using the formula we learned in high school, I get