Probability expectations with n

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating expected values in probability, specifically dealing with a discrete probability distribution function (p.d.f.) involving a variable n. Participants explore the mathematical steps involved in deriving the expected value and address confusion regarding the application of a series formula.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a p.d.f. and attempts to calculate the expected value E{ξ} using a series formula, leading to a proposed result of 1/3.
  • Another participant questions the calculation, suggesting that the numerator should be 1/4 instead of 3/4 when applying the series formula.
  • A later reply indicates that the mistake in the calculation has been corrected, but does not clarify the nature of the correction.
  • Participants express gratitude for the assistance provided in resolving the confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains disagreement regarding the correct application of the series formula and the resulting expected value. The confusion about the numerator indicates that the participants have not reached a consensus on this point.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the application of the series formula, particularly in relation to the numerator in the expected value calculation.

Carla1985
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I'm stuck on this question. I've done plenty of the questions with numbers etc but not sure how to deal with the n case for this one.

View attachment 689

Thank you :)
 

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Carla1985 said:
I'm stuck on this question. I've done plenty of the questions with numbers etc but not sure how to deal with the n case for this one.

View attachment 689

Thank you :)

If the discrete p.d.f. is...

$\displaystyle P \{ \xi = n \} = \frac{3}{4}\ (\frac{1}{4})^{n}$ (1)

... then, tacking into account that is...

$\displaystyle \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} n\ x^{n} = \frac{x} {(1-x)^{2}}$ (2)

... You obtain...

$\displaystyle E \{ \xi \} = \frac{3}{4}\ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} n\ (\frac{1}{4})^{n} = \frac{\frac{3}{4}\ \frac{1}{4}}{(\frac{3}{4})^{2}} = \frac{1}{3}$ (3)

Regarding (ii) by definition is...

$\displaystyle E \{ (-3)^{\xi} \} = \frac{3}{4}\ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} (-3)^{n}\ (\frac{1}{4})^{n} = \frac{3}{4} \frac{1}{1+\frac{3}{4}} = \frac{3}{7}$ (4)Kind regards$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Last edited:
chisigma said:
... You obtain...

$\displaystyle E \{ \xi \} = \frac{3}{4}\ \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} n\ (\frac{1}{4})^{n} = \frac{\frac{3}{4}}{(\frac{3}{4})^{2}} = \frac{4}{3}$ (3)
Im confused by this part. If i use the series from the line above taking x to be 1/4 isn't it 1/4 on top instead of 3/4? or have i missed something?
Thanks for the help x
 
Carla1985 said:
Im confused by this part. If i use the series from the line above taking x to be 1/4 isn't it 1/4 on top instead of 3/4? or have i missed something?
Thanks for the help x

All right!... the mistake has been corrected... thak You very much!...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Thats fab, thanks very much for the help x
 

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