Questions about Linear Combinations of Random Variables

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the linear combinations of random variables, specifically focusing on the random variable Y defined as Y=1/2*(X1-X3)^2+1/14*(X2+2X4-3X5)^2. Participants are exploring the moment-generating function and probability density function (p.d.f.) of Y, as well as the properties of independent random variables involved in the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express difficulty in finding the p.d.f. of Y and question the application of moment-generating functions. There are inquiries about the properties of sums and differences of independent random variables, particularly regarding their distributions and the implications of squaring these variables.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided hints regarding the properties of sums of squares of random variables, while others are seeking clarification on these properties and their implications. The discussion reflects a mix of attempts to understand the underlying concepts without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that their prior learning has primarily focused on random variables raised to the first power, which may limit their understanding of the current problem involving higher powers. There is also mention of the independence of the random variables involved.

ken15ken15
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


RQwRhjc.jpg

Homework Equations


Y=1/2*(X1-X3)^2+1/14*(X2+2X4-3X5)^2

The Attempt at a Solution


For (a) part, I have only learned to find the moment-generating function of Y, but not finding the p.d.f.
Moreover, the examples I have seen only involves random variables Xi to the power 1, but not to higher power.

For (b) part, the difficulty for me is just similar to part (a).
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Hint: (Z_1^2 + ... +Z_n^2) +(Z_1^2 + ... +Z_m^2) = (Z_1^2 + ... +Z_n^2 +...+ Z_m^2)
 
dirk_mec1 said:
Hint: (Z_1^2 + ... +Z_n^2) +(Z_1^2 + ... +Z_m^2) = (Z_1^2 + ... +Z_n^2 +...+ Z_m^2)

sorry but...what property is it? I haven't learned this before...
 
ken15ken15 said:

Homework Statement


RQwRhjc.jpg



Homework Equations


Y=1/2*(X1-X3)^2+1/14*(X2+2X4-3X5)^2


The Attempt at a Solution


For (a) part, I have only learned to find the moment-generating function of Y, but not finding the p.d.f.
Moreover, the examples I have seen only involves random variables Xi to the power 1, but not to higher power.

For (b) part, the difficulty for me is just similar to part (a).

##Z_1 = X_1 - X_3## has an ##N(0,a)## distribution, ##Z_2 = X_2+2X_4-3X_5## is ##N(0,b)##, and ##Z_1, Z_2## are independent. So ##Y## involves a weighted sum of squares of independent, mean-0 random variables.
 
Ray Vickson said:
##Z_1 = X_1 - X_3## has an ##N(0,a)## distribution, ##Z_2 = X_2+2X_4-3X_5## is ##N(0,b)##, and ##Z_1, Z_2## are independent. So ##Y## involves a weighted sum of squares of independent, mean-0 random variables.

So do you mean given the random variables are independent, the sum or difference of them will also have the same distribution of them? Also, how can a duel with the square of the random variables? Do I need to consider it with transformation of variables?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K