Statistics(moment generating function)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around statistical concepts, particularly focusing on the calculation of probabilities related to a uniform distribution, the derivation of moment-generating functions, and the exploration of functions of statistics that maintain variance independence from parameters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the interpretation of a uniform distribution's probability density function and its implications for calculating probabilities. There is also exploration of the central limit theorem in relation to sample means. Additionally, the derivation of moment-generating functions for random variables is examined, along with the search for functions whose variances do not depend on parameters.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the first problem, clarifying the distinction between calculating probabilities for a single value versus the mean. Others have contributed insights into the moment-generating function and transformations of random variables, indicating a productive exchange of ideas without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the central limit theorem and its application, as well as the need to clarify the definitions and implications of the statistical concepts being discussed.

thandu3
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1. Let X denote the mean of a random sample of size 75 from the distribution that has the pdf f (x) =1, 0<=x<=1. Calculate P (0.45 <X< 0.55).
2. Derive the moment-generating function for the normal density.
3. Let Y n (or Y for simplicity) be b (n, p). Thus, Y / n is approximately N [p, p (1 -p) / n]. Statisticians often look for functions of statistics whose variances do not depend upon the parameter. Can you find a function, say u(Y / n), whose variance is essentially free of p?


can anyone help me with them?
 
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I'm not going to risk giving advise on your other 2 problems since I'm not entirely sure what they are looking for but I can give you help on #1.

When they say that a distribution has a Pdf of F(x)=1 they mean that it is http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uniform_distribution_(continuous)" in other words all events within the defined space of 0<=x<=1 are equal. Therefore all you need to do to find the area (and thus probability) within two defined points (events) in this distribution is find the absolute value of their distance.

In the case of this problem: P(0.45<x<0.55)= 0.55-0.45 = 0.10

I hope that helps. ^-^
 
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thanks for your reply.
 
About #1, if the question is "the mean of a random sample of size 75 from the distribution that has the pdf f (x) =1" then the answer is not simply 0.1 - that is the probability associated with a single value of x, not the mean. Given the indicated level of the questions, perhaps think about the central limit theorem.

For the second problem, note that if X, Y are random variables, and

<br /> Y = \mu + \sigma X<br />

then the moment generating function of Y is

\begin{align*}<br /> \phi_Y(s) = E\left(e^{sY}\right) &amp;= \int e^{s(\mu + \sigma X)} f(x) \, dx \\<br /> &amp;= e^{s\mu} \int e^{(s \, \sigma ) X} f(x) \, dx \\<br /> &amp; = s^{s\mu} \phi_X (s \, \sigma)<br /> \end{align*}<br />

so if you know the mgf of X you can get the mgf using the idea in the final line. That should help you with the mgf for the normal distribution.

The final question is a classic question seen when transformations of random variables are introduced. Begin with the idea stated, that Y/n is roughly normal, with the given variance. You know the formula for the variance of a transformed normal r.v. - apply it to the given constant, set the result equal to a constant C, and solve the (very simple) differential equation.
 
statdad said:
About #1, if the question is "the mean of a random sample of size 75 from the distribution that has the pdf f (x) =1" then the answer is not simply 0.1 - that is the probability associated with a single value of x, not the mean. Given the indicated level of the questions, perhaps think about the central limit theorem.
You know what he is exactly right, I read that to calculate for a single value of X instead of for the mean X, I apologize. Thank you for catching my mistake statdad.
 
"You know what he is exactly right, I read that to calculate for a single value of X instead of for the mean X, I apologize. Thank you for catching my mistake statdad."

You are welcome, but there is no need for gnashing of teeth - we all make mistakes here, whether simple typing errors or others. I'm sure I'm far ahead of you in that regard.
I hope the OP is making progress on these.
 

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