Transformation of the uniform distribution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the mean and variance of the random variable Y = log(X), where X follows a uniform distribution over the interval [0,1]. The cumulative distribution function (CDF) for Y is derived as P(Y ≤ y) = P(X < e^y), leading to the probability density function (PDF) being e^y for y in the range (-∞, 0). The participants confirm that the mean and variance can be computed without explicitly needing the distribution of Y, although deriving it is a valid approach. The correct range for Y is established as (-∞, 0).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of uniform distribution and its properties
  • Knowledge of logarithmic functions and their transformations
  • Familiarity with cumulative distribution functions (CDF) and probability density functions (PDF)
  • Basic calculus for integration and limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the mean and variance for transformed random variables
  • Learn about the properties of logarithmic transformations in probability theory
  • Explore the concept of moment-generating functions for random variables
  • Investigate the implications of different distributions on transformation outcomes
USEFUL FOR

Students in statistics, mathematicians, and anyone studying probability theory, particularly those interested in transformations of random variables and their statistical properties.

stukbv
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Homework Statement



I am told that X is a random variable with uniform distribution over [0,1]
I need to find the mean and variance of log(X)

2. The attempt at a solution
I assume I must find the pdf of log(X) so I did this as follows;

Let Y=log(X)
Then to find the cumulative distribution function I considered;
P(Y≤ y) = P(log(X)≤ y) = P( X < ey)

I know that X is uniform over [0,1] so this is equal to
∫1.dy between ey and 0, where ey≤ 1

This gives me that the cumulative distribution function = ey
Which tells me that the probability density function is also ey

Now what I am not sure of is what must y lie between, is this for y between eb and ea ?
 
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stukbv said:

Homework Statement



I am told that X is a random variable with uniform distribution over [0,1]
I need to find the mean and variance of log(X)

2. The attempt at a solution
I assume I must find the pdf of log(X) so I did this as follows;

Let Y=log(X)
Then to find the cumulative distribution function I considered;
P(Y≤ y) = P(log(X)≤ y) = P( X < ey)

I know that X is uniform over [0,1] so this is equal to
∫1.dy between ey and 0, where ey≤ 1

This gives me that the cumulative distribution function = ey
Which tells me that the probability density function is also ey

Now what I am not sure of is what must y lie between, is this for y between eb and ea ?

For X between 0 and 1, what is the range of log(X)?

Anyway, to get the mean and variance of Y = log(X), you don't need the distribution of Y, although getting it is certainly one way of doing the problem.

RGV
 
I think my lecturer wants me to do it this way. So y must be between - infinity and 0?
Is my pdf correct now?
 

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