Uniform distribution of two random variables

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the probability \( P[x+y \leq z] \) using double integrals of the joint density for two uniformly distributed random variables \( X \) and \( Y \) over the interval [0, 1]. Participants are trying to understand the integration limits and the resulting expressions, particularly how the result \( \frac{z^2}{2} \) is derived.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing the setup of the double integral and the limits of integration for \( X \) and \( Y \). There are questions about how to properly define the integration bounds, especially when \( z \) exceeds 1. Some participants are attempting to outline their reasoning and calculations while others are asking for clarification on specific steps.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing with various participants providing insights into the integration process and the interpretation of the joint distribution. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need to sketch the problem and consider different cases, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that both \( X \) and \( Y \) are uniformly distributed over [0, 1], leading to a combined range for \( z \) from 0 to 2. There are indications of confusion regarding the transition between different cases for \( z \) and how to handle the integration limits accordingly.

DottZakapa
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Homework Statement
given X an Y uniformly distributed on [0,1] independent find the density of S=X+Y
Relevant Equations
Fs(Z)=P[X+Y<=Z]
i did not get how the professor came to such result. In particular:

in order to evaluate
P[x+y<=z] solved a double integral of the joint density. What i am not getting is did i choose the extreme of integration in order to get as result ##\frac {z^2} {2}##
 
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DottZakapa said:
a double integral
Please show your work
 
in order to evaluate
##P\left[x+y<=z\right] ##solved a double integral of the joint density.

X is gong from 0 to 1 and same holds for Y.
integrating x from 0 to z and y from 0 to z-x i get

##\frac {z^2} {2}##

i think the reasoning should be this.
 
he divided the problem in two parts the above is for z between 0 and 1. the other is for z between 1 and 2, for which an other integral has been computed
i do not understand how this 2 came out
 
DottZakapa said:
he divided the problem in two parts the above is for z between 0 and 1. the other is for z between 1 and 2, for which an other integral has been computed
i do not understand how this 2 came out
If both x and y are numbers in the interval [0, 1], then z = x + y will be in the interval [0, 2]. Is that what you're asking? The double interval arises by working with the region in the plane [0, 1] X [0, 1].
 
DottZakapa said:
a double integral
what integral ?
 
You might think about it by considering the joint distribution ##f_{X,Y}(x,y) = f_X(x)f_Y(y)##. You want $$P(Z \leq z) = P(X + Y \leq z) = P(Y \leq z - X)$$ You can try sketching this on the plane ##[0,1] \times [0,1]##, and calculate this probability using a double integral or much more simply by considering areas (be careful about different cases!). Then convert cdf ##\rightarrow## pdf. I have the feeling that this is what your professor was driving at.

Alternatively, you can use the idea of a convolution $$f_Z(z) = \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} f_X(z-y) f_Y(y) dy$$but I think this approach has more room for error.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
DottZakapa said:
in order to evaluate
##P\left[x+y<=z\right] ##solved a double integral of the joint density.

X is gong from 0 to 1 and same holds for Y.
integrating x from 0 to z and y from 0 to z-x i get

##\frac {z^2} {2}##

i think the reasoning should be this.
That is outlining your work, not showing it. There is not enough here to say for sure what you are doing wrong. We need to see the actual integral you wrote down.
At a guess, you wrote ##\int_{x=0}^z\int_{y=0}^{z-x}1.dxdy##.
One problem with that is, e.g., for z>1 and x<z-1 your y integral range goes above 1.
A more fundamental problem is that it will give you the CDF, not the PDF.
 
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