What is the integral setup for finding probability within a disk?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the probability of a point uniformly distributed within a disk of radius 1, specifically the probability that its distance from the origin is less than a variable x, where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. The density function is given as f(x,y) = C for the region defined by 0 ≤ x² + y² ≤ 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to set up an integral to find the probability, with some expressing confusion about the limits of integration and the role of the variable x in the setup. There is also a suggestion to consider using polar coordinates for the integral.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying the density function and exploring the appropriate setup for the integral. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of polar coordinates, but no consensus or complete solution has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of confusion regarding the limits of integration and the definition of the density function, which may affect the setup of the integral.

Bre Ntt
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I'm taking a probability class where multivariate calculus was not a prerequisite, but some of it is coming up, I get the concept of, say integrating over a region, but get lost in some of the mechanics

Here is the problem (I don't want a full solution):


A point is uniformly distributed within the disk of radius 1. That is its density is
[itex] f(x,y) = C \hspace{1cm} 0 \leq x^2 + y^2 \leq 1[/itex]
Find the probability that its distance from the origin is less than x, 0 \leq x \leq 1

I'm pretty sure I have to set up an integral that integrates over a disc of radius x to get the probability
Something like this
[itex] \int_A \int_B C \, dx \, dy[/itex]
But I don't know what the intervals A and B are supposed to be.

Can someone point me in the right direction? I get confused because my attempts end up with x being involved in the limit of integration, but x is the dummy variable, which doesn't seem right.
 
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Bre Ntt said:
I'm taking a probability class where multivariate calculus was not a prerequisite, but some of it is coming up, I get the concept of, say integrating over a region, but get lost in some of the mechanics

Here is the problem (I don't want a full solution):


A point is uniformly distributed within the disk of radius 1. That is its density is
[itex] f(x,y) = C \hspace{1cm} 0 \leq x^2 + 1 \leq 1[/itex]
Shouldn't the inequality be 0 <= x2 + y2 <= 1?
Bre Ntt said:
Find the probability that its distance from the origin is less than x, 0 \leq x \leq 1
Bre Ntt said:
I'm pretty sure I have to set up an integral that integrates over a disc of radius x to get the probability
Something like this
[itex] \int_A \int_B C \, dx \, dy[/itex]
But I don't know what the intervals A and B are supposed to be.

Can someone point me in the right direction? I get confused because my attempts end up with x being involved in the limit of integration, but x is the dummy variable, which doesn't seem right.
 
Yes, sorry. 0 <= x^2 + y^2 <= 1

I fixed it above.
 
This would be a natural for polar form of a double integral.
 

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