What probability density is used in Brownian motion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the probability density function used in calculating the first moment of a free Brownian particle's coordinate as a function of time. The integral expression for the first moment, = ∫x*W(x)dx, is analyzed, with confusion surrounding whether to use W(x), W(x,t), or W(t) as the probability density. The participant expresses uncertainty about the integration variable, questioning whether to integrate over x or t, while noting that the only random variable is the driving force, ζ(t').

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  • Understanding of Brownian motion and its mathematical representation
  • Familiarity with probability density functions and their applications
  • Knowledge of expectation values in statistical mechanics
  • Basic calculus, specifically integration techniques
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Students and researchers in physics, particularly those studying stochastic processes, statistical mechanics, and Brownian motion. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to understand the mathematical foundations of probability densities in the context of particle dynamics.

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Homework Statement



I have a free Brownian particle and its coordinate is given as a function of time:

upload_2015-12-4_13-58-5.png


And its first moment, or mean, is given as

upload_2015-12-4_13-58-40.png


But what kind of probability density was used to calculate this first moment?

Homework Equations



I know that the first moment is calculated by using probability density

<x> = ∫x*W(x)dx from -infinity to +infinity.

X itself is dependent on t, so is it W(x) or W(x,t) or W(t)? I'm little lost on this one.

The Attempt at a Solution



I did find some kind of density function in regards to Brownian motion

upload_2015-12-4_14-6-0.png


But I can't see how this would yield the correct result. And still, must I integrate over x or t?
 

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Just take the expectation value of your first expression (expectation values are linear) keeping in mind that the only actually random variable in it is the driving force ##\zeta(t')##.
 

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