When can I decompose a random variable $Y=X'-X''$?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decomposition of a random variable \( Y = X' - X'' \) into two independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) random variables \( X' \) and \( X'' \). Participants explore the conditions under which such a decomposition is possible, particularly focusing on properties like absolute continuity and the behavior of characteristic functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of decomposing \( Y \) into two i.i.d. random variables \( X' \) and \( X'' \) with specific properties related to their distributions and densities.
  • Another participant suggests that \( Y \) must be symmetric and proposes checking the characteristic function \( g(t) \) for a specific form involving another characteristic function \( h(t) \).
  • A different participant advises using the convolution property of i.i.d. random variables and mentions the need to consider the mapping of probabilities to negative values when dealing with the convolution theorem.
  • One participant expresses confusion and seeks clarification on whether to start with an arbitrary characteristic function that is decomposable to craft another one.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various viewpoints and methods regarding the decomposition of \( Y \), indicating that there is no consensus on a single approach or solution. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing ideas and interpretations.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific properties of characteristic functions and convolution without fully resolving the implications or dependencies on particular assumptions. The discussion highlights the complexity of the problem and the need for further exploration of the mathematical relationships involved.

aspiring88
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I am wondering if I can find a decomposition of [itex]Y[/itex] that is absolutely continuous nto two i.i.d. random variables [itex]X'[/itex] and [itex]X''[/itex] such that [itex]Y=X'-X''[/itex], where [itex]X'[/itex] is also Lebesgue measure with an almost everywhere positive density w.r.t to the Lebesge mesure.

My main intent is to come up with two i.i.d. random variable, [itex]X'[/itex] and [itex]X''[/itex] and [itex]Y[/itex] and [itex]Y''[/itex], such that [itex]Pr(m> Y'-Y'')=Pr(m>X'-X'')[/itex] for [itex]m \in (-b,b)[/itex] for some [itex]b[/itex] small enough, while [itex]Pr(m+2> Y'-Y'')=Pr(m+1> X'-X'')[/itex]. I figured starting first by constructing a measure on the difference first that satisfies the above then decomposing it. Is this possible?

Thanks so much in advance for your much appreciated help.

Mod note: fixed LaTeX
 
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fix the latex.
 
Firstly your Y must be symmetric. If it has a characteristic function g(t) you could check whether g(t) = h(t)h(-t) for some other c.f. h(t).
 
Hey aspiring88 and welcome to the forums.

Since you are using the i.i.d property for your random variables, what you can do is use the convolution property, but you have to map your probabilities to the 'inverse' values instead of the positive values: in other words if your domain for the B RV in X = A + B is [0,infinity), then you have to change the mapping from (-infinity,0] and this can be done by just flipping the sign.

Using the convolution theorem, you can substitute your identities in and you will have a relationship that has to hold.

Because the convolution should return the CDF directly, this means that you should basically get a relationship between two integral expressions and from there you can get more specific with the properties of your density functions as you wish.
 
Thanks so much @chiro and @bpet. I'm still a bit loss. So you're recommendation is to start with one arbitrary characteristic function that is hopefully decomposable and see if I can craft another one?

Thanks again.
 

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