Applied Stochastic processes: difference of uniform distributions

In summary, the conversation discussed finding the distribution function of Z=X-Y, its mean and variance when two independent random variables, X and Y, have the same uniform distributions in the range [-1,1]. The conversation also mentioned using the change of variables technique to simplify the process. The distribution function of Z can be obtained by integrating the product of the p.d.fs of X and Y, and the mean and variance can be calculated using the derived p.d.f. The mean was found to be 0 and the variance to be 2/3.
  • #1
ra_forever8
129
0
Two independent random variables X and Y has the same uniform distributions in the range [-1..1]. Find the distribution function of Z=X-Y, its mean and variance.

=Using change of variables technique seems to be easiest.

fX(x) = 1/2

fY(y) =1/2

f = 1/4 ( -1<X<1 , -1<Y<1)

Using u =x -y , v= x+y

Jacobian is del (x,y) / del (u,v) = 1/2

then J =1/2

and g (u,v) =1/8

Integrate g with respect to v then

gu = (u+2)/4 -2<u<0

and gu = ( -u+2) /4 , 0< u<2

is the PDF of u

Finally mean and variance, Can someone help me? Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
grandy said:
Two independent random variables X and Y has the same uniform distributions in the range [-1..1]. Find the distribution function of Z=X-Y, its mean and variance.

=Using change of variables technique seems to be easiest.

fX(x) = 1/2

fY(y) =1/2

f = 1/4 ( -1<X<1 , -1<Y<1)

Using u =x -y , v= x+y

Jacobian is del (x,y) / del (u,v) = 1/2

then J =1/2

and g (u,v) =1/8

Integrate g with respect to v then

gu = (u+2)/4 -2<u<0

and gu = ( -u+2) /4 , 0< u<2

is the PDF of u

Finally mean and variance, Can someone help me? Thanks

If X and Y are uniformely distributed in [-1,1], then U= X + Y and V= X - Y have the same p.d.f. that is... $\displaystyle g(x)= f(x) * f(x) = \begin{cases} \frac{1}{2}+ \frac{x}{4}\ \text{if}\ -2 < x < 0 \\ \frac{1}{2} - \frac{x}{4}\ \text{if}\ 0 < x < 2\\ 0\ \text{elsewhere}\end{cases}$ (1)

From (1) we derive immediately...

$\displaystyle \mu = \int_{-2}^{2} x\ g(x)\ dx =0\ (2)$$\displaystyle \sigma^{2} = \int_{-2}^{2} x^{2}\ g(x)\ dx = \frac{2}{3}\ (3)$

Kind regards $\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Last edited:

FAQ: Applied Stochastic processes: difference of uniform distributions

What is a stochastic process?

A stochastic process is a mathematical model that describes the evolution of a system over time, where the outcomes of the process are not deterministic but rather random or probabilistic. It is commonly used in fields such as finance, biology, and engineering to model real-world phenomena.

How are uniform distributions used in applied stochastic processes?

Uniform distributions are used in applied stochastic processes to model situations where the outcomes are equally likely to occur within a certain range. They are often used in simulations and statistical analyses to represent the uncertainty and randomness in a system.

What is the difference between a uniform distribution and a normal distribution?

A uniform distribution has a constant probability for all outcomes within a specified range, while a normal distribution has a bell-shaped curve with a higher probability for outcomes near the mean and lower probabilities for outcomes further away. Additionally, a uniform distribution has no skewness, while a normal distribution may be positively or negatively skewed.

How can applied stochastic processes be applied in real-world situations?

Applied stochastic processes can be used to model and analyze a wide range of real-world phenomena, such as stock prices, weather patterns, and population growth. They can also be used to make predictions and inform decision-making in various fields, including finance, economics, and healthcare.

What are some common techniques for analyzing applied stochastic processes?

Some common techniques for analyzing applied stochastic processes include Monte Carlo simulations, Markov chains, and time series analysis. These methods allow scientists to model and study the behavior of a system over time and make predictions about future outcomes.

Similar threads

Back
Top