Can You Tackle Holder's Inequality with Finite Moments in Statistics?

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    2015
In summary, a POTW is a challenging problem presented in scientific and mathematical publications with a one-week deadline. Finite moments of random variables refer to numerical characteristics used to calculate probabilities and make predictions in statistical analysis, and they can be calculated using integrals or summations depending on the type of random variable. These moments are important for comparing distributions, making predictions, and evaluating statistical models. Anyone with a basic understanding of probability and statistics can attempt to solve this week's POTW on finite moments of random variables.
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Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $X$ and $Y$ be random variables. Suppose $-\infty < q < 0$ and $p > 0$ such that $\frac{1}{p} + \frac{1}{q} = 1$. Show that if $X$ and $Y$ have finite $p$-th and $q$-th absolute moments, respectively, then

$$\left(\Bbb E[|X|^p]\right)^{1/p} \cdot \left(\Bbb E[|Y|^q] \right)^{1/q}\le \Bbb E|XY|.$$

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  • #2
No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.
Since $\frac{1}{p} + \frac{1}{q} = 1$, then $p + q = pq$. Using that fact, we find that the numbers $-q/p$ and $1/p$ are conjugate exponents; they are positive numbers such that

$$\frac{1}{-q/p} + \frac{1}{1/p} = -\frac{p}{q} + p = \frac{-p + pq}{q} = \frac{-p + (p + q)}{q} = \frac{q}{q} = 1.$$

Hence, by Holder's inequality,

$$\Bbb E[|X|^p] = \Bbb E[|XY|^p|Y|^{-p}] \le \left(\Bbb E[(|XY|^p)^{1/p}]\right)^{p} \left(\Bbb E[(|Y|^{-p})^{-q/p}]\right)^{-p/q} = (\Bbb E[|XY|])^p\, (\Bbb E[|Y|^q])^{-p/q}.$$

Taking the $p$th root results in

$$(\Bbb E[|X|^p])^{1/p} \le \Bbb E[|XY|]\, (\Bbb E[|Y|^q])^{-1/q}.$$

Multiplying this inequality by $(\Bbb E[|Y|^q])^{1/q}$ gives the result.
 

FAQ: Can You Tackle Holder's Inequality with Finite Moments in Statistics?

What is a POTW?

A POTW is a problem of the week, which is a common feature in many scientific and mathematical publications. It is a challenging problem that is presented to readers to solve, often with a deadline of one week.

What are finite moments of random variables?

Finite moments of random variables refer to the numerical properties or characteristics of a random variable, such as its mean, variance, and higher order moments. These moments provide information about the distribution of the random variable and are used to calculate probabilities and make predictions in statistical analysis.

How are finite moments of random variables calculated?

The calculation of finite moments of random variables depends on the type of random variable and its distribution. For continuous random variables, moments can be calculated using integrals, while for discrete random variables, they can be calculated using summations. In some cases, special formulas or tables may be used to calculate moments.

What is the importance of finite moments of random variables?

The finite moments of random variables are important because they provide a quantitative description of the characteristics of a random variable. They can be used to compare different distributions, make predictions, and assess the performance of statistical models. Higher order moments can also provide insight into the shape and behavior of a distribution.

Can anyone solve this week's POTW on finite moments of random variables?

Yes, anyone with a basic understanding of probability and statistics can attempt to solve this week's POTW on finite moments of random variables. It may require some knowledge of mathematical concepts and techniques, but there are often multiple approaches to solving the problem, so it is accessible to a wide range of individuals.

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