Solving 2a $\sum (2x_i)^2 + 2b \sum x_i - 2 \sum x_i y_i$ for a and b

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In summary, the conversation discusses solving for a and b in the equation 2a \sum (2x_i)^2 + 2b \sum x_i - 2 \sum x_i y_i = 0. The answer provided in the book is a = \frac{(n\sum x_i y_i - \sum x_i \sum y_i)} {(n \sum (x_i)^2 - (\sum x_i)^2}, b = \frac{1 / n} (\sum y_i - a \sum x_i). The process involves simple algebraic manipulations and it is suggested to solve for b first before double-checking the answer for a.
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[tex]2a \sum (2x_i)^2 + 2b \sum x_i - 2 \sum x_i y_i [/tex] I need to set it equal to zero and solve for a.

[tex] 2a \sum x_i + 2nb - 2\sum y_i [/tex]

and solve for b.

I need a hint so i can start doing it, it confuses me all those adding symbols.

The Answer the book came up with is:

[tex] a= \frac{(n\sum x_i y_i - \sum x_i \sum y_i)} {(n \sum (x_i)^2 - (\sum x_i)^2} [/tex]

[tex] b= \frac{1 / n} (\sum y_i - a \sum x_i) [/tex]
 
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First of all, these look like simple algebraic manipulations. a and b are not inside any of the summations, so solving for them is straightforward. The solution for b looks fine (simple re-ordering of the equation), but the answer for a looks wrong. like, where did the n come from? Could that be the answer to a different question or something?

Do the 2nd one first to see how easy it is. Then re-check the first problem statement and answer to be sure you have them synchronized.
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
First of all, these look like simple algebraic manipulations. a and b are not inside any of the summations, so solving for them is straightforward. The solution for b looks fine (simple re-ordering of the equation), but the answer for a looks wrong. like, where did the n come from? Could that be the answer to a different question or something?

Do the 2nd one first to see how easy it is. Then re-check the first problem statement and answer to be sure you have them synchronized.


Thank you for your help!
 

FAQ: Solving 2a $\sum (2x_i)^2 + 2b \sum x_i - 2 \sum x_i y_i$ for a and b

What is the purpose of solving for a and b in this equation?

The purpose of solving for a and b in this equation is to determine the coefficients of the quadratic equation, which can then be used to model and analyze a set of data points.

What are the steps involved in solving this equation?

The first step is to distribute the summation symbols and simplify the equation. Then, use the method of least squares to set up a system of equations with two unknowns (a and b). Finally, solve the system of equations using algebraic manipulation or a linear equation solver.

Why is the method of least squares used in this equation?

The method of least squares is used to find the best-fit line or curve that minimizes the overall error between the predicted values and the actual values. This allows for a more accurate representation of the relationship between the variables in the data set.

What does the value of a represent in this equation?

The value of a represents the coefficient of the squared term in the quadratic equation, which determines the shape of the curve. It can also indicate the overall trend or pattern of the data points.

How can the values of a and b be interpreted in the context of the data?

The value of a can be interpreted as the rate of change or curvature of the data, while the value of b can be interpreted as the intercept or starting point of the data. These values can provide insights into the relationship between the variables and can be used to make predictions or draw conclusions about the data set.

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