MCS 341 Problem Assignments

4. Continuous Random Variables

Sections to read	Topics	Suggested problems	Assigned problems	Due Date
4.1 4.2	The probability distribution for a continuous random variable	4.3, 4.11	4.4, 4.6	F 10/22
4.3	Expected values for continuous random variables	4.19	4.22	F 10/29
4.4	The uniform probability distribution	4.43	4.42, 4.44
4.4	The uniform probability distribution	Extra credit:	Write up a proof of the claim on p. 167 about the uniform distribution of the arrival time if there's exactly one arrival in [0, t] in a Poisson process.
4.5	The normal probability distributions		4.60, five normal problems (ps) (pdf)	M 11/1
4.6	The gamma probability distributions	4.67, 4.68, 4.75	4.76, 4.79, 4.82	W 11/3
4.7	The beta probability distributions	4.91, 4.93	4.94, 4.98	W 11/3
4.8 4.9	Some general comments Other expected values	4.104, 4.105, 4.106, 4.107, 4.108, 4.109
4.10	Tchebysheff's theorem =Chebyshev's inequality	4.117; 1.30
4.11	Expectations of discontinuous functions and mixed probability distributions (optional)	Extra credit*: 4.126
4.12	Summary	Extra credit*: 4.148, 4.152	Chapter 4 exam	F 11/5

"Suggested problems" are not to be turned in. * Extra credit due M 11/8.

Homework rules

Students are encouraged to discuss course topics with one another. On assigned work, though, you are expected to do the work on your own. Your discussion with other students should be confined to matters related to understanding the problems and general approaches to doing problems, and you should acknowledge those who help you in this way. You should not collaborate on problem solutions unless directed otherwise.

Acknowledge your sources (people and texts).
In nontrivial problems, show how you get your answers.
Turn in neat, well-written solutions, not messy first drafts. Trim "fringes." Staple multiple-page submissions.
Do not copy collaborative solutions; write up solutions in your own words.
Turn in homework on time. Each class day late reduces the possible points by 33%.
Do extra credit problems entirely on your own. Turn in solutions separately from regular homework.

Honor pledge: "On my honor, I pledge that I have not given, received, or tolerated others' use of unauthorized aid in completing this work."