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Briefly explain the two characteristics (conditions) of the probability distribution of a discrete random variable.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The two characteristics or conditions of a probability distribution of a discrete random variable are: 1. Non-negative probabilities i.e., for any outcome 'i' for the variable, the probability \( P(X_i) \) is 0 or a positive number. 2. The sum of probabilities for all outcomes is equal to 1 i.e., \( \sum_{i} P(X_i) = 1 \), where 'i' represents all possible outcomes.

Step by step solution

01

Identification of Characteristics

There are two fundamental characteristics or conditions of the probability distribution for a discrete random variable: 1. Non-Negative Probabilities: The probability of each outcome for discrete random variable is non-negative. This means, for each individual outcome 'i', denoted by \( X_i \), the probability \( P(X_i) \) should be 0 or a positive number.2. Sum of Probabilities: The sum of probabilities of all possible outcomes for the discretely random variable should be equal to 1. Expressed mathematically, \( \sum_{i} P(X_i) = 1 \), where 'i' represents all possible outcomes.
02

Description of First Characteristic

Discussing the first characteristic, non-negative probabilities, this ensures that no outcome has a 'negative chance' of happening. Since probabilities represent how likely an event is, it makes no logical sense for an event to have a less than zero probability. Therefore, this rule ensures the validity and coherence of the probability model. This also implies that a discrete random variable's probability distribution will always have probabilities that are 0 or higher.
03

Description of Second Characteristic

Moving onto the second characteristic, the sum of probabilities, it is also a logical necessity for valid probability assignment. This rule means that when you add up all the different probabilities for all the possible outcomes of a random variable, you get 1. Essentially, this rule says that some event from the set of possible events has to happen. As a consequence, the sum of the probabilities of all possible outcomes in the probability distribution is always equal to 1.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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