What are the mean and standard deviation of the probability density function given by #(p(x))/k=x^3-49x# for # x in [0,7]#, in terms of k, with k being a constant such that the cumulative density across the range of x is equal to 1?

1 Answer
Jan 27, 2016

Integrate p(x) over #[0,7]#, set equal to 1, then solve for k ...

Explanation:

#k=(-4)/2401#

Next, using k above, integrate #xf(x)# over #[0,7]# to find #E(X)#

#E(X)=56/15#

Now, using k above, integrate #x^2f(x)# over #[0,7]# to find #E(X^2)#

#E(X^2)=49/3#

Find the Variance:

#sigma^2=E(X^2)=[E(X)]^2=49/3-(56/15)^2=539/225#

Finally, standard deviation #sigma=sqrt(sigma^2)=(7sqrt11)/15#

If you really need to know the mean and standard deviation in terms of k , then simply divide these parameters by #k=(-4)/2401#, then multiply each by the variable #k#.

hope that helped!

Note: Used the Solver feature of my TI-84 to find all these values:)