Date | November 2017 | Marks available | 2 | Reference code | 17N.3sp.hl.TZ0.5 |
Level | HL only | Paper | Paper 3 Statistics and probability | Time zone | TZ0 |
Command term | Find | Question number | 5 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
The random variable X follows a Poisson distribution with mean λ. The probability generating function of X is given by GX(t)=eλ(t−1).
The random variable Y, independent of X, follows a Poisson distribution with mean μ.
Find expressions for G′X(t) and G″X(t).
Hence show that Var(X)=λ.
By considering the probability generating function, GX+Y(t), of X+Y, show that X+Y follows a Poisson distribution with mean λ+μ.
Show that P(X=x|X+Y=n)=(nx)(λλ+μ)x(1−λλ+μ)n−x, where n, x are non-negative integers and n⩾x.
Identify the probability distribution given in part (c)(i) and state its parameters.
Markscheme
G′X(t)=λeλ(t−1) A1
G″X(t)=λ2eλ(t−1) A1
[2 marks]
Var(X)=G″X(1)+G′X(1)−(G′X(1))2 (M1)
G′X(1)=λ and G″X(1)=λ2 (A1)
Var(X)=λ2+λ−λ2 A1
=λ AG
[3 marks]
GX+Y(t)=eλ(t−1)×eμ(t−1) M1
Note: The M1 is for knowing to multiply pgfs.
=e(λ+μ)(t−1) A1
which is the pgf for a Poisson distribution with mean λ+μ R1AG
Note: Line 3 identifying the Poisson pgf must be seen.
[3 marks]
P(X=x|X+Y=n)=P(X=x∩Y=n−x)P(X+Y=n) (M1)
=(e−λλxx!)(e−μμn−x(n−x)!)(n!e−(λ+μ)(λ+μ)n) (or equivalent) M1A1
=(nx)λxμn−x(λ+μ)n A1
=(nx)(λλ+μ)x(μλ+μ)n−x A1
leading to P(X=x|X+Y=n)=(nx)(λλ+μ)x(1−λλ+μ)n−x AG
[5 marks]
B(n, λλ+μ) A1A1
Note: Award A1 for stating binomial and A1 for stating correct parameters.
[2 marks]