Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Continuous random variables

Continuous random variables — practice question

The diagram plots the probability density function, $f$, for a random variable $X$ that can take only values from $-3$ to $2$.
(a)[2]

Using the fact that the graph is symmetric about the line $x = -0.5$ and that $P(X < 0) = p$, determine $P(-1 < X < 0)$ in terms of $p$.

(b(i))[3]

The probability density function in the diagram is now defined by $f(x) = \begin{cases} a - b(x^2 + x), & -3 \le x \le 2, \\ 0, & \text{otherwise}, \end{cases}$ where $a$ and $b$ are positive constants. Prove that $30a - 55b = 6$.

(b(ii))[3]

By substituting an appropriate value of $x$ into $f(x)$, obtain a further equation relating $a$ and $b$ and hence determine the values of $a$ and $b$.

(ii)[3]

By substituting an appropriate value of $x$ into $f(x)$, obtain another equation involving $a$ and $b$ and hence determine the values of $a$ and $b$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Either $1-p$ or $p-0.5$

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