Question:medium

If, \(f(X) = \frac{C\theta^x}{x}\); \(x = 1,2, \dots\); \(0<\theta<1\), then E(X) is equal to

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When a PMF is given, first check if you need to solve for the normalizing constant (C). If the options for E(X) or other moments include the constant, you can often proceed with the calculation directly without finding its specific value. Also, be quick to recognize standard mathematical series like the geometric series.
Updated On: Feb 18, 2026
  • \( C\theta \)
  • \( \frac{C\theta}{(1-\theta)} \)
  • \( \frac{C}{(1-\theta)} \)
  • C
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept Overview:
The problem requires finding the expected value, \(E(X)\), of a discrete random variable \(X\), given its probability mass function (PMF) which includes a constant \(C\). The solution involves directly applying the definition of expected value. Solving for \(C\) is unnecessary as the answer choices are in terms of \(C\).

Step 2: Core Formula:
The expected value for a discrete random variable is: \[ E(X) = \sum_{x} x . P(X=x) \] Here, \( P(X=x) = f(x) = \frac{C\theta^x}{x} \).

Step 3: Step-by-Step Solution:
Apply the expected value formula to the given PMF, summing over all possible \(x\) values, from \(x=1\) to infinity. \[ E(X) = \sum_{x=1}^{\infty} x . f(x) \] \[ E(X) = \sum_{x=1}^{\infty} x . \left(\frac{C\theta^x}{x}\right) \] Simplify by canceling \(x\): \[ E(X) = \sum_{x=1}^{\infty} C\theta^x \] Factor out the constant \(C\): \[ E(X) = C \sum_{x=1}^{\infty} \theta^x \] The summation is a geometric series with initial term \(a = \theta\) and ratio \(r = \theta\). Given \(0<\theta<1\), the series converges. The sum is given by \( S = \frac{a}{1-r} \). \[ \sum_{x=1}^{\infty} \theta^x = \frac{\theta}{1-\theta} \] Substitute this back into the \(E(X)\) equation: \[ E(X) = C \left(\frac{\theta}{1-\theta}\right) = \frac{C\theta}{1-\theta} \]
Step 4: Solution:
The expected value \(E(X)\) is \( \frac{C\theta}{1-\theta} \).
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