[Math] How to check the function whether CDF or not

calculusprobabilityrandom variables

Given a function

$$F(x)=(1/3)x^2, \text{$0 \le x \le 3$}$$

Is the following function valid CDF?

I have two ways to check it. First, I used three properties of CDF. Second, I will take derivative of $F(x)$ , and it will become PDF. After that, I will take integration of PDF from $-\infty$ to $\infty$, if the result is $1$, then the above function is CDF. So, what is correct way to do with above function? If it is possible, could you show $\lim_{x \to -\infty}F(x)=0$?

Best Answer

The four necessary properties of a CDF are:

  1. non decreasing.
  2. right continuous.
  3. $\lim\limits_{x\to-\infty} F(x) = 0$
  4. $\lim\limits_{x\to+\infty} F(x) = 1$

You have a suspected-to-be cumulative distribution function: $$F(x) = \begin{cases} 0 & : x \leq 0 \\ x^2/3 & : 0\leq x\leq 3 \\ 1& : 3 \leq x\end{cases}$$

Although you've only provided the middle piece.   However the other pieces are actually important.   With them included, are you satisfied that the four properties hold ?

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