[Math] If the joint distribution is uniform, then the random variables are independent

probability distributions

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This is a problem that I am stuck at. If $X_1$ and $X_2$ are independent, it would be easier. But, the problem asks me the converse.

For (i), I suspect that $X_1$ and $X_2$ are independent. But I find no way of showing this.

For (ii), I even have no idea if $X_1$ and $X_2$ are independent…I first tried $X_1$ and $X_2$ being polar coordinates. But, I don't think they form a uniform joint distribution.

Could please anyone help me with this problem?

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This is the definition of independent random variables.

Best Answer

What is the definition of the independence of two random variables? In other words, how can you mathematically determine whether two random variables are independent?

Your intuition for part (i) is correct, but you need to figure out why. The beginning step is to answer the above question.

For part (ii), suppose I generated a realization of $(X_1, X_2)$ according to the distribution specified in this part of the question. Without telling you $X_1$, I tell you that $X_2 = 0.95$. What information does this convey about the possible value of $X_1$? For example, could $X_1 = 0.5$ if $X_2 = 0.95$? Why or why not? What does this suggest about whether $X_1$ and $X_2$ are independent?