Fall 2006
 

This is a second course in probability theory. Prerequisites are MTH 451 (Probability) or an equivalent course, linear algebra, and some advanced calculus. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental principles, thinking probabilistically, and ``tricks of the trade.'' Topics will include: a second look at basic probability theory and foundations, generating functions, random walks, branching processes, Markov chains and continuous time Markov processes. The ideas and methods in this course have wide applicability in mathematics, computer science, virtually all the sciences, engineering, economics and management.

Instructor: L. Pakula, Tyler 201, X4519, pakula@math.uri.edu

Text: Grimmett and Stirzaker,  Probability and Random Processes, 3rd Edition

Time: MW 3-4:15

NOTE! The Final Exam will be on Thu Dec. 21 at 3 PM in Washburn 308 (our regular classroom for the course)

Room: Washburn 308

Go to notes and audio links

Abel and continuity theorems handout

Random walk handout

Maple worksheet simulates random walk

Maple worksheet on simulation and empirical distribution functions

Bill Day's MC simulator

Page readings in text: 1-14; 17-18; 26-30; 33-34;46-59; 318; 320-321; 60-70; 148-154; 162-165;171-175;181-184; 186-194; 122-125; Sections 6.1-6.4, 6.5,6.14,6.8,6.9 (selections),13.2,13.3 (selections, not covered on final)