Likelihood estimation for generalized mixed exponential distributions

Download or read book Likelihood estimation for generalized mixed exponential distributions written by Carl M. Harris and published by . This book was released on 1984 with total page 60 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The class of probability functions expressed as linear (not necessarily convex) combinations of negative exponential densities is dense in the set of all distribution functions on the nonnegative reals. Because of this and resultant mathematical properties, such forms would appear to have excellent potential for wide application in stochastic modeling. This work documents the development and testing of a practical procedure for maximum-likelihood estimation for these generalized exponential mixtures. The algorithm offered for the problem is of the Jacobi type and guarantees that the result will provide a legitimate probability function of the prescribed type. Extensive testing has been performed and results are very favorable: convergence is rapid and the use of computer resources rather limited. (Author).