My math is rusty
I’m having a tough time figuring this out.
I want to generate a list of say, 100 random (electrical) current values. And the distribution is given by:
P(I) = (1 + (I/31)^2.6)^-1
where I = current (duh) in kA
and P(I) is the probability of current exceeding its magnitude
So as a simple example there is 95% chance the current can exceed 10kA and 1% chance the current can exceed 200kA. These aren’t exact values, but I hope they describe how the formula works.
What I’m trying to figure out is, how do I generate a statistically sound list of currents based on the given formula?
My father has suggested starting from higher currents and moving down in steps. Explained:
let’s say, P(200kA) = 1% = 1/100
so out of the 100 currents in my list, 1 would hold the value of 200kA.
then, assume P(190kA) = 2% = 2/100
that’s 2 values that exceed 190kA, which includes 200kA.
2-1 = 1 so 1 is valued at 190kA.
and so on…
Having read that, it’s a bit confusing. But I think all you math geniuses would get it.
The problem with this approach is that while statistically correct, it’s hardly random (in fact, not at all), and also does not take into account values in between (i.e. i could never have 193.2kA as a value).
Suggestions? Please, I would really appreciate any form of input. Last time I did any real math was years ago.
