Finding the pdf of the squared difference between two independent standard normal random variables

Question

Let $X_1$ and $X_2$ be independent $N(0,1)$ random variables. Find the pdf of $(X_1-X_2)^2/2$.

I know that the answer will be a chi-squared with 1 degree of freedom. But I am not sure how to show this formally. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

score 2 · Accepted Answer · edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:20

2

Start by showing that the distribution of $(X_1 - X_2)$ is normal - Distribution of the difference of two normal random variables.

Then use the definition of the chi-squared distribution.

EDIT:
If you have seen the above mentioned question, you would have concluded that $X_1 - X_2$ follows a normal distribution with mean $0$ and variance $2$.
Hence, the R.V. - $\frac{(X_1-X_2)}{\sqrt{2}}$ follows a standard normal distribution. This is because $$\operatorname {Var} (aX)=a^{2}\operatorname {Var} (X).$$ Using the definition as stated here, conclude that the square of a standard normal random variable follows the chi-squared distribution with $k=1$ degrees of freedom.

edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:20

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answered Nov 25 '16 at 17:09

Shraddheya Shendre

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I did the first part of your suggestion but I do not see how using the definition of chi-square distribution will help me there after, could you add a bit more to your answer – Wolfy Nov 25 '16 at 17:38
@Wolfy - Explained a bit more, hope this clarifies. – Shraddheya Shendre Nov 25 '16 at 17:56
the post you have contains the wrong answer – Wolfy Dec 04 '16 at 18:41
You mean the linked answer? – Shraddheya Shendre Dec 05 '16 at 04:59

Finding the pdf of the squared difference between two independent standard normal random variables

1 Answers1

Linked