The ergodic theorem : Introductory video

Before watching the video read the questions below. As you watch the video try to answer them

Questions

    • Explain the meaning of the word ergodic in the context of Markov chains.
    • Why can't an ergodic Markov chain have transient states?
    • Give a statement of the ergodic theorem ensuring that you define all the terms in the equation.
    • Explain how you can calculate the expected return time to a state if you are given the stationary distribution.
    • Explain what is meant by the period of a state in the context of Markov chains.
    • What is the greatest common divisor for the following sets of numbers $\{2,4,6,8\}$, $\{4,8,12\}$, $\{4,5,8,12\}$ and $\{4,8,12,14\}$
    • Draw the transition graph for a Markov chain involving 5 states in which every state has a period of 5 and a transition graph for a 5 state Markov chain in which every state has a period of 3.