Information content of a random variable Random variable x Outcome of a random experiment Discrete R V takes on values from a finite set of possible outcomes PMF: P(X=y)=Py) How much information is contained in the event X=y? Will the sun rise today Revealing the outcome of this experiment provides no information Will the Celtics win the NBa championship? Since this is unlikely, revealing yes provides more information than revealing Events that are less likely contain more information than likely events
PARTO- PRELUDE: REVIEW OF UNIFIED ENGINEERING THERMODYNAMICS [AW pp 2-22, 32-41(see IAW for detailed SB&vw references): VN Chapter 1] 0.1 What it's all about The focus of thermodynamics in 16.050 is on the production of work, often in the form of kinetic energy(for example in the exhaust of a jet engine)or shaft power