Purpose

The purpose of this lab assignment is to gain an appreciation of how statistical techniques can be used to solve deterministic problems.

Background

One common type of random number generator is the linear congruential random number generator (LCRNG). It may be defined recursively as:

Assignment

In this lab, you are to do the following:

• Implement a linear congruential random number generator.
• Experiment with different values for the constants. In one of your tests, use a=16807, c=0, m=2³¹-1, and x₀=667790.
• Speculate on the role of the different constants. How does the choice of each change the characteristics of the numbers generated?
• Use the generalized Monte Carlo method described in class to integrate the following functions:
  • f(x) = sin(x), for x in [0, ]
  • f(x) = -4x/(1 + x²)², for x in [-1.5,1.5]
  • f(x) = (2/(1 + x²)) - x², for x in [-1,1]
  You should calculate these integrals using your LCRNG and cstdlib's rand() function. Be sure to comment on any differences.
• 10% of your grade for this assignment will be based on the design of your program. A simple object-oriented program design is desirable.

Formatting Notes

• When discussing the results of your experiments with the linear congruential random number generator, you may find it useful to include graphs. These graphs should be included as separate files and follow these guidelines:
  • Each file should begin with your initials, for example: tcFig1.pdf
  • Each graph should be in one of the following formats and should end with the appropriate suffix: .pdf, .eps, .png, or .jpg
  • Include the graphs within your report using the following command:

        \begin{center}
        \includegraphics[width=.5\textwidth]{tcFig1}
        \end{center}
      

• The three f(x)'s may be included in your report using the following commands:

  \[ f(x) = \sin(x), \qquad \mbox{ for } x \in [0, \pi] \]
  \[ f(x) = \frac{-4x}{(1 + x^2)^2} \qquad
                         \mbox{ for } x \in [-1.5, 1.5] \]
  \[ f(x) = \frac{2}{1 + x^2} - x^2 \qquad
                         \mbox{ for } x \in [-1, 1] \]
  

• The update equation for the LC random number generator can be written as:

    $x_{n+1} = (a x_n + c) \mbox{ mod } m$
  

For this project, you may work individually or with a partner.

Lab report (due midnight Tuesday, October 26, 1999)

This week, your lab report need not be self-contained. If you worked with a partner, only one report is required for the two of you. Your report should include:

• Discussion containing:
  • A brief description of any problems you encountered and how they were resolved
  • A brief description of your design plan
  • A brief description of your approach for answering the questions (along with your answers)
  • Any questions you have regarding the lab
  • Suggestions for how the lab could be improved in the future
• Documented source code
• The data files that you created as well as their corresponding output

As with any report you submit, correct spelling and grammar are required. In addition, your report should be submitted electronically following the Electronic Submission Guidelines. (You may wish to consult the sample report before submitting your report.) Be sure to keep copies of all your files, in case something gets lost. It may be wise to keep a diskette backup as well.

If you have any questions, consult the instructor.

This page was created by Dr. Christopher C. Taylor, copyright 1999.