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Numerical Approximation of the Median of the Gamma Distribution using Newton’s Method

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The Gamma Distribution is widely used in various real-world applications. However, directly finding its median can be challenging due to the lack of a simple closed-form expression. In this project, we will use Newton’s Method, an iterative algorithm for finding zeros of functions. By applying this method, we can approximate the median efficiently and with greater precision than former methods. Our implementation in Python also allows for increased applicability as we expand the approximation of the median for distributions where the rate parameter is not 1.

Source: Proceedings of the West Virginia Academy of Science

DOI: 10.55632/pwvas.v97i2.1127

Authors: Isaac Klennert, Bishnu Sedai

Institution: Fairmont State University

Language: English

Topic: Iterative Methods for Nonlinear Equations

Subfield: Numerical Analysis

Field: Mathematics

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4409263679

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