Theory
It generates sampling values from an arbitrary probability distribution function by using an instrumental distribution, under the only restriction that where is an appropriate bound on .
Rejection sampling is usually used in cases where the form of makes sampling difficult. Instead of sampling directly from the distribution, we use an envelope distribution where sampling is easier. These samples from are probabilistically accepted or rejected.
This method relates to the general field of Monte Carlo techniques, including Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms that also use a proxy distribution to achieve simulation from the target distribution . It forms the basis for algorithms such as the Metropolis algorithm.
The unconditional acceptance probability is the proportion of proposed samples which are accepted, which is . If is low, fewer samples are rejected, and the required number of samples for the target distribution is obtained more quickly. Because must be no less than the maximum of, the unconditional acceptance probability is higher the less that ratio varies, however to obtain acceptance probability 1, which defeats the purpose of sampling.
Read more about this topic: Rejection Sampling
Famous quotes containing the word theory:
“By the “mud-sill” theory it is assumed that labor and education are incompatible; and any practical combination of them impossible. According to that theory, a blind horse upon a tread-mill, is a perfect illustration of what a laborer should be—all the better for being blind, that he could not tread out of place, or kick understandingly.... Free labor insists on universal education.”
—Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)
“The whole theory of modern education is radically unsound. Fortunately in England, at any rate, education produces no effect whatsoever. If it did, it would prove a serious danger to the upper classes, and probably lead to acts of violence in Grosvenor Square.”
—Oscar Wilde (1854–1900)
“The great tragedy of science—the slaying of a beautiful theory by an ugly fact.”
—Thomas Henry Huxley (1825–1895)