Talk:Characteristic function

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I've written the definition; this article needs far more work. -- Mike Hardy

Should we set characteristic function to be primarily the generating function of probability theory (currently the second definition), and make indicator function the "characteristic function" of a set (currently the first definition)? Which usage is the most frequent for the first definition from the article? (I am more familiar with "indicator function".)

I'd like to extend both definitions, but have much more to add to the probability theory version! Can anyone advise on appropriate disambiguation in this case?

--Ben Cairns 11:36 1 Jun 2003 (UTC)

It makes sense to use "indicator function" for the indicator function, since that term is unambiguous, while "characteristic function" is not. AxelBoldt 03:45 14 Jun 2003 (UTC)

"nothing to do with topology"

The first definition of characteristic function has absolutely nothing to do with topology; it is used throughout math. I think I'll replace that entire line with just a reference to indicator function.--70.253.191.31 02:45, 29 June 2006 (UTC)[reply]

You are right that the indicator function is not just used in topology. However we can still say what the indicator function is. I've put back the definition. Paul August ☎ 03:57, 29 June 2006 (UTC)[reply]