Large deviations, condensation, and giant response in a statistical system
Abstract
We study the probability distribution P of the sum of a large number of non-identically distributed random variables nm. Condensation of fluctuations, the phenomenon whereby one of such variables provides a macroscopic contribution to the global probability, is discussed and interpreted in analogy to phase-transitions in Statistical Mechanics. A general expression for P is derived, and its sensitivity to the details of the distribution of a single nm is worked out. These general results are verified by the analytical and numerical solution of some specific examples.
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