Mathematics for AI and Machine Learning

Foundations for modern AI and machine learning

Probability Current

Chapter 21 Mathematics for AI

Chapter 21: Fokker-Planck and Distribution Dynamics — Continuity Equation & Probability Current $J$

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From the book

Chapter 21: Fokker-Planck and Distribution Dynamics. In the chapter mind map this icon labels Continuity Equation & Probability Current $J$. The discussion below is excerpted and lightly edited from § Continuity Equation Perspective in Mathematics for AI and Machine Learning.

The Fokker–Planck equation can be written in continuity equation form:

where $\mathbf{J}_t(\mathbf{x})$ is the probability current (also called the probability flux):

What this drawing shows

What you see. Continuity equation in three beats: blue $J_{\mathrm{in}}$ enters first, $p$ accumulates in the control volume, then red $J_{\mathrm{out}}$ rises until flux balances.

In the mind map. Chapter 21 — Continuity Equation & Probability Current. See From the book above for definitions, figures, and worked examples.

Where to read next

Open Chapter 21 companion →

Read the full definitions, figures, and worked examples in Chapter 21: Fokker-Planck and Distribution Dynamics — see the mind-map node Continuity Equation & Probability Current.