Markov Chains: Reversibility and Stationary Distribution

This lecture delves into the concept of reversibility in Markov chains, exploring the conditions under which a chain is reversible and the implications of reversibility on the stationary distribution. The instructor explains the balance equations for reversible chains and highlights the ease of calculating the stationary distribution in such cases. The lecture also contrasts reversible and non-reversible chains, showcasing the complexity involved in analyzing non-reversible chains. Through examples and diagrams, the instructor illustrates the differences in behavior between reversible and non-reversible chains, emphasizing the importance of understanding reversibility in Markov chain analysis.