#152 · Multivariable Calculus · Multiple integrals

The Gaussian integral

Using polar coordinates on $I^{2} = \iint_{R^{2}} e^{- (x^{2} + y^{2})} d A$ , evaluate $I = \int_{- \infty}^{\infty} e^{- x^{2}} d x$ .

~10 minAnswer checked instantlyPolar coordinatesSquaring trick

Classical — the Gaussian integral (Laplace, 1774; the polar trick is due to Poisson)

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