Probabilistic Proofs of Euler Identities

Abstract

Formulae for ζ(2n) andLχ4(2n+ 1) involving Euler and tangent numbers are derived using the hyperbolic secant probability distribution and its moment generating function. In particular, the Basel problem, where ζ(2) = π2/ 6, is considered. Euler's infinite product for the sine is also proved using the distribution of sums of independent hyperbolic secant random variables and a local limit theorem.