Probably a Distribution

This chapter is all about Carl Gauss, his life, and his accomplishments, including his work in plotting the orbits for Ceres, which he did while still a teenager and which set his reputation. The chapter tells, too, how and when he invented and used his method of least squares and of his dispute with Legendre on who invented it first. One of his most significant accomplishments is his devising (and proof) of the normal probability density function, or, more familiarly, the standard normal curve. This is described and its import and application to modern times is discussed. Also, there is a brief discussion of biographical events and details of his life, such as his reclusive nature in his hometown of Göttingen, and his caring for his ailing mother and then his first and second wives. Some details of his impact today and lasting accomplishments are also provided.