Mathematical Typesetting in Wolfram Alpha

(Image by mikeymckay)

I came across a great little tip on David Bau’s blog today about using Wolfram Alpha to create quick GIF images of mathematical formulae to be included in a blog. For example, by typing “integrate sin x dx from x=0 to pi” into the Wolfram Alpha search box, you’re presented with both of graph of the curve as well as a typeset version:

I’ve written a few times about using LaTeX in WordPress, but this is certainly an easy way to include typeset equations in a blog. I’m not sure why this hadn’t occurred to me when I first started playing with Wolfram Alpha, but I suppose that’s why people like David write great tips like this!