277. The random variable $X$ in the interval (-c, c) is given by the probability density function $f(x)=1 /\left(\pi \sqrt{c^{2}-x^{2}}\right)$; outside this interval, $f(x)=0$. Find the mathematical expectation of the variable $X$.
Solution. We use the formula $M(X)=\int_{a} x f(x) \mathrm{d} x$. Substituting $a=-c, b=c, f(x)=1 /\left(\pi \sqrt{c^{2}-x^{2}}\right)$, we get

$$
M(X)=\frac{1}{\pi} \int_{-c}^{c} \frac{x d x}{\sqrt{c^{2}-x^{2}}}
$$

Considering that the integrand is an odd function and the limits of integration are symmetric with respect to the origin, we conclude that the integral is zero. Therefore, $M(X)=0$.

This result can be obtained immediately if we take into account that the distribution curve is symmetric about the line $\boldsymbol{x}=\mathbf{0}$.