MGF of $\chi^2$ is by integrating. It is not that hard: $$Ee^{tX}=\frac{1}{2^{k/2}\Gamma(k/2)}\int_0^\infty x^{k/2-1}e^{-x(1/2-t)}dx$$ Now do the change of variables $y=x(1/2-t)$, then note that you get Gamma function and the result is yours. If you want deeper insights (if there are any) try asking at http://math.stackexchange.com . share | improve this answer