- CuriosityQuest
- Posts
- What exactly is π?
What exactly is π?
π — The infinite number that circles around everything.
CuriosityQuest
June 01, 2025
Pi (π) is a mathematical constant that describes circles. It specifically tells us the number of times that the diameter of a circle fits around the outside (circumference) of the circle.
This ratio between the diameter and circumference of a circle remains constant, independent of its size. π is approximated to be equal to 3.14, however, it is an irrational number, meaning that it cannot be expressed as a simple fraction (a/b), and its decimal representation is infinite and non-repeating. π’s digits go on endlessly and without repetition.
Around 250 BC, Archimedes developed the first theoretical method for approximating π by taking regular polygons and increasing the number of sides within and also around a circle. He calculated the perimeters of the polygons and was able to set bounds for π. His best estimate was 3.1418, which at the time was a monumental achievement.
Subscribe to CuriosityQuest to Level-Up your Scientific Knowledge! Satisfy your curiosity and learn about topics like Black Holes, Quantum Entanglement, and life on Earth and beyond.
Get your free eBook now by subscribing!
Sources:
