Our figure of the month | VS

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Our figure of the month | VS

Number of the month 3,14

On 14 March, maths enthusiasts around the world celebrate Pi Day. In the US, the date is written as 3/14,  which is reminiscent of the circle constant π (pi), whose value is rounded to 3.14. Schools and universities use this day to celebrate the fascination surrounding π – a number that has occupied researchers since ancient times.

What is behind the number 3.14?

The number 3.14 is the rounded form of the circle number π. It describes the fundamental ratio between the circumference of a circle and its diameter. This ratio is the same for every circle, whether it is a tiny coin or a gigantic planet.

Why is π so special?

π is an irrational number and has an infinite number of decimal places, but that's not all:

  • there are no repeating patterns: the sequence of digits appears completely chaotic.
  • Not only is π itself irrational: the square root of π cannot be represented as a fraction either.

This makes π one of the most ‘resistant’ numbers in mathematics.
 

100% of all circles have the same ratio of circumference to diameter: π

Historical background

In ancient Greece, Pythagoras and his students studied numerical ratios intensively, thereby contributing to early research into irrational numbers. A systematic approach to π was later achieved by Archimedes, among others, who narrowed down the value geometrically.

Where do we encounter π in everyday life?

π can be found wherever there are circles – and that is surprisingly often:

  • in geometry: sphere volumes, circle areas
  • in physics: electricity, oscillations
  • in technology: mechanical engineering, construction
  • in nature: circles, spirals

A number that connects the world

The number 3.14 represents much more than just a mathematical constant. It is a symbol of the depth of mathematics and the curiosity that drives science. No wonder, then, that π gets its own holiday every year.