On March 14th each year, math enthusiasts across the globe celebrate Pi Day, a celebration of the never-ending number π. The date was chosen because the first three digits of π are 3.14, which are analogous to the date written as 3/14.
The celebration reminds people that math is an integral part of everyday life and a way to appreciate the long history of discoveries related to this mathematical constant. Schools, universities, and scientific organisations often use this day to teach hands-on lessons and share discussions related to mathematics.
What is Pi?
The mathematical constant π represents the ratio of a circle's circumference (C) to its diameter (d). π begins with the digits 3.14159, which go on infinitely without repetition, since π is an irrational number.
The mathematical constant π plays an important role in mathematics and physics, particularly when calculating equations related to circles, spheres, and other curved shapes. π helps to calculate the area and circumference of shapes, as well as the volume of spheres.
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It is represented by the Greek letter π and is found in numerous mathematical equations, playing an important role in fields like engineering, astronomy, and science.
How the concept of Pi evolved over time
The discovery of pi and its precise value has been an ongoing challenge for thousands of years. The most groundbreaking discovery on pi was made by the Greek philosopher Archimedes, who found an algorithm to calculate pi by equating the circumference of a circle to polygons inscribed in and circumscribed about the circle.
The symbol π was proposed in 1706 by Welsh mathematician William Jones. The letter is derived from Greek words that mean periphery and perimeter, referring to the circle’s boundary.
How Pi Day began
Pi Day was first celebrated in the year 1988 in the city of San Francisco, where the Exploratorium was the venue for the event. The event was organised by a physicist named Larry Shaw in a fun-filled manner.
The day later gained further importance in the USA when the US House of Representatives passed a resolution on March 12, 2009, making March 14th a National Pi Day.
The date is also the birthday of the renowned physicist Albert Einstein, adding another scientific connection to the day.
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One of the most popular customs of celebrating Pi Day is the consumption of pies, as the word 'pi' is pronounced in the same way as the word 'pie.' The geometry of the pies is circular, just like the geometry of the constant 'pi.'
Google Doodle marks Pi Day
To celebrate Pi Day, Google launched a colourful and interactive Doodle that celebrates the famous number. The Doodle features a design that showcases the old-school geometry techniques used to estimate the famous number, which Archimedes helped bring to popularity.
"This Doodle celebrates the numerical constant pi (π), highlighting the foundational geometry first used to calculate its limits. Long before modern technology, the Greek mathematician Archimedes popularised an innovative approach: he approximated the value of pi by sandwiching a circle between two 96-sided polygons to determine its precise upper and lower bounds. Today, we honour this mathematical legacy as enthusiasts worldwide celebrate with pi-reciting contests and slices of pie," the Doodle stated.
