Geometic Series that sums to circle?

In summary, the conversation discussed the possibility of dividing up the area of a circle using similar polygons with a common ratio. It was suggested that this may not be possible due to the need for irrational numbers in the equation. However, it was mentioned that the area of a circle is equal to pi times the radius squared, and the use of irrational numbers does not necessarily make the procedure less attractive.
  • #1
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Does anyone know if there is a way to divide up the area of a circle using similar polygons, with a common ratio? I was just curious if there is a way, or if it has been proven impossible.

For example, I tried inscribing a square inside a circle and making an infinite series of triangles with the remaining area, but the triangles do not have a common ratio.
 
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  • #2
IF we can write the area of the unit disk as the limit of a geometric series, then, with a0 being the area of the largest sub-figure, and k the constant ratio, then we would necessarily have the following equation:

[tex]\frac{a_{0}}{1-k}=\pi[/tex]

But, since the ratio between rational numbers itself must be rational, it follows that either a0, k, or both must be irrational numbers.

And that sort of deflates the attractiveness of the procedure, don't you agree?
 
  • #3
This probably doesn't make a difference but the area of circle is equal to pi*r^2 where r is the radius of the circle.

But I don't know why that would deflate the attractiveness of the procedure. Why couldn't the ratio be the sqrt(2) or something?
 
  • #4
I was talking about the "unit disk", with radius equal to 1.

Well, sure it could be 1/square root of two or whatever else, but to construct some nasty irrational number is generally more difficult than a simple rational ratio.
 

1. What is a geometric series that sums to a circle?

A geometric series that sums to a circle is a series where each term is a multiple of the previous term, and when all the terms are added together, they form a circle.

2. How is a geometric series related to a circle?

A geometric series is related to a circle because a circle is a continuous curve made up of infinitely many points, similar to how a geometric series is made up of infinitely many terms.

3. Can a geometric series sum to any other shape besides a circle?

Yes, a geometric series can sum to any other shape as long as the terms follow a geometric pattern and the sum of all the terms converges to a finite value.

4. How is the sum of a geometric series related to the radius of a circle?

The sum of a geometric series is related to the radius of a circle through the formula S = a/(1-r), where S is the sum, a is the first term, and r is the common ratio. This formula can be used to find the circumference of a circle as well.

5. What is the significance of a geometric series that sums to a circle?

A geometric series that sums to a circle has many mathematical applications, including in the study of fractals and infinite series. It also demonstrates the interconnectedness of mathematical concepts, as a seemingly simple series can represent a complex and beautiful shape like a circle.

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