Understanding ∏ and other mathematical constants

AI Thread Summary
π is a single mathematical constant defined as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, resulting in an infinite decimal representation. Its significance arises from its fundamental relationship to circles, which appears in various mathematical equations and natural phenomena. While some argue that π is no more special than other constants like e, its unique properties and applications in geometry and trigonometry make it particularly relevant. The discussions emphasize that any use of π is derived from its definition related to circles, highlighting its pervasive presence in mathematics and nature. Understanding π requires recognizing its foundational role in geometry and its connections to other mathematical concepts.
Niaboc67
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What exactly is ∏? I've never quite understood why it is apparent in so many different equations and formulas. Why is it there? Why is it apparent in nature so much? And ∏ it's just a infinite set of numbers why is it any more relevant than any other set of infinite numbers. Why is 3.14... so important to the fundamental properties of this universe. The same goes with e and ψ and Ω and every other set of numbers. Are all constants just sets of infinitely repeating numbers that are set into different sequences?

I am in need of some demystification. Thank you!
 
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First, \pi is NOT an "infinite set of numbers". It is a single number that happens, like almost all real numbers, to have an infinite number of digits in base 10 notation. And I don't see anything special about "\pi". It doesn't seem, to me, to be any more important than "e" and considerably less important than "0" or "1"!
 
I still do see why ∏ possesses this quality. What makes it any different from using other numbers? why is this set of numbers used as opposed to any other set of numbers, or single number as referred to? 3.14159265359, does it just so happened to be that number you get for the ratio of any circles circumference to it's diameter? so anytime we are referring to ∏ automatically it is in some relation with circles?
 
Niaboc67 said:
I still do see why ∏ possesses this quality. What makes it any different from using other numbers? why is this set of numbers used as opposed to any other set of numbers, or single number as referred to?

Again, ##\pi## is a single number, not a set of numbers.

3.14159265359, does it just so happened to be that number you get for the ratio of any circles circumference to it's diameter? so anytime we are referring to ∏ automatically it is in some relation with circles?

Yes, ##\pi## is defined as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. If you take an arbitrary circle and calculate that ratio, you will get ##\pi## (more or less exactly depending on your accuracy of measurement).
Any other use of ##\pi## must somehow have been derived from this definition. So everywhere you use ##\pi##, there must have been some relation to circles, although this relation is sometimes very difficult to discover.
 
Niaboc,The link I gave includes everything you want. Please read it. I suggest you to read the entire article.
 
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