Can physics deal with the existence of Pi?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the philosophical and mathematical existence of Pi (π) and its relationship to physics and cosmology. Participants assert that Pi is a mathematical constant defined as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, independent of physical existence. They emphasize that while Pi is useful in physical interpretations, its existence is rooted in mathematical axioms rather than physical reality. The conversation also touches on the implications of non-Euclidean geometry and the nature of numbers as concepts existing in the human mind.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus, particularly Taylor series.
  • Familiarity with Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry.
  • Knowledge of mathematical constants and their definitions.
  • Awareness of philosophical perspectives on mathematical existence.
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  • Explore the implications of non-Euclidean geometry on mathematical constants.
  • Study the derivation of Pi using Taylor series and calculus.
  • Investigate philosophical theories regarding the existence of numbers.
  • Learn about Buffon's needle problem and its relation to probability theory and Pi.
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Mathematicians, physicists, philosophers, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of mathematics and its relationship with physical reality.

  • #61
DanielMB said:
It is not, are geometric considerations expressed in the language of maths, it is about the physical universe, all our formulae where Pi appears mean "Pi is a constant 3,14... in Euclidean space"
Does the formula $$\frac{\pi^2}{6} = \sum_{n = 1}^{\infty} \frac 1 {n^2}$$ depend on the local stress-energy tensor?

You could write a paper on how to do real analysis in curved spacetime!
 
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  • #62
DanielMB said:
It is not, are geometric considerations expressed in the language of maths, it is about the physical universe, all our formulae where Pi appears mean "Pi is a constant 3,14... in Euclidean space"
But pi and e also come from non-geometrical problems. pi and e are the solutions to the equations
-1 = eix
and
d(xy) / dy = xy

No geometry explicitly involved there.
 

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