Can This Definition of Pi Work in More Abstract Algebras?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the definition of pi in the context of abstract algebras, specifically examining the algebraic rules necessary for the limit definition to hold. The limit expression \lim_{n\to\infty}\left(1+\frac{a}{n}\right)^n=1 leads to the conclusion that |a|=2\pi k. The conversation highlights that quaternions satisfy the condition e^{2\pi u} = 1 for any quaternion u where u^2 = -1, suggesting that quaternions are a suitable algebra for this definition. The participants seek to identify additional abstract algebras that could accommodate this definition of pi.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in calculus
  • Familiarity with quaternion algebra
  • Knowledge of complex numbers and their properties
  • Basic concepts of abstract algebra, including addition and multiplication
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  • Explore the concept of limits in various algebraic structures
  • Investigate other abstract algebras that may support the definition of pi
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Mathematicians, algebraists, and students of abstract algebra interested in the properties of pi and its definitions across various algebraic structures.

Gerenuk
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I quite like the following definition of pi and I wonder which minimal algebraic rules are needed to make this definition work?

[tex]\lim_{n\to\infty}\left(1+\frac{a}{n}\right)^n=1[/tex]
[tex]\therefore |a|=2\pi k[/tex]

(For example, are there algebras more general than complex numbers, where this works?)
 
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Well, in the quaternions [itex]e^{2\pi u} = 1[/itex] where [itex]u[/itex] is any quaternion with [itex]u^2 = -1[/itex]
 
So quaternions probably also work.

Any more abstract algebra? Hmm, what do I need? I need addition, multiplication, scalar division, limiting process and modulus, right? What has to be fulfilled as to yield pi then?
 

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