The discussion centers on finding the perimeter formula for an oval, specifically an ellipse. A suggested approximation for the perimeter is p = 2π√((a² + b²)/2), where a and b are the semi-major and semi-minor axes. However, it is noted that there is no simple exact formula for the perimeter of an ellipse, and evaluating it typically involves elliptic integrals. The conversation highlights the need for clarification on what is meant by "oval," as it could refer to different shapes. Overall, the thread emphasizes the complexity of calculating the perimeter of an ellipse and suggests numerical methods for precise evaluation.