Understanding the Physical Meaning of Pi in a Circle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the physical meaning of π in relation to circles, exploring its role as a constant in the ratio of circumference to diameter. Participants delve into the implications of π being an irrational number and its representation in various numerical systems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the physical meaning of π, questioning how it applies to circles beyond its mathematical definition.
  • One participant suggests that π represents the number of diameters a wheel moves forward with one revolution.
  • Another participant raises concerns about the infinite decimal representation of π and its implications for the existence of perfect circles.
  • Some argue that π is a finite number despite its non-terminating decimal representation, clarifying that this does not imply it is infinite.
  • A participant mentions that the ratio of circumference to diameter is a constant across all circles, reinforcing the idea that π is a fundamental property of circular geometry.
  • There are discussions about the distinction between mathematical representation and the properties of numbers, particularly in relation to irrational numbers like π.
  • Participants explore how to interpret the decimal expansion of π in practical terms, using examples involving measurements and approximations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of π, particularly regarding its infinite decimal representation and its implications for the concept of perfect circles. There is no consensus on the interpretation of these aspects, leading to ongoing debate.

Contextual Notes

Some participants struggle with the language used in the discussion, indicating potential misunderstandings related to mathematical concepts and their representations. The conversation reflects varying levels of familiarity with the topic.

  • #31
akashpandey said:
yes .14159 and so on :nb) .
please can you explain ?

What exactly do you want explained? Have you understood anything that's been said in this thread so far?
 
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  • #33
akashpandey said:
what is exact measurement of that last part since the measurement of that last part is .142 so on is infinite so its length is also .142 and so on

The exact length is three less than pi: π-3 = 0.14159...
 
  • #34
but how the length .142 is exact??
 
  • #35
means .142...
 
  • #36
akashpandey said:
but how the length .142 is exact??

How isn't it?
 
  • #37
akashpandey said:
but how the length .142 is exact??

Drakkith said:
How isn't it?

To clarify, I'm asking so that I understand your thinking and level of knowledge on this.
 
  • #38
akashpandey said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/attac...1/?temp_hash=586afacbbfb47e99be368397d4138bd7.
can somebody explain me the measurement of last part of the circle i.e .3142 and so on.
means what is the exact measurement of that last part?
All I see in your picture is a circle with the diameter marked (but numerical value given) and a small section marked off, labeled ".14159...". There does not seem to be any reason given for that section to be marked or any explanation of what that means. I might guess that the ".14159", simply because it is the first 5 decimal places \pi, is supposed to be the decimal part of \pi, 3- \pi but I have no idea what it is really intended to show
 
  • #39
akashpandey said:
but how the length .142 is exact??
0.14159 (and so on) is a definite number between 0 and 1. Just because there's a decimal, it doesn't mean that it's not "real" or that it's "infinite" like you've said along this thread.
 

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