Value of Irrational Number π (Part 2)

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SUMMARY

The value of the irrational number π is precisely 3.1415926535 when calculated to ten decimal places. The approximation (22/7) is historically significant, as it was introduced to the western world by Boethius and is recognized as the best fraction approximation of π with numerators and denominators less than 100. Archimedes established the bounds for π, showing that (223/71) < π < 22/7. The discussion emphasizes the challenge of determining the best approximation without a calculator, suggesting the use of long division or programming for accuracy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of irrational numbers, specifically π
  • Familiarity with fractions and their decimal equivalents
  • Basic knowledge of long division techniques
  • Programming skills for numerical approximation
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate π using numerical methods
  • Explore the history and significance of π in mathematics
  • Study the method of Archimedes for approximating π
  • Implement a program to find the best fraction approximations of π
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Mathematicians, educators, students studying number theory, and anyone interested in the historical context and numerical approximations of π.

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The value of irrational number π, correct to ten decimal places (without rounding), is 3.1415926535. By using your calculator, determine to how many decimal places the following quantity (22/7) agrees with π.

Extra notes from textbook:

Archimedes (287-212 B.C.) showed that
(223/71) < π < 22/7. The use of the approximation (22/7) for π was introduced to the western world through the writings of Boethius (ca 480-520), a Roman philosopher, mathematician, and statesman. Among all fractions with numerators and denominators less than 100, the fraction (22/7) is the best appriximation to π. Do you agree?

I was wondering if this question can be answered without a calculator. Can we show that (22/7) in terms of decimal places agrees with pi?
 
Last edited:
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Comparing $22/7$ with $$\pi$$ is simple if you have a calculator or use long division. Choosing the best approximation with denominators less than 100 is trickier. I would write a program for this.
 
Last edited:
Evgeny.Makarov said:
Comparing $22/7$ with $$\pi$$ is simple if you have a calculator or use along division. Choosing the best approximation with denominators less than 100 is trickier. I would write a program for this.

How it is done without using a calculator?
 
RTCNTC said:
How it is done without using a calculator?

Evgeny.Makarov said:
use long division.
...
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
...

The original question has been edited.
 

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