Why Does Pi Appear in So Many Scientific Equations?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the frequent appearance of the mathematical constant pi in various scientific equations, particularly in relation to geometry, physics, and mathematical functions. Participants explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and seek resources for further understanding.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that pi appears in equations involving circles, spheres, or balls, suggesting its convenience in working with rotationally symmetrical densities.
  • Another participant compares pi to other physical constants like hbar, c, and Boltzmann's k, indicating that each constant is essential in its respective field and context.
  • It is mentioned that pi arises in mathematical functions involving sine, cosine, and tangent due to the definition of radians, and is also linked to complex numbers and their geometric interpretations.
  • One participant expresses a desire to study mathematics further to better understand these concepts, indicating an interest in the foundational aspects of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the mathematical and geometric reasons for the appearance of pi, but there is no consensus on specific resources or literature that explicitly address this topic.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on assumptions about mathematical definitions and relationships, and the discussion does not resolve the complexity of how pi is integrated into various scientific contexts.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mathematics, physics, and the connections between mathematical constants and scientific theories may find this discussion relevant.

goldsax
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we all know the PI crops up everywhere..

why for example would PI be found in the equation for the density parameter of the cosmological constant etc..
is there a book that can explain why PI rears its head up in all types os studies...

cheers
 
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Anything that involves any kind of cirlcle, sphere or ball is going to involve pi, it crops up in densities and the likes because it's convenient to work with densities of 'balls' (especially if they are rotationally symmetrical!).
It's just like hbar in quantum mechanics, c in relativity and boltzmans k in thermodynamics (assuming we're not working in specialised units where certain constants are set = 1)
No pi = not working with cirlces, spheres etc
No hbar = classical limit
No c = non relativistic limit
No k = working at absolute zero

edit;
In regards to books, none that I know of will explicitely point this out but once you get use to the theories you'll start to see links between these physical constants and where they come from.
 
Last edited:
@genericusrnme
Pi can also be the result of mathematics. Pretty much any function that involves sin/cos/tan ect is going to involve a Pi somewhere. This isn't surprising because how we define radians. It can also be found frequently when complex numbers come up (usually because of the relationship to geometric and exponential functions).
 
Hologram0110 said:
@genericusrnme
Pi can also be the result of mathematics. Pretty much any function that involves sin/cos/tan ect is going to involve a Pi somewhere. This isn't surprising because how we define radians. It can also be found frequently when complex numbers come up (usually because of the relationship to geometric and exponential functions).

The trig functions and your e[itex]^{ix}[/itex] are still related to circles, namely the unit circle! o:)
 
i will be doing maths as my next module..so will be further able to understand the concepts,
thanks for pointing the way...
 
goldsax said:
i will be doing maths as my next module..so will be further able to understand the concepts,
thanks for pointing the way...

No problem buddy :biggrin:
 

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