World Pi Day: Here's How the 3.14 and Other Mathematical Constants Are Hardwired Into Reality

Pi Day falls on March 14 because the date (3/14) matches the start of pi equivalent: 3.14159....

Pi Day

Science Alert reports that, while pi may simply be a number that is among countless others falling between 3 and 4, the mathematical constant is famous because of its presence in every circle. The circumference of a circle is equivalent to pi multiplied by the circle's diameter. Pi is also found in other ranges across nature, such as general gravity distribution and the bell curve. Being a transcendental and irrational number, Pi will go on infinitely without pattern or repetition.

The reason for commemorating Pi Day is because mathematics is well-hardwired into the universe.

Mathematical Constants

According to Abakcus, mathematical constants refer to famous computable and definable numbers that help in solving numerous mathematical problems. Some of these constants have vital roles in daily life. The discovery of each mathematical constant has enabled the world to drastically move forward.

Business Insider reports that such mathematical constants have helped with finance accounting, bridge building, and the completion of several other vital tasks across history.

While Pi is a globally important mathematical constant, there are other vital numbers that are hardwired into reality, and those could be worth commemorating as well. Here are some of them.

Golden Ratio

The golden ratio Phi is one mathematical constant that could be worth adding to the calendar. Phi is equivalent to 1.618.... Manil Suri, who is a professor of Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Maryland, thinks that this mathematical constant can be celebrated in January. Because there is no January 61, Golden Ratio Day may conveniently fall on January 6.

As per Britannica, this number's origins can be traced back to Euclid. However, it was only popularized by Luca Pacioli, an Italian mathematician who wrote a book in 1509 that elaborated on its aesthetic characteristics. Leonardo da Vinci also drew 60 different drawings for the publication and incorporated the mathematical constant into the drawing of the Mona Lisa. Per Science Alert, several claim that this is the explanation for the Mona Lisa's beauty.

Euler's Number E

Aside from Pi and the Golden Ratio, there is also Euler's number E, which is equivalent to 2.718. Considering its value, the mathematical constant can also be commemorated on February 7.

The number e refers to an irrational number that serves as the natural logarithm base. Investopedia reports that the value is used for computing problems that involve exponential decay or growth, such as compound interest.

Aside from this, the constant e has become famous because of its vital role in the field of calculus. E is the "most natural growth factor" for tracking chance. As a result, it can also be found in various laws pertaining to natural processes, such as radioactive decay and population growth.

While there are more mathematical constants out there, these are just some that can be celebrated the same way Pi Day is.

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