Math enthusiasts worldwide celebrate Pi Day on March 14 (3/14), the first three digits of the infinite mathematical constant known as pi. Pi represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter and is used in various fields like physics, astronomy, and engineering. The holiday originated in 1988 at San Francisco’s Exploratorium science museum and gained national recognition in 2009 when Congress designated March 14 as Pi Day to promote interest in math and science. Pi is a constant, irrational number crucial for calculations involving circles and orbits, and it plays a role in various technological applications, including satellite communication and spacecraft operations. Celebrations on Pi Day include enjoying pie, participating in math-related activities, and attending events organized by museums and universities.
Calculating the orbit of an asteroid or the daily distance a moon rover must cover to survey a specific lunar area are common tasks in the field of science. Albert Einstein, possibly the most renowned scientist in the world, was born on March 14, 1879, in Germany. Pi, with its infinite number, played a significant role in many of his groundbreaking theories. Pi Day now offers the world another reason to honor his accomplishments. In a peculiar twist of fate, the esteemed physicist Stephen Hawking passed away on March 14, 2018, at the age of 76. Despite its importance, pi is not a perfect number. Hawking once remarked, “One of the fundamental rules of the universe is that nothing is flawless. Perfection simply does not exist. Without imperfections, neither you nor I would be here.” This report includes contributions from Associated Press reporter Stephany Matat in West Palm Beach, Florida.
