When you think of Switzerland, words like chocolate, watches, and cheese come to mind. But what about mathematics? In 1882, Swiss Mathematician Leonhard Euler became the first person to use the now well-known symbol of ‘pi’ in a publication.
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Leonhard Euler: The First to Use The Pi Symbol
In mathematics, the symbol pi is used to represent the ratio of a circumference of a circle over its diameter. And for no other mathematician did this symbol become so popular as for Leonhard Euler. On November, 16th 1790 Euler became the first mathematician who used the letter ‘π’ for this ratio in his book ‘Annelen der Natur und Art der Bewegungen’ which translates to ‘Analysis of the Nature and Character of Motion’. But not only the first to use it, Euler also proposed to name this special symbol pi.
Why Euler? Why Pi?
Every year on March 14th at 1:59 p.m. (or 3.14159 p.m. to be exact) all mathematicians around the world celebrate “Pi Day” in honor of the surname letter of Leonhard Euler – ‘E’. How this letter is connected to pi? Except the mathematical value expressed by the symbol itself, ‘pi’ suggests the Greek word ‘peripheria’ or ‘periphery’ which refers to the circumference of a circle. Combine this with the letter ‘E’ in honor of Leonhard Euler and there you have you symbolic explanation of the pi equation.
From Then to Now: Pi Growth in Popularity
How has the pi equation spread throughout the world? To this day, there are still no exact records of it’s origin, but with time the symbol achieved an incredible growth in popularity. In math circles, scientific applications, engineering, architecture, astronomy, and more, this symbol is widely used.
But pi has left not only the academic circles. It became popular in our everyday life not only as a mathematical proof, but as a representation of an almost universal concept. In fact, it is very common to see pi being used to design all sorts of products and brands.
Hail Euler!
The growth of the pi equation in popular culture is a direct result of the efforts and contributions of Swiss Mathematician Leonhard Euler. So, when March 14th roles around, take a few seconds and say a little “Thank you!” to Euler for his contribution to mathematics and for bringing pi into our lives. No word yet on whether Euler ate any pi-related food in celebration; but we can all take part in that tradition!
The work of Leonhard Euler and his influence with the pi equation has been far reaching. From the theoretical mathematics to its implementation in practical applications, its use holds an important place in all sorts of circles. Euler brought this symbol into our lives and to this day we are all still very thankful for it.
Whether you sit down for a piece of that delicious “Pi Pie” on March 14th or use the equation for engineering calculations, you can rely on an amazing work of Swiss Mathematician Leonhard Euler.