Mathématiques · Glossaire

What is Pi (π)?

Définition rapide

The ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Approximately 3.14159, an irrational number.

Explication complète

Pi (π) is the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, approximately 3.14159265358979. It is irrational (cannot be expressed as a fraction) and transcendental (not a root of any polynomial with integer coefficients). Pi has been calculated to over 100 trillion digits. It appears in formulas for circles, spheres, cylinders, trigonometry, Fourier transforms, normal distribution, and many areas of physics. Pi Day is celebrated on March 14 (3/14). Ancient cultures approximated pi as 22/7 (~3.143), 355/113 (~3.1415929 — accurate to 6 digits), and 3.1605 (Egyptians, ~1650 BC). For most practical purposes, 3.14159 is sufficient.

Calculatrices liées

Calculators that use or explain Pi (π).

Termes liés

More from Mathématiques

Last reviewed: June 15, 2026 • Category: Mathématiques