What Is Pi, and Why Is It So Important?

[Allen]

(02-20-2024 04:48 PM)rprosperi Wrote:  "Fact: Scientists have calculated pi to a precision of a hundred trillion digits. However, mathematicians have estimated that an approximation of pi to 39 digits will suffice for any cosmological calculation humans might attempt. At that level of precision, which mathematicians achieved in 1630, you can calculate the circumference of the observable universe with an error smaller than the diameter of a single atom of hydrogen. "

Nice factoid! Maybe throw in a few extra digits to close the gap between (revised) estimated diameter of the visible universe at 1e27 meters and the plank length at 1e-34 m.

62 orders of magnitude should cover everything except for global sovereign debt (compound interest being most powerful force in the universe - attr. A.E. )