Servers at the Hubbard Avenue Diner, our favorite local pie shop, wear clever T-shirts bearing the Greek letter pi π, which stands for the mathematical ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter: 3.1415926535, (et cetera, et cetera, et cetera).
Remember learning about this number in geometry class, and competing to be the one who could memorize the most digits (now calculated by computer to surpass one trillion digits following the decimal-wow!)?
Today (3/14) is Pi Day. For fun and to honor this endlessly fascinating number, we offer here some interesting pi information. Absorb these facts while enjoying a slice of your favorite pie (Blueberry Crumble for me).
- Equations that use pi, for the math geek wannabe.
- Pi activities for kids to share at home or in the classroom.
- Many communities hold a pi run, a common 3.14-mile distance fun run held in March followed by a slice of pie.
- Math and music are linked. What does pi sound like in song? Here’s musician Michael John Blake’s interpretation featured on NPR.
- And if all this talk about Pi gets you in the baking mood, draw inspiration from the Serious Eats Pi Day Pie Contest.
- Finally, the Pi Day website offers e-cards and activities.
Enjoy your pi day. And please share with us your favorite pi fact and way to celebrate Pi Day.