The Greek mathematician Archimedes of Syracuse (287–212 BC) is credited with the first calculation of π (pi). He didn't discover π in the sense of finding a previously unknown constant, as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter has always existed. Instead, Archimedes is renowned for developing the first algorithm to approximate π with remarkable accuracy. He achieved this using a geometrical approach, employing polygons to progressively refine his estimate through the method of exhaustion.
Archimedes' Contribution
Archimedes' work stands out for its rigor. Before him, estimations of π existed, but Archimedes' approach provided a method for calculating π to arbitrary accuracy. His algorithm, based on the geometry of polygons, represented a significant advancement in understanding and calculating this fundamental mathematical constant. Several sources corroborate this:
- Exploratorium: This website states that Archimedes performed the first calculation of π.
- Wikipedia: This reference confirms that Archimedes created an algorithm to approximate π around 250 BC.
- Biography.com: This biography highlights Archimedes' calculation of π in the 200s BCE.
- History Today: While this article focuses on the symbol π's invention by William Jones, it implicitly acknowledges Archimedes' foundational work in calculating the value.
- [Multiple other sources]: Numerous other reputable sources consistently attribute the first rigorous calculation of π to Archimedes.
While Archimedes calculated π, it's important to note that William Jones first used the symbol π in 1706 to represent the constant. The concept of π, however, as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, was understood long before Archimedes, but his work provided the first systematic method for its calculation.
