Infinity Symbol (∞)
Mathematical symbol representing an unbounded quantity or the concept of endlessness.
Mathematical/Western · 1655 – present
Pi (π)
Mathematical constant representing the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.
Description
The Greek letter pi (π) represents the mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14159265358979…, defined as the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. It is an irrational and transcendental number, meaning it cannot be expressed as a simple fraction and is not the root of any polynomial with rational coefficients. The use of π for this constant was popularized by Leonhard Euler following William Jones's introduction of the notation in 1706. Pi appears in geometry, trigonometry, complex analysis, statistics, and physics.
Origin & Cultural Context
The symbol π was introduced by Welsh mathematician William Jones in 1706 and popularized by Euler from 1736 onwards.