06-27-2026, 07:53 PM
Playing pool with π
BY [Galperin]
Summary
Galperin’s “Playing Pool with π” presents a fascinating way to discover the digits of the number π using a simple billiard experiment. Instead of calculating π through formulas, the method uses two balls and a wall: by carefully choosing the masses of the balls and counting how many times they collide, the resulting number of collisions reveals the digits of π.
The idea connects physics, geometry, and dynamical systems, showing that the hidden structure of a moving billiard system can encode one of mathematics’ most famous constants. What makes the approach so beautiful is that an ordinary-looking game of pool becomes a mechanical calculator, demonstrating how deep mathematical patterns can appear in simple physical situations.
ARTICLE [PDF]
BY [Galperin]
Summary
Galperin’s “Playing Pool with π” presents a fascinating way to discover the digits of the number π using a simple billiard experiment. Instead of calculating π through formulas, the method uses two balls and a wall: by carefully choosing the masses of the balls and counting how many times they collide, the resulting number of collisions reveals the digits of π.
The idea connects physics, geometry, and dynamical systems, showing that the hidden structure of a moving billiard system can encode one of mathematics’ most famous constants. What makes the approach so beautiful is that an ordinary-looking game of pool becomes a mechanical calculator, demonstrating how deep mathematical patterns can appear in simple physical situations.
ARTICLE [PDF]
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│ KONSTANTINOS MICHAILIDIS │
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