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Author
Vasyl Malik
Senior Java Developer at CodeGym

How to Use Pi in Python

Published in the Learning Python group

Introduction to π (Pi)

In mathematics, π (pi) represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, approximately 3.14159. This constant is pivotal in various fields including mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science.

Math.PI in Python

In Python, the value of π is accessible via the math module as math.pi. This constant is essential for numerous calculations such as determining the area and circumference of a circle, as well as the surface area and volume of a sphere.

Real-Life Applications

  • Engineering: Calculating areas and volumes in design.
  • Astronomy: Measuring celestial bodies.
  • Physics: Modeling wave patterns.
  • Computer Graphics: Creating curves and circles.
  • Statistics: Analysis involving normal distributions.

Using Math.PI in Python

To use π in Python, you must import the math module. Below are some common applications and code examples.

Example Usage in Python

Here's how to use math.pi in Python to calculate the circumference and area of a circle, as well as the volume and surface area of a sphere.
import math

def circumference_of_circle(radius):
    return 2 * math.pi * radius

def area_of_circle(radius):
    return math.pi * radius ** 2

def volume_of_sphere(radius):
    return (4.0 / 3) * math.pi * radius ** 3

def surface_area_of_sphere(radius):
    return 4 * math.pi * radius ** 2

if __name__ == "__main__":
    radius = 5
    print("Circumference of the Circle =", circumference_of_circle(radius))
    print("Area of the Circle =", area_of_circle(radius))
    print("Volume of the Sphere =", volume_of_sphere(radius))
    print("Surface Area of the Sphere =", surface_area_of_sphere(radius))
Output
Circumference of the Circle = 31.41592653589793
Area of the Circle = 78.53981633974483
Volume of the Sphere = 523.5987755982989
Surface Area of the Sphere = 314.1592653589793

Detailed Explanation

  • Circumference of a Circle: The formula 2 * math.pi * radius calculates the distance around the circle.
  • Area of a Circle: Using math.pi * radius ** 2, this formula computes the space inside the circle.
  • Volume of a Sphere: The formula (4.0 / 3) * math.pi * radius ** 3 finds the space inside a three-dimensional sphere.
  • Surface Area of a Sphere: This formula 4 * math.pi * radius ** 2 calculates the area covering the sphere's surface.

Conclusion

Understanding and using math.pi in Python is straightforward and powerful for a variety of mathematical and scientific applications. By practicing with the examples provided, you can enhance your coding skills and apply this knowledge to real-world problems. Keep experimenting and learning! Feel free to revisit this guide whenever you need a refresher. Happy coding!
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