What is π?

Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines π as "1: the 16th letter of the Greek alphabet... 2 a: the symbol pi denoting the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter b: the ratio itself: a transcendental number having a value to eight decimal places of 3.14159265"

A number can be placed into several categories based on its properties. Is it prime or composite? Is it imaginary or real? Is it transcendental or algebraic? These questions help define a number's behavior in different situations. In order to understand where π fits in to the world of mathematics, one must understand several of its properties: π is irrational and π is transcendental.

Another important concept to understand is that of how π is calculated and how the methods have changed over time. A brief history of these methods can be found Here. For a demonstration of these methods, go to the Finding π Applet.