Guest Lecture: “Applications of Pi”

On March 13, 2025, a guest lecture on the topic “Applications of Pi” was organized for the students of St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysuru, by the Department of Mathematics. The lecture aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the mathematical constant Pi (π) and explore its wide-ranging applications in both theoretical and practical contexts. The event took place in the college auditorium and was attended by 120 participants, including undergraduate students, postgraduate students, faculty members, and mathematics enthusiasts.

The formal inauguration of the guest lecture took place with distinguished presence and thoughtful speeches. Rev. Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph, the Rector of St. Philomena’s College, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of organizing such enriching events that enhance students’ academic experiences. Dr. Ravi J. D. Saldanha, the Principal of the college, along with Dr. Bharatha, Head of the PG Department of Mathematics, and Mrs. Shruthi Menezes, Head of the UG Department of Mathematics, were also present, lending their support and insights to the occasion. Their presence added great value to the event and highlighted the college’s commitment to academic excellence.

The resource person for the session was Dr. Guruprasad P. S., an esteemed professor in the Department of Mathematics at Government First Grade College, Chamarajanagar. Dr. Guruprasad, with his vast knowledge and experience, delivered an engaging and informative lecture that captured the interest of the audience right from the beginning. His presentation was rich in both theoretical content and real-world applications, making the complex subject accessible and exciting for students at all levels of understanding.

The lecture began with a brief introduction to Pi, its history, and its significance in the world of mathematics. Dr. Guruprasad emphasized how Pi, approximately equal to 3.14159, is an irrational number that has fascinated mathematicians for centuries. He then moved on to discuss Pi’s applications beyond the basic geometry that most students are familiar with, showcasing how it appears in various branches of mathematics, physics, engineering, and even everyday life.

Key areas covered in the lecture included:

1. Geometry and Trigonometry: Dr. Guruprasad explained how Pi is crucial in calculating areas of circles, volumes of spheres, and surface areas of cylinders. He demonstrated the use of Pi in solving problems related to the circumference and radius of circular objects.
2. Calculus and Infinite Series: The speaker introduced the connection between Pi and infinite series, such as the famous Ramanujan series for Pi. This topic captivated students as it demonstrated the power of calculus in approximating the value of Pi and understanding its deeper mathematical properties.
3. Physics and Engineering: Dr. Guruprasad illustrated how Pi appears in various physical equations, such as the wave function in quantum mechanics and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. He also discussed its importance in engineering, especially in the design of machinery, electronics, and structures that involve rotational motion.
4. Modern Applications: The resource person further expanded on the role of Pi in computer algorithms, cryptography, and even in the field of machine learning. He highlighted the significance of Pi in calculations involving data compression, encryption techniques, and signal processing.

Throughout the lecture, Dr. Guruprasad kept the audience engaged with practical examples and problem-solving sessions, encouraging students to actively participate and ask questions. His ability to simplify complex concepts, coupled with his engaging style of teaching, made the session both informative and interactive.

The lecture concluded with a Q&A session, where students actively participated by posing questions and discussing various topics related to Pi and its applications. Dr. Guruprasad provided insightful answers and further inspired students to explore the vast potential of mathematics in the real world.

The event was a great success and contributed significantly to enhancing students’ appreciation for the practical applications of mathematics in diverse fields.

Report compiled by:
Mrs. Shruthi Menezes,
Head of the Department,
Department of Mathematics,
St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous),
Mysuru