I’ve Always Been Curious, So I Tried Manually Doing the Circumference-diameter Ratio

The ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter is one of the most fundamental relationships in mathematics. No matter the size of the circle, this ratio is always constant and is represented by the symbol π (pi).

Cd=π\frac{C}{d} = \pidC​=π

In my design, I visually represent this concept using a circular model. The straight line drawn across the circle indicates the diameter, which serves as the basis of measurement. Surrounding it is the boundary of the circle, symbolizing the circumference.

At the center, I placed the π symbol to emphasize that it is the key relationship connecting these two elements. Rather than simply writing the formula, the design allows viewers to see how π exists within the circle itself—as if it governs the shape and proportions of the figure.

The use of light and shadow enhances this idea by giving the π symbol a carved or embedded appearance, suggesting that π is not just a number written on the circle, but a fundamental property that naturally arises from it.

Overall, this piece transforms an abstract mathematical concept into a tangible and visual representation, helping illustrate that the circumference of any circle is always approximately 3.14 times its diameter, no matter its size.

Paper

Cutter

Scissor

Cardboard

Tupperware lids

Transparent tape

1. The materials are listed above.

At first, I planned to put a bulb inside a Tupperware container to project the shadow of the π symbol, but I had difficulty finding the materials. (spoiler alert).

1. Then, cut a circle shape from the bond paper.
2. Reshape the middle part of the cardboard into a π symbol (or any design you want to reveal at the end).
3. Cut it out in a circular shape and attach it to the lid.
4. Cover the white part of the illustration board with the bond paper you cut earlier to hide the π symbol.
5. After finishing, you can now place it against a light source to see the shadow.