From: Loyd <loydlin@aol.com>
To: Teacher2Teacher Public Discussion
Date: 2003112616:20:07
Subject: Early Egyptian formula for circle.

	
In book, "Outline of History" vol 1, the formula is given as 

(8/9 diameter)^2

If you change it to (16/9 radius)^2 you would get:

3.160493827 r^2  

Thus, the estimate for pi is 3.160493827.  Not bad since this is only
about a one percent error.

The Eqyptians found the volume of their graineries by multiplying the
area of the circular base by the height.  Thus they got the volume of
a cylinder to an accuracy "Good enough for dynasty work."

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