Zu Chongzhi
Mathematical genius who calculated pi with unprecedented accuracy
Zu Chongzhi (429–500 AD) was a Chinese mathematician and astronomer during the Liu Song and Southern Qi dynasties. His most famous achievement was calculating pi (π) to seven decimal places (between 3.1415926 and 3.1415927), a record that stood for 800 years.
Key contributions include:
- Developing the Daming Calendar with precise astronomical calculations
- Inventing the water-powered armillary sphere
- Creating the Zu Shi algorithm for cube root extraction
His pi calculation method predicated on the circle division technique using polygons with 24,576 sides. This mathematical precision enabled:
- Improved calendar systems for agriculture
- Advanced architectural engineering
- Foundation for later algebraic developments
Modern recognition includes:
- The 1967 naming of lunar crater Tsu Chung-Chi
- Featured in Chinese mathematics textbooks
- Annual Zu Chongzhi Mathematics Award for students
Literary Appearances
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Cinematic Appearances
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