There are many different special numbers in our universe. Some of these numbers, like the number pi or the square root of two, have their origins in geometry. Others, such as the fine structure constant, are concerned with the ability of stars to shine, gravity, and more.
Among all this, there is another number called e or Euler number.
What is the number e (Euler number)?
The Euler number can be defined as a mathematical constant that is found in everything from quantum mechanics to finance to zoology, but that many of us are not even aware of.
As a number, it may not seem very remarkable. It is an irrational number with a numerical value of 2.71828… that goes on forever. Just like Pi, e is a transcendent number, so it is not a solution to any polynomial equation. The reason why it’s such a special number is purely because of its mathematical properties, but its use in other fields makes it incredibly important indeed.
Where is the number e used?
The number e sees the most use in areas where growth, change and decay are in question. The number e is used as the base of the exponential function. The exponential decay of radioactive elements is indicated by a very simple equation containing e and depends on time and a few other constants that depend on the nature of the element and how much of it you have at the beginning.
The heat loss rate has a similar exponential decay formula. There is a different relationship between the temperature of the environment, the coffee and the heat transfer coefficient, and the important number e is under the whole event. The exponential growth in a population (for example, the growth of bacteria) also presents this exponential relationship and number once again.
It’s also possible to find more bizarre links that show how fundamental this number is. For example, a bettor who chooses a single number in a roulette game has a 1/37 probability of winning that game. But if you play 37 games, your probability of losing all of those games is 1/e. An e ratio can also be used to calculate the temperature of the entire universe based on the cosmic microwave background.
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