Physics equations with the mathematical constant Phi?

In summary, the conversation discusses the presence of Phi in various fields such as modelling exponential growth, biology, and ecology. The question arises whether it also appears in the mathematical description of fundamental physics phenomena, similar to the ubiquitous irrational number Pi. Some discussions suggest that Phi plays a role in the Fibonacci sequence and the spiral arrangement of certain natural objects.
  • #1
ole cram
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TL;DR Summary
Does the math constant Phi (Φ = 1.618) or its inverse appear in "fundamental" physics formulae?
I know Phi appears often when modelling exponential growth and, probably because of that, also in Biology/Ecology. But does it appear spontaneously in the mathematical description of some fundamental physics phenomenon at all? (As does Pi, the ubiquitous irrational number)
Hope I'm posting on the right forum. Thanks in advance
 
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  • #3
ole cram said:
I know Phi appears often when modelling exponential growth and, probably because of that, also in Biology/Ecology.
As far as I recall, phi doesn't play a role in exponential growth, but it does play a role in such things as the Fibonacci sequence and the spiral arrangement of the scales on pine cones, the florets on a sunflower, and other examples - https://awkwardbotany.com/2019/12/25/pine-cones-and-the-fibonacci-sequence/.
 
  • #4
Any time the number 5 comes up you can replace it by (2Φ-1)2.
 
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Moderator's note: An unacceptable reference has been deleted.
 
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1. What is the mathematical constant Phi?

The mathematical constant Phi, also known as the golden ratio, is a special number that is approximately equal to 1.6180339887. It is often denoted by the Greek letter phi (φ) and is found in many natural and mathematical phenomena.

2. How is Phi used in physics equations?

Phi is used in physics equations to describe the relationship between different quantities in a system. For example, it can be used to calculate the ratio of the length of a line segment divided by its longer part, or the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter.

3. Can Phi be derived from other mathematical constants?

No, Phi is an irrational number that cannot be expressed as a fraction or a finite decimal. It is a unique constant that has its own properties and is not derived from other mathematical constants.

4. How does Phi relate to the Fibonacci sequence?

The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. As the sequence progresses, the ratio between consecutive numbers approaches Phi. This relationship is observed in many natural phenomena, such as the branching of trees and the arrangement of seeds in a sunflower.

5. Are there any practical applications of Phi in physics?

Yes, Phi has been used in various fields of physics, such as fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. It has also been applied in architecture, art, and design to create aesthetically pleasing and efficient structures. Additionally, some researchers have proposed that Phi may play a role in the formation and evolution of the universe.

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