John Machin
Type: Person
As of November 2026, John Machin has been mentioned in one podcast episode on Oxford Mathematics (Nov 2025). In the Oxford Mathematics episode "Measuring circles," John Machin is referenced as the mathematician who developed efficient methods for calculating π using arctangent addition formulas. His work in 1706 allowed him to compute π to 100 decimal places by hand, highlighting his significant contribution to mathematics. The episode also notes his collaboration with William Jones, who cited Machin's value in his own work.
John Machin was a professor of astronomy at Gresham College, London. He is best known for developing a quickly converging series for pi in 1706 and using it to compute pi to 100 decimal places.
| Mentioned in | 1 episode on 1 podcast (as of November 2026) |
|---|---|
| First heard | Nov 2025 on Oxford Mathematics |
| Role | English mathematician |
| Affiliation | Gresham College (historically associated as Professor of Astronomy) |
Who talks about John Machin on podcasts?
John Machin came up; the most recent mention was Nov 2025 on Oxford Mathematics.
- Measuring circles (C = 2πr and A = πr²) on Oxford Mathematics (Nov 2025)
What is John Machin mentioned alongside?
Worked with: William Jones