Perfect ring donut

THE PERFECT DONUT: THE MATHEMATICAL FORMULA BEHIND IT

WHAT WOULD YOUR PERFECT DONUT LOOK LIKE?

The seashell has a spiraled pattern that clearly demonstrates how each successive spiral grows in a way that approximates the Golden Ratio of 1.618.

When we think of donuts, our minds often drift to thoughts of indulgence, decadence, and pure enjoyment.

But did you know that the perfect donut can also be a mathematical feat? That’s right, there’s a formula behind creating the perfect donut, and it’s all about the golden ratio.

The golden ratio is a mathematical concept that has been studied and celebrated since ancient times.

It is represented by the number phi (Φ), which is approximately equal to 1.61803398875. This ratio is found in many natural forms, such as the spiral pattern of seashells and the branching pattern of trees.

It is also believed to be the most visually appealing ratio to humans, which is why it has been used in art, architecture, and design throughout history.

The perfect donut
A depiction of a perfect donut.

So, how does the golden ratio come into play when creating the perfect donut?

The answer lies in the ratio of the circumference of the donut to its diameter.

According to mathematicians, the ideal circumference-to-diameter ratio for a donut is approximately 1.618. This means that if you take the circumference of a donut and divide it by its diameter, the resulting number should be around 1.618.

Who came up with this mathematical formula for the perfect donut?

The credit goes to Dr. Eugenia Cheng, a mathematician, and author who has been studying the intersection of math and cooking for years. I

In her book “How to Bake Pi: An Edible Exploration of the Mathematics of Mathematics,” Dr. Cheng explains the importance of math in baking and shares her recipe for the perfect donut.

Dr. Cheng’s donut recipe is similar to other donut recipes but she includes the perfect ratio of ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and baking powder, to achieve the ideal texture and taste.

But the key to the perfect donut is in the ratio of the circumference to the diameter, which can be calculated using the golden ratio. By following this formula, you can create a donut that looks perfect and tastes amazing.

Why is it important to have a perfect donut?

For professional bakers, it’s all about meeting their customer’s expectations and providing them with the best possible product.

For home bakers, it’s about the satisfaction of creating something delicious and beautiful. Whatever your motivation, the mathematical formula for the perfect donut can help you achieve your goal.

Not just a delicious treat but also a mathematical feat.

The golden ratio plays a crucial role in creating the perfect donut, thanks to the work of mathematicians like Dr. Eugenia Cheng.

So, the next time you’re in the kitchen whipping up a batch of donuts, remember the importance of math in creating the perfect treat.