If I cut something into 3 equal pieces, there are 3 defined pieces. But, 1÷3= .333333~. Why is the math a nonstop repeating decimal when existence allows 3 pieces? Is the assumption that it’s physically impossible to cut something into 3 perfectly even pieces?

Question

If I cut something into 3 equal pieces, there are 3 defined pieces. But, 1÷3= .333333~. Why is the math a nonstop repeating decimal when existence allows 3 pieces? Is the assumption that it’s physically impossible to cut something into 3 perfectly even pieces?

In: Mathematics

Answer 1

In truth, math is a lie essentially. It tries to put a point on a round surface. Math is just approximation of reality. Because as you get smaller and smaller all of the universe is still round (atoms, electrons, etc). So you cannot ever put an exact value on a point in time and space. It is only approximation to help us communicate the natural phenomena.