When you multiply , you’re essentially calculating the area of a circle with a radius of 3, since (approximately 3.142) is used in the formula for the area of a circle, . So in this case, square units.

Interestingly, the use of dates back thousands of years! The ancient Egyptians and Babylonians had approximations of , showing that even in ancient times, folks were circus-ing around. So, as you ponder this multiplication, you’re partaking in a rich mathematical legacy!