Do you love pizza as much as I do? If so, get ready for a mind-blowing revelation that will forever change the way you order your favorite pie. We all know that size matters, but did you know that when it comes to pizza, bigger is not only better but also cheaper? Yes, you heard that right! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of pizza math and discover why ordering the largest pizza is always the savviest choice.
The Pizza Size Equation
To truly understand the value of pizza size, we need to tap into the mystical realm of mathematics. Remember π (pi) from your school days? Well, it’s time to put that knowledge to use. The formula for calculating the area of a pizza is πr², where r represents the radius (half the diameter).
Let’s apply this equation to two common pizza sizes and see what we discover:
- 16-inch pizza: With a radius of 8 inches, the calculation yields an area of 201.06176 square inches.
- 8-inch pizza: Having a radius of 4 inches results in an area of 50.26544 square inches.
Here’s where it gets interesting. While an 8-inch pizza might seem half the size of a 16-inch pizza, it’s actually only a quarter of the size! This means that the larger pizza provides four times more deliciousness than its smaller counterpart.
The Pizza Price Puzzle
Now that we know the size difference, let’s explore the price aspect. In a groundbreaking study by NPR, data from Grubhub Seamless was analyzed, examining prices from thousands of pizza joints across the United States. The study aimed to determine the price per square inch of various pizza options. Brace yourself for the surprising result:
The larger the pizza, the cheaper it becomes per square inch! Even though a 16-inch pizza is four times the size of an 8-inch one, the price difference is much smaller. The discount per square inch on a larger pizza is quite significant, making it a much better deal overall.
To illustrate this point, let’s take a closer look at Pizza Hut, one of America’s favorite pizza chains.
Pizza Hut’s Pizza Pricing Breakdown
Pizza Hut offers three sizes: personal pan, medium, and large. Here’s the scoop:
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Personal Pan Pizza: This petite beauty measures 6 inches in diameter and costs $4.50. Crunching the numbers, we find that the price per square inch is about 15.92 cents.
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Medium Pizza: With a 12-inch diameter and a price tag of $9.99, this pizza benefits from economies of scale. The price per square inch drops to a mere 8.83 cents.
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Large Pizza: At 14 inches in diameter, this glorious pizza masterpiece is priced at $11.99. With a price per square inch of only 7.79 cents, it offers an unbeatable deal.
By now, I hope you’re convinced that when it comes to pizza, you don’t just want a slice of the pie; you want the whole pie! By opting for the largest size, you not only satisfy your cravings but also get the best bang for your buck.
So, the next time you find yourself pondering the perfect pizza order, remember this equation: pizza + math = a mouthwatering deal. Go big or go home!
This article was originally published on April 11, 2017, and updated in January 2022. Hungry for more pizza knowledge? Head over to Hook’d Up Bar and Grill, where you can indulge in the ultimate pizza experience.