Can the quadratrix truly square the circle?

Abstract

The quadratrix received its name from the circle quadrature, squaring the circle, but it only solves it if completed by taking a limit, as pointed out already in antiquity. We ask if it can square the circle without limits and restrict its use accordingly, to converting ratios of angles and segments into each other. The problem is then translated into algebra by analogy to straightedge and compass constructions, and leads to an open question in transcendental number theory. In particular, Lindemann's impossibility result no longer suffices, and the answer depends on whether $π$ belongs to the analog of Ritt's exponential-logarithmic field with an algebraic base. We then derive that it does not from the well-known Schanuel conjecture. Thus, the quadratrix so restricted cannot square the circle after all.