In the world of mathematics, rational numbers play a fundamental role. These numbers have unique properties and applications that make them essential in various mathematical concepts and real-life situations. In this blog, Kundan International School, the Best CBSE School in Chandigarh will delve into the concept of rational numbers and explore their significance.
What is a Rational Number?
A rational number is any number that can be expressed as a fraction of two integers, where the denominator is not zero. This means that rational numbers include all integers, including fractions such as 1/2, 3/4, and 1/3.
Rational numbers can also be represented as decimals. If the denominator in the fraction is a power of 10, then the decimal representation of the rational number will be terminated. For example, the decimal representation of 1/2 is 0.5, and the decimal representation of 3/10 is 0.3.
However, if the denominator in the fraction is not a power of 10, then the decimal representation of the rational number will be repeated. For example, the decimal representation of 1/3 is 0.3333333…, and the decimal representation of 1/6 is 0.166666…
Properties of Rational Numbers
Rational numbers have several properties that make them useful in mathematics. For example, rational numbers are closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Therefore, if you add, subtract, multiply, or divide two rational numbers, the result will always be a rational number.
You can also compare two rational numbers and determine which one is greater or less than the other. For example, 1/2 is greater than 1/3, and 0 is less than 1/2.
Applications of Rational Numbers
Rational numbers have a variety of applications in mathematics and science. For example, they represent parts of a whole, solve equations, and calculate areas and volumes.
Rational numbers are also applicable in computer science. For example, they represent floating-point numbers, used to store and represent real numbers in computers.
Wrapping Up
Rational numbers are a fundamental concept in mathematics. The Best International School in Chandigarh possesses a strong conviction that they are beneficial in a wide variety of applications and have several properties. If you want to study more about rational numbers, there are several resources accessible both online and in libraries.
- Manmeet Kaur, H.O.D Mathematics, Kundan International School