Rational Numbers

Background

We've covered the basics of fractions and decimals. If we add them to our list of numbers we can use (which at this point is the integers), we end up with a new set of numbers...

Question

What is the set of numbers called that includes fractions and integers?

Answer

Rational Numbers

Analysis

The set of numbers that we can express using the division of one integer by another non-zero integer is called the Rational Numbers. Notice that we can express every integer as a division problem. For instance, the number 2 can be expressed in an infinite number of ways - here are a few:



And so every integer is also a rational number.

We'll develop these ideas of working with fractions and rational numbers in more detailed entries (you can link to some of them below).

Vocabulary used:

• Integer - the set of numbers that goes ..., -3, -2. -1, 0, 1, 2, 3,...

For more information check out these links (comment to add your favourite link):

Where might you have come from?

Fact-orials Index

Numbers:

• Integers
• Fractions and Decimals

Where might we go?

Numbers:

• Irrational Numbers
• Real Numbers
• Variables 

Operations with different kinds of numbers:

• Addition, Subtraction, and Rational Numbers
• Multiplication, Division, and Rational Numbers
• Exponentials and Rational Numbers

Relations:

• Greater/Lesser Than and Rational Numbers
• Equality and Rational Numbers