Problem 103

Question

What is a rational number?

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
A rational number is a number that can be expressed as a fraction \(p/q\), where \(p\) and \(q\) are integers and \(q\) is not equal to zero.
1Step 1: Definition of a rational number
A rational number is defined as a number which can be expressed in the form \(p/q\) where \(p\) and \(q\) are integers and \(q\) is not equal to zero.
2Step 2: Properties of a rational number
A rational number will always result in a finite or repetitive decimal. Examples of rational numbers include -2, 1/2, 0.75, etc.
3Step 3: Identifying a rational number
To identify a number as a rational number, it must fit within the defined parameters previously stated. This means it can be expressed as a fraction where both the numerator and denominator are integers and the denominator is not zero.