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Do you know the difference between rational numbers and fractions? If not, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Many people don’t understand the distinction between these two types of numbers. In this article, we will discuss the differences between fractions and rational numbers, as well as what you need to know about each type. We’ll also provide some examples so that you can see how these concepts work in practice. Let’s get started!
What Are Fractions?
A fraction is a number that represents a part of a whole. When we talk about fractions, we are usually referring to common fractions. A common fraction has two parts: a denominator and a numerator. The numerator is the number that tells us how many parts we have, while the denominator is the number that tells us how many parts the whole is divided into. For example, if we have two pieces of cake and the whole cake is divided into four pieces, our fraction would be written as 2/4. In this fraction, the numerator is two and the denominator is four.
What Are Rational Numbers?
Rational numbers are any number that can be written as a fraction. This includes both common fractions and decimal fractions. A decimal fraction is a fraction where the denominator is a power of ten. For example, the number 0.25 can be written as a fraction: 25/100. In this case, the numerator is 25 and the denominator is 100.
The Difference Between Rational Numbers and Fractions
Now that we know what fractions and rational numbers are, let’s take a look at the differences between these two concepts:
- Inclusions: Fractions only include common fractions, while rational numbers also include decimal fractions.
- Every fraction is a rational number, but not every rational number is a fraction.
- Representations: Fractions represent parts of a whole, while rational numbers represent any number that can be written as a fraction.
- How to write: Fractions are written as two numbers separated by a slash (/), while rational numbers can be written in either fraction form or decimal form.
Now that you know the difference between rational numbers and fractions, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test! Try solving some problems that involve these concepts.
Why is every fraction a rational number but not the opposite?
The answer lies in their definitions. A fraction is a number that represents a part of a whole, while a rational number is any number that can be expressed as a ratio. In other words, Every fraction is a rational number, but not every rational number is a fraction.
To better understand this concept, let’s look at an example. The fraction ¾ can be expressed as the rational number three-fourths (or, more simply, as the ratio of three to four).
On the other hand, the number one cannot be expressed as a fraction because it is not equal to any part of a whole. However, one can be expressed as a rational number using ratios. For example, the rational number one is expressed as a ratio of one to one (or, more simply, as the fraction).
Also See:
- Difference between Cell and Battery
- Difference Between Circuit Switching and Packet Switching
- Difference between Baking Soda And Baking Powder
- Difference between Average And Mean
- Difference between Atomic mass and Atomic weight
- Difference between Atom and Ion
Conclusion
In short, fractions are numbers that represent a division of a quantity, while rational numbers are all the real numbers that can be expressed as fractions. It’s important to understand the difference between these two types of numbers because they will show up in different places on math tests and quizzes. If you feel like you need more practice with fractions and rational numbers, try out some of our practice problems or worksheets. We have plenty of resources to help you master these essential concepts!
